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Planning a wedding, need some useful information and tips? We can help! Check out our comprehensive pages related to weddings.

The Five Biggest Wedding Preparation And Planning Mistakes

Planning a wedding can be likened to a huge project – it can be very demanding. Like everyone else, you want your wedding day to be perfect but because you’re human, there’s only so much you can do without making a mistake. Here are the five biggest mistakes you don’t want to make when planning and preparing for your special day.

1. Not setting a budget

Perhaps, the most common mistake people make when it comes to wedding preparation and planning is failing to establish a budget. Most couples make an assumption about how much the wedding ceremony might cost, often due to what they heard from friends and family members or what they read online. If you don’t set a realistic budget before anything else, you may fall in love with a venue or a wedding dress only to discover that each one costs more than you can afford.  Set a budget first and then you can use it to decide how much to pay for every item on your list.

2. Not having a rain plan

Planned a beautiful garden wedding with thousands put into the décor without a contingency plan for the weather? Most couples count on luck to ensure perfect weather, which is the equivalent of sticking your fingers in your ears and yelling, “I can’t hear you, rain.” Rather than just hope that your wedding won’t be disrupted by the elements, protect yourself by preparing a plan B if you’re planning an outside affair.

3. Not putting together a full list of guests

Another top mistake most couples make is sending out their save-the-dates only to discover that their venue cannot accommodate that number of guests. The problem? They already invited friends and loved one, making it quite complicated to withdraw the invites. Sometimes, the problem with the guest list is that your loved ones might want to invite others you’re not thinking off and this can get things out of control. It’s best to discuss it with those supporting you and then wait till you can confirm the capacity of the venue before you draw up your list.

4. Skipping the video

The prominent reason most couples skip video is that the costs. They believe they’re saving by not hiring a videographer but it is no surprise that most of them eventually wish they shelled out more on a videographer to document their day. If you’re planning your wedding on a budget, see if you have a loved one that’s willing to pitch in for the cost of the Videography as a wedding gift.

5. Doing everything yourself

There’s no rule that says you have to do everything for yourself. Even if you can do most of the tasks, you shouldn’t so you don’t end up totally burned out by the time the wedding day comes. Shop around for vendors with the vision and style that is compatible with yours, and let them help you create your perfect wedding day.

Bonus tip

Another huge mistake most couples make when planning their wedding is assuming that they have enough time. The simple truth is that you may never know how much work planning a wedding requires until you get started. You may even have to take time off from work when you commence planning. Believe it because chances are high that it’s going to happen.

Summer Weddings vs. Winter Weddings: Which One is Right for You?

When you’re planning a proposal, popping that big question can seem like the most important thing in the world. But once they’ve said yes, you’ll realise that there’s a whole host of decisions that need to be made. And along with the dress and the venue, one choice that will have a big impact on your special day is the time of year that you pick. So if you’re struggling to choose between a winter and a summer wedding, here are some tips to help you decide.

Statistically, the vast majority of weddings take place during the warmer months – and it’s easy to see why. You’ll (hopefully) be able to get married in the sunshine – or at least in weather that doesn’t require heavy coats – and the possibility of celebrating outside means a wider choice of venues. Late spring and summer weddings also open up more opportunities for budget weddings – a barn and camping for guests can be charming when the sun is out, but much less so in colder temperatures. Also, some caterers and other services only operate during these months of the year, so you’ll have more choice too.

Given all these positives, why would someone choose a winter wedding? Luckily, there are lots of advantages to getting married during the colder months. For starters, many venues are cheaper around this time, so your budget is likely to stretch further. And while the weather might not seem as appealing, wrapping up warm for your celebrations can be romantic – and there’s even the chance of snow for some really dramatic photographs. Also, essential wedding services like car hire are usually less popular at this time of year, so there’s more chance of getting exactly what you want.

In short, both summer and winter offer great opportunities for celebrating your special day. If sunshine and warmth are important to you, then it obviously makes more sense to tie the knot when you have more chance of good weather – although in the UK nothing is guaranteed! Similarly, a winter wedding can be great looking for those to get married on the cheap without making compromises on all the things that you’ve dreamed of. So if you’re struggling to choose between the two, the best approach is to sit down and think about what your priorities are – and you’ll soon be on your way to enjoying a celebration that you’ll never forget.

Photo Credit: LucieWatsonPhotography.com

Top 10 Wedding Transport Ideas

Your wedding transport is an important part of your big day. Whether your planning a ceremony out of town and need plenty of vehicles to whisk all your guests to the venue or you’re just looking for a really special car to host your first journey as man and wife, there are plenty of options for you to choose from.

Here is our pick of some of the best:

Limousine

One of the most popular choices with brides and grooms celebrating their big day, limousines have many benefits. They are elegant and stylish, with roomy interiors that are perfect for accommodating your entire party. For added wow factor, choose a limo with its own built-in bar and enjoy chilled drinks en route to the wedding.

classic wedding car hire

Another popular option, arriving at your wedding in a beautiful classic wedding car is a great way to get your guests talking. There are plenty of iconic brands to choose from including Rolls Royce, Bentley, Beauford and more, so you can find a style to suit any budget and taste.

Self drive sports car hire

For many people, their wedding day is one of the only chances they’ll get to hire a luxury car. So why let the chauffeurs have all the fun? With a self drive sports car hire package, you’ll have the opportunity to get behind the wheel of some of the world’s most famous vehicles.

Minibus and coach hire

For weddings where there is a long distance between the locations of the ceremony and the party, or for out of the way weddings in rural locations, hiring a minibus or coach to transport your guests ensures that nobody has to worry about driving their car – so everyone can relax and have a good time.

Vintage bus hire

For group transport with a more retro feel, why not hire a cool vintage bus to transport your guests in style? There are a variety of models to choose from, from iconic Bedford buses to spacious double deckers from a bygone age.

TukTuk Hire

Want something completely different? How about arriving at the venue in the back of an Asian-style tuktuk? A fun and exhilarating way to travel, these open-sided vehicles are great for weddings in warmer weather and are sure to get you noticed wherever you go.

Open Top Car Hire

Getting married in the summer? Why not choose an open top wedding car? If you’re lucky enough to be blessed with fine weather you can roll the top down and enjoy the sensation of the wind in your hair – and if not you can just keep the top on and still enjoy all the comforts of a luxury car.

horse Drawn Carriage Hire

Want something really romantic for your big day? It doesn’t get any more traditional than hiring a horse-drawn carriage for the bride and groom. If you only have a short distance to travel to get to the venue, this can make a really magical start to the celebrations.

London Taxi Hire

For something a little quirky and fun, why not hire a black London taxi for your wedding? Surprisingly roomy, these vehicles can accommodate up to 5 passengers in comfort and are a great way to make a big impact when you arrive.

VW Camper Hire

Channelling a sixties vibe for your big day? What better way to complete the theme than by hiring an authentic VW Camper as your transport for the day. To really get the party started, choose a camper that comes equipped with its own bar and pile all your friends in for the ride.

Top 10 Classic Wedding Cars

Every bride and groom wants to look and feel like a celebrity on their special day, which is why so much thought is given to things like wedding dresses, venues, flowers and more. But one of the most important features of your big day – and one of the first things that your guests will see – is your wedding car. Your choice of car will create a lasting impression, so you need to make sure it’s one that says something about you as a couple. For romance, elegance and glamour, why not choose classic wedding car? Here’s our pick of some of the best:

Rolls Royce Phantom (Classic)

First put into production in 1925, the Phantom name has been attached to Rolls Royce’s luxurious cars for generations. The iconic design of a classic Phantom is instantly recognisable, making it a great choice for couples who want a classic car that really makes an impact on their special day.

Bentley MK VI

Out of the many classic Bentleys available to hire, the MK VI is one of the most striking. The first post-war luxury car produced by Bentley, it combines elegant design with a roomy interior that boasts plenty of room for you and your partner to relax before and after the ceremony.

Daimler Limousine

For a more understated, retro classic vehicle for your wedding day, why not check out the Daimler Limousine? Still used as the official state car in many countries around the world, the car creates an almost regal atmosphere and is guaranteed to turn heads wherever you go.

Brandford Elite

Want a car that captures the elegance of the roaring 1920s? The Brandford Elite is a romantic and eye-catching car with enough room for up to six passengers to travel in style. For summer weddings, you can roll the top down and enjoy the feel of the wind in your hair.

Vintage Soft-top Rolls Royce

Carrying on the theme of summer weddings, a soft top Rolls Royce is perfect for travelling to your wedding on a warm and sunny day. With a selection of different models to choose from, a soft-top Rolls Royce combines timeless elegance and glamour with a fun and exciting design that’s sure to get you noticed on your big day.

VW Campervan

Want something a little different? A VW Campervan is a funky and stylish way to transport larger parties in style. With their fun interiors and iconic design features, they combine vintage charm with spacious interiors large enough to carry the entire bridal party.

Beauford Classic

One of the most popular choices for a classic wedding car, the Beauford is a surefire way to make an impressive entrance on your wedding day. Boasting an optional soft top, contrasting colours and a plush, luxurious interior, this car creates a magical environment for your journey to the venue or your first trip as man and wife.

Bramwith

Another popular choice of classic wedding car, the Bramwith boasts an exceptionally roomy interior making it perfect for travelling to the ceremony with all of your loved ones. With elegant coachwork and a leather interior, these vehicles can seat up to 7 people with a roll-top roof at the rear for sunny days.

Bentley S

The first post-war redesign of Bentley’s luxury cars resulted in the elegant Bentley S, a spacious car offering sleek and stylish design for those that want a classic wedding car with a twist. Perfect for classic car enthusiasts and those who want to cause a stir on their wedding day.

Studebaker Dictator

One of the classic luxury cars of the 1920s and 1930s, the Studebaker Dictator offers affordable glamour for brides and grooms looking to travel in style. A vehicle that perfectly captures the romance of a bygone age, a ride in a Studebaker makes the perfect start to married life.

What your wedding transport says about you

When planning a wedding, there are so many choices to make: what dress to wear, what type of venue to choose, how to entertain your guests. And whether we like it or not, each choice says a little bit about who we are – and what we want our marriage to be. But what about the transport for your big day? We take a light-hearted look at what the most popular types tell us about the couples that pick them.

Vintage wedding cars

If you’ve chosen a classic vehicle like a Rolls Royce or a Bentley to whisk you to the venue on your wedding day, you’re a hopeless romantic who wants to pull out all the stops. Timeless and elegant, you and your loved one have bags of style and aren’t afraid to show the world. Teamed with avintage wedding dress for the bride and a cute, retro-themed reception, this choice is one that will never go out of fashion.

Sports cars

Who wouldn’t want to arrive at their wedding in a sleek Ferrari, Porsche or Lamborghini sports car? Stylish, sophisticated and effortlessly cool, these are vehicles with the real wow factor – a choice that will blow your guests away. The couples that choose these are dynamic and exciting people with lives that make others green with envy – and a ride in a wedding sports car will likely be followed by a honeymoon in some far-flung and exotic location.

Stretch limousine

The choice of the party animal, the stretch limousine is a vehicle for the couple that can’t decide between their loved ones – and opts to invite everyone along for the ride! If you’re travelling to your wedding in a stretch limo, you’re fun, sociable and like to let your hair down. And on your special day, we know that the celebrations won’t stop until the early hours!

Horse and carriage

For some people, it’s all about tradition – and even a motorised wedding car is too much of a concession to the modern age. If you’ve chosen a horse and carriage for your wedding day, you’re likely an old-fashioned sort of couple that wants your celebration to be all about the romance. You’re definitely not in a hurry, of course, and we predict that your day will be filled with precious moments to treasure for the rest of your lives.

Classic vs. modern wedding cars: which one is right for you?

It’s the eternal wedding debate… one of you wants to arrive at the venue in an elegant, vintage vehicle, while the other is dreaming of the sleek lines and powerful engine of the latest sports car. So how do you decide between the two? Luckily, it’s not just about the aesthetics – there are practical considerations that can help lead you in the right direction.

In order to make the best choice, you need to look at the pros and cons of both options. So let’s look at vintage cars first. With their classic good looks, romantic appearance and elegant interiors, older model vehicles like Rolls Royces and Bentleys are a popular choice of wedding car. And in many ways, they live up to the hype. You’ll definitely feel like a million dollars on board one of these charming vehicles, and they’re sure to make a beautiful backdrop to your special day.

However, classic cars have their limitations too. For example, they often have little power behind them, and might struggle with particularly hilly or difficult terrain. Plus, there’s a higher chance that they could break down – leaving you stranded en route to the biggest day of your life.

Another consideration is what you want in the way of technology. If your idea of the perfect ride to your wedding is relaxing with a glass of bubbly in hand, chatting while some soft music plays in the background, then a vintage vehicle could be just what you’re looking for. But if you’re the
sort of person who wants a state-of-the-art sound system and plenty of gadgets on board, you’re better off looking at a more modern option.

While they are a more unusual choice, modern wedding cars can be just as glamorous as their vintage counterparts – although they won’t give off the same traditional vibe. But what they lack in old-school charm they more than make up for in effortless cool, and your guests are sure to be impressed if you arrive in the latest Ferrari or Porsche model. And with the latest luxury vehicles, you’ll need to worry far less about any mechanical failings.

However, it’s worth noting that modern wedding cars are often less roomy than classic ones – although if space is a consideration you could always opt for a ‘stretch’ version of your favourite car. As you can see, there are pros and cons to each option – so take some time to weigh them up and decide which one is right for your big day.

Chauffeur-driven vs. self-drive: the right choice for your wedding car

At first, this might seem like a no-brainer. Because who wants to worry about getting behind the wheel on their big day? But with more and more people eschewing alcohol for health or religious reasons, self-drive hire cars are becoming an increasingly popular option for brides and grooms.
So how can you decide which option is right for you?

As with anything, both options have their pros and cons – so let’s take a look at them. For decades, a chauffeur-driven vehicle has been a steadfast wedding tradition. And it’s true that the benefits are numerous: you won’t need to worry about driving, traffic or getting lost on your wedding day, and you’re free to relax with your loved ones while someone else takes care of all the details. And, of course, if you want to celebrate with a glass or two of champagne, they’ll be someone on hand to make sure that you get where you’re going on time.

However, hiring a chauffeur means inviting a stranger to share your big day, and if you’re a fan of luxury cars you might feel a little envious that they get to do the driving. Plus, you’re reliant on an external party
to ensure that everything goes without a hitch.

With a self-drive wedding car, you’ll have full control over your wedding transport. And for most people, the appeal of this is the chance to drive the sort of car they’ve always dreamed of.

Imagine arriving at your venue behind the wheel of a gleaming Ferrari, or channelling your inner movie star in a vintage Aston Martin? For many couples, their wedding will be the only time that they get to experience a luxury vehicle – so why should a chauffeur have all the fun? However, if
you do go for this option you need to bear in mind that you will be responsible for getting from place to place on time – something that can be a stressful addition to an already busy day.

At the end of the day, only you can decide which option is best for you – but be sure to talk through all the pros and cons with your partner before making a final decision!

Top 5 modern wedding cars

While many brides and grooms go for something vintage for their special day, not everyone
wants their nuptials to be set in the past. But if you’ve decided on a modern look for your wedding car, how can you be sure to pick the right one? To help you make your decision, we’ve gathered together a list of some of the best.

  1. Hummer limousine
    If you’re the sort of person who loves to party, a stretch Hummer limousine is a fantastic choice. Often decked out with extras like on-board bars, disco lights and state-of-the-art sound systems, these huge vehicles are definitely not for shrinking violets – but they’re sure to get you noticed on your big day.
  2. Porsche Panera
    Want something a little more highbrow? The elegant Porsche Panera is sporty and high-performance enough to impress your guests, while still offering a plush interior and plenty of little luxuries. More on the compact side, this is ideal for brides and grooms that want an intimate car.
  3. Aston Martin Rapide
    While classic Aston Martins might be the more commonplace wedding car, the Rapide brings all that glamour and style into the modern age. Combining classic good looks with 21st century technology, this spacious four-door saloon is considered one of the most beautiful sports cars in the world.
  4. Rolls Royce Ghost
    No matter how hard you try to be different, there are just some people who can’t imagine a wedding without a Rolls Royce. So why not eschew the classic versions in favour of a contemporary Ghost model – a spacious, elegant vehicle with a luxurious interior that’s second to none?
  5. Mercedes S-Class
    One of the world’s most iconic luxury cars, the S-Class is the ideal choice for those that want a more understated vibe. Described by some as more like a private jet than a car, this vehicle combines a sophisticated aesthetic with a gadget-packed interior that’s sure to keep your inner James Bond entertained.

Top 10 Fairytale Wedding Venues

Everyone dreams that their wedding day will be the start of their own personal happy ever after, so why not make sure things get off to a magical start by hiring a wedding venue that’s straight out of a fairytale? Whether it’s a romantic castle or an enchanting woodland glade, the UK is packed full of venues that wouldn’t look out of place in a book by Hans Christian Anderson or the Brothers Grimm.

Here is our pick of some of the best:

Kensington Palace, London

What could be more romantic than saying your vows in a real palace? Whether you choose to celebrate in the stunning light-filled Orangery or enjoy drinks and canapes in the beautiful Sunken Garden, Kensington Palace is the perfect place to celebrate with your real-life Prince Charming.

Belvoir Castle, Leicestershire

With its ramparts and castellated towers, Belvoir looks every inch the fairytale castle. There’s a family chapel on the grounds for religious ceremonies and licensed rooms within the castle itself, plus plenty of space for a grand banquet and after dinner drinks in the Old Kitchen.

Wasing Woodland Weddings, Berkshire

This flexible outdoor space gives couples the opportunity to get married in a magical ancient woodland glade. Exchange vows by the pond, celebrate with guests by the fire late into the night, then retire to your quaint honeymoon cottage set within a secret walled garden.

Wadhurst Castle, Sussex

For a fairytale wedding on a more intimate scale, Wadhurt Castle looks like a shrunken version of a classic castle and offers a cosy and unique venue for small weddings. Choose from ceremonies and receptions for up to 30 people in the main building arrange marquee hire for the picturesque gardens.

Eilean Donan, Kyle of Lochalsh, Scotland

Used in films and TV series for decades, the towering walls of ancient Eilean Donan will be instantly recognised by your guests. Set against a romantic backdrop of glassy waters and towering mountains, this is justifiably one of Scotland’s top wedding locations.

Brympton D’Evercy, Somerset

One of the finest stately homes in Somerset, Brympton D’Evercy is available as an exclusive hire for your wedding day. Host your own fairytale ball for up to 228 guests in the magnificent ballroom, or take over the house for the whole weekend for the ultimate slumber party.

Enchanted Manor, Isle of Wight

The name tells you everything you need to know. Set in its own ancient woodland close to the sea, the Enchanted Manor specialises in offering memorable weddings for groups of up to 40 guests in its specially decorated pagoda or indoor garden room.

Treehouse Weddings, New Forest

What could be more magical than enjoying your wedding ceremony in a dedicated treehouse venue nestled in the canopies of the New Forest? This treehouse belongs to the Countryside Education Trust – so your hire fee will contribute to important conservation work – and can cater for up to 120 guests.

Pencoed House, nr. Cardiff

For an idyllic wedding venue close to the transport links of Cardiff, Pencoed House is the perfect choice. The enchanting main house is set within acres of landscaped grounds – all exclusively yours throughout your big day. The old banqueting hall with its stone walls and roaring log fire is a great place to say “I do”.

Spitbank Fort, Portsmouth

For the ultimate in modern fairytale chic, why not celebrate in your very own fort, cut off from the rest of the world by the sea? You and your guests will enjoy a private boat ride out to your own island for the day and enjoy a ceremony and reception overlooking the sea. There are even 9 luxury bedrooms for those that want to stay the night.

Top 10 Hen Party Ideas

Are you planning a hen party? Whether you’re a bride organising your own do or a maid of honour trying to juggle everyone’s needs and requests, planning a really special send off for the bride-to-be is an important part of any wedding. And whether she’s a dance floor diva or a real tom boy at heart, there are plenty of options to ensure it’s a party to remember.

Here is our guide to some of the top hen party ideas:

Spa Visit

Organising a wedding can be really stressful and time-consuming, so why not treat the bride-to-be with some pampering in a luxury spa? There are plenty of locations around the country, and you can choose between an affordable afternoon visit or a blow-out weekend of indulgence.

European City Break

Want to combine culture, fine dining and nightlife? Why not plan a weekend away in one of Europe’s cosmopolitan cities? Destinations like Budapest, Prague and Bucharest offer great value for money, while places like Paris, Berlin and Barcelona are brimming with places to see and be seen.

VIP Nightclub Trip

If you and your hens only have time for a one night celebration, make it count with a VIP nightclub visit. Get in touch with the hottest club in your local town or city and see what packages they can offer you – then enjoy feeling like a celebrity all night with queue jumps, table service and more.

Afternoon Tea

Another great option for busy hens that can’t spare a whole weekend is afternoon tea at a posh restaurant or hotel. Have a look in your local area to see what’s on offer – packages normally offer delicious treats like cakes, sandwiches and pastries accompanied by sparkling wine in a delightful vintage setting.

Glamping

Like the idea of the great outdoors but not too sure about getting back to basics? Why not go glamping? Like traditional camping only with luxury tents, real beds with warm duvets, hot showers and more, glamping is available at hundreds of locations around the UK.

Country House Party

For a really classy hen party, why not indulge your love of all things Downton Abbey and Jane Austen with a house party break in a country house? There are dozens of big houses around the country available on an exclusive hire basis, so you and your friends can play at being ladies of the manor for the weekend.

Canal Boat Break

Want something a little different? Hiring a canal boat and taking your friends on an adventure around England’s waterways is becoming an increasingly popular hen party choice. Spend your days relaxing on deck and learning to operate lochs, then moor up at a canal-side pub for an evening of fun.

Bushcraft

For all the tomboy hens out there, a weekend of Bushcraft could be just the thing. Have a look online for the nearest course to you – typically a day involves getting together in the countryside and learning essential life skills including shelter building, survival skills and fire building.

Walking Holiday

Another great way to enjoy the great outdoors on your hen party is to organise a walking holiday. You can go with a tour group who will transport your luggage for you to different destinations, or hire a cosy cottage in a popular walking destination and plan your trips to suit.

Festival Weekend

For the ultimate party weekend, why not descend upon your favourite UK music festival with all of your hens in tow? Most events will offer a glamping or luxury camping option, so you can enjoy festival accommodation that’s fitting for a bride to be while you rock out to some of the world’s top bands.