38 We start the spring with a stress-free guide to planning your wedding Congratulations – you’re engaged! Now what? Find out with our planning timeline compiled with the help of those who know it best, the region’s incredible wedding suppliers. IN FOR A PENNY IN FOR A POUND Before you start surfing the internet for venues and suppliers, sit down together with a cuppa and, “Set your budget,” local celebrant Polly Miller says. “Factor in the costs for the venue, celebrant, decor, music, and any fun extras like a confetti toss or a special ritual.” Montigo Resorts Somerset at Charlton House’s (https://somerset.montigoresorts.com) head of events, Darcy Pearson says, “While doing so, think about what’s important to you as a couple.” Indeed, whatever you decide will have an impact on everything else you do from here on in. Think about your overall vision. Is rustic bliss your vibe, or are you more the modern chic kind of couple? Perhaps you want to keep it classic and traditional. You may even want to go completely your own way and host a festival-style wedding in a field with a temporary structure such as a marquee or tipi for cover. “Dream big!” says local celebrant Polly Miller (www.celebrantpollymiller.com). “Think about the kind of ceremony you want. Will it be romantic and heartfelt? Full of fun and laughter, kick-starting the party? A mix or both? A celebrant can help craft something that is just so you. Think outside the box. Want to walk down the aisle to a banging tune? Have your dog as the ring bearer? Have mid-ceremony shots for you and all your guests? A celebrant-led ceremony gives you the freedom to make it fun and personal.” LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION When people ask us what to book first our answer is always: the venue. Without having your venue secured, you won’t have a date and without a date you won’t be able to book the rest of your suppliers. Hit the internet as soon as you’re ready to start planning and check out all the incredible locations in this glorious region. From historical to quirky and everything in between, this region has it all. Pop over to the Find a Service section over at www.yoursomersetglosandwilts.wedding as well as the venue section, both great places to start. “Popular venues book up fast, so lock in your dream spot,” Polly says. “Think about where you’d feel most comfortable saying ‘I do,’ whether it be a beach, forest, garden or grand venue.” “Start your journey by exploring as many different venues as possible,” Steph, weddings manager at local lovely Wookey Hole (www.wookey.co.uk) says. “As you visit various locations, you’ll know when you’ve found that perfect match for your vision. Embrace this time as an opportunity to dream big and gather ideas.” It’s important too to find a crew you click with. Darcy, for example, likes to make planning your wedding day a beautiful process, rather than just one beautiful day. Traditionally, when you confirm your wedding at Charlton House, the deposit and contract are organised and you’ll be presented with a beautiful tote bag filled with essential materials. This thoughtful package includes your wedding planner, curated menus, key contact information, room allocation forms, a list of recommended suppliers, and a comprehensive checklist to keep everything on track. Darcy has successfully coordinated weddings with as little as three PLAN FOR perfection Montigo Resorts Somerset at Charlton House 14 & Sixpence Bridal © www.paulastonphotography.com
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