Your North East Wedding - July/August 2020 (Issue 39)

SWEET CREATIONS I’m looking for the perfect favours to give our guests, what would you suggest? Giving your guests a small gift or favour has been a tradition at weddings for hundreds of years. Sugared almonds symbolised fertility, health, wealth, happiness and long life and have been a popular option with brides and grooms for many years, but now couples often like to give something a little more exciting. We do lots of these cute little cookie favours, not only do they look gorgeous and taste great, but they can be personalised to suit any wedding or theme. Our most popular option includes the bride and groom’s names, initials or the wedding date on them. We also offer ones with your guests’ names on to double up as place settings, which is two jobs ticked off the list. In the past, we’ve had the pleasure of working on some fabulous bespoke cookies such as hot air balloons, horses, aeroplanes, and even juicy red apples cookies for teachers tying the knot – the possibilities are endless! All the cookies come beautifully packaged, ready to pop out onto the tables. Helen Edwards | Vanilla Teas | www.vanillateas.co.uk SAY ‘I DO’ We’re looking for a perfect venue for our wedding, but we have no idea where to start. What top tips and advice can you share with us? When it comes to finding the perfect venue, I’d suggest looking for something very personal where all of your concerns and queries will be listened to and met. Every event at Duns Castle gets tailored to the individual, and all guests are made to feel totally at home for the duration of their stay, which is essential to us. Each guest will experience a warm welcome and timeless experience. The venue has survived many historical crises and remains calm about coronavirus, each room has a hand wash, and there’s plenty of space in all main areas to stand apart! Aline Hay | Duns Castle | www.dunscastle.co.uk GET THE PARTY STARTED What tips and advice can you share with us when it comes to finding the perfect DJ for our wedding? Finding your perfect DJ isn’t always an easy task. With social media, wedding fairs, websites and magazines – there are hundreds to choose from. So, if you’re the type of couple who desire a fantastic night full of everlasting memories, then sit back because this is for you! A DJ is a big part of any wedding as they have the power to make the evening even more exciting and fun. Select a budget and do not deviate; by this point you’ll already have a chosen venue, so why not have music to complement your theme and style? Create a shortlist of companies and compare its services but most importantly, make sure they meet your needs. Look at reviews, pictures, videos and recommendations. Are they good with children? Can they mix a good selection of music that will keep everyone on their feet?  Always meet your DJ before you book, if they turn you down it’s pretty clear how they’ll treat you and your wedding – do not settle for second best! The perfect company will leave you with great memories and a packed dancefloor. Enjoy your planning and remember, soft and comfortable shoes when dancing!  The Wedding Guy | Harry Knoxx Wedding & Events DJ |  www.djharryknoxx.co.uk LOOKING YOUR BEST When should I start looking for a wedding dress and what should I expect for my appointments? When it comes to looking for a wedding dress, I’d say you should begin viewing approximately 12 to 14 months before the wedding. Appointments in my store are private with only one taking place at a time. Prosecco gets offered to enhance the experience along with a warm and friendly welcome. I offer brides-to-be my advice and point them in hopefully the right direction to their dream dress and brides can expect to have professional fun in our store! Ellen McNulty Biglands | Destiny | www.destinybridal.co.uk EXPERT ADVICE 71