HOT TOPIC Our experts answer your big-day questions HAPPY PLANNING We’re an engaged couple living in Oxfordshire where we both work full-time so there isn’t much time left for wedding planning. We’re thinking of marrying in Europe and hiring a planner to arrange our special day for us from here. How does the process work? Meet the expert: Sofia Gallo is the talent behind Weddings and Events by Sofia. She has been planning weddings for more than 20 years, first in Italy and then since moving to the UK in 2012. She specialises in European destination weddings in Italy and France. Sofia says: In recent years, there has been an increase in destination weddings with 2022 proving to be popular for Italy, with the Amalfi Coast topping the list. France, Greece, and Spain are other popular hot spots. Here are my five top tips when starting to plan your wedding abroad: • Take the questionnaire on the www.gov.ouk website by searching ‘marriage abroad’ - it’s a great starting point to understand the minimum requirements because not all European countries allow for civil ceremonies so this tool will guide you through the first steps and even recommend approved translators. • Consider at least 18-12 months of planning time when wanting to marry abroad. The requirements may change from town to town and bureaucracy can play a big part. • Be aware of the hidden costs. If you’re looking for a legal ceremony, there may be some requirements that will inevitably cost you, such as document translations by a recognised translator or CNI (Certificate of No Impediment) to be requested at the local registry office. You may also need to stay at the chosen location for several days before the wedding. • Have a budget in mind alongside the services you may need. This will help you stick to it and have a clear vision of what you would like on your wedding day. • Look for a wedding planner who can assist you with all of the above taking some of the wedmin off of you and providing you with a budget tool that will help you make your choices wiser. 07511 143 992 www.sofiasweddingsandevents.co.uk www.facebook.com/Sofiaweddingsandevents www.instagram.com/sofiaweddingsandevents AISLE STYLE We’re considering booking a venue styling and accessory hire company to decorate our venue. Can you help? Meet the expert: Taniece Saunders is the owner of Hire Heaven, a florist and venue styling company based in High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire. Taniece says: Having a venue that’s styled for your special day is something that every couple should consider. We can prepare and set up the event, and make the venue look amazing while you enjoy getting ready and making precious memories of your special day with family and friends. 07922 397 489, www.hireheaven.co.uk www.facebook.com/hireheaven | www.instagram.com/hireheaven IT’S PARTY TIME! Meet the expert: Claire McCarthy-Morris is the cofounder of Sing Out Waitresses & Waiters and also Sing Out Sisters offering interactive live entertainment at weddings. We’re looking for some wow-factor wedding entertainment to surprise our guests. Can you help? Claire says: Why not book singing waitresses or waiters to entertain your loved ones when they least expect it? Weddings can be a long day and our talented stars put on a show to lift the energy of the crowd halfway through your special day, creating an amazing atmosphere. We won’t just stand and sing at your guests, we have plenty of fun ways to get everyone involved and make sure they have a great time, delivering those magical moments that family members and friends will talk about for years to come. The great thing about us in particular is not only our amazing performers but that we’re interactive! Sing Out Waitresses & Waiters | www.singoutwaitressesandwaiters.co.uk | www.facebook.com/singoutwaitressesandwaiters | www.instagram.com/singoutwaitressesandwaiters 59 EXPERT ADVICE
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