PICTURE PERFECT How can we ensure our photographer is the right fit for our day? The first thing I’d recommend you do is look at the photographer’s website and see what style they use – documentary, fine art or classic? Look at their colours and editing style, as well as the type of photos they have on their website and social media, as those will be the styles that you receive. The next thing would be to meet with a few photographers whose photos you love and see who you feel comfortable with, as they will be with you throughout your wedding day, so it’s important that you feel relaxed around them. Finally, check their online reviews and then go ahead and book with your favourite photographer. Christina Davies www.fish2.co.uk SEASONAL ROMANCE My wife-to-be and I are trying to choose what time of year to get married, but we can’t decide. What popular flowers are available in each season? Choosing flowers for your wedding based on the season is a great way to add a natural touch to your big day. Here’s a list of some of my favourites to help you decide: Spring (March–May): Tulips are symbolic of love and happiness; daffodils represent new beginnings; and peonies are known for their lush, full blooms. There are also fragrant and delicate lilacs and colourful hyacinths available. Summer (June–August): Roses are classic, versatile and available in a wide range of varieties and colours. Sunflowers are bright and cheerful, while dahlias are bold and dramatic. There are also charming lavenders, voluminous hydrangeas and hardy zinnias. Autumn (September–November): Chrysanthemums symbolise joy and longevity and are often cost-effective. Marigolds are bright and warm-toned, while asters are star-shaped and colourful. Dahlias are a personal favourite of mine that continue blooming into the autumn. Alternatively, roses are still widely available and sunflowers are available early in the season. Winter (December–February): Amaryllis are bold and festive; holly adds a classic winter touch; and poinsettias are iconic for the Christmas period. If you’re looking for something different, camellias are elegant and available in various colours. Sarah Lawton www.wildthistleblooms.co.uk FLORAL WONDERS When should I book my florist for my wedding? I recommend booking your wedding florist once you have set your date and booked your wedding venue; this is usually between 12 and 18 months. The venue sets the overall feel and aesthetic for your wedding and will help your florist create florals that match your style and venue. Without a wedding date, it is hard for a florist to begin a quote without knowing the availability of flowers. It’s good to go to your suppliers with an idea of how you would like the day to look and feel. If you’re struggling to decide on a colour scheme, take a look at Pinterest and make a board of images that catch your eye and that you really like. This can also be sent to your florist to give them an idea of your thoughts for your wedding day. From here, your florist will be able to suggest seasonal blooms and ideas that will work for your day. A lot of independent florists only take on a set number of weddings each year and often only one or two a weekend, so dates can book up quite fast, especially in peak season. So, if you’ve found a florist whose work and style you really love, there is no harm in contacting them early. If you’re having a short wedding planning period, then always get in touch with any florist that you love and they can check availability – it’s more common than you think! Abbey James www.fleursandink.co.uk www.fish2.co.uk www.marinawalker.co.uk www.lauradugglebyphotography.co.uk 70
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