https://lottiepovallphotography.com HISTORIC SETTINGS We’re planning our wedding at a heritage venue; what advice can you share with me? A venue with an illustrious historical pedigree and a reputation for service will invariably have an interesting story, which is a great conversation starter, especially if guests are unfamiliar with each other. Find out if an authorised expert can educate guests about the venue’s history. Loved ones will be impressed with a prestigious address and location incorporating historic themes or landmarks. Events often require additional décor expenditures, but costs can be saved if this is inherent in the venue itself. A strong maritime theme is pervasive throughout Trinity House, with oversized ship models and the Brass Bell of the Royal Yacht Britannia. Some heritage venues charge guests for access to museum-quality treasures and artefacts such as crested crockery, cutlery, glassware, silver presentation tables, menus, napkins, chairs and more. Ask for free use of Trinity House’s impressive ceremonial sword to cut a cake or open a bottle of Champagne for some added wow factor. Our venue hire charges include tables and chairs, which is often not the case elsewhere. Many historic buildings provide a list of preferred caterers and event support services; always select one. These companies know the venue well and pay a little extra, if needed, for familiarity with the venue, which frequently ends up being cheaper than costly last-minute disasters. Although there are sometimes restrictions on heritage buildings that make adopting certain sustainable practices difficult (mandatory incorporation of existing single pane windows), ask what the venue is doing to comply with and adopt sustainably-oriented policies. We encourage the selection of caterers who manage their waste responsibly, such as delivering food waste to registered charities or industrial agencies who employ an ‘anaerobic digestion process’ to convert waste into biofuel or fertilisers. Zoe Turner | Trinity House | www.trinityhouse.co.uk KEEP MOVING I’m struggling to stay motivated while working out pre-wedding; what advice can you share? Staying motivated and staying fit can be challenging, but you can make it enjoyable and effective. Here are some unique, out-of-the-box tips. •Indoor trampoline workouts: Invest in a mini-trampoline (rebounder) and use it for high-energy workouts. •Embrace cold exposure: Engage in cold showers, ice baths or outdoor winter swimming to boost mood, increase energy and improve your immune system. •Create an outdoor scavenger hunt: Challenge yourself to find and photograph particular objects in your area while jogging or walking. •Night-time glow yoga: Host a glow-in-the-dark session with blacklight and fluorescent clothing. •Dance parties: Host or attend indoor dance parties or dance-based fitness classes to stay active and warm while having a blast. •Virtual reality (VR) workouts: Explore reality fitness games, which can transport you to immersive and exciting environments, making workouts feel like adventures. •Fireplace meditation: Combine fitness and relaxation by doing yoga or meditation in front of a warm, crackling fireplace. •Incentive-based workouts: Gamify your workouts by setting up a reward system. Treat yourself to a small, healthy indulgence for every workout you complete or purchase an item you’ve had your eye on. •Community challenges: Join or organise community fitness challenges, like local running or other fitness challenges. Ali Malik | Fit Labs Kensington | www.fitlabskensington.com THE GIFT THAT KEEPS ON GIVING We’re tying the knot soon, and guests keep asking what wedding gifts they can buy. What’s currently popular? From the most requested classic gifts like glassware, crockery and bedding to the more personal choices, including everything from lighting to placemats, we’re dedicated to ensuring our couples’ wedding lists reflect sophistication and luxury. Certain items stand out in luxury wedding gifts for their practicality and elegance. Bake sets promise shared culinary adventures while serving platters and wine coasters elevate dining experiences. Photo frames capture precious memories, and stylish umbrella stands add sophistication to any home. Toasts are made in style with champagne glasses, and couples enjoy romantic getaways with Mr & Mrs Smith vouchers. For cooking enthusiasts, stand mixers and food processors are not just fancy additions but practical tools to enhance your culinary adventures. The ottoman tray and soft furnishing are decorative and make your house a home. These popular gifts blend functionality with sophistication, ensuring the happy couple’s needs are met, and they can fully enjoy their new life together. Picture timeless Addison Ross frames or whimsical Amuse la Bouche lobster platters and Late Afternoon server ware – these are not just unique pieces. They’re one-of-a-kind items that will adorn your home and become cherished family heirlooms. We’ve also seen a rise in the popularity of unique and bespoke brands that aren’t always found on other gift list sites. Think Matilda Goad, The Vintage List, Rebecca Udall, Issy Granger, Penny Morrison, Sarah K, Marlo Wine, Forwood Design and Villa Bologna – each offering treasures that elevate everyday living to an art form. This exclusivity adds a special touch to your wedding registry, making you feel unique and special. We’re also seeing a rise in demand for luggage and accessory gifts. As couples embark on new adventures together, they seek gifts that accompany them on their journey, blending practicality with luxury. Katie Stothard | The Wedding Present Company www.weddingpresentco.com ASK THE EXPERTS 67
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