Your Cheshire and Merseyside Wedding - March/april 2021 (Issue 56)

TIME OUT I’m feeling overwhelmed by the pandemic, lockdown after lockdown and planning a wedding. Can you help? There’s no doubt that wedding planning during the last 12 months has been more challenging than at any other point in time, not least because of the continuous uncertainty. And there’s nothing that can fray the nerves quite like fear of the unknown. So, don’t beat yourself up. First and foremost, take a breath and allow yourself some time for self-care. The wedmin will still be there when you return. As a mindfulness coach in training, I can highly recommend the technique as a way to reduce stress and anxiety and, by focusing the mind, it combats that feeling of being overwhelmed. It might sound complicated, but it’s something you can easily do at home with apps like Calm and Headspace, plus plenty of guided meditations available on YouTube. There are also some great guided walk meditations online if you feel like getting out of the house for some fresh air. So, put the planner away for a few minutes step away and concentrate on you. Why not indulge yourself in an at-home spa? Grab the scented candles, bubble bath and relaxing music and take a long soak in the tub. I recently learnt a wonderfully calming ritual at the virtual launch of Temple Spa’s new Exalt Firming Neck Gel and have since made it a regular routine. It’s amazing how it relaxes the neck and shoulders after a day hunched over the computer. Click play to check it out. Finally, when you’re ready to switch the devices back on and resume the wedding planning remember: if you’re uncertain about anything the best thing you can do is ask. Your suppliers will be more than willing to answer any questions you may have and offer you the best guidance. They’ve also been working super-hard over the last year to put policies in place to help if the wedding is affected by Covid, so be sure to enquire about plan B. I’ve had the honour of writing about many an intimate, pandemic-era wedding of late and I can tell you that every couple told me how wonderful and filled with love their big days were. You may have to practically alter your plans and guest list, but the dream wedding can still be yours. Kelly Andrews, Your Cheshire & Merseyside Wedding editor and CWM beauty editor GET SNAPPY It’s time to choose a photographer, and I’ve no idea where to begin. What would you advise? Start by choosing a style. Are you naturally drawn to bright, bold images, or do you prefer a dark, more moody effect? Each supplier will have their own shooting and editing style, so it’s important you do your research and decide which style you like before booking. Next, decide on a budget that you’re willing to spend. The majority of photographers will have set packages on their website but offer extras if you want something more bespoke. If you’re struggling to find a supplier that fits your price range, get in touch and see if they offer half-day coverage instead. This is a great way of saving money and means you’ll still be able to capture the most important parts of the day. With so many photographers to choose from, it can feel a little overwhelming. Look through local websites, social media and check magazines to get a list of potential suppliers. Once you have a list, narrow it down to three options. Check those three have the style you like, are available on your date, fit your budget, offer any additional extras that you want and most importantly have good reviews. Set up a meeting in person or via video chat with each of them to see if your personalities gel. Before the meeting, create a list of questions to ask, such as do you have insurance? Have they worked at your venue before? How much deposit do they expect upfront and when does the final instalment need to be paid? After the meeting, if you feel particularly comfortable around one of them and like their answers, contact them about booking. Melissa Barker, Your North West Wedding editor EXPERT ADVICE 61