AL FRESCO WONDERS After the ceremony, the rest of the day is taking place in the venue’s grounds, weather permitting, and we’d really like our entertainer to perform outside. What things should we take into consideration? When performing outdoors, safety should be a top priority. If rain is forecast, it’s best that the artist sets up indoors, but outdoor performances are still an option as long as there is a suitable cover, such as a tent or marquee, away from the elements. Unless the performance is completely unplugged, you need to make sure there is power to the area where the artist is performing. This could be in the form of an extension lead or, in some cases, a generator, though these tend to make noise and have been louder than my music in the past! You should also check whether you need any special permits or licenses for having outdoor music; your wedding venue should have this covered. If the entertainment goes into the evening, make sure you have adequate lighting for the performer and guests. Ultimately, all rules and regulations for outdoor music should be discussed with the venue. Plan ahead and remember to look at the forecast, as you never know what seasons you’ll get in one day in the UK! David C Thomas www.davidcthomasmusic.com A DREAM COME TRUE My hubby-to-be and I are having a fairytale-themed wedding outside in a marquee and we want everything to look magical. Do you have any suggestions on how we can decorate it? A fairytale wedding is all about a natural aesthetic and bringing the outside in. Take inspiration from nature and focus on bringing an abundance of greenery, florals, fairy lighting and candles into your marquee to create an enchanted fairytale atmosphere. Consider using greenery installations amongst the fairylights in the ceiling and around the central poles – branches can be a simple way of achieving a dramatic effect. Tall candles in brass candlesticks coupled with low floral displays add a magical quality to long tables, or for a more earthy feel, tea lights nestled amongst moss create a woodland charm. Adding low arrangements of meadow-style floral installations that appear to be growing in situ or clusters of varying-sized logs accompanied by moss and pillar candles will complete the look. Vanessa Shipman www.togetherness-creativeweddingsinwales.com www.joshuatuckerphotography.com A ROMANTIC ATMOSPHERE My fiancé and I are having an elegant celebration and we’re thinking of hiring a harpist. Do you have any advice on how we can have a classic theme while still keeping the music modern? If elegance is what you’re after, then the harp is perfect. The rich sonorities and stunning woodwork make a dreamy addition to any wedding. The harp is a versatile instrument and can perform almost any song and style. This classic wedding instrument brings elegance and grace, but it can also perform wonderful renditions of popular and modern tunes. My advice would be to choose the music and repertoire that makes your heart sing and I’m almost certain that the harp will be able to accommodate. With my clients, I send a recommended repertoire list for them to choose from, but I also accept requests as it’s important that the music is tailored around their tastes. Vary the styles of music throughout the ceremony; many couples choose a classical piece to walk down the aisle, e.g., Canon in D, and walk out to a modern song, e.g., Marry You by Bruno Mars. I can sing to my own accompaniment on the harp which means you can include romantic and touching lyrics in the performance too. One thing is for sure: you will never regret the spine-chilling effect the harp has on the atmosphere in the room during a wedding ceremony. Joy Cornock www.joycornock.co.uk Raymonty Photography www.wethedee.co.uk 54
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