SURPRISE FRIENDS I’m considering hiring alpacas as a surprise for my hubby-to-be and guests. What do I need to be aware of before booking? Alpacas are still a relatively new and niche addition to weddings, so the first thing you need to do is make sure that your chosen venue is happy to allow alpacas on their grounds and that the space is suitable to have large animals, preferably a grassed area with level access. Are the owners happy for alpacas to come inside the venue, and if you would like alpacas as ring bearers, is the celebrant or registrar happy for them to be included as part of the ceremony? If you do not yet have a venue in mind, ask the alpaca owners where they have taken their alpacas for previous weddings. This might give you a starting point in your search for the perfect setting. If you want to surprise either your husband-to-be, your guests, or both, then make the alpaca company aware of this; they can make sure the alpacas are hidden away until their starring moment. We aim to get everything set up and ready while you are in the ceremony, so by the time you all venture outside, our best-dressed alpacas are ready to greet your new husband and guests. Don’t forget to add alpaca photos to your photographer’s list; you won’t want to miss a photo opportunity for your unique wedding album! Jane and Paul Colman www.wreaysykealpacas.co.uk FALL IN LOVE What are the advantages of booking an autumn wedding? While the summer months can be unpredictable and winter is predictably chilly, the glorious months of autumn fall somewhere in between. Here is why you should book an autumn wedding: The colours: It goes without saying that the autumnal colours are a major plus at this time of year. Whether you choose burgundy, orange, or brown, each hue adds warmth and celebration to the natural hues of the season. The backdrop: While your colours and décor will bring the venue to life inside, equally important is the natural backdrop of the outdoors. Look for a venue with colourful trees to create the perfect place for memorable moments. Atmospheric lighting: Since the clocks go back in October, you have the option of marrying before or after. Enjoy the last of the late summer evenings or celebrate the start of the longer nights. You might consider an earlier ceremony to make the most of the golden sunlight and an earlier sunset. From sparklers and fireworks that dazzle to blankets on the terrace to enjoy the outdoors a little longer, we’re sure that once the sun goes down, your guests will be straight on the dancefloor! The dress: Let’s face it, choosing your dress is one of the most exciting parts of wedding planning. Consider adding sleeves, a fur bolero, or a warmer tone to your gown. Of course, it doesn’t stop with your dress; you can think about those beautiful, rich colours for your bridesmaids. How about burgundy or burnt orange, and even black tie for the gents? Go one step further and bring these gorgeous shades into your own look with a coloured lip or deep eyeshadow. Guest availability: The chances of guests being on holiday and unable to attend your day are significantly reduced in the autumn. On top of that, it’s typically a cheaper time to travel, so any friends and family coming from abroad will be grateful. Bold flowers: With the range of florals available in autumn, you can create simply stunning bouquets and centrepieces. Use flowers such as roses, dahlias, sunflowers, and lavender among the autumn foliage. Consider artificial reeds, thistles, berries, and sprayed copper leaves. Ask your florist about a romantic, cascading bouquet, and use coloured ribbons to tie the look together. The build-up: Of course, no matter what time of year you get married, you’re going to enjoy the build-up. But the lead-in to autumn is, of course, summer, meaning lots of options for hen and stag parties. The perfect chance to top up your tan, celebrate, and relax ahead of your big day. Plus, the end of summer brings sales, meaning you can snap up some bargains! Whether it’s flip-flops for your dancing feet, bride squad outfits, or gifts for the bridal party. It’s not peak season: An obvious benefit to choosing autumn is that typically, it’s not peak wedding season. This means you’ll likely have more dates available at your venue, as well as booking a date that’s cheaper. Don’t forget, it won’t just be your venue that offers low-season discounts; most suppliers may be more cost-effective too. Décor: A major benefit of an autumnal wedding has to be the vast options available for décor. Whether you spray-paint pumpkins and pinecones, use logs for centrepieces, or scatter leaves down your aisle, the possibilities are endless! The team at West Tower www.westtower.com www.stevenrooneyphotography.com www.jennacarpenterphotography.co.uk 50
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