Here in the UK, spring is fast becoming one of the most popular seasons to get married in. So much so, it’s pushed the ever-popular “summer wedding” firmly into second place. To help our growing gaggle of spring brides, we thought we’d offer a few top tips we’ve gathered from last season to help you piece together the perfect spring wedding. So let’s go…
Hybrid indoor-outdoor weddings
For most, spring whips up images of warm, sunshine filled days. While this does sound idyllic, it’s best to remember that spring weather can be pretty unpredictable so make sure you have a suitable back up plan should the heavens open. From a back-up room in which to marry, to backup locations for photographs. This is where working with a preferred supplier of the venue you’re using can come in handy. They’ll know the venue so well, they’ll no doubt have already planned for such eventualities. Let’s not forget, this is Britain and as such, spring sunshine still lacks the warmth so your guests will no doubt want a break from the breeze, inside by a cosy fire perhaps, much like the one we have roaring here at That Amazing Place.
That Amazing Place wedding venue Harlow Essex | wedding photographer – Scott Miller photography
Book in plenty of time
As we mentioned before, spring is becoming super popular and as such, gets booked up pretty fast. It’s worth going with your gut instinct and simply booking early. On top of your favourite venue getting booked up super fast, your favourite suppliers will also be getting booked up just as quick so once again, go with your gut instinct or better still, try the recommended suppliers from the venue you choose (we have a list of recommended suppliers on our website) and book them up fast.
Save the Date cards by Candy Floss Creations – http://www.candyflosscreations.co.uk
Stay seasonal
It always pays to stay seasonal for any wedding and luckily for spring brides, the choice of flowers are quite literally endless, such as sweet peas and peonies to tulips. While you begin thinking of flowers however, it may also be worth thinking of spring colours and centerpieces as this obviously has an impact on everything else. Start planning your theme too as your colours could well be decided simply by the bloom you choose. For early spring weddings, think cherry blossom or snowdrops.
That Amazing Place wedding venue Harlow Essex | wedding photographer – Scott Miller photography
Love your bridesmaids
It’s surprising just how much work actually goes into being a bridesmaid, something that always gets overlooked. On top of that, a bride puts you in a flimsy dress on a super chilly day and you’re forced to say nothing. It’s for this reason we thought we’d take the opportunity to implore all of our future couples to really think of their bridesmaids. While floaty chiffon and tulle dresses are beautiful, they aren’t necessarily the warmest. If you do opt for this style dress however, you may want to take a peek at wraps or shrugs to ward off the chill.
Photo Credit – Expression Photography
Always be prepared
By choosing an all weather wedding venue such as That Amazing Place, you give yourself the option of marrying outside or inside. When it comes to things such as wedding photography however, you’ll need to prepare yourself for showers. So why not embrace the rain and invest in a fabulous umbrella, or even some wedding wellington boots?
Photo Credit – James Rouse Photography
While we all wish we could enjoy fabulous sunshine during our spring wedding, the UK sometimes has other plans. It’s at times like this you should remember two things…rain on your wedding day is considered lucky and a wet knot is much harder to untie! Good luck guys!
With Christmas out of the way, we know only too well that our 2017 happy couples will be putting every bit of their energy into planning their big day. As you may well know, here at That Amazing Place, we like to do everything we can to help so we thought we’d share with you the 2017 wedding trend predictions you might want to take a peek at. From gowns to flowers, we’ve got everything covered.
Wedding Gown Trends
The 2017 season will see a huge amount of unique and personalised dresses. This will be a huge trend this year. From initials embroidered into fabric or even quotes sewn into discreet napkins, it’s all about the personalisation. You may also want to look toward full-volume skirts too as they’re about to make a huge comeback. Pair it with a stunning, fitted bodice for a real contemporary take on the trend.
Image Credit: Lena Kozhina
Accessory Trends
No wedding outfit would be complete without a few must-have accessories and this year, the veil is officially back. It disappeared for a while, with brides choosing to show off their beautiful bridal make up at every moment but this year has seen accessory trends leaning more toward a more traditional, romantic feel with veils being a part of that resurgence. This time around however, they’re long and ultra-feminine. You should also expect a lot of delicate, intricate details too. Back necklaces or “Backlaces” as they’re otherwise known are also becoming more popular as more and more brides choose bridal gowns with plunging low-cut backs.
Image Credit: Tino Antoniou
Bridal Make-up Trends
One of the key looks we expect brides to be taking notice of in 2017 is flawless, dewy skin. It’s all about the natural look, complete with a natural flush to the cheeks. Individual lashes will also be a popular choice to give you that little extra lift without being too obvious. Following on from 2016 too, it really is all about the brows. Bold brows will be a real feature everywhere, framing the face and drawing attention to everyone’s beautiful eyes.
Image Credit: Expression Photography
Wedding Flower Trends
2017, it would appear, will see a movement away from the relaxed style of flower to a more opulent look. The opulent looks we’re seeing are also leaning more toward the traditional side once again with English country garden florals taking charge. Brides will be looking for eclectic mixes of vibrant flowers with a lot of foliage and even herbs.
Image Credit: Amanda Karen Photography
Wedding Cake Trends
While 2016 saw an onslaught of naked cakes, 2017 will head toward semi-naked cakes or “industrial nakeds” as they’re otherwise known, with buttercream. They’ll also be a rise in the amount of geode wedding cakes, offering a stunning marble effect that could see your cakes becoming more a work of art than a cake. “Too good to eat”, springs to mind. Again, different height tiers as well as different textures and watercolour detail will continue to appeal to most happy couples.
Image Credit: Frances Sales
Whether you choose to follow the new trends of 2017, or simply plan the wedding you’ve dreamed of since you were a child, here at That Amazing Place, we guarantee whatever your choice, your wedding will be the most beautiful day you’ve ever experienced.
If you’re a regular reader of our blog, you’ll know that we love to talk about weddings that have taken place here at That Amazing Place. Today we’re looking at the vows of Rebecca and Tommy. Self described childhood sweethearts; this couple has been totally inseparable since the 25th October 2002, which is perhaps why this wedding was so special to see.
That Venue
After having spent fourteen years planning her wedding to the man of her dreams, Rebecca admits to being very particular when it came to picking the venue. Rebecca knew exactly what she wanted, she just couldn’t seem to find it until her mum just so happened to mention our very own wedding venue. Rebecca said, “I think I knew straight away just from looking at the photographs that it was the place, I knew I wanted a church service and the beautiful church St Mary’s in Churchgate Street was only a few minutes’ walk away. I had always dreamt of a big wedding that felt like a home away from home, I’d always wanted to walk down a grand set of stairs and have people waiting at the bottom for me and to feel like I was at home, but a much grander home than usual. I also knew for certain I didn’t want a venue that would have other people around using the facilities, which is why the fact it was an exclusive use venue meant so much to us.”
Another aspect of our venue that Rebecca and Tommy fell in love with was the rustic yet modern feel of the place, original features yet contemporary rooms, saying, “As soon as we walked in I felt at home, the real fire, the comfortable rooms, the amazing hospitality…we didn’t need to look anywhere else.”
Colours and Themes
While her friends and family expected them to choose a princess themed, Disney wedding, the happy couple opted for a rustic yet modern fairy tale wedding, akin to a Jane Austin novel. While they dreamt of fairy lights and rustic flowers, they also wanted to ensure a fresh feel. Beautiful green and white flowers filled their day to give it a real autumnal feel however Rebecca was quick to add that she still managed to include a few nods toward her love of all things Disney with a rose in a bell jar, a magic selfie mirror and some Disney songs recreated by an amazing pianist from Piano DJ, who also provided the music for their evening reception. Romance was quite simply, the theme of the night.
The Flowers
The wonderful Carla from Elegant Stems, whom Rebecca claims managed to decipher her ramblings on what it was she was looking for exactly, arranged their flowers. The flowers were classic and fresh, and kept a natural theme throughout. She had lots of lilies, arum lilies, roses, geraniums, gysephilia, ivy and autumnal greenery. Carla even managed to help Rebecca when it came to holding her bouquet correctly.
The Dress
The dress Rebecca wore came from Amorae Bridal in Ongar and was by St Patrick. Rebecca’s main aim, aside from sticking to a few firm do’s and don’ts was to find a dress she felt like a princess in, while flattering her as much as possible. We’d say that’s pretty much every young woman’s aim when choosing “The Dress” wouldn’t you? Thankfully for Rebecca, a dropped waist, full skirt and bateau neckline were the perfect choice. The top half of the gown was boned and fitted around her waist with a beautiful and intricate lace detailing on top. The neckline benefited from eyelash lace, accompanied perfectly by capped sleeves. The bottom was a full pleated Mikado silk skirt. The best part of the dress however, was the fact that it had, “these amazing pockets that made me feel like a glamorous Hollywood movie star.”
This wedding was elegant. It offered the perfect place for Rebecca and Tommy to honour their longstanding love for each other and we couldn’t have been more pleased to watch them as they began a new chapter in their lives.
There are very few things that are more enchanting, more whimsical or more romantic for that matter than a winter wonderland themed wedding. Picture sparkling, glitter filled centerpieces, snowflake décor, white linens, and even delicious, warming cuisine finished off nicely with mulled wine. With a day filled with such delights, it’d be hard for even the biggest Grinch not to feel at least a little holiday cheer. To help you make your elegant event as winter themed as possible, here are a few top design tips to keep in mind.
Classic white decoration
While some “white weddings” can easily be seen as tacky, white décor (done correctly) can really evoke the beauty of winter. By featuring all white linens, decorating with a dusting of sparkles or glitter, you can really create a wonderful snowy forest atmosphere. Go with very simple wintry accents too such as soft blues, even silvers. If you’re looking for a more natural appearance, try gold’s and soft yellows too.
Olivia Johnston Photography
Glitter centerpieces
Now while we know for some, the mere mention of glitter immediately activates a gag reflex, we urge you to give it a try. Forget Christmas centerpieces or any type of holiday gimmick and create something simple that packs a punch. Try simple white blooms with glittery sticks and perhaps the odd snowflake. To create a more powerful, and perhaps more obvious statement, you could even consider a few trees complete with fairy lights.
FreeImages.com/Nadia Jasmin
Warm food and drink
It’s easy to create the illusion of warmth with the help of warming starters such as tomato soup, or hot Camembert. You might even want to add in a few hot chocolates with cookies or hot chocolate puddings. To give everything a real winter/festive feel, try mulled wine or rum infused, warm apple cider.
Warming accessories
Trebor Photography
Keep your guests warm and cozy by offering out extra sweaters, scarves and blankets. To keep things lighthearted and fun, why don’t you try a photo booth complete with winter themed props such as Christmas hats, tinsel and fur lined jackets. You could throw in a few festive glasses and thick gloves.
Snow themed accents
FreeImages.com/ Julia Freeman-Woolpert
Let’s face it, no winter wonderland wedding would be complete without a few snow themed accents. A few snowflakes here and there can really help to light up a room or two. From snowflake lanterns to sparkling light accessories, even Christmas trees covered in fake snow accents and hanging snowflake gems. If you’re looking for a more elegant touch however, you may want to add in a few throw pillows on seats too however with this, it’s worth remembering that less certainly is more.
For more help with organising your winter wonderland themed wedding, simply contact us today. Our knowledgeable event manager will be more than happy to help you organise the wedding of your dreams.
Winter weddings have become more and more popular of late, gaining a reputation for their heightened sense of romance amongst frost lined trees and roaring log fires but there’s one thing that can put a dampener on anyone’s day and that’s feeling cold. A fear of a little lowered temperature shouldn’t put you off the winter nuptials of your dreams however! Oh no! Thankfully there are a number of things you can do to ensure you (and your guests) remain warm and comfortable, despite our sometimes-chilly British weather.
Russell Carr Photography
There’s a lot to consider when it comes to a winter wedding but the biggest challenge of all is keeping the bridal party happy and in good spirits when the photos are being taken. This in itself can pose a whole host of unique challenges but that’s not to say it’s unattainable. Look at it as an opportunity to flex your fashion biceps a little. Staying warm is essential, after all, nobody likes to see red noses or blue hands so it may be worth considering boleros for your bridesmaids or perhaps even a shrug. Be it faux fur or not (whatever your choice) it can add a real touch of glam on a crisp cold day and also happens to be easily removed when you walk into the warmth of That Amazing Place.
When it comes to your guests however, it’s all about the little touches. For the photos warm blankets could still prove a welcome addition to help take the chill off while guests wait for their starring moment. This means people get to cover their shoulders and can wrap themselves up as much or as little as they wish, staying super warm.
James Rouse Photography
If you have guests making their way from hotels a little walk away, then you might find your guests are very appreciative of you laying on transport, stopping them from walking in the wind or rain. On top of this, you’ll also keep your guests happy and more willing to get themselves mingling on the dance floor.
freeimages.com/pixx
While laying on transport may not seem like such a “little touch”, our next suggestion is. While guests are usually greeted with a glass of champagne, perhaps greeting your guests (by a roaring fire) with a glass of Winter Pimms or even a whiskey. It’s a real small touch but one that seems to work perfectly and provides and instant glow of warmth and happiness. Open fires and warming drinks are the epitome of winter warmers; combine them with a winter wedding and you have the perfect mix for a winter wedding to remember.
Lauren and Rob are quite simply the epitome of the modern couple, using the world wide web to cast their net and find the one person they were meant to be with. It’s a modern day fairy tale that we’re only too eager to tell. With first dates surrounding Valentines and a proposal in the idyllic Lake District, a wedding here at That Amazing Place was the cherry on the cake.
The Venue
For so many couples, the modern, contemporary feel of That Amazing Place mixed with the traditional exterior always bowls them over. For Lauren and Rob however, it wasn’t so much the look of the venue but the feel. Lauren describes That Amazing Place as having a very homely feel and it’s that exact feeling that first drew her to our Essex wedding venue. She also of course remarked on the stunning setting (who wouldn’t!), “I particularly liked that the rooms are decorated so tastefully…no horribly patterned carpet or dated artwork on the walls that I was finding at other venues we had visited. The blank canvas in each room at That Amazing Place meant I had free reign for our wedding theme, not having to worry about clashing colours with existing decor.”
Wedding Party Fashion
When it came to wedding party fashion, the bride wore a stunning cap sleeved lace bodice with a tulle skirt (tulle being very in this season we might add) and pink roses in her hair to finish. The groom and his groomsmen complimented the bride perfectly in navy suits, white shirts and grey waistcoats. They finished off their looks with a pink tie to compliment Lauren’s hair accessories. The bridesmaids were equally a part of the theme as they sauntered down the aisle in beautiful watermelon pink dresses. The difference with Lauren and Rob’s wedding? They allowed each bridesmaid to choose their own style dress. Having them made in matching fabric meant each bridesmaid not only looked the part but felt happy and comfortable on the day! Big tick for Lauren from her wedding party right there we’re sure.
Colour Scheme and Flowers
As you can tell from the wedding party’s fashions, pink was a big part of the day. Lauren is a true romantic and girly girl, and self-confessed Kate Spade obsessive, which is no doubt why vibrant pinks played such an important role. Pinks weren’t the only order of the day however as navy and white stripes were also intertwined along with a touch of gold glitter for some much adored, added sparkle. The happy couple ensured quite literally no area was left untouched and thanks to Jades Flowers, decorated That Amazing Place with huge displays of pink flowers in every space possible.
Catering
The catering during the day was handled by one of our recommended suppliers, Magpie Catering. Here they enjoyed mango and chicken salads to start, followed by a choice of seabass or lamb and a trio of desserts. For the evening dining experience, they offered their guests something a little different with a Mexican street food buffet served outside in the form of chicken, steak and halloumi fajitas.
With a string quartet for the ceremony, a magician after dinner and a four tier wedding cake, it’s safe to say that this wedding really did have it all and we couldn’t have been more thrilled to host such a special moment in this wonderful couple’s lifetime together.
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