Your East Anglian Wedding - Page number 84 - August/September 2021 (Issue 50)

HOT TOPIC Local experts on the shape of things to come THE WAY FORWARD We’ve postponed our wedding until next year due to Covid and are wondering what trends and influences are likely to be around then. Valerie says: The pandemic has certainly had a tremendous impact on weddings and influenced couples expectations causing a shift in tradition. We have seen a significant move towards more intimate personalised ceremonies and micro weddings, along with growing love for celebrating outdoors with close family and friends. Although the crisis inflicted significant restrictions on weddings, it also inspired many couples to break free from some traditions to concentrate on what’s really important to them and their big day. With an increasing focus on sustainability, more than ever people are mindful of their impact on the environment, reducing waste, keeping costs down and the importance of making responsible decisions. This had led to rising demand for eco-friendly wedding planning and styling which can still be beautiful and glamourous. Here are a few tips on how to incorporate green credentials into your décor and table styling. ❤ Avoid single-use products and plastic that‘s harmful to the environment and local wildlife. ❤ Hire your decorations, table and glassware from a wedding supplier or stylist. It’s cheaper than buying your own and encourages a culture of re-use. ❤ Use vintage, preloved and reclaimed props such as old vases and bottles. Stoneware, copper and brass vessels look wonderful dotted around the venue tables. ❤ For cosy corners and chill-out areas think cane furniture and low-level pallet tables made from reclaimed wood with rugs, comfy pouffes and cushions, great for relaxed outdoor weddings at tipi, barn and marquee venues. ❤ Save energy and set the scene with romantic candlelight using lanterns, vintage brass or cut-glass candlesticks, or recycled glass jars with non-toxic natural beeswax or soy candles. Don’t forget to check with your venue first though to see if they allow real candles. ❤ Dress your venue with handmade decorations including macrame and bunting made from cotton or vintage fabric. Ribbons in your wedding colours look great too and can be used again after the wedding. ❤ For the tables natural hessian, cheesecloth or linen runners and napkins will set off your tableware beautifully and can be hired through event décor and other suppliers. ❤ For the flowers there are many eco-friendly options such as choosing a local sustainable florist, who uses seasonal flowers, foraged greenery or dried flowers in plastic foam-free arrangements. Succulents and plants are another great option and you can always donate your flowers to a residential care home or hospice afterwards and brighten someone else’s day. Valerie King | Co-owner | www.samphirevintageprops.co.uk Image: www.vickyplum.co.uk Venue: www.wellingtonwood.co.uk Dreamcatchers www.notjustfornanas.co.uk Image: www.vickyplum.co.uk Ve nue: www.wellingtonwood.co.uk We created this intimate, sustainable tablescape with local artisan florists Daphne and Doreen Flower Studio (www.daphneanddoreen.co.uk) wh o provided the stunning floral urn arrangements and beautiful hanging ribbons with tulips. The soft peachy blush colour of the cheesecloth table runner and muslin gauze napkins was achieved by hand-dying the fabric with leftover avocado pits and skins. 84