IT’S BEGINNING TO LOOK A LOT LIKE CHRISTMAS! What can we add to our barn-venue wedding celebration to give it a warm and cosy Christmas feel? Taking inspiration from the sights and sounds of the season can make your winter reception shine. Achieve warmth with a rich feature colour in your décor, such as burgundy or forest green with glittering gold accents. Plus, nothing evokes rustic charm in a barn space like foliage to bring the outside in. Add some delicate mistletoe or eucalyptus to tables, or go all-out with a dazzling Christmas tree. There’s plenty of time to pop champagne throughout your big day, so why not offer the warmest welcome to your guests with a glass of mulled wine or a boozy hot chocolate on arrival? The soundtrack to your celebration can elevate the occasion: an acoustic live act or playlist featuring romantic guitar covers of your favourite Christmas tunes is a subtle way to spread the festive cheer. Once daylight gives way to the dark of a winter’s evening, there’s no better décor accent than candlelight. You don’t have to be limited to adorning your tables either: floating tea lights from centrepieces and stacks of pillar candles around your reception will amplify the romance and warmth of your gathering. Rachel Leon, weddings and events manager, www.themanorgreasby.co.uk Psst... The Barn at the Manor will open in Greasby on the Wirral this winter. CHRISTMAS IN A CUP What drinks can we serve at our winter wedding to suit the season and add a touch of Christmas? Our gin hot toddies and winter warmers have been described as Christmas in a cup! Our urns are infused with festive botanicals including cinnamon, star anise, juniper and more, which all conjure up memories of that magical time of year. These hot toddies are always a real talking point among guests and bring a festive atmosphere to any wedding. Laura Tracey, www.juniper1933.com A LIFELONG COMMITMENT We both have jobs where we work with our hands and are a bit worried about our wedding rings standing the test of time. What would you recommend? There are two points to consider when choosing wedding bands, the metal itself and the thickness of it. With 18ct and 9ct white gold, the bands are rhodium plated to give them their high shine finish and this is something that needs to be maintained. So, if you’re in a job where you’re using your hands a lot or using alcohol sanitizer gels, then I’d suggest staying away from this material. It’s worth considering a brushed finish to the outside of your band to make any scratches less noticeable, this is especially popular with gents’ bands as they’re usually wider. If your budget allows, then platinum is an excellent metal for a wedding band, as it’s hard wearing, dense and naturally white. It also polishes beautifully if scratched. However, if you’d prefer a yellow gold or rose gold, these are still perfect for a wedding band, but I’d recommend considering at least a medium-weight band. Remember, it’s one of the few items you’ll ever buy in life that you’ll use and wear every day, so really consider the ring and your budget carefully before buying. Rachael Whitwam, www.oharesjewellers.co.uk 74
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTA0NTE=