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An elegant Suffolk Garden Wedding at WILDERNESS RESERVE


When Ariel and Charlie realised they needed some support wedding planning for their elegant Suffolk wedding at The Wilderness Reserve, they picked up the phone to me following a recommendation to them from one of my favourite luxury makeup artists, Emily Chantal.

Ariel and Charlie had this incredible vision for their day and wanted me to support them on the day itself with my ‘On the day coordination’ service. But we bonded on our first conversation and I knew this was going to be such a stunning wedding in many ways. To start with, some of my most favourite suppliers were also coming along for the ride!

The couple had chosen the sought after The Wilderness Reserve in Suffolk and trust me when I say this must be a place you visit. We met and walked around the venue along with their wedding coordinator at the venue and their caterer whilst we planned, tweaked and organised the logistics of the day and I fully grasped exactly how beautiful it would look once we’d spoken about everything.

In the morning of this gorgeous sunny June day, Ariel was being looked after by her makeup artist email and hair stylist Sally-Kate (Hair by Duboux) with her stunning Bridesmaids in the comfort of this dog friendly venue… see how Oakley and Willow feature in the wedding later on, it’s a treat!

Next revealed the most beautiful Armeria wedding dress from fashion designer Alena Lena and it could not have been any more perfect for the gorgeous Ariel. She wore designer Loeffler Randall shoes and accompanied the dress with delicate white florals from Figa and Co.

The ceremony was performed by family and contained the most sweetest readings filled with laughter and the occasion tear whilst the guests listened to the beautiful harmonies of Gemma Daltrey & Jonny.

Delectable Canapes and the wedding breakfast was served by local catering team, Gather and Feast in the outdoor stretch tent from Events Under Canvas with table decor provided by CMA Hire

Remember the cake from Pink Face Cakes I told you about earlier? Isn’t this the cutest thing…

Afterwards, everyone danced the night away and enjoyed an array of drinks and cocktails from the fabulous team at Beyond Bar hire - wow! What a party!

This wedding could not have been captured more beautifully than it was, courtesy of the incredible Sharon Cudworth along with second shooter Laura Williams and fabulously talented Mike Savory on video

So if you are looking for inspiration on an outdoor, romantic garden wedding, I don’t think you can get a more beautiful aesthetic than Ariel and Charlie’s wedding.

Planning your wedding at The Wilderness Reserve? Contact Hayley to inquire about your wedding day here.

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On the day coordinator in Essex

On the day coordinator in Essex


Thought about hiring an Essex based on the day coordinator for your wedding?

Planning a wedding is an exhilarating journey filled with aspirations and endless to-do lists (oh those lists are never ending!) From selecting the perfect venue to coordinating with suppliers and finalising guest lists (and juggling the ones who haven’t replied!), every detail plays a crucial role in creating your dream day. Amidst the whirlwind of wedding preparations, my role of an on-the-day coordinator often gets overlooked. However, for engaged couples in the UK, especially those hosting their celebrations in diverse venues like stately homes or intimate marquee setups in Essex, having a dedicated on-the-day coordinator can be the key to a stress-free and unforgettable wedding experience (check out my testimonials if you don’t believe me).

I love Essex, with its picturesque landscapes, historic estates, and charming countryside, it serves as a captivating backdrop for weddings of all styles and sizes. Whether you're envisioning a grand affair in a regal stately home or an intimate gathering under the stars in a quaint garden marquee, my on-the-day coordinator service is the one for you as I can turn your vision into a seamless reality.

H&N contacted me after they realised the intricacies of managing a wedding in their parents/in-laws garden. They wanted to embrace the day and not get burdened with juggling suppliers, questions and any issues that may arise. Their main concern was being fully present with their guests and making sure all of their efforts paid off on the day, that’s where I stepped in to ensure everything went to plan.

Photo by Jason Little at a private marquee wedding in Essex.

What are the pros to hiring me as your wedding planner for an on the day coordination service?:

  1. Expertise in Essex Venues: As your Essex on-the-day coordinator, I bring a wealth of local knowledge and expertise. I understand the intricacies of different wedding venues across the county, from historic manors to sprawling gardens. This allows me to ensure that every aspect of your wedding is perfectly tailored to its surroundings.

  2. Seamless Coordination: On your wedding day, I'll be your point person, orchestrating every detail behind the scenes to ensure smooth transitions, seamless supplier coordination, and timely execution of all planned activities. This means you can relax and savour every moment without worrying about logistics.

  3. Personalised Attention: Your wedding day should reflect your love story and unique personalities. I take the time to understand your vision, preferences, and priorities, translating them into personalised touches that elevate your experience.

  4. Stress-Free Experience: By entrusting me with on-the-day coordination, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that someone experienced is managing the logistics. From handling all supplier communications to resolving last-minute hiccups, I'll ensure everything runs smoothly.

  5. Emergency Preparedness: Despite meticulous planning, unforeseen circumstances can arise. Rest assured, I'm equipped to handle any challenges swiftly and effectively, ensuring disruptions are minimised.

Photo by Jason Little at a private marquee wedding in Essex

Investing in the services of an on-the-day coordinator like myself is a decision that promises immense returns in peace of mind, personalised attention, and flawless execution, as well as a professional shoulder for you to rest on. Whether you're exchanging vows in a majestic stately home or dancing the night away in a cosy marquee, my expertise ensures your wedding day unfolds seamlessly, allowing you to focus on celebrating your love and creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

Contact Hayley here to help plan your UK wedding!

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Planning a destination wedding in the UK

How a UK Wedding Planner Can Turn Your Destination Wedding Dreams into Reality


How a UK Wedding Planner Can Turn Your Destination Wedding Dreams into Reality

Dreaming of tying the knot amidst the rolling green hills or bustling city of London in the UK? Whether you've always envisioned a fairy-tale castle wedding or a quaint British countryside affair, planning a destination wedding in the UK can be an adventure. But let's face it, orchestrating the perfect celebration from afar can feel like an endless task, hitting brick walls and frustration when it comes to speaking to vendors due to the time difference along with the complexities of juggling the budget and preparations. That's where a UK-based wedding planner comes in to save your sanity and ensure your big day goes off without a hitch.

So, why should you consider enlisting the help of a wedding planner on this side of the pond? Let's break it down!

Why Hire a UK Wedding Planner?

1. Navigating the British Bureaucracy Ah, bureaucracy, the universal language of paperwork and red tape. Planning a wedding in a foreign land means wading through a sea of permits, licenses, and legalities that can leave even the most organised couple feeling like they've stumbled into a maze. But fear not! Your trusty wedding planner is fluent in the language of British bureaucracy, adept at securing all the necessary documents with ease, leaving you free to focus on more important matters—like cake tasting!

2. Local Knowledge, Global Flair From the quaint charm of a Cotswolds village to the vibrant energy of London's bustling streets, the UK is a treasure trove of diverse landscapes and cultures. A UK-based wedding planner brings invaluable local knowledge to the table, helping you discover hidden gems and unique venues that perfectly reflect your personal style and vision. Whether you're craving a traditional English tea party or a contemporary urban bash, your planner will sprinkle their magic to ensure every detail is tailor-made to perfection.

3. Weather Woes? No Problem! Let's be real—British weather can be as unpredictable as a toddler's mood swings. But don't let a little rain dampen your spirits! A seasoned wedding planner knows how to weatherproof your celebration, whether it means arranging cosy indoor alternatives or providing stylish umbrellas for a romantic rainy-day photoshoot. After all, they say a wet knot is harder to untie, right?

4. Stress-Free Journey Planning a wedding is like embarking on a rollercoaster ride—with all the highs, lows, and occasional loop-de-loops. But fear not, your wedding planner is the ultimate co-pilot, guiding you through every twist and turn with grace and expertise. From wrangling vendors to managing timelines, they'll handle the nitty-gritty details so you can focus on savouring every moment of your journey to "I do."

5. Peace of Mind, Priceless Memories At the end of the day, a wedding isn't just about the flowers, the cake, or the fancy table settings—it's about creating memories that will last a lifetime. By entrusting your dreams to a UK-based wedding planner, you're not just investing in a flawless event; you're investing in peace of mind and priceless memories that you'll cherish for years to come. So sit back, relax, and let the magic unfold!

In conclusion, planning a destination wedding in the UK may seem like a daunting task, but with the right wedding planner by your side, it's a journey filled with excitement, fun, and peace of mind. So what are you waiting for? Let's make some UK wedding magic together!

Contact Hayley here to help plan your UK wedding!

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Will venues negotiate on price?


How to save big on your dream wedding venue

Your wedding day is a momentous occasion, a celebration of love and commitment deserving of a venue that mirrors the grandeur of your dreams. While high-end venues often come with a hefty price tag, the good news is that couples can negotiate costs and create a magical experience without breaking the bank. In this blog, we'll explore the art of negotiation for luxury wedding venues and share tips on how to save money while planning the wedding of your dreams. Additionally, we'll discuss the invaluable role a wedding planner can play in navigating the high-stakes world of luxury weddings.

Typically, venues will not simply discount their services - nor should they, prices have been set for a reason, however, as your go-to UK wedding planner, I’m here to offload my knowledge as well as give you the information you need to make sure you can achieve your dream wedding.

How to Negotiating with High-End Venues:

  1. Do Your Homework: Before diving into negotiations, thoroughly research potential venues. Understand their pricing structures, any seasonal discounts, and the services they include. Having a clear understanding of the venue's offerings will empower you during negotiations.

  2. Flexible Dates: Luxury venues often have peak and off-peak seasons. If you can be flexible with your wedding date, inquire about discounts for booking during less popular times. This flexibility can significantly impact your overall budget.

  3. Bundle and Save: Many high-end venues offer packages that include catering, decor, and other services. Bundling services can often result in a more attractive overall price. Don't hesitate to ask about customised packages tailored to your specific needs.

  4. Leverage Your Guest Count: Venues may be willing to negotiate based on the number of guests you're expecting. If you have a large guest list, explore whether the venue is willing to offer a discount or additional perks.

  5. Be Transparent and Communicative: Honesty is key in negotiations. Be transparent about your budget and express your desire to make your dream wedding a reality. Some venues may be willing to work with you to accommodate your budget constraints.

So where do wedding planners come into the equation when it comes to saving money at your wedding venue:

  1. Industry Insights: Wedding planners have extensive knowledge of the wedding industry, including venue pricing and negotiation tactics. Their insights can help you make informed decisions and secure the best deals.

  2. Connections and Relationships: Established wedding planners often have strong relationships with high-end venues. Leveraging these connections can open doors to exclusive discounts and perks that may not be available to the public.

  3. Time and Stress Savings: Planning a luxury wedding can be time-consuming and stressful. A wedding planner can alleviate much of this burden, allowing you to focus on enjoying the process rather than navigating the complexities of negotiations and logistics.

  4. Budget Management: Wedding planners excel at budget management. They can help you allocate funds effectively, ensuring that every penny is maximized and well-spent. This expertise is invaluable when dealing with high-budget events.

Negotiating with high-end wedding venues requires finesse, but with the right approach, you can turn your dream wedding into a reality without draining your bank account. Remember to do your research, be transparent, and consider the benefits of hiring a wedding planner. With the right strategy and support, your luxury wedding can be both memorable and cost-effective. Happy planning!

Contact Hayley here to help plan your 2024 or 2025 wedding!

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Wedding trends for 2024


what 2024 trends should you be looking out for

Welcome to the wonderful world of weddings! If you're planning your big day in the UK for 2024, you're in for an exciting journey. While many top wedding suppliers may offer fantastic insights into the latest wedding trends, it's essential to remember that trends come and go. To help you navigate the world of 2024 wedding trends, I've put together a friendly and professional guide for UK-based couples. Let's explore the latest wedding trends while keeping your unique style and budget in mind.

Trend 1: Sustainable Celebrations - Vogue reminds us that sustainability is not just a trend, but a way of life. Sustainable weddings are gaining momentum in 2024. Couples are opting for eco-friendly venues, locally sourced flowers, and zero-waste décor. If you're environmentally conscious, consider incorporating these elements into your wedding. Not only will you make a positive impact, but you'll also stay on-trend.

Trend 2: Not following tradition - Whilst I believe history plays a huge part in how weddings are structured, I have seen traditions play a smaller and smaller role in the wedding day - couples no longer feel ‘obligated’ to do a bouquet toss, cut the cake or the task of the groom removing a garter from his wife’s leg with his hands or sometimes, teeth! (yes, this was a thing back in the day)

Trend 3: Minimalism - Less is definitely more for 2024 - previous brides and grooms are quickly establishing that there is more to your wedding day than spending thousands on details (unless you want to of course) but minimalistic chic is going to be huge in 2024

Trend 4: Fashion Forward - Fashion plays a significant role in wedding trends, and 2024 is no different. Brides particularly are embracing unconventional bridalwear. Whether it's coloured wedding dresses, jumpsuits, or stylish separates, the choice is yours. You don't have to stick to tradition; wear what makes you feel fabulous without breaking the bank.

Trend 5: Personalised Details - Your wedding should be a reflection of your unique love story. In 2024, personalised details are all the rage. Incorporate elements that showcase your personality and story, from custom invitations to personalised ‘love notes’ for your seating chart - this trend not only adds a personal touch but also ensures you make your guests feel included and loved.

Trend 6: Audio Books - Out with the handwritten book and in with the voice notes using these vintage phone like Calleo provide! They’ve not been around long enough to fully understand the pro’s and con’s but this is one trend I am getting on, and how lovely to be able to listen back to family and friends leaving heartfelt emotions on your big day - watch out for that one drunken friends message though; we all know one!

Trend 7 - Content Creators - I mean, how did we even live without them? They are down to your personal preference but finding a good content creator only enhances your day and don’t get me wrong, they are not there to replace the job of a photographer or videographer but they add an incredible amount of value to your day; especially if you are hot on social media, their little snippets of the day are perfect to flaunt on your TikTok or Instagram page like this one here from the wonderful Content for Brides.

Remember, these trends are merely guidelines. While they may be useful, they might not suit your unique style or budget. Here's some friendly advice to keep in mind:

  1. Stay True to Yourself: Don't feel pressured to conform to trends if they don't resonate with your style and personality. Your wedding should be an authentic reflection of you as a couple.

  2. Prioritise Your Budget: Weddings can quickly become costly affairs. Set a budget and stick to it. You can create a beautiful and memorable day without breaking the bank.

  3. Seek Professional Guidance: Hiring a UK-based wedding planner can be a smart investment. They can help you navigate the latest trends, identify cost-effective solutions, and bring your vision to life.

As you prepare for your 2024 UK-based wedding, remember that trends come and go, but your love story is timeless. Take inspiration from the professionals insights but focus on what truly matters to you. Embrace the trends that resonate with your style, values, and budget, and let your wedding be a celebration of your unique love story. Happy planning!

Contact Hayley here to help plan your 2024 wedding!

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A chic London wedding


Need help planning your London wedding?

Look no further than your Essex wedding planner of the Year 2023… Hayley from Amae Weddings & Events.

Are you dreaming of a wedding that exudes elegance and sophistication? Look no further than the bustling streets of London, where romance and charm intertwine to create the perfect backdrop for your special day. A chic London wedding is the epitome of glamour, with its iconic landmarks, grand venues, and timeless appeal. Whether you envision exchanging vows in a historic cathedral or celebrating your love in a stylish rooftop garden, London offers a plethora of options to make your wedding day truly unforgettable.

Imagine walking down the aisle in a stunning Victorian-era church, surrounded by breath-taking stained glass windows and ornate architecture. The soft glow of candlelight illuminates the aisle as you make your way towards your beloved, with the sound of a classical string quartet filling the air. Or picture saying "I do" in a stylish rooftop garden, with panoramic views of the city skyline as your backdrop. The modern elegance of the setting perfectly complements your chic wedding attire, and your guests are in awe of the breath-taking views as they raise their glasses to toast your love.

London is a city that captivates the hearts of couples from all over the world, and it's easy to see why. With its rich history, timeless beauty, and vibrant atmosphere, this cosmopolitan city offers the perfect setting for a chic and unforgettable wedding. So if you're ready to embark on a journey of love and celebration, join us as we delve into the world of a chic London wedding and discover the magic that awaits you.

K&T decided to choose the Buffini Chao deck as the perfect venue to host their family and friends who flew in all the way to London to help celebrate their wedding. The Buffini Chao deck offered a stunning and picturesque setting that perfectly captured the beauty of the occasion. Its elegant and spacious design allowed for ample room for their loved ones to gather and celebrate their special day.

With only weeks to go until the big day, the couple contacted me to step in and coordinate all the suppliers and run the day so that they could travel in from the States, stress free, sit back and relax, taking every little detail in.

Thank you to the ever so talented, Vogue recommended 2021, Emily Montay Photography who captured their day with an editorial flair and great eye for detail.

Contact Hayley here to help plan your London wedding!

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Proposals Clare Butler Proposals Clare Butler

How to 'pop the question'


When, where and how to get engaged.

Congratulations! You've found the love of your life and now it's time to take the next big step - popping the question. Planning a proposal can be equal parts exhilarating and nerve-wracking, as you want the moment to be nothing short of magical. That's where a trusted wedding planner like me, owner of Amae Weddings & Events, can help you orchestrate a proposal that will leave your partner speechless and create memories to last a lifetime. In this blog, I will guide you through when, where, and how to pop the question, sharing the benefits of hiring a wedding planner to organize it all.

Timing is Everything:
When it comes to proposing, timing is key. Consider your partner's preferences and personalities. Is there a special day or occasion that holds significance for both of you? Perhaps it's a milestone anniversary, a favorite holiday, or even a time when you know they'll feel most relaxed and happy. Discussing your intentions with a wedding planner can help you pinpoint the perfect time to pop the question, ensuring that it aligns seamlessly with your partner's expectations and desires.

Creating the Perfect Ambiance:
Now that you've picked the ideal timing, let's move on to the question of where to propose. Is there a specific location that holds significance for both of you? It could be the place where you first met, a favorite vacation spot, or a spot in nature where you both feel at peace. Your wedding planner can help you brainstorm creative and unique ideas based on your relationship and preferences, transforming any location into a romantic setting. Whether it's an intimate candlelit dinner, a scenic outdoor setting, or a grand gesture at a luxury venue, a professional wedding planner can work their magic and bring your vision to life.

Adding Personal Touches:
To make your proposal truly memorable and meaningful, think about incorporating personal touches that reflect your shared journey as a couple. This could include heartfelt letters, incorporating sentimental items, or planning activities that align with your partner's interests. A wedding planner can help you brainstorm ideas and create a customized proposal plan that showcases your love story in a unique and personal way. By entrusting the details to a wedding planner, you can rest assured that every element of your proposal will be executed flawlessly, leaving you free to focus on the main event - the question itself.

Why Hire a Wedding Planner:
Planning a proposal involves a considerable amount of creativity, logistics, and attention to detail. That's where a wedding planner becomes your invaluable ally. From researching locations and securing permits to arranging transportation and coordinating suppliers, a wedding planner takes care of all the behind-the-scenes work, allowing you to relax and savour the moment. With my expertise, connections, and eye for design, I can transform your vision into reality, ensuring a seamless and unforgettable experience. Relying on a wedding planner allows you to fully focus on your partner and the emotions of the moment, knowing that every detail has been taken care of and within your budget, whatever that may be.
Popping the question is a once-in-a-lifetime moment, and with the help of a wedding planner like me, it can become an extraordinary experience that you and your partner will cherish forever. By entrusting the planning to a professional, you can relax and enjoy this beautiful milestone, secure in the knowledge that every detail has been thoughtfully taken care of. Whether you want an intimate and private proposal or a grand romantic gesture, a wedding planner can make it happen. So, take a deep breath, trust your instincts, and let Amae Weddings & Events help you create a proposal that will leave your partner saying "yes".

Photo credit to By Emma Olivia

For more information about proposals or support organising your wedding day, contact Hayley HERE

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How to choose your Essex wedding venue


You’re engaged! But now you need to find your perfect wedding venue in Essex

As Essex’s wedding planner of the year 2023, I’m here to help!

Have you been searching for the perfect wedding venue in Essex? Look no further! Choosing your wedding venue is an important decision, so it's vital you take the time to explore all of the options available to you. Whether you're looking for something traditional or something more modern, you'll be sure to find the perfect spot to celebrate your special day in Essex.

So take a deep breath and get ready to make one of the most important decisions of your life whilst I talk you through a step by step guide and a list of important considerations to think about when choosing your venue!

  1. Wedding Venues & suppliers who align

    You have your eye on that gorgeous Essex wedding venue but really, it’ll be the suppliers you choose that could make (or break) that lovely aesthetic vision - my point here is choose suppliers who will deliver the overall wedding aesthetic that you want and enhances the venue, not takes away from it - consider creating a Pinterest board that you can show your suppliers before booking

  2. Location location location

    Essex is quite a big County so ask yourself, Is the venue easily accessible to both you and your guests? Is it close to any other points of interest such as hotels or transportation? These are important elements especially if you have people travelling to come to the big day - Consider who is coming to your wedding before settling on a location

  3. Wedding guest numbers

    The perfect opportunity to sit in the garden with a bottle of fizz (or tea if you’re feeling more ‘Bridgerton’) and start creating your list of guests - this is vital to choosing your venue and whilst there is a huge selection of wedding venues to choose in Essex, not all are capable of dealing with large numbers, or are too big for more intimate numbers - Make sure the venue can comfortably accommodate your guest list - whilst a wedding venue may say they can cater for up to 200 people, this number usually means the maximum number of tables and chairs, leaving not much breathing space or room for anything else - consider choosing a venue that caters for more than you are looking for so you have extra space, especially in the hotter months

  4. Wedding Budget

    I wouldn’t recommend it, you could visit every wedding venue in Essex however, my suggestion to you is write down a list of needs and wants, from this, start hunting for your ideal venue then narrow that list down to your top 5 (both of you choose your favourite, then 3 others) then start visiting them! Even better, try and visit on an open day where you will be able to see the venue all set up for a wedding day and start gathering quotes - make sure you find out exactly what is included in the cost and don’t get caught out with the VAT being added on at invoice stage! - Consider adding 20% on top of your budget to cater for those little extras that the venue offer as an upgrade option

  5. Dates

    Start looking at dates to hold your wedding day on, consider the months, days, school holidays, bank holidays and celebrations as these can make a difference to availability and more importantly, cost. There can be a considerable difference between a January midweek wedding compared to a Saturday in August for example - if budget is tight, consider opting for a last minute deal but remember, you have to give at least 28 days notice of marriage (yes, I have fully organised a wedding in less than 6 months!)

  6. Compromise

    As an engaged couple, you will fall into two categories, you both have the same vision for your wedding day or you have totally opposite tastes and cannot agree on everything. Remember, it is a day of celebration for both of you and there will have to be compromises made along the way, the same goes for your venue, it may not have a lake that you were hoping for but it has beautiful views from the wedding dining room - compromise. Consider creating you needs and wants list before visiting any wedding venue as this will help you rule venues in or out before you get overwhelmed

  7. A wedding planner

    Still feeling the heat? Consider hiring a wedding planner to support you. Not only do we know the best venues in the area but we are tenacious when it comes to supporting you in delivering YOUR best day. We know which suppliers work best with which venues and we can work to your budget so that you do not spend money you don’t have. Plus, we all need a non-biased wedding bestie right?

So there you have it; my top tips on how to choose your favourite wedding venue in Essex along with just some pictures of my personal favourites.

Where have you chosen to get married in Essex? Drop your comments below!

Contact Hayley, Owner of Amae Weddings & Events HERE for more information on Wedding Planning services in Essex and the UK.

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Wedding Finances Clare Butler Wedding Finances Clare Butler

Your wedding is not really for you. Or is it?


Ever sat back and wondered how your wedding budget disappeared so quickly? Your guests, that’s why.

WARNING - controversial wedding budget post, but hear me out - As a UK based wedding planner, I meet so many couples who go through a range of emotions when it comes to the wedding preparations and the wedding day itself. I know not everyone is going to agree with what I say in this blog but it is my honest opinion that some couples lose sight of the meaning of marriage and the celebrations surrounding it.

Let’s start with marriage, what does it mean and why do we do it? Well marriage is the legal or formal binding of two people uniting their love for each other. Now for you to do this, you need 5/6 people. You (as a couple), 2 witnesses, the person authorised to register the marriage (and if not, another person will be present who can). That’s it.

So back to the point…. Let’s say you get engaged (yippee!) and you start looking at the guest list…. before you know it you’re saying ‘I didn’t realise we knew this many people’ and ‘well they invited us to their wedding so we have to do the same back’ or ‘I guess we have to invite partners too’. Sound familiar? Ok so lets say you now have 100 people coming to your wedding., you now have to look for a venue that caters for 100 people, then you add on accommodation, and transport etc etc. The costs just go up and up and up so technically, all of this cost is for the benefit of your guests, not really you.

Once you’ve tallied up the total cost you could be looking at £18,400 (HItched guide for 2022) and that’s only looking at 6 key spending areas:

  • Venue hire - £8,400 

  • Wedding dress - £1,350

  • Photography - £1,300

  • Videography - £1,150 

  • Catering per head - £70

  • Wedding hair & makeup - £155

So that’s not even everything you are spending. Let’s say you spend a further £5,000 on top for cake, suits, flowers and entertainment, taking it to £23,400 (see how it adds up!). You are now spending £234,00 per person!

I am the first person to say that I love a big lovely white wedding and I’m not saying don’t spend a high amount, of course, if you have the budget, this blog may not be for you. But for a lot of couples who feel the pressure to conform to what society deems to be a ‘proper wedding’… please don’t. You do you, and if you are going to get into debt for people who barely make the effort to speak to you every 6 months., I say no more.

Too many couples end up stressed out, mainly with the financials of a wedding so my advice comes from the heart when I advise you, really think about where you focus your wedding budget and whether the guests you intend to invite, justify the £23,400.00 spend.

Maybe I’m ruthless but couples who feel obliged to have the ‘big white wedding’ and invite the people they really don’t want to, only to look back and regret some of their decisions to go for the big venue and additional extras that cost a lot of money .

So whilst planning your wedding. Just stop, and really think about who you are doing this for. You or your guests?

Contact Hayley, Award Winning Wedding Planner HERE

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