An Essex Wedding - July/August 2024 (Issue 117)

HOT TOPIC Our local experts solve your wedding dilemmas DANCE THE NIGHT AWAY We want to wow our guests on the big day with our music. Do you have any suggestions on how we can do this? One of the best ways to make an impact is to start the night off with a bang - first impressions are everything. Sometimes there’s a tendency to hold back after the first dance. Understandably, the DJ or couple might think the guests need a chance to warm up first. However, it’s a perfect opportunity while everyone is gathered round the dancefloor and all eyes are on you to keep them there! Hit them with a high energy track that you know the guests will love and what better way to enhance your night then with a charismatic live musician alongside your DJ (saxophone, bongos, singer etc) to really get the crowd pumped and rallied up. It’s a guaranteed party starter. Jonny Poole | Jonny on Sax www.jonnyonsax.co.uk PLANNED TO PERFECTION We’re having a large wedding with a variety of different ages from toddlers to adults. How do we make sure the day goes off without a hitch with so many people to try and please? Planning a large wedding that pleases a diverse group of guests requires careful consideration and thoughtful organisation. Think about... 1. Entertainment: Ensure there’s something for everyone. Set up a kids area with activities such as colouring books, toys, and perhaps a hired babysitter or entertainer. For adults, consider a mix of live music, a DJ, and a quiet lounge area for conversations. 2. Food options: Offer a variety of food to cater to different tastes and dietary needs. A buffet with diverse options can be ideal. Consider having a kids menu with simpler dishes. 3. Comfort: Make sure the venue is accessible and comfortable for all ages. Provide seating options that cater to both elderly guests and parents with young children. Ensure there’s shade or heating, depending on the weather. 4. Schedule: Plan the day with a well-thought-out schedule that includes breaks. Keep speeches and formalities concise to maintain engagement. Ensure there’s downtime for socialising and relaxation. 5. Communication: Clearly communicate the schedule, venue layout, and any special arrangements in advance. This helps guests know what to expect and plan accordingly. 6. Personal touches: Small personal touches, like welcome bags with essentials and goodies for different age groups, can make guests feel appreciated and catered to. 7. Don’t stress: Consider hiring a professional on-the-day coordinator to do all the scheduling of the day to ensure the day runs smoothly and checks everything and everyone is catered for, and nothing is missed. By considering the needs and preferences of all age groups, you can create a wedding day that everyone enjoys and remembers fondly. Joanne Alexander | Moments Like This Weddings https://momentslikethisweddings.co.uk www.photographerliamgillan.com 87 ASK THE EXPERTS

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