Your Somerset, Glos & Wilts Wedding - April/May 2025 (Issue 106)

40 suppliers will be able to make recommendations, so ask them too. You’ll have your wedding photos for life, so your make-up look is important. “Arrange a call with your make-up artist and make sure you’re happy to work together and that they can achieve the look you desire. Ask as many questions as you can think of! If you’re still unsure, book a no obligation trial and decide from there if you wish to secure the date.” 11 MONTHS TO SIX MONTHS TO GO At this time you’ll be starting to whittle down the finer details. “If your photographer offers an engagement shoot, don’t miss the opportunity and schedule this in with them,” Darcy says. “It’s also ideal timing for sending out your save-the-date cards. You can start to create a gift registry too, plan any pre-wedding parties and book your honeymoon. Don’t forget to renew or get passports if necessary.” Start refining your plans. “Finalise the menu, pick out your florals, and experiment with lighting options that highlight Wookey Hole caves' natural allure,” Steph says. Darcy recommends: “Around eight months out, you can also reserve any hotel rooms in blocks, book your transport and make childcare arrangements. Then, with around six months to go, purchase your wedding rings, and schedule any rehearsals and tastings.” Decide on your dishes and make sure you’re 100 per cent happy with your choices. Sure, you want to provide something for everyone, but make sure you choose something the two of your love, after all, it’s your day! Now’s the time to have a fun, relaxed meeting with your celebrant. “We’ll go deeper into your love story, plan the ceremony details and throw around ideas to make it extra special,” Polly says. With six months to go, it’s also time to write those all-important vows. “If you’re writing your own, start with around six months to go so you can tweak and perfect them over time,” Polly continues. “Your celebrant can help guide you if you’re stuck. Ask friends or family to do a reading but remember, you don’t have to choose traditional ones. A poem, lyrics from your favourite song, or even an excerpt from a movie can work beautifully.” Cathy says, “At 14 & Sixpence, we invite you back in after the initial ‘yes’ appointment to celebrate your dress with a glass of fizz! This is a chance to revisit the beautiful dress you chose once she’s arrived following your order. We can discuss what tweaks may be needed and play with veils and accessories. Bring any shoes you’ve found to check for comfort.” Alice says, “If you’ve considered any add-ons to your entertainment, such as extra performers, daytime sets, or a later finish, we’d recommend booking now, if you haven’t already. With six months to go, you’ll have enough time to know if this is something you want, can afford and can secure with your chosen entertainment while giving them plenty of notice.” To ensure the perfect look with flawless skin Jane says, “Have a skincare check-up with a dermatologist if needed. Gather your skincare products and start prepping your skin. Stay hydrated and eat healthily.” FIVE TO THREE MONTHS TO GO You’ll be entering your busiest, but potentially most exciting period now! Steph says, “Around the five months mark we’ll invite you back to Wookey Hole to refresh your memory and to bring special loved ones along so they can help at this planning stage. I get my couples to complete a questionnaire so we can help them finesse the details.” When you’re around four months away from the big day, Darcy advises, “Order your on-the-day stationery and signs, along with a calligrapher if desired. Purchase your wedding favours, review your wedding music list and sign up for dance lessons for a show-stopping first turn on the dancefloor.” With just three months left, “It’s time to send out invitations and confirm your guest list,” Steph says. “We use this milestone to double-check vendor arrangements and catch up face-to-face.” Also at the three-month mark, Jane says, “Book your make-up trial, or even a second if required.” Cathy recommends, “Ensure you’ve booked in your alterations with a bridal seamstress – don’t forget, you’ll need those shoes!” It’s time for another chat with your celebrant to confirm logistics. “Fine tune any last-minute details. They’ll be in touch with you about this anyway,” Polly says. “If you’re having a rehearsal, let’s get your wedding party involved and make it fun. It’s a great way to ease the nerves.” Much of your dream team will be mega-busy bringing couples’ big days to life at the weekends, so bear in mind any appointments may need Darcy Pearson Event Manager Montigo Resorts Somerset at Charlton House Eyedomakeup © https://loumay.co.uk Wookey Hole © www.keeryphoto.com Entertainment Nation, Soulstress Groove

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