Supplier Stories
The wedding industry is a pretty epic place and throughout the world there are incredibly talented artists that continually push limits in their field. From venues to florists, caterers to wedding planners and musicians to hair & make up artists, they all go above and beyond.
Over the years we have worked alongside many creatives and formed great relationships. We feel very lucky to have wonderful friends in this busy industry.
At the beginning of lockdown we contacted some of our favourite wedding suppliers to hear their stories, understand their craft and a take a sneak peek into their world.
If you’re getting married, and looking for wonderful wedding suppliers, here are some of the best.
VENUES
Gate Street Barn
Current Trends?
There are so many different wedding trends we have seen over the years as each wedding is so unique and different! A personal favourite we see is the keeping it clean, simple and green – the ‘green’ being within the floristry which looks stunning in the Barn, along with our couples focusing on being as eco-friendly as possible which is very important to us. A lot of our couples choose Gate Street Barn due to the rustic, relaxed vibe which they want reflected throughout their day – sharing platters, dinner games, pets and funky drink stations!
Style and the Season?
Most couples stick with the relaxed, rustic style throughout the year however you do often see a variation as seasons change. From colour palettes, to cakes, to flowers. In winter, the fires are lit, the lights are dimmed and the Barn is the epitome of a cosy, warm winter wedding. Drinks always change with the seasons; winter warmers are popular behind the bar such as Mulled Wine, Hot Toddys and Boozy Hot Chocolates. Summer weddings, guests love our big variety of G and T’s, Aperol Spritzs’ and Pimms! Spring, Summer and heading into Autumn, the Barn is cool and looks stunning with the natural light coming through the Atrium. Festival vibes are more popular during this time with outside garden games, drinks stations and BBQs!
What’s Timeless?
All wedding styles are timeless and our couples have a special way of putting their own creative spark on them - whether you have opted for a classic, formal day or a bohemian, barefoot bash. We hope and believe that Sustainable and Eco weddings will become a timeless style in the years to come!
A Unique Creation?
The creativity we see at the Barn is always mesmerising and unique. Some couples can spend years putting together their creative ideas into their decorations, from teacup table plans, handmade bunting and the bouquet of their dreams, described to their florists who seamlessly put this together from a short description. We’ve seen one of our couples transform into the musicians throughout the day, singing and playing instruments during the reception drinks and evening disco! The food is always a big part of the creativity in the couples’ day, hugely helped by our fantastic caterers who have no limits to their talent and diversity.
Any Advice?
Try not to stress! This sounds extremely cliché considering it is the biggest day of your life, however it is SO important to enjoy it on the day. Decorations and detail are great, however there is no need to go overboard and worry over a sign being in the wrong place. We are a professional team who have been managing weddings for years alongside our fantastic team of recommended suppliers – every move and detail is run like clockwork to ensure that you can relax and enjoy your day. Photos are great memories so don’t forget to pick a great photographer like VLA!
www.gatestreetbarn.com
www.facebook.com/gatestreetbarnweddings
www.instagram.com/gatestreetbarn1
www.pinterest.co.uk/gatestreetbarn
Millbridge Court
Current Trends?
There are some incredible trends we are seeing for this year. Lighting has always been such a key part of creating atmosphere and styling and couples are becoming increasingly creative, from disco ball ceiling installations, festoons or neon signage; there are so many fun and beautiful options. Another of our favourite trends for this year is the floral ‘cloud’. An abundance of flowers and foliage hung or suspended which creates an amazing feature.
Style and the Season?
There are a lot of classic styles for weddings that can adapt to any season, but there are so many amazing opportunities for styling throughout the year, and this can be guided by the season. Colour is naturally a big part of this, with deep hues coming in for winter and lighter colours with the longer days, but with so many couples facing the prospect of marrying in a different season this year, our advice is to adapt not change your styling and colours. For example, adding some burgundy highlights in a blush pink colour scheme can perfectly ground your original Spring styling into Autumn or Winter.
What’s Timeless?
A simple neutral classic white and green palette is adaptable and will stand the test of time (think Royal wedding vibes!) but I don’t think you can pinpoint any wedding style as being 100% timeless as styles change over the years, especially with ever developing fashions, but what is important is that you love your wedding style at the time and that it reflects your personality as a couple - it becomes a snapshot of your history together and that in itself makes it timeless.
A Unique Creation?
We have hosted so many beautiful weddings this it is hard to choose! Every wedding day is different with personal touches and styling. We are lucky to work with some of the best florists in the industry and so have many beautifully creative weddings. One of our favourites is this gorgeous Autumnal themed wedding designed by the talented Hannah Berry Flowers. We also love the light at this time of year for beautiful photos!
Any Advice?
Take time together. Set aside a few moments throughout the day to be together. There is a lovely moment at Millbridge (just before the couple enter the Dining Hall for the wedding breakfast to rapturous applause and whopping) where they have a few moments together as newlyweds, just as a couple, before then walking into a room full of happiness – it sums up the day!
www.millbridgecourt.co.uk
www.facebook.com/MillbridgeCourt
www.instagram.com/millbridgecourt
www.pinterest.co.uk/millbridgecourt
Bury Court Barn
CURRENT TRENDS?
Keep it simple and narrow in on one or two true statement moments – For example, Vintage wares and antiques are colourful, textural, and unique, so using them as decorative elements at your wedding will add a dose of personality to your celebration. Your guests will be sure to remember a real standout detail, especially if it is a reflection of you, as a couple.
Gin is all the rage with no slowdown in sight—it’s perfect for mixing simply or for creating an elaborate, multi-ingredient cocktail. Working with our partners at The Good Life Gin Co. – we are able to provide the perfect, bespoke cocktails to make the drinks on your special day unforgettable!
STYLE AND THE SEASON?
Looks, feels, sounds – As the seasons change so will the aesthetic of your wedding day. You want to choose time of the year to get married that fills all your needs.
WHAT’S TIMELESS?
Sophistication is the name of the game when pulling off a classic wedding theme. When we think of a timeless wedding style beautiful green and white florals, refined colour schemes, plenty of clean lines, and sophisticated elegance always comes to mind.
A UNIQUE CREATION?
As a multicultural society, we expect to see people from all walks of life represented. The wedding industry is no different. Diversity and inclusiveness is of upmost importance to us. The day of the Bride and Groom’s wedding is about love, respect and a coming together of friends and family. Every culture, religion, generation and society is welcome here at The Barn. For us, every wedding is unique, creative and different in its own way! We would also like to take this opportunity to highlight that The Barn is a fabulous venue to support the wedding parties who may have additional needs. We pride ourselves on ensuring that every detail and request made by our couples and their families are met.
ANY ADVICE?
Go with your heart and don’t make unnecessary sacrifices. Enjoy your engagement and then enjoy the planning process. Take your time and don’t try and plan your entire wedding in a hurry.
bury-court.com
www.facebook.com/BuryCourtBarn
www.instagram.com/burycourtbarn
CATERERS
Kalm Kitchen
CURRENT TRENDS?
Roaming food bars. A real emphasis on abundant and visually stimulation food stations which can play into your wedding look with styling and really wow your guests senses.
Our charcuterie bar is the perfect addition to a canape or drinks reception. The interactive presence of a chef and beautiful small plates combining fresh and seasonal produce.
STYLE AND THE SEASON?
Eating seasonally absolutely had advantages. The flavours of the produce are so much better. Take our Eton Mess bar…This comes into its own in the summer months when strawberries are abundant, sweet and juicy. What I love more than anything is to take the best produce and celebrate it in a styling and creative way and I think the Eton Mess bar really showcases that.
WHAT’S TIMELESS?
I believe rather than the food being timeless, it’s the way the day is structured. The most successful weddings flow beautiful. We guide our couples very carefully through the timings of the day and offer guidance around the length of a canape reception and quantity of food. Ensuring that no guest is waiting endlessly for food or drinks or feeling unsure about where and when to take their seats. There are huge advantages to having a seated meal. It really ensures that everyone can be catered for and no one goes without. Roaming food options can work brilliantly for shorter weddings or as an element of the day but I feel it’s important to give everyone the opportunity to sit and be served in an efficient and elegant way.
A UNIQUE CREATION?
My favourite creation to date had to be the two botanical patisserie bars I created with my favourite flower fairy Hannah Berry Flowers. I love the celebration of food and flowers and developing concepts which really WOW the guests at a moment in the day where they are least expecting it.
ANY ADVICE?
My advice to any couple would be to celebrate who you are! Be authentic and honest in the initial planning stages. That way, menus and concepts can be developed to really embrace your own ideas and for your day to reflect the two most important people on the day!
kalmkitchen.co.uk
www.facebook.com/KalmKitchenLtd
www.instagram.com/kalmkitchenltd
www.pinterest.co.uk/kalmkitchen
Tandem
CURRENT TRENDS?
We increasingly see our brides and grooms choose a sharing course option for their wedding breakfast. This works great for starters, mains or desserts and adds a fun interactive element to the meal, breaking up the formality of a traditional three-course meal. Popular options include our Italian, Middle Eastern Mezze, Mexican and Spanish tapas starter sharing platters.
Secondly, couples are increasingly opting to do their speeches at the start of the meal. This trend is great for several reasons. It allows any speech goers to relax and enjoy their meal (and wine!) rather than worrying, plus they provide plenty of conversation and icebreakers for guests during the meal.
STYLE AND THE SEASON?
The seasons very much dictate the menus that our couples choose. When we have our meetings we like to make menu suggestions based on the season that their wedding day falls. For example, come the Autumn we see more couples opt for a warming soup, such as our spiced butternut squash soup topped with kale crisps and green apple.
WHAT’S TIMELESS?
We enjoy updating our menus multiple times a year so we can give couples fresh new dishes to choose from that reflect current food trends. That being said, some dishes are classics and only grow more popular over the years. We fully understand that many of our clients like to add a touch of nostalgia to their menu by choosing their favourite dish growing up or maybe a dish the couple enjoyed on a first date or at another symbolic moment. A classic example of, timeless wedding dish is an Eton Mess in the summer.
A UNIQUE CREATION?
We pride ourselves on plating our dishes with a natural elegance and without overstyling. We also really enjoy adapting our menus in our meetings to make them bespoke for each couple. Countless examples of this can be seen with our canapes, we have done a cheese fondue canape for a couple with Swiss heritage a mini shot of Laksa (spicy noodle soup) for a Malaysian groom and even Haggis with a mini wee dram (shot of whiskey)!
ANY ADVICE?
We like to think we have lots of advice for our couples! But if I had to choose one bit of advice for when it comes to deciding on a menu, I always tell our brides and grooms not to worry about choosing the perfect dish that absolutely everyone will enjoy. This is their day, so they should choose a menu that reflects them and their favourite food. We can always do something else for guests that may not like a particular dish!
www.tandemgodalming.com
www.facebook.com/TandemCateringGodalming
www.instagram.com/tandemcatering
Just Jane
CURRENT TRENDS?
The biggest catering trends we have seen are rustic and formal banquet style tables, vegan food and upscaled furniture made from pallet wood bars and sofas.
STYLE AND THE SEASON?
Spring to late summer the food and dessert are much lighter with sharing platters and fruit desserts and winter heralds the arrival of hot starters and classic desserts.
WHAT’S TIMELESS?
Smoked salmon served with pickled ginger and fennel and the delicious lemon tart with fresh raspberries.
A UNIQUE CREATION?
Was in beautiful private house celebrating a wedding anniversary with multiple food stations of cold starters, tian vegetables a huge selection of salads and fresh breads with gravlax salmon, selection of hit and cold meats followed by a selection of about ten individual deserts. All served in different stations with marble and huge wooden chopping boards.
ANY ADVICE?
Talk and discuss everything before the day and have in your mind that timings will not be exact then on the day relax and enjoy with your friends and family and we will look after you.
www.justjane.info
www.facebook.com/JustJaneCatering
www.instagram.com/justjanecatering
FLORISTS
Hannah Berry
CURRENT TRENDS?
I believe the trend for this year and next are dried flowers … I have spoken with clients for their up coming weddings about creating lots of dried flower clouds! The beauty of these designs is they last forever. The downside is they are much more expensive then fresh flower installations.
STYLE AND THE SEASON?
Our overall style doesn't change with the seasons … it still remains soft, natural and organic, however, the flower varieties will change. I love to use seasonal flowers if I can and especially locally grown flowers from either the HBF cutting garden, or local flower farms. Home grown flowers seem to have more of a quirky character to their stems and flower heads, rather than the straight and perfect commercially grown Dutch flowers.
WHAT’S TIMELESS?
White and green is the ultimate timeless colour palette. Its so elegant and never ages, therefore when you look back and your photos in years to come you will still look bang on trend.
A UNIQUE CREATION?
We have created so many unique flower schemes for clients over the years. Each and every scheme is different and tailored to the clients requirements. One of my favourite flower schemes was an autumnal vibe at Millbridge Court (in fact you guys shot it) where we dressed the ceremony barn like a film set with heaps of pumpkins and leaves. I had so much fun designing and building this. My guilty pleasure is set design and this maybe my next career path!
ANY ADVICE?
The advice I would give to current wedding clients seeking a floral designers is make sure you and your partner have discussed the list of desired items and collected images of inspiration prior to contacting one. I always love to hear about the ideas and inspiration my clients are looking at so I can build an image in my head of the feel and atmosphere they would like to create before developing ideas with them. Also, make sure your aware of the service your floral designer provides. Will they just deliver your flower designs off on the morning on the wedding and leave or will the team stay onsite all day to style, and move the flowers from the church or ceremony room to the wedding breakfast location? At HBF we provide the full service and will delivery, style and stay onsite to move and restyle the flowers into secondary locations for the clients to carry on enjoying.
www.hannahberryflowers.co.uk
www.instagram.com/hannahberryflowers
www.pinterest.co.uk/hannahberryflowers
Gill Pike
CURRENT TRENDS?
Trends are always changing so quickly, one big trend which does always remain constant is the classic jam jar style, which is still a popular barn décor. Over the past few seasons I have seen a swing towards accessorising with cut glass and candle sticks, which really completes the look in my opinion.
STYLE AND THE SEASON?
Our style is completely fluid to complement the venue and moodboard, this also definitely changes dependent on which of the four seasons we are in; it’s always best to use blooms when in their natural season as they are at their strongest and of course better value. In winter we adore adding texture with foliage, logs and lanterns, spring is all about the ranunculus which is a popular alternative for brides wanting summer peonies, summer – Peonies, we always love to use these in the summer but they have a very short season - and my favourite, autumn, we use foliage combined with berries, pumpkins, leaves and moss!
WHAT’S TIMELESS?
I think that whilst the need for the same type of arrangements remains the same as in bouquets, buttonholes, table arrangements and cake flowers, the advent of Instagram and other social media drives what is and what isn’t in vogue and this changes very quickly – I think this is great as it means that weddings tend to have a more bespoke and tailored feel, as well as always keeping me on my toes with a fresh challenge!
A UNIQUE CREATION?
I would say that our moongate that has proved really popular recently – it gives a striking backdrop to the couple both during the ceremony and the breakfast. The ways and extent to which we can decorate it are endless from simple bursts of colour, opposing geometric arrangements, semi-circular or full 360 degree decoration in any combination flowers and foliage.
ANY ADVICE?
I think if you are planning your wedding it is all in the preparation - if you are a year or so away from your day and have your outfits in mind, take the time to visit your venue and research the flowers you think you may like and that would suit – some may be in season for your day, some may not so it’s worth bearing in mind. Get estimates from different suppliers to get a feel for what they can offer.
www.gillpikeflorist.co.uk
www.facebook.com/gillpikeflorist
www.instagram.com/gillpikeflorist
www.pinterest.co.uk/gillpikeflorist
Rosie Orr
CURRENT TRENDS?
The present trend for flowers is sustainability so using locally grown flowers and foam free designs. Giving that wild flower look. Now this is only possible in the growing season so I like to mix with Dutch sourced flowers which are carbon neutral to add variety especially in the winter.
STYLE AND THE SEASON?
My style is my style so it doesn’t change throughout the year but the look may do as I like to reflect the countryside. Such as using fruits with flowers in the autumn and more twigs and moss etc in the winter.
WHAT’S TIMELESS?
Timeless wedding displays have to be the classic green and white palette and I must admit still my favourite. It is particularly popular trend at the moment too.
A UNIQUE CREATION?
My most artistic and favourite floral creations had to be floral arches especially outside a church. Although large hanging installations in marquees are a close second!
ANY ADVICE?
My best advice to couples is to trust in their chosen florist and give her the freedom to be creative with their chosen palette. We have so much more fun than just having to copy other florists work off Instagram.
www.rosieorr.co.uk
www.facebook.com/FlowersByRosieOrr
www.instagram.com/rosiesgrow
Kate Avery
CURRENT TRENDS?
Definitely dried. Over the past year it has been making a big come back. I am seeing lots of my brides wanting to include it within their fresh flower arrangements. It can be quite stiff and structured looking but I find by combining it with the natural wiggle of fresh it softens the look. I am especially loving all the fluffy dried grasses and the dried straw flowers.
STYLE AND THE SEASON?
Essentially my style stays the same....flower heavy, seasonal, abundant and textural with a huge focus on colour blends. Creating new flower recipes is my absolute favourite thing to do. I also love working with the seasons so embracing the dark and moody rich palettes for autumn and winter and then lightening the mood in spring and summer.
WHAT’S TIMELESS?
I always say that white and green is a classic combination that just will not date. I love picking apart all the different tones so making it not as clear cut as white and green but add warmth with nude and latte tones. Again for me a love softening the contrast so filling in the in between tones from the white to the green.
A UNIQUE CREATION?
This is a difficult one. I love all of the weddings I get to flower but a firm favourite was a wedding at High Billingshurst with Kalm Kitchen for their event manager Cat. The attention to detail and the overall vibe of the wedding was amazing. I always love it when a couple have hired in bespoke table linen and coloured water glasses as it just makes a HUGE difference to the overall look and feel of the set up. Having beautiful quality heavyweight linen tablecloths in an off white, blush or soft grey or even being bold with the colour choice and then adding in complementing napkins just adds so much to the overall look and feel and sets off the flowers so well. It just elevates the whole look. So although not a huge installation set up this is definitely one of my absolute favourites artistic speaking as all the different elements just came together so beautifully.
ANY ADVICE?
I would say to give your suppliers as much information about yourselves as possible so that they can really get to know you as a couple. Your likes and dislikes and what makes you tick. Pick the suppliers that you click with and you will find that they will instinctively know what you will love. With your florist take a look at their previous work on Insta and their website, give them your colour palette and the overall feel of your day and let them run with it and work their magic. I always liken picking your florist to choosing the right person to paint your portrait or take your photo... Every artist has their own unique style so go with the one that speaks to you the most.
www.kateaveryflowers.com
www.facebook.com/kaveryflowers
www.instagram.com/kateaveryflowers
Carrie Macey
CURRENT TRENDS?
Biggest flower trends always seem to go back to gorgeous, natural, just effortlessly gathered style.
STYLE AND THE SEASON?
My style doesn't really change with the season, but the flower shapes and colours tend to lead the way.
WHAT’S TIMELESS?
Archways might seem indulgent, but are so beautiful and provide an amazing backdrop for you guys to click away at!
A UNIQUE CREATION?
I think a full on archway always is a big wow.
ANY ADVICE?
My advice is always spend more on your personal flowers and table arrangements, these are seen all day long and these are most commented on by friends and families.
www.topiary-tree.co.uk
www.instagram.com/carrie.macey
HAIR & MAKE UP
Rosie Hart
CURRENT TRENDS?
I’m pleased to see that most brides are embracing the more natural element of hair and makeup. Trends I’m seeing at the moment are : natural beauty, rosey shades, braided hair, laidback locks, head bands, pops of colour, effortless relaxed hair, ponytails, flawless - fresh from having a facial - skin.
STYLE AND THE SEASON?
Spring and Summer welcomes a more relaxed and natural approach to hair and make up with : free and fresh glowy skin, golden hour eyes, sunkissed cheeks, beach waves, loose updo’s and braided ponytails. Autumn and Winter see a slightly more polished look with : flawless skin using good coverage, stronger eyes, berry lips, low chignon buns, Hollywood waves and top knots.
WHAT’S TIMELESS?
A beautiful low, soft and textured bun, with rosey lips, flawless skin, and lightly defined eyes would be a timeless look for me - however, so would Hollywood waves with a strong red lip = Classic glamour!
As long as you look and feel like the best version of YOU, your look will be timeless.
ANY ADVICE?
Leave plenty of time to get ready in the morning! It’s amazing how quickly time goes! Don’t get me started on that last hour before the ceremony, it just doesn’t exist! So don’t leave cleaning your teeth, getting your bag together or steaming your dress to the last minute. The last thing you want to do is faff and have unnecessary stress! Be ready and dressed at least an hour before your ceremony so you have plenty of time for photos, a glass of prosecco, and most importantly to relax and take in all the magic.
www.rosiehartstylist.com
www.facebook.com/rosiehartstylist
www.instagram.com/rosiehartstylist
Elle Au Naturel
CURRENT TRENDS?
We are still seeing hairstyles veering more towards boho, but they seem to be getting smoother and less messy. Lots of lift and separation in the sections and lots of low buns still. Brides seem to be wearing more makeup than they have done, but with particular emphasis on the eyes. Lots of lashes and liner are being requested regularly. My clients are wearing more foundation but they still seem to be asking for the skin to look flawless rather than caked.
STYLE AND THE SEASON?
Makeup styles alter slightly through the year according to the time of year and the light. Spring and summer weddings require slightly more natural looks, due to the light being brighter and stronger. A smoky eye at a summer wedding can look extremely harsh in photos due to the light. However in Autumn and winter you almost need to wear more as there is less natural light and more false light, candles etc, which can diminish makeup in photos. An overly natural look could look like you’re wearing nothing in your pictures so there is a balance to be had. I would also be more likely to use more illuminator during the winter months to make the skin glow. In the winter the skin needs a little bit more help. However use too much in the summer you can just look overly shiny rather than glowing.
WHAT’S TIMELESS?
I think an updo, with a bun of some sort is probably the most timeless look you can go for. Not too messy and not too structured. Anything veering to one or the other might well date over the years when you look back at your photos. Makeup wise my ethos is to work with the client. If you put elements of how they wear their own makeup into the look you create for them, it is likely that they are going to feel more like themselves. Friends and family will recognise them and not feel like they have been turned into a different person.
ANY ADVICE?
Its all about the schedule!!! We try and work with a client to make sure their morning is relaxed and fun but also runs to time. Running over can cause unnecessary stress and we like there to be time to get them ready in a relaxed manner, incorporating the photographers time, so they aren’t rushed and can get the images they need. Clients are often surprised at how long hair and makeup can take, but if you give your stylist the time they require you’ll get a look that lasts and a morning that is stress free. It might seem like a long time to be spending getting ready, but the time will fly. Plus you'll have a happy photographer as they haven’t had to rush through their shots.
www.elleaunaturel.com
www.facebook.com/Elle-Au-Naturel
www.instagram.com/elleaunaturel
Natasha Wiggins
CURRENT TRENDS?
This year the in look seems to be a messy curly bun with plaits and and natural makeup using Goldie brown colours on the eyes and a nude lip.
STYLE AND THE SEASON?
Styles do not really change for the time of the year then tend to change with what dress the bride chosen as the dress normal dictates if the hair should be up of down.
WHAT’S TIMELESS?
The chignon seems to be a timeless look it was popular when I started out and has never really gone out brides love having them now still it works well when they are going for a classic look.
ANY ADVICE?
When looking for hair and makeup idea look at styles that work well with your dress and the bridesmaid dresses do not change yourself the hair and makeup should compliment the way you normal look. May be start a Pinterest board of things you like to take to your trial so your artist is on the same wavelength as you.
www.nwmake-up.co.uk
www.facebook.com/NatashaWigginsMUA
www.instagram.com/nwmake
MUSIC
Chess Disco
CURRENT TRENDS?
My job is to help the Bride & Groom create a fantastically memorable party to celebrate their wedding, so creating a personalised playlist to suit their tastes is something I encourage and leads to a busy, energetic dance floor throughout the night. I spend a lot of time speaking to every Bride & Groom I work with to find out which songs are important to them and why. This will include songs they danced to when they first met, big tunes when they were at college or university and family favourites.
STYLE AND THE SEASON?
It doesn’t vary hugely, apart from obvious times of the year such as Christmas and during the summer when new, big dance anthems from Ibiza cross over into the mainstream.
WHAT’S TIMELESS?
Music that is now referred to as “Kisstory”; classic House, UK Garage & R&B. Old Soul, Disco & Motown such as Earth Wind & Fire & James Brown. Rock Anthems such as The Killers, Bon Jovi etc.
A MEMORABLE FIRST DANCE?
I have many, especially where the Bride & Groom have taken the time to learn a routine or have dance lessons. One couple lived in India and had learned a series of moves to go with a specially edited Bhangra track. Others include when I switch from a slow tune to a big party anthem part-way through, as this really helps to kick start the party!
ANY ADVICE?
Get to know your DJ, discuss with him your tastes, ideas & vision for your party and trust his knowledge, talent & skill to deliver this on the night. Understand that you are the hosts of your wedding party and your DJ’s job is to help you create an evening that your guests will love and talk about for many years to come. Appreciate that you will have lots of people who want to spend time with you & congratulate you during the evening, so allow your DJ to entertain your guests.
www.chessdisco.co.uk
www.facebook.com/chessdisco
www.instagram.com/chessdjs
Karizma
CURRENT TRENDS?
All of the couples we speak to want to ensure that their guests get up and dance. Ultimately, as a band this is our goal. When you have a very specific type of band (such as the popular Mumford & Son’s or 90s revival bands) then you can limit the music styles and songs that will be played. We find having a wide selection of songs, ranging from all eras ensures that there will be something for everyone. Of course we also want to focus on what the couple’s musical tastes are, and will always add more songs from their favourite genre (whether that be Pop, Rock or Soul etc.)
STYLE AND THE SEASON?
Personally, the type of music we play doesn’t change with the season (except around Christmas of course). However we do find that the flow of the evening for a Summer wedding would be very different to that of a Winter wedding. Because the sun doesn’t typically set until later in the evening during Summer, we encourage couples to consider pushing back the band’s playing times - after all you wouldn’t go to the club when it’s still light outside. You may also find that guests want to soak up as much of the British sun as possible before heading on to the dance floor.
WHAT’S TIMELESS?
That very much depends on each couple. We find that couples in their late 20s/early 30s are tying the knot and hence their musical tastes will be greatly influenced by the late 90s/early 00s. There are a few songs that seem to always get a good reaction - anything by the Spice Girls and Backstreet Boys - plus of course Oasis!
A MEMORABLE FIRST DANCE?
There have been a few but perhaps one of our favourites was a couple who created a festival style wedding. They wanted to have a limbo as their first dance - which turned out to be great fun! All their guests joined in (as well as the band) and it made for some awesome photos.
ANY ADVICE?
Don’t be afraid to go against the norm - we have found that a number of couples feel the pressure of ‘wedding expectations’. If you don’t want to have a first dance, then simply don’t! Your wedding should be about what YOU both want and feel comfortable with. Also (and everyone always say this) book your key suppliers early - that includes your band. We can only do one wedding a day!
www.karizmafunctionband.com
www.instagram.com/karizmafunctionband
DRESSES
Caroline Arthur
CURRENT TRENDS?
Sustainability and personalisation are the current trends which make my heart sing as a bridal designer. I find my brides are being thoughtful and careful in their choices and I love finding ways of re-styling heirloom or pre-loved dresses, or using recycled fabrics where we can. In the making, we can incorporate some beautiful personalised touches, such as a little silk painting of a favourite flower, or the initials of a cherished family member.
STYLE AND THE SEASON?
I find my creative brides tend to choose the style they love, regardless of the season. We may decide on a sleeve for warmth in the winter or a natural lightweight lining to keep cool in the summer, it doesn’t matter, so long as The Dress makes you feel wonderful.
WHAT’S TIMELESS?
Simplicity is, I think, they key to choosing a timeless gown.
Talk to us about veils?
I think a veil adds a dreamlike quality to a bridal look. Fun to wear and a beautiful accessory to frame a silhouette…they’re not for everyone, and you’ll know when you put one on. Sometimes it can feel like wearing too many clothes. And sometimes it makes you feel like a princess. You just have to try some on and see how you feel
ANY ADVICE?
Weddings have become an art form in the last few years, which can feel like a lot of pressure. But beauty is in the eye of the beholder, so not everyone will agree on your vision. It doesn’t matter. This is your day and make it your way. It’s your marriage, darling ones.
www.carolinearthur.com
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STATIONARY
Lou Paper
CURRENT TRENDS?
Right now, it’s all about different materials and finishes. For something contemporary, Perspex and vellum are both great materials to use on your big day to bring a modern, minimalist vibe. If you’re looking for something a little more luxurious, try using handmade paper and gold leaf to bring opulence and a tactile quality to your stationery.
STYLE AND THE SEASON?
As with all weddings, the season really depicts the colour palettes of your big day. I design all stationery following the colour, style and theme each of my couples chooses. Remember your save the dates and invites are the first things your guests see, so it’s the perfect opportunity to make a big first impression and give them a little taste of what’s to come. On the day stationery brings your wedding day to life, adding colour and style to your venue and is usually the cheapest way of doing so.
WHAT’S TIMELESS?
For me, hand calligraphy is something that I see as timeless. Each of my designs is calligraphered by hand which brings quirks and a bespoke quality to each piece of stationery. I hope that the stationery is cherished forever and a wonderful reminder of my clients love story.
A UNIQUE CREATION?
It sounds cliché but I have to say my own wedding stationery, it was such a personal journey to go on and I’m lucky that my now husband is an artist so we created our stationery together, and it was every bit us as it could be. It also allowed me to experiment with different printing techniques and finishes so was also a learning process!
ANY ADVICE?
Always make sure your stationery reflects your personality and interests. Fundamentally, your wedding is a celebration of who you are as a couple, so it should be filled with everything that makes you, you! Because of this I strive to create designs that are truly unique and reflect my couple into paper.
www.loupaper.co.uk
www.facebook.com/loupaperweddingstationery
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www.pinterest.co.uk/LouPaper
ACCESSORIES
Dapper & Suave
CURRENT TRENDS?
Current wedding trends we are seeing are lilac and purples, soft florals inspired by chintz from the 80s!
STYLE AND THE SEASON?
Spring Summer tends to be lighter and often features pinks, mints, blues. Autumn Winter often features navy and blues, purples and clarets. We find that our lapel feathers work better in the latter half of the year, and our button and fabric flowers sell better during the summer.
WHAT’S TIMELESS?
Navy 3 piece suit or a tail coat are classics. Pops of colour from brights to pastels in our accessories always work with this colour palette.
A UNIQUE CREATION?
We met a couple who loved one of our navy floral prints, so much so that they came to find us at an event on a very windy and wet day down in Brighton! They ended up using it in their bowtie and braces look, as well as a dog collar for the ring bearer, his change of outfit plus a sash for a pregnant sister who then needed our smallest bow tie for the newborn baby! It was great brief that just kept evolving!
ANY ADVICE?
Make sure you are both represented on the day. This is THE day to get dressed the way you want to, be the star of your own show. It's your first chance to show friends and family your new married selves - enjoy it!
www.dapperandsuave.uk
www.facebook.com/DapperAndSuave
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CAKES
Milk Street Kitchen
CURRENT TRENDS?
Interesting textures as well as bolder colours are proving really popular in cake design at the moment. I love these trends as they give couples the chance to create something unique that perfectly complements their wedding style. You can dip your toe into these trends with some interesting details on your cake, or go all out to create something really original.
STYLE AND THE SEASON?
I use a lot of fresh flowers to dress my cakes, so the varieties I use, as well as the colour palettes, tend to change with the seasons. I also have seasonal flavour options, for instance elderflower and strawberry is perfect in the height of summer, while spiced apple with sea salt caramel is a lovely, warming autumnal flavour.
WHAT’S TIMELESS?
I don’t think you can go wrong with a classic three-tiered white wedding cake dressed with beautiful fresh flowers. You can add interest with subtle texture or details like edible silver or gold leaf but the overall style is iconic and timeless.
A UNIQUE CREATION?
I love the challenge of creating a whole pop up patisserie for weddings, laden with lots of sweet treats like macarons, madelines and meringues. Styling all the desserts alongside seasonal fruits and flowers is so much fun and they really create a memorable centrepiece for guests to enjoy.
ANY ADVICE?
I believe flavour should be a priority when choosing your cake. Make sure you like how it tastes, as above all, cakes are made to be eaten and enjoyed! Secondly, think about where and how you present your cake, it makes such a different if the cake is on a stylish stand or dresser and framed nicely by its surroundings - it can be part of your styling for the day!