Your Hampshire & Dorset Wedding - Nov/Dec 2019 (Issue 77)

Your to-do list sorted S o there’s a sparkly new ring on your finger; congratulations! Enjoy this special time, celebrate and when you’re ready to set the date, you can get cracking with the wedding planning. THE COUNTDOWN’ S ON When it comes to thinking about when you want to marry, there are lots of considerations to take on board. If you already have a venue in mind, you need to check availability, then there’s family and key members of the bridal party to take into account, bank holidays, landmark birthdays, baby due-dates and any other major forthcoming events that might clash. If your other half is a die-hard footie fan, and their favourite team is destined for the cup final, it may be a good idea to check the fixtures list too! The time Some people have their heart set on a particular venue from the get-go, so it’s just about setting the date. Others may be starting from scratch, so need to get looking as soon as possible because once the where and when are sorted, everything else can flow from there. It helps to have an idea of the style and theme you want, as that will narrow down the list. Doing your homework, researching online and scouring local wedding magazines will help too. Once you’ve picked your favourites, it’s time to get viewing. Before you go though, be prepared with an idea of the size of your budget, guest list and any must-haves, to make sure it ticks all your important boxes. The place Time to hit the shops. Even if you want to wait for the latest on-trend designs, it pays to do some research into the look you’re after early on. Check out your local suppliers and wedding fairs for help and advice from those in the know. Bridal boutique owners and their staff spend their days helping brides-to-be find the one and have a trained eye for spotting the best styles to suit all shapes. Try to keep an open mind and you may find your dream gown is one you’d never imagined before. To avoid disappointment, don’t leave it until the last minute to order, as some designer gowns can take months to arrive in store. You need to allow time for any last-minute alterations too. Once your dress is in the bag, it’s easier to decide on the right look for the bride tribe. Having a colour scheme narrows it down but the whole squad doesn’t have to wear the same. You can have a single colour in a range of different shades for a coordinated look or contrasting hues for an eye-catching rainbow effect. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution and there are a number of ranges available now that can be worn in a variety of ways to suit different heights and body shapes. If your best girls are spread far and wide, you can share ideas online, send a colour swatch or fabric sample and let them choose. Whatever you decide, the more comfortable everyone feels the better and it will shine out in the photos. The dress The bridal party PLANNING 57 Image: joeweil.co.uk Venue: the-italian-villa.co.uk