Your Bristol & Somerset Wedding - Oct/Nov 2019 (Issue 73)

Our experts solve your dilemmas HOT TOPIC IN-TENTS! We want to get married in a marquee, but there’s so much to plan! Can you give us a checklist of things to remember? Here are our top tips for organising al fresco nuptials: ❤ Location. A marquee can be installed just about anywhere, but it does require adequate space. Bear in mind the positioning and what it will be overlooking. ❤ Guest numbers. The beauty of this type of wedding is that it can accommodate as many or as few people as you’d like. Just remember that the more guests you have, the bigger the structure you’ll need, which can bring the cost up. ❤ Style. Decide on the overall look and feel you’d like to create when making your choice. Would you prefer a classic frame marquee or a more traditional pole marquee? Tipis and stretch tents look great for a relaxed festival theme. ❤ Surface. A flat surface is best, but sloped terrains are manageable with cassette or hard flooring. If the tent is on grass, make sure it’s cut before installation. Always think about walkways and access for your loved ones – especially those in heels! ❤ Catering. Ask your caterers what facilities they need. This could be a separate tent, water supply, electricity, etc. ❤ Power. There are lots of aspects that’ll require power, such as lighting, music and caterers. You may need to bring in a generator. ❤ Toilets. If you’ve chosen a secluded spot in a field, then a toilet trailer will be an essential. ❤ The extras. You may like to look into extra cover to shelter from the rain or sun. Depending on your day, you may need a dancefloor, stage, bar area, chill-out zone or exterior lighting. Hayley Horsfall | Abbas Marquees abbasmarquees.co.uk NIGHT FEVER We want a DJ for our wedding, but how do we make sure we have music that reflects our tastes and not just cheesy tunes? Finding the right DJ is so much more than just finding someone to stick on some tunes. Wedding days are filled with love, friendship, emotions and memories; choosing a great DJ will ensure all of these things are continued well beyond the first dance. On the subject of the first dance, this is the highlight of your evening celebration and should be set up and introduced by your DJ with all the love such a moment deserves. Ensuring your music reflects your preferences is key to a great party. The best way to do this is by engaging with your DJ on the phone or preferably in person before you confirm your booking. It’s important that your chosen expert can provide the type of music and atmosphere you’re after at the most important party you’ll ever throw. Some DJs offer some sort of music selection, either via email or with online tools. Use these – they’re you’re friend! The more insight your DJ has into who you are, the better they can tailor the music to your tastes. Songs that have special meaning should all be given credit. Perhaps you have a favourite song from a holiday or college nights out – they’ll all trigger great memories for your guests. Don’t forget the hen and stag do anthems! Lastly, don’t overthink it – choose an expert and give them the right information, and they’ll do that for you. Phill Makepeace | The Celebration Roadshow | celebrationroadshow.co.uk rt-photography.co.uk EXPERT ADVICE 103