Have Groom, will Travel...

I've been considering doing a piece on Destination Weddings for a while now; after all, with some very clever planning and budget savviness, a Wedding abroad can save you a fortune.

Hosting your Wedding in another country means obvious cuts to your guest list; ideal if you'd prefer an intimate gathering to an all-out BWW (that's Big White Wedding to us insiders!), and this is becoming increasingly popular amongst Brides and Grooms to be, instead choosing to hold a reception on their return for absent guests. 

Here are a few of my favourite Destinations; prepare to get bitten by the travel bug!

Vegas

Honestly, what kind of Wedding Planner would I be if I didn't mention the obvious choice?

Vegas is the ultimate place to tie the knot and it can be done on a very modest budget. Cliche though it may sound, getting married in Vegas doesn't always mean Elvis and a drive-through ceremony.

For the Fun Factor, think Circus Circus; a hotel and casino on the Vegas Strip which houses it's very own indoor theme park! As do many of the big hotels in Vegas, Circus Circus has a Wedding Chapel inside which is licensed for civil Ceremonies. Wedding packages at Circus Circus start from just $325.

Chapel of the Fountain, Circus Circus Hotel

                                                   Image courtesy of Equallywed.com



New York
Central Park is a beautiful location to hold an intimate and elegant ceremony. From the Cop Cot to Belvedere's Castle, there are lots of different settings for the perfect 'I Do' moment. Beautiful all year round, Central Park is an iconic New York location where a piece of paradise can be found in the middle of a concrete Metropolis.
Alternatively, you could chose the 'When in Rome' approach and marry in true no-nonsense New Yorker Style with a quick and simple ceremony at the City Clerks office. Other New York locations include the Top of the Rock, the Brooklyn Bridge, and even Times Square. American Sky offer Wedding Packages from £650.

Times Square

                                          Image courtesy of American Sky


Belvedere Castle, Central Park

Image courtesy of www.powertripberkley.com

South Africa
So what about an African Safari? It's certainly got the 'wow' factor. Known as the 'Rainbow Nation', it boasts a plethora of different cultures and stunning scenery; making it the perfect place for adventure loving couples.
The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa is ideal for an intimate Wedding Ceremony, the hotel offers one of the most romantic and memorable locations in the world to get married due to it's position nestled beside the Twelve Apostles Mountain Range and Table Mountain.
With exclusive Spa facilities and an in-house cinema, there are plenty of opportunities to unwind before the big day.
A Wedding Package at this stunning resort can be added as an addition to your holiday booking from £370 when booked directly.

                                       Images courtesy of the Twelve Apostles Hotel


Things to consider when choosing to Marry abroad
It's worth checking out the minimum residency period that applies to the country you've chosen as your destination. This can vary from 1 to 7 working days, so bear this in mind when budgeting for your trip. The residency period is a basic requirement that states how long you must be in the country before you can marry there.
The legalities can also be a factor; in some countries, couples are required to take a blood test to prove they are not related (yes, really!). Also, sometimes an Affidavit is required; this is a document that is obtained through a notary public that confirms your marital status. You will usually be advised of how to obtain any essential documents when booking your Wedding, but it's always worth double checking just to be sure.
Also ensure that provision will be made for transporting your Wedding Dress; the last thing you want is to be forced to pack it into your hold luggage. It will not only end up creased, but there is always the possibility that your luggage might get lost and you definitely don't want to be seperated from your gown for your Big Day.

Until next time...
Dust off your passport and book your flights!

The Enchanted One
xoxo

"In My World....Everything Would Be Nonsense."

I have come across many variations of the Alice in Wonderland theme and the subtle hints of this classic tale are so easy to incorporate. The theme is very easily adaptable, too, and can easily have twists of kitch or vintage. This theme is suited perfectly to Brides and Grooms who wish to add a certain playfulness to their day; couples who don't take themselves too seriously and would prefer a more relaxed and fun atmosphere. There is no room for grown-up seriousness here, but plenty of room for being a little creative and being very hands-on!
 From playing cards to keys, tea cups to croquet, there are a million ways to add a bit of Alice.
Here are the very best Wonderland accents I have discovered so far!

www.marthastewartweddings.com

Pocket Watch Ring Box
Isn't this amazing!? It's so easy to DIY too! Cheap vintage style pocket watches can be found on eBay for just a few pounds. Go all Mad Hatter and remove the timepiece (although using a mallet to do so might just be going a step too far...ditto using mustard on it!) and line the inside with velvet. Voila, a very simple but very unique ring box!



Playing Card Bunting

Another project that is so easy and so cheap, but amazingly effective. Simply punch holes into a pack of playing cards, thread string or ribbon through the holes and then tie lengths of patterned or coloured ribbon between each card. This would look gorgeous as a top table swag, too!

Eat Me / Drink Me Tags

No Alice themed Wedding would be complete without these. There are hundreds of variations of these tags, from flags on cocktail sticks and simple tie on tags like these, to drink stirrers and jar labels, which would make a gorgeous addition to any Candy Buffet. Tie tags to teacups, glass stems and stick in cupcakes and on straws in glasses. There are lots of printables available on www.Etsy.co.uk; you can get an entire printable suite including invitations for about twenty pounds.

www.facebook.com/not2shabbyboutique

Wonderland is nothing without a Mad Hatter and a Tea Party, and while I'm sure there will be more than one Hat wearing Crazy at every wedding, you'll need the whole package for authenticity.

These gorgeous Vintage Teaparty Treats can be found at the Not2Shabby Boutique. With the Tea Cup candles as little as £6.50, they would make lovely attendant's gifts or table decorations as the candles can be matched to your colour scheme. The Cake Stands start at an incredibly reasonable £8, and the cupcake candles work out less than £1 each...perfect for favours as they are scummily scented too!   

You have a completely free reign to go as crazy as you like with this theme; since craziness is at the heart of the tale. For more inspiration, Google 'Alice in Wonderland Wedding Cakes' to be delighted and disbelieving at some of the awesome creations!

I hope I've provided a little inspiration...and I apologise for leaving my beloved blog abandoned for so long, but with a Wedding coming up in just a few short weeks, this Fairy Godmother has been running low on Fairy Dust by the time the evenings come!

Until Next Time....

A Very Happy Unbirthday To You!

The Enchanted One xoxo

Taking Shape - The 411 on Wedding Dresses

Whilst I am aware that I promised I wouldn't leave blogging so long in my last post, I have been ridiculously busy this month...'tis the season after all! (For weddings, not Christmas, naturally.) So, I make my apologies, beg forgiveness and cut to the chase. It is, after all, the reason you have found your way here in the first place. Tonight I give you the 411 on Wedding Dresses where the silhouette is concerned. The key to looking absolutely stunning in your gown has nothing to do with the cost, it's all about the shape. So here goes nothing.

The Ballgown / Princess
Exactly as the name describes, and most likely the first image one's imagination conjures up when uttering the words 'Wedding Dress'. Think Disney Fairytales and you've got it. This style is great for nipping in the waist thanks to it's signature corset style top and full skirt. A great look for pear shapes, but can overwhelm the petite. Curvalicious ladies beware; adding tonnes of fabric to curves may leave you looking reminiscent of the Wedding Cake.

Selina - Maggie Sottero - www.maggiesottero.com

The Fishtail / Trumpet
Also known as the Mermaid, this style of dress is classic Hollywood glamour, and follows the contours of the body before flaring below the hips - normally mid-thigh for the Trumpet or knee for the Fishtail. This dress is perfect for Ladies with an hourglass figure, confident curves or a slender frame. Lace will be generally more forgiving on less that perfectly toned bums, tums and thighs than shiny satin; bear this in mind when hunting your dream dress.

Style 8605 - Justin Alexander www.Justinalexanderbridal.com

A-Line

This dress has a silhouette that is narrow at the top and gently flows to gradually widen at the bottom to create an 'A' shape. It is ideal for the bottom-conscious as it skims over hips without adding bulkiness and also for apple shapes as it creates balance at the waist.

Ronald Joyce - Barcelona - Ronaldjoyceinternational.com

Column

The Column is a slim fitting silhouette that follows a stright line from the neck to the hem, making it ideal for tall, lean and petite figures due to it's figure hugging qualities. Be aware though that this style will show every lump and bump so will require completely seamless bridal undergarments.

Marchesa Silk Column - www.Marchesa.co.uk

Tea Length

Think 1950's prom dress; the hemline falls between the knee and the ankle and is flattering for most body types, especially for ladies with gorgeous pins! It's perfect for a vintage themes too; wear statement shoes to make the most of the length.

Jane - Cutting Edge Brides - www.cuttingedgebrides.co.uk

Now you're all clued in on the silhouettes, it's time to go and find that dream dress!

Happy hunting!

Until next time...

Show love, show patience, show understanding.

The Enchanted One

xoxo

Vintage Rose

I feel a little neglectful of my blog; however, since my beloved laptop died an untimely death last week and the blog site seems sketchy at best in terms of an error preventing me from actually writing any text, writing has proven to be difficult. However, I aim to please, and so here I am endeavouring to fulfil the appetite of Brides-to-be the world over by providing more food for thought. Today's post is a theme idea; Vintage Rose.

With feminine touches and an antique feel, this fabulous theme has endless possibilities. Flowers obviously play a large part in this theme as suggested by the name. Use roses wherever possible; in your stationery, your cake, and naturally, your bouquet. There are hundreds of variations of shades of pink, and as a general rule there is a shade of pink to compliment most other colours. A dusty, blush or nude shade of pink would suit this theme best. Colours that best complement these shades are dove greys, parchment beige-creams, ivories and golds; however there are many more possibilities.

Think Antique when dressing this theme; there are lots of clever ways to fake authenticity today. With Vintage and Shabby-Chic being an increasingly popular trend, vintage Wedding Fairs are beginning to pop up all over the country, offering ideas and inspiration for the vintage-loving Bride; however do be aware that due to it's popularity, the words 'Vintage' 'Antique' or 'Shabby Chic' will automatically bump up prices thanks to the current desirability. With a little bit of clever bargain hunting at your local car boot sale though, you can begin to uncover forgotten and unwanted treasures that will lend themselves perfectly to your theme. Look out for mismatched floral china, glass cake pedestals, and pearls and lace in abundance.

Clockwise from top left: Blush - Bourjois Paris, Bridal Garter - KrumpetsDesign on Etsy, Cake - Leslea Matsis Cakes, Rose and Pearl Chair Sash and Centrepiece - Pinterest, Shoe clips - Etsy, Rose Garland - eBay, Fabric flower bouquet - Cultivar on Etsy, Rose Lipstick - YSL, Nude Nail Polish - Paul & Joe, Rose Quartz Drop Earrings - Kendra Scott, Summer Garden Wedding Invitation - Imagine Wedding

I absolutely love this theme, it has a really romantic and dreamy feel to it. Follow it through to your Bridesmaids by choosing mismatched dresses in shades of pink and parchment, and stick to a relaxed and boho-vibe hair style to avoid anything looking too 'done'. Make-up should be natural and flirty; think blushed pink cheeks and full feathery lashes, with eyes in shades of mink and taupe. There are endless possibilities for the perfect dress for this theme, too; anything from a slinky column sheath in blush tones to a powder-puff tulle princess gown in antique cream or a stunningly dramatic taffeta masterpiece, the sky really is the limit!

I hope this has given all you lovely readers lots of inspiration. I promise not to leave it so long next time!

Until then...

Live well, laugh often, love much.

The Enchanted One xoxo

Beat the Budgeting Blues

I'm such a bargain hunter; You will usually find me hunting for treasure in Charity shops, Car Boot Sales and on Ebay. I once picked up a vintage Laura Ashley tea dress for about two pounds, and from that moment I was completely hooked.
With my passion for all things Bargain and Bride, I am going to share even more money saving tips and tricks to help you on your way to your dream Wedding. (Check out my posts The Beginning and the Budgeting Bride and Cheap vs Cost Effective first!) The smaller your budget, the more fun you can have brainstorming creative ways to keep costs minimal. Read on to be inspired...

11) Be Spontaneous
If you can hold your nerve, are incredibly organised or have the assistance of a Planner, you can grab a bargain last minute package deal on your dream venue and save a fortune. For example, my beautiful September Bride got a massive £7,000 saving on her Wedding Package by booking just nine weeks in advance. Make lists, get help, write EVERYTHING down. It can be done!

12) Print your own Invitations
Long gone are the days where you have to allocate hundreds of pounds to your Wedding Stationery. Providing you have a big pack of quality card stock, a decent ink jet printer (or know someone who has) and a couple of hours to spare, you can very easily print absolutely beautiful invitations in the comfort of your own home. Etsy is an encyclopedia of fabulousness; just type in 'Printable Invitations' and be prepared to be 'wowed'.

This gorgeous set includes everything you see in the picture and is fully customisable for a bargain £16.97 Shop Here at LilyCielBridal



13) Altar in the Afternoon

Choose the latest available time (Usually 4pm in UK) and you can then avoid having to have a Wedding Breakfast and a Buffet. This way, you can eliminate one or the other; a BBQ option or Hog Roast could have both bases covered here.

14) Budget- No Budging!

It might sound obvious, but make a budget and stick to it. Make a list of necessities and another list of extras - Sit down with your fiance and rank your priorities. Don't forget that you will need to allow for Giving Notice of Marriage (currently £35 each payable at the registry office) and the Registrar (around £350-£400) if you are planning a civil ceremony.

15) Making Up

Bag a free makeover at a department store or beauty counter and then buy the products. Not only will you then have the tools to recreate the look on your big day, but you'll also know how to apply them like an expert and avoid being made up in a way that just isn't you. The best part? You'll have gorgeous products you can use again and again.

16) Highstreet Honey

I've said it before and I'll say it again; hunt the highstreet. Just look at some of the accessories New Look has to offer! These beautiful 'bits of bling' as my Mum would call them start from as little as £2.99...Loose change in the grand scheme of things!

Shop New Look

That's all from me tonight, until next time...

Go treasure hunting!

The Enchanted One xoxo



Love for the Highstreet

And this afternoon, I give you The Highstreet Dress.
This little beauty from Phase Eight incorporates floor sweeping elegance with stunning floral embroidery, and the high neckline and cap sleeves lend themselves perfectly to a Vintage themed Wedding. The dress has a feel of a bygone era, combining timeless beauty with contemporary simplicity and is accented with a pearl beaded waistband, flattering panelling and all over Organza. The large flower embroidery is simply stunning and is a beautiful contribution to any summer wedding.

Buy it here

At a very reasonable £550, this could easily be mistaken for top end designer and no one would ever guess that it's from a Highstreet store.

Buy it Here



 This stunning Carlotta Bridal Gown from Monsoon is a pleasantly surprising find. Monsoon have a fair selection of Gowns for a Highstreet chain, and not only that but they are unbelievably priced. At just £299 it's an absolutely steal, and perfect for a Budgeting Bride. Once again, this is a Dress that wouldn't look like an impostor next to a Designer Gown; with head to toe luxurious lace, intricate scallop detail to the ¾ length sleeves and hemline and set off with a hand-embellished waistband of diamante and pearl. The Dress also features a scooped back and neckline, accentuated with a trimming of pearls and silver beading.

As I mentioned in my previous money-saving posts, it's well worth checking the Highstreet for your dream dress; TK MAXX have a Bridal Boutique with designer gowns from big names like Valentino for a fraction of the Recommended Retail Price, and since they generally only carry a limited stock it's unlikely that you'll see the same dress again on the Highstreet. With up to 81% off brands like Hollywood Dreams, you can certainly get your money's worth. Even Newlook has jumped on the bandwagon with their new range of Bridal accessories. With the savings you could make on the Highstreet, you'll have enough change left over to treat yourself to a pre-wedding Spa day or to put towards a gorgeous Honeymoon. Don't forget to check Groupon first!

Until next time...

Keep bargain hunting!

The Enchanted One xoxo

A Midsummer Night's Dream Theme - Royal but Rustic

 Let's be honest; no Bride is complete without her accessories. This post is all about bringing the Bride's look together, injecting a bit of her own style and personality and really giving the finished look some pzazz. The Bride's look is going to be Royal but Rustic; inspired by Titania, Queen of the Fairies, but with a little dusting of contemporary wearability.

First, obviously, the Tiara. After all, what is a Royal without her crown jewels? This beautiful silver coloured tiara from Etsy features rhinestone flowers and a leaf design. With or without a veil, a tiara is the perfect way to feel extra special on your Wedding Day.

Tiara - Etsy

The Bouquet - Keeping with the rustic theme, I've chosen this stunning hand tie of wildflowers in soft shades of pink and blue. Featuring pale pink Roses, Nigella, Gypsophelia and a selection of other various wild hedgerow flowers, this bouquet is rustic simplicity at it's finest.

Wildflower Bouquet - The Flower Magician

  The Clutch - Not every bride opts to have a clutch, but let's be honest; it's nice to have everything to hand for a quick lipstick touch-up or a mint. This particular clutch I chose for it's undone and raw feel, which is contrasted and complimented by this perfect sparkly jewel.

Bridal Clutch - Etsy

It's no secret that I have a minor obsession with shoes, and this beauties from Elegant Steps are no exception. The aptly named 'Fairytale' shoes are the perfect combination of lace, sparkle and beautiful rose details that made them the perfect selection for a Royal but Rustic theme.

Diane Hassall Fairytale Shoes - Elegant Steps

There are a few things to consider when choosing your Bridal accessories. A statement necklace will compliment a simple neckline, where as something more dainty and classic would suit a dress with more detail. Less is definitely more and it's all too easy to over accessorise considering the wealth of stunning choices available. If the dress is very detailed and 'Statement', keep accessories classic and minimal; whereas a simple gown can be dressed up with bold jewellery. A pashmina can work well for chilly evenings or as a back up in case the weather is typically British. Parasols are very popular right now; paper parasols in bold colours can make for excellent photographs in hot weather. Remember to be prepared for all eventualities, as very hot weather can be just as much of a pain as very wet or cold weather...blisters from sweaty feet and new shoes, sunburn and dehydration are all big risks, especially after a few cocktails.

 Back up flats or Weddington Boots might be worth considering. After all, having spent all day in high heels, dancing the night away in some soft ballet pumps might be a very appealing option, as might be having a pair of pretty wellies to prevent your beloved shoes being ruined by muddy puddles or wet grass. Being prepared for anything means that when the heavens open or the forecast is for a million degree heat, you will quite literally be cool as cucumber!

This just about wraps up the Midsummer Night's Dream Theme...it's been a tricky one but lots of fun along the way. Until the next post...which I promise not to leave so long this time...

Keep wishing, keep hoping, keep loving!

The Enchanted One xoxo

A Midsummer Night's Dream Theme - The Details

When it comes to the big day, it's the little details that make it really special. When running with a theme, whether it be all out or just subtle inspirations, those little details will be what tie the whole day together and bring the WOW factor.
It helps to think about your photos; imagine your photographer capturing those thoughtful touches that will all too soon be the memories of one of the best day of your lives together, and you'll begin to have an understanding of the magic that a little imagination and thought can bring to your special day.

This theme is all about rustic charm, romance and beautiful lighting; and of course wouldn't be complete without infinite twinkly fairy lights. (Digging through the Christmas decs, anyone?)
Think jam jars with candles (I'm so obsessed with jam jars, I know!) on the tables and hanging from branches draped in soft glow fairy lights, rustic bird cages wrapped with ivy and roses and filled with pillar candles (the LED pillar candles are the safest option) and my personal favourite idea- rustic bird tables also wrapped in ivy and filled with LED pillar candles would make stunning floor lanterns. Hang wicker hearts around your venue too for a homemade feel.
No rustic style wedding is complete without beautiful rustic signs. How stunning are these ones from Go Jump in the Lake?

They can be yours! Buy them here in Go Jump in the Lake's Etsy shop.

Continue your theme by keeping your food really rustic too; How about a buffet style Barbeque? Have wicker baskets and vintage crates containing cutlery, condiments and napkins on the buffet table. Alternatively, you could go for an all-out quintecentially British summer picnic; fill wicker picnic hampers with a quiche, cold cuts, salads, a selection of cakes and scones, fresh fruit and finger sandwiches, a bottle each of red and white wine and put a basket on each table. This way, you have the formality of a sit-down dinner without it actually being formal. With a little imagination, this option could not only work out to be very budget friendly, but can also be gourmet. Check out some catering companies for inspiration:

Smoked salmon and lemon cream sandwiches
Brie and grape sandwiches
Mini prosciutto and asparagus mini frittatas
Potato salad with herb and lemon dressing
Sausage rolls with cranberry and sage
Chocolate and Banana muffins
Summer fruit berries
Bottle of mineral water

This 'posh picnic' is being charged at £25 per head, but by having a basic finger buffet catered, you could collect hampers (Ebay!) and pack them yourselves, adding your own ideas along the way.

Then of course, there's the Wedding Cake. A 'Naked Cake' will lend it's perfectly to the theme and would look stunning as the centrepiece of a dessert table. You could even make your own cake by filling sponges with cream and fresh fruit (you could cheat and buy them from a supermarket, too!) and simply stack. The more imperfect, the better! Cover the layers with summer berries to add colour and that all important homemade opulence.

You could ask ten or so of your wedding party / guests to each make their favourite dessert and gather all your lovely homemade desserts together on one table, placing your wedding cake in the middle.

I hope this had provided plenty of inspiration and ideas you can take away for your own wedding!

Until next time...

Be creative, be inspired, be yourself!

The Enchanted One xoxo



I do not own the copyright to these photographs.

A Midsummer Night's Dream Theme - The Designer Dress

Those who know me will know that Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream holds a very special place in my heart; A ten-year-old me played Frenemy to Puck and first-in-command to Queen Titania in a made-up character role for a Primary School adaptation of the Play.
As balmy summer evenings draw (hopefully) near, it's no wonder the minds of Brides-to-be begin to wander to rustic forest charm and the romantic enchantment of an open-air evening soiree.
This week, my Blog is going all-out Midsummer Night's Dream Themed, starting this evening with The Designer Dress.

It's no secret that I am a little obsessed with Alfred Angelo; and this stunning new gown from the Private Collection is absolutely no exception. The aptly named Juliet (different play, same genius writer) is opulent and indulgent with an adornment of rhinestones and crystal beading, with sequins and pearls decorating a beautiful sweetheart neckline. The satin with lace overlay provides a soft and romantic feel to the gown, which is fit for any Fairy Queen, and celebrates the beauty of femininity with it's fit and flare structure and silhouette enhancing lace-up back.

 

Find a stockist here

 

A short and sweet blog tonight; Sunday is supposed to be the day of rest, after all!

 

Until next time...

 

Have hope, have faith, have fun.

 

The Enchanted One xoxo