Your South Wales Wedding - Page number 44 - July/August 2021 (Issue 80)

44 MEET MELANIE GRIFFITHS FROM BEYOND EXPECTATIONS 07587 185 936 www.facebook.com/transcendingexpectations Start by looking for your venue. The space should feel comfortable and like a second home. I chose my wedding venue based on my family’s connection to where my late grampy was once an executive chef. When I went for a viewing, they gave me the grand tour, which is an important part of the process as it's all about making connections. When booking suppliers, don’t jump into it based on price alone. Chat with them about your vision for the day and see if they’re the right supplier for you. In these uncertain times, ask if deposits and payments are transferable to a new date and, if not, what the policies are for refunds. I personally have changed several dates and refunded deposits whenever possible. Getting engaged is one of the most exciting times in your life, so spread the joy and love, tell everyone, chat with potential suppliers and remember it’s never too early to book. www.ade lemorrisphotography.com www.ade lemorrisphotography.com www.ade lemorrisphotography.com MEET WEDDING DRESS EXPERT RACHEL PARRY FROM BRECON BRIDAL BOUTIQUE 01874 622 525 | www.facebook.com/breconbridalboutique Planning an intimate wedding? Here are some tips to help you find your dream wedding dress: Give yourself plenty of time – Made-to-order dresses take up to six months to be made and delivered to your chosen boutique, so start shopping with plenty of time to spare. Around nine to 12 months before is a good starting point. Don’t panic – If you don’t have loads of time on your hands, then don’t panic! Talk to your bridal boutique, they may be able to order certain dresses in a shorter amount of time or offer a selection of off-the- peg gowns, which means you can take them away on the day of your appointment. Stick to your budget – If you have a budget in mind, then it’s always a good idea to ask the boutiques you’re planning to visit what their price ranges are. There is no point visiting a store if the gowns they stock are over and above what you’re willing to spend. Bring this up with your bridal consultant at your appointment, that way they’ll know not to put you in any dresses that drastically exceed your budget. If you’re happy to go a little bit over, then let them know that too – it’s all about communication! COVID-19 – Before your appointment, make sure to ask if there are any safety measures ahead of time. Each boutique is different, and COVID-19 measures may vary. Some may allow you to bring four guests while others may say two, so ask ahead of time to ensure you’re prepared. Ask questions – During your appointment, don’t be afraid to ask questions, even if you think it’s silly. Trust me, we don’t mind, and it’s what we’re there for. I get asked everything ranging from: do you have a seamstress to what shoes and underwear should I wear? Remember, the only stupid question is the one you didn’t ask. Have fun and don’t worry about what other people might think – Now is the time to have fun with your dress and pick out the style you’ve always dreamed of. Just because the wedding is small doesn’t mean you have to have a certain style of dress. If you want the big princess gown, then go for it! There are no rules when it comes to wedding dresses, so wear what you want! As long as you feel confident, it’ll shine through, and everyone will think you look like a million bucks. Zayid by Adriana Alier W324 by Victoria Kay Zazzy by Adriana Alier Zuley by Adriana Alier