ON PAPER GAYNOR PAGE, TOPIKKI https://topikki.co.uk We’re engaged! Now what? You should be thinking about guest numbers before anything else as this will be the foundation for everything from here on in. The size and type of venue, your catering style, the number and type of invitations you’ll need and how you’ll eventually seat your loved ones – each of these will give you a budget starting point. How do I work out the seating plan? When it comes to stationery family dynamics can be a sticking point. You should think about how people actually get on with each other, and whether they could be seated next to each other, as well as whether you need or want to invite them and how they’ll impact your day. Once this has all been addressed you can plan who to send your invitations to and rest in the knowledge that seating won’t be an issue. Often couples don’t give the table plan a thought until they come to ordering it and then juggling it can be a stressful project. How can we make our big day totally us? These days there are no hard and fast rules, so anything goes. If you both have a hobby or lifestyle that you’d like to share, use that as inspiration for your stationery – let people see who you are. What’s your top planning tip when it comes to the stationery? Certainly for bespoke designs, but even for the Studio and Designer ranges, I’d recommend taking your free consultation early. Book your samples and sit with them for a while to see which options you really prefer. It will help you to feel sure that you haven’t rushed into making a decision, and it gives you time to ask your stationer any questions you might have. The more relaxed and organised you are throughout the planning process, the better day you’ll have. SAY “YES” TO THE DRESS SARAH HACKETT, ROOKERY BRIDAL www.rookerybridal.co.uk We’re engaged! Now what? In terms of finding your perfect dress, the more time you can give yourself the better, but there really isn’t a set of rules. The only thing to consider and remember is that gowns can take up to six months to arrive from the date of order. Don’t be disappointed, start sooner rather than later and if you find the one, don’t worry if it feels too soon – you love your gown and that won’t change. Dresses can be stored by most boutiques, so it’s not an issue. When do I start shopping for my gown? The answer is: when you’re ready. In an ideal world that would be a year before your big day with a view to having ordered nine months in advance. This allows for shipping time, alterations and keeps you calm. Don’t panic if you don’t have that long – there’s always a solution and we’ll work hard with you to ensure everything is perfect. How can we make our big day totally us? Don’t compromise. If you want something different that says “us,” do it! This is a one-time opportunity to make your day as special as it can be. Think of the things that are most important and plan them. Make a list, don’t overfill the event, keep the numbers at a point you’re comfortable with and factor in time for yourselves too. What’s your top planning tip when it comes to the dress? Keep an open mind. If you become too caught up in the specifics of a dress or dresses you might just miss out on the perfect gown. Let the consultant help and guide you – they should know what they’re doing and they may very well surprise you. 56
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