https://dhwphotography.co.uk SOMERSET’S NEARLYWEDS HAVE SPOKEN Amber Packer-Hughes at the Somerset Wedding Registration Service (www.somersetweddingservice.org.uk) says: “Thanks to our big wedding survey, we have a great idea of what couples are really looking for. We asked, and hundreds of brides and grooms told us what they think. A whopping 80 per cent said they want their ceremony to be relaxed. The vast majority also want it to feel personal, and half are looking for something fun. About a third are aiming for a simple, intimate or modern vibe. More and more couples are asking for extra touches like time capsules, which allow them to create something really special with their guests. “We were surprised that only about a third of couples thought it was important to write their own vows. There are actually quite a few options in our vow packs and it’s great to know that more than half of nearlyweds are trusting us to write those special words. “We’re so excited to be revamping our own ceremonies now we’ve got the results – we know how much this means to you all. We can’t speak for all registration services, but here in Somerset we’re completely happy to include requests for something quirky or meaningful. If you have an idea, just ask!” KEEP IT CANDID Wedding planner Samantha Smart at Wedding Regency (www.weddingregency.com) says: “One trend I expect to see this year is candid photos. Couples are at their most relaxed and the images are beautiful, with smiles natural and easy. A good photographer is more than capable of shooting in this style, especially if that’s what they specialise in, alongside capturing those more formal group shots. But there’s also the option to go retro and use disposable cameras and polaroids scattered around the guest tables. Another option is to hire a photo booth. These are great fun and the supplier will also bring along plenty of super-fun props.” THANKS FOR THE MEMORIES Craig Cheber at Booth Nineteen (https://booth19.co.uk) says: “With the cost of living the way it is, 2023 will be a year to make sure you get as much value as possible from your wedding entertainment. There’s an array of options available from magicians, children’s entertainers and bouncy castles for the daytime; to bands, DJs and pop-up bars in the evening. While every single one of these options are sure to provide you and your loved ones with laughs and surprises on your wedding day, they’re all over and done with by the time you wake up and leave you with nothing physical to keep and cherish forever. However, with a photo booth, more popular than ever going into 2023, that’s about to change. “Not only does the photo booth keep you and your guests entertained and amused, you get physical prints, which will undoubtedly end up on everyone’s fridges and freezers. What’s more you get a real-life guestbook filled with handwritten messages and photo strips from every single person that used the photo booth (and the attendant will make sure that’s most of them). This will be available to pull out of the cupboard for a laugh at any moment for the rest of your lives! “Don’t settle for just being entertained in 2023, get more for your money, make sure you have something to cherish forever!” www.olivejoyphotography.co.uk 57 EXPERT ADVICE
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