|
Planning your dream wedding is like orchestrating a masterpiece… A crucial part of this being the legalities. At Melt Weddings, we love the fairy lights, the floral arrangements and the dresses, but we are all too familiar with the legal aspects that must be implemented. Hold onto your bouquet because this blog post is your whirlwind VIP pass to the legal rollercoaster of your ‘I dos’. We're going to talk you through the what's, how's and why's of the legal documents entangled in your nuptials. Whilst it’s not the most thrilling subject, we want to be sure your love meets the law… From marriage licenses to name changes, vendor contracts and licenses, and officiant requirements, we want to be sure you don’t miss a beat when it comes to the legal stuff. Get your notepad out, because school is in session...  Marriage Licences A marriage licence (or giving notice of a marriage or civil partnership) is more than just a formality - it is the first legal step required in order for your marriage to be recognised in your county. It is an authorisation permitting two people to enter into a marriage/civil partnership. This takes your wedding day from a party with friends and family to the legally-recognised union of two people. To obtain one, you must both visit your local registry office in person and give notice of your intention to marry. You need to do this with at least 28 days clear of your ceremony (although we’d recommend a little longer, as the licence is valid for 12 months and there’s no point in cutting it fine if you can avoid it). There are a number of things you need to take to your appointment. These include proof of identity (name, age and nationality), address and current marital status. Typically, accepted documents will include passports, drivers licences, utility bills, bank statements, and divorce or death certificates (of a previous spouse). Documents typically have to be originals and in date to be accepted. There may be other documents you require, like a confirmation of your venue, so make sure to check what documents are needed and accepted on your local council’s/borough’s website or call them - they’re generally happy to help you through this process. Don’t forget that there will be a fee for this process (generally between £35 and £50 per person), so make sure you allow for this in your wedding budget. Now, it is crucial to note that there are intricate legalities if one of the partners is not a British national, or if you are living abroad, so please do make sure you check the terms and conditions. Again, these can be easily found online - typically on your local council’s website. Things to watch out for:
 Marriage Certificates On your wedding day, you will sign the marriage schedule which will then be entered onto the electronic register. The registrar has 21 days to submit your schedule to the register, from which it will be issued within 7 days. You could be fined if the schedule is not submitted to the register, so make sure you have a discussion with your registrar beforehand and find out when they plan to submit. You are not then automatically sent your marriage certificate - you have to apply for it. Your marriage certificate will cost between £11 and £35 and will allow you to do things like apply for a name change.  Name Changes When it comes to changing your name, there are a few steps you need to follow to ensure it is done properly.
Some of these take time and patience to update, so make sure you are prepared for that. It's not necessarily the quickest process. It’s important to remember that changing your name is a personal choice and not everyone will opt for it. Give your time to navigate the process at your own pace and ensure your new identity is reflected accurately across important documents and records. Whilst not everyone wants to change their name when entering a marriage, this list should help guide you through the process should you want to take that step.  Vendor Contracts and Additional Licences Vendor contracts are important because they define the intricate detail of what you should expect from them, the limitations of your booking and definite no-goes. For example, your reception venue might not allow red wine to be consumed in case of spillages, or your marquee hire company might not allow for open flames under the structure. These are things you need to know and think about in the planning process of your wedding, so that time and money is not wasted. It’s important to know the ins and outs of your agreement with your vendor and what you should expect from them. Vendor contracts are not only to manage your expectations, but they protect both parties. If you believe you are entitled to something or have been promised something that has not been delivered, the contract will be able to back you up in writing. It is important to remember that this works the other way around too, though. If you have signed a contract that states you must return your crockery clean, you’re going to need to know this to avoid additional cleaning fees. You’ll also need to know what licence(s) your venue holds. Is just one room of the venue licenced for wedding ceremonies? Are they a licenced premise and can serve alcohol? Are there any restrictions to their licence? Or are they not licenced at all? This will make a difference in whether or not you can hold a legal ceremony there, or if you have to get legally married elsewhere. Typically, your venue will share this information with you freely, but it is definitely worth asking them explicitly if it is not clear. Another licence you may need to think about is a Temporary Events Notice (TEN). If, for example, you’re hosting a marquee wedding at a family home, you’ll likely need a TEN to inform the local council of the events and ensure you are on the right side of the law. This will cover things like the sale of alcohol, entertainment and serving late night food. Your wedding planner should be on top of this, but should you choose to do the legwork of the wedding planning process yourself, this is definitely something to think about.  Officiant Requirements If you are having a religious ceremony, it is likely that your priest/vicar/rabbi etc. is registered to legally officiate the marriage. When it comes to a civil ceremony, you will have to book an official registrar. This is someone whose full-time job is officiating weddings. Now, there are other options too… We see in the movies how friends and family members might be asked to conduct a ceremony. This, typically, happens in American movies, where their rules differ about who can apply to legally be an officiant. Whilst there is a way to do this in the UK, it is not a legally binding marriage. To do this, the couple would need to be legally wed separately, i.e. before or after their wedding day, by a registered officiant and then have a ‘bigger’ wedding or reception with their chosen officiant. This way, they are legally married, but just not as you would see it on the day. Another option is celebrants. Celebrants are sort of performers; they get to know the couple, write a beautiful ceremony tailored to them as a pair, and put on a sort of show for the audience. A lot of celebrants are very funny and incredibly good at what they do - you wouldn't even know that it was a performance (Olivia Coleman Celebrant being one of our favourites at Melt Weddings). Again, what they do is not legally binding, but the couple are given the opportunity to have speeches and stories told to make it all the more personal, special and memorable. This is because celebrants are not bound by what they have to say (as a regulated officiant is). For a marriage to be legal, there are certain words and phrases that need to be said, so by booking a celebrant, you are getting a much more personal experience. But, because of this, you would still need to have your marriage legally officiated. There are many ways to go about planning your wedding and it is completely up to you what you think suits you best as a couple. We hope this has been a useful guide for you to navigate your way through the legalities of your wedding day, and let us know in the comments if there’s anything you think we’ve missed. Written by Siobhan Tinnion Events and Marketing Manager
0 Comments
We’ve all seen various differences in wedding traditions around the world; from American bachelor/bachelorette parties, to Celtic hand binding and ring blessing… But what about some of the traditions that we know less about? In today’s blog post, we’re exploring 9 wedding traditions from around the world and why they are significant within their respective cultures.   Bridal Crowns The Norwegians promote brides wearing ‘brudekrone’, or a ‘bridal crown’ to deflect evil spirits. These delicate (and absolutely stunning) silver and gold crowns are thought to deter evil spirits and protect the couple from harm. Flower Crowns Similarly, in Sweden, brides wear a beautiful flower crown instead of a veil. Typically including a sprig of myrtle, the crown is a symbol of love that has been adopted by many across the world as a fashion statement in rustic weddings. Mehndi Ceremonies The vibrant traditions of India are celebrated with the Mehndi ceremony. Intricate henna designs are applied to the bride’s hands and feet, symbolising beauty, joy and the enduring love shared between the couple.  Log Cutting In Germany, newlyweds take part in Baumstamm Sägen, where they work together to saw through a log. Done in front of their guests with a chainsaw, the act symbolises overcoming obstacles in the couple’s marriage and working together through tough times. Spitting on the Bride The Kenyan tradition has the father of the bride spitting on her dress, top of her head and chest for good luck. This is seen as a sign of respect for the Maasai people and helps promote good faith in the marriage. Stealing Shoes Before pheras, a group of Indian wedding rituals, it is customary for the groom to take off his shoes. Joota Chupa is a game between the bride’s female relatives, where they attempt to trick him, loot his shoes and hide them, with the objective of achieving monetary gain in return for the shoes. Demonstrating the lifetime of fun and laughter that these families are to endure, the Joota Chupai is a moment of fun in a Hindu ceremony for partakers and spectators to enjoy alike.  Feet Beating Whilst this sounds like something to avoid, the South Korean wedding tradition is actually a playful ritual to be enjoyed by many. The groom is subject to having his shoes and socks removed, his ankles bound together and the soles of his feet beaten with a selection of materials: from a stick, to a fish. Meanwhile, the groom is asked riddles and trivia questions by his family and friends, testing his character and strength. Woman in Black Whilst this may seem a sinister tradition, it’s not quite referencing the horror movie character. A Spanish bride is to wear a black lace gown and veil as a symbol of her devotion to her husband. Putting ‘till death do us part’ into the visuals... Exchanging of Yaqona A Fijian wedding traditionally features a Bilo Ceremony, where the couple exchange a polished and decorated coconut shell (a Bilo) filled with Yaqona (a traditional Fijian drink, often consumed on special occasions). This act symbolises the commitment, support and unity the couple have for one another and the readiness to care for one another for the rest of their lives. We love learning about and experiencing different wedding traditions over here at Melt, so feel free to comment below any that you have experienced or implemented in yours or your client's wedding day. Written by Siobhan Tinnion Events and Marketing Manager Whether you're a bride, groom or wedding guest, we have written a few tips for all attendees to make the day the best it can be. Tips for Couples 1. Practice your poses and kisses for photographs This is such an important thing to do in the lead up to your wedding. Discover the poses you like and perfect them so that you’re comfortable in front of the camera. Tip: Don’t forget to ask your officiant to step to the side for your first kiss and stop halfway down the aisle to kiss for the photographer! 2. Stick together! Everyone that has come to your wedding has come to see you two as a couple. You want to make sure you’re experiencing your day together and living the best moments as a newly-wed couple. We’ve written a whole blog post on this for all the nearly-weds here LINK. 3. Don’t forget to consider the guest experience when you’re busy At a time when you’re not physically present, like when you’re having your couple photos post-ceremony, you need to consider what your guests are going to do. Will they be stood having canapes and cocktails or might you consider printing a personalised crossword for them to fill out in your absence? Alternatively you could plot items around for a scavenger hunt or leave a quiz out for them to be scored on later?  Tips for Grooms 1. Have a settler Have you got that person ready to calm you down when you’re all in your feels before the ceremony? Whether you need a walk, a pint or a run, who is the person who is going to come and do this with you and ensure you’re getting the calmness you need. 2. You may want an easily accessible handkerchief Whether it be on you or one of your groomsmen, you might want to keep this close by - especially if you think you won’t need it. 3. Don’t feel obligated to drink excessively This isn’t a night out with your mates. This is a celebration of you two as a couple (Although, if shots is something you do together, then I back this wholeheartedly!). But just because your mates are buying all the jagerbombs, doesn’t mean you have to drink them. In the longrun, you and your partner will cherish the evening more if you make the most of it together. Tips for Brides 1. You may want to avoid shoes with excessive embellishments Depending on the fabric of your dress, embellishments on your shoes may get caught when you walk… Especially if you’re going the classic ‘kick walk’ for photos. It will frustrate you on your wedding day if you have to keep pulling your dress from your shoes (and probably your new husband and bridesmaids you’re complaining to them as well). 2. Sit your bridesmaids opposite you at the ceremony I don’t know about you, but I want to see my girls crying at how stunning I look; I want to see my best friend gleam with pride as she sees me marry the man of my dreams; and I want to see my parents’ faces as I take this step with my partner in crime. 3. Pause during your entrance These people are (hopefully) your nearest and dearest. Take a moment to see all the faces that have taken the time to show up for you and your husband-to-be and soak in the immense amount of love.  Tips for Guests
1. Adhere to the dresscode It’s there for a reason. That’s all. 2. Respect the bride and groom’s space Wedding days are really busy and overwhelming for the newly-weds. Yes, you’ve been invited - which hopefully means you’re one of their favourite people - but this doesn’t mean you have to smother them. Just because they’re not conversing with other guests, doesn’t mean you have to dive straight in. Make sure you give them time to breathe, eat and enjoy their day. If they're having a moment, let them have a moment. 3. PAR-TI-CI-PATE If the couple have organised something for the day, get involved! Whether it be as simple as a confetti toss, a bit of fun like singing waiters or a little healthy competition in a game of rounders, make sure you engage in the day as a whole. Someone has spent a lot of time planning this… Let go and enjoy it. Written by Siobhan Tinnion Events and Marketing Manager At Melt Weddings, we offer a range of services to meet each couples’ needs... From complete Wedding Planning, to individual elements (like supplying a Bar service or sourcing a venue), and, of course, On-The-Day Coordination. Recently, I had the honour of coordinating a wedding for a lovely couple who had meticulously organised every aspect of their day. In today’s blog post, I’m going to take you through the journey of working alongside A&J, from our initial meeting to the unforgettable wedding day itself.  Credit: Zara Davis Photography (https://www.zaradavisphotography.com/) Meeting The Visionaries From the moment I met A&J, I knew they were dedicated to crafting a wedding that truly reflected their personalities and love for their guests. When I first heard the mention of alpacas, I knew I was going to enjoy working with this couple - and whilst I was right, I was so unprepared for how much I would enjoy it. The Bride herself is an Event Planner with her local council, so I was confident the planning, paperwork and attention to detail would be second-to-none… They truly poured their hearts into every detail. My role was simply providing support and expertise on the day, ensuring that all their hard work was executed to perfection. Our On-The-Day Coordination Package includes a pre-production meeting, so that I can get to know the couple, understand their plans so far, see if there is any support they need pre-production, and find out what it is they expect of me on the day.  Credit: Zara Davis Photography (https://www.zaradavisphotography.com/) It became clear to me in our initial meeting that A&J had everything under control. In fact, they were selling themselves short… Whilst I like to give encouragement and reassure the couple that they have everything under control, I was quietly confident that this was an understatement. Bridging The Gap Taking on the role of Wedding Coordinator for them, my focus shifted from planning, to ensuring seamless execution; serving as a trusted partner and orchestrating perfection. Now, I will never say a job was ‘easy’, because each job has its challenges (this one included), but the expert planning of the bride and groom beforehand made this job so enjoyable to be a part of. From the impeccable running order I was provided, to the emphasis on guest experience, the thought that had gone into every aspect of the day was sensational. On the day, I was joined by the venue’s day manager, who was keen to get involved where she could. We both worked hard to ensure everything ran like clockwork, and made sure to have a laugh together too. We managed vendors, made decor adjustments when required, oversaw the timeline and addressed last-minute issues to guarantee a flawless celebration.  Credit: Zara Davis Photography (https://www.zaradavisphotography.com/) Although A&J had meticulously planned their wedding, my role was pivotal in orchestrating the transitions between various aspects. From greeting guests, alpacas (Simply Alpacas), buses and suppliers (Zara Davis Photography and Johnstone Films), to coordinating the set-up of 3 separate musical entertainers (The Falkners, Bridge Strings and Nia Evans Harpist), an artist (Ben Hughes Art) and a balloon house (It’s Your Parties), the day had so many moving parts that needed to be kept under a watchful eye. Because of this, A&J were able to savour every moment without worrying about the logistics of their day. Overcoming Challenges I’d like to think that no-one could tell anything was wrong at any point in the day. At the end of the day, it’s important to keep your cool and keep smiling - part of the job is hiding what you don’t want people to see, like falling flower arrangements, technological difficulties or a lack of signal interfering with supplier contact when they’re lost or running late.  Credit: Zara Davis Photography (https://www.zaradavisphotography.com/) A Perfect Pairing The wedding was a truly stunning day and I wish A&J could hear every person’s (supplier and guest) response to the work they had put in. There were gasps, tears and exclamations like no other… It was breathtaking. From the handcrafted decor items to the personalised wedding favours, A&J thought about every details. It felt truly authentic to them, creating a heartwarming experience for all. What made it truly special for me was the attention to the guest’s experiences. A&J had provided each guest with a book on their place setting, scheduled endless entertainment, supplied buses to get everyone to the venue from their home town (which was about an hour away) and indulged in family-style eating. It was an inclusive day for everyone to enjoy.  Credit: Zara Davis Photography (https://www.zaradavisphotography.com/) I will never forget seeing the inner-child release from the older guests when they entered the bubble house. Red in the face and in fits of laughter, it was such a special touch. One guest lay on the floor of the inflatable for what felt like a lifetime, watching the balloons fly around above her as if she was stargazing.
And it was a blessing for me that it was a Coeliac-friendly wedding! Everything was gluten-free which took a weight off my shoulders, as I didn't have to worry about eating the wrong thing or cross contamination. I could just get on with my job. The catering team (Nyama Catering) were so caring and never let me go without, and the wedding cake (Project Cakery) was absolutely divine! It’s safe to say that I ate well that day. As a Wedding Planner, being a part of A&J’s day was an immense privilege. The experience highlighted the power of collaboration and the beauty of melding their detailed planning with my dedication to executing their vision. The wedding was uniquely theirs and I feel blessed to have been a small part of it. From all the team at Melt Weddings, we wish A&J a very happy marriage. Written by Siobhan Tinnion Events & Marketing Manager Any Wedding Coordinator knows the importance of their Emergency Kit. Unexpected challenges arise and our job is to fight fires in the background, ensuring guests and, most importantly, the nearly-weds do not read any sense of panic from us. Enter: A Wedding Coordinator’s Emergency Kit. Think Mary Poppins and Hermoine’s Undetectable Extension Charm all rolled into one. Every Wedding Coordinator will have their own list of holy grail items - which have likely proven life-saving time and time again… This post unveils some of the must-have items we carry to make our job that little bit easier…  Before we can get into the items you need in your emergency kit, it is crucial to highlight the importance of the vessel in which you choose to carry these items Consider where this bag will be going - up stairs, in fields, down country paths - and buy accordingly. It might be wise to buy something with wheels for ease of transport, and lots of pockets for easy access and organisation. Alternatively, you could get a collapsable hand truck - which is great if you think you’ll need to be moving lots of bits about, as you can’t always rely on the other vendors to have one (or lend it out!). Don’t be afraid to spend some money on it - it will probably be to your benefit after all. Now you’ve sorted your large bag (which will hold most of your emergency kit and will stay stowed away for the majority of the day), you need to consider what you’ll use to carry the necessities around with you. We’d recommend a cross-body or bum bag - both can be discreet and keep your hands free from clutter. All that’s left to do is fill them…
The most popular items are easily spray deodorant and oil blotting sheets - these are must haves! You’ll also want to carry a hairbrush, comb hair spray, hair bands and bobby pins (in different colours); tissues, mints, and floss; eyelash glue and tweezers; lip salve (tube not tub!); tampons and sanitary pads; suncream and aloe gel; nail files, clear nail varnish (can help prevent chips from worsening or tights from laddering) and nail varnish remover; body tape (you won’t believe how useful this is), cotton buds, hand sanitiser and baby wipes.  2. First Aid Kit We always hope that we won’t need to delve into our First Aid Kit, but, more often than not, someone needs something… The most popular items in the First Aid Kit are definitely blister plasters. You’ll also want painkillers (I stock a mixture of Anadin, Ibuprofen, Kwells and Pepto-Bismol); hayfever/allergy relief tablets; 4Head stick; insect repellant and bite cream; and a standard First Aid Kit including: plasters (hypoallergenic), antiseptic wipes, eyewash, instant ice packs, heat retaining foil blanket, gloves, first aid tweezers, first aid scissors, micropourous tape and burn gel sachets. 3. Repairs Kit Whether it’s a broken heel, a drop of prosecco or a stretched strap - your repairs kit needs to be able to handle all circumstances. Our most popular item is absolutely the sewing kit - proving time and time again why we have it in our Emergency Kit. From minor repairs to outfit malfunctions, we ALWAYS reach for this. You’ll also need an assortment of safety pins and pearl pins; fabric scissors; Tide stain pens and chalk pens; a mini tool kit (including pliers, screwdrivers etc.), utility knife and super glue; twine, cable ties and fishing wire; an assortment of batteries; glass cleaner wipes; and an assortment of black duct tape, gaffer tape, scotch tape and double-sided tape (you never know which you’ll need for a quick decor fix).  4. ‘Just In Case’ Kit Your ‘Just In Case Kit’ will be home to things that you’ll reach for less-frequently, as it’s going to include things that other vendors tend to have provided or are on hand, but it would be catastrophic if no one had one… Top prize here goes to the bottle opener. Imagine you’ve ordered 40 bottles of corked wine and there’s no corkscrew… Here you are to save the day (again!). You’ll also need water and snack bars (whilst you should be able to obtain food and water on the day, you need these things on hand if you don’t have a lot of time); ivory and blue ribbons (in case the bride needs a quick bouquet fix or has forgotten her something blue); white/black cards and white/black pens (for last minute messages or seating adjustments). 5. Miscellaneous Items The miscellaneous items are pretty crucial and come out fairly regularly. You’ll want to make sure you split these between your large and small bags according to how frequently you’ll use them (i.e. lighters definitely need to go in your small bag). Of the miscellaneous items, the lighters (make sure they’re mini tube lighters to [1] fit in your small bag and [2] reduce the chance of burning your fingers), cross-body phone strap and (fully-charged) portable charger (and 2 cables) prove so useful time and time again. You’ll also want to find space for a portable wireless speaker (the bride may have forgotten to bring one for when her and her bridesmaids are getting ready) and an extension chord (to ensure there’s room for everyone to charge their phones, curl their hair, and boil the kettle); a lint roller; bin bags; a torch; at least one clear or white umbrella; a handheld steamer; spare shoes (for you and the some white flip-flops for the bride); your trusty clipboard; and some spare black socks for the groom/groomsmen. Your Emergency Kit will probably need to be tailored as per the wedding’s location, climate and theming, but the basis of it will remain the same.
As a Wedding Coordinator, you need to be able to adapt and handle unforeseen circumstances - and this is all down to the preparation. You’ll have done everything you can before the day… now it’s down to the communication and problem-solving skills of you and your team. A well-equipped Emergency Kit can make all the difference in producing a seamless and memorable day. Be sure to share your Emergency Kit Essentials with us in the comments below. NB: Make sure you are regularly checking the expiry dates on products like hygiene items, medications and food. It’s no good having something with you if you can’t use it. Written by Siobhan Tinnion Events & Marketing Manager Whilst planning your wedding, the process of selecting your wedding dress can be long, arduous and time consuming… But there is nothing like the moment when you find the right one. Your wedding dress will be a perfect expression of you: it will showcase your personality, as well as (hopefully) complimenting the theming of your day flawlessly. Different dress styles evoke different emotions and set different moods - from romance to confidence and playfulness to elegance… Your wedding dress is more than an item of clothing… Brides-to-be often try on multiple dresses before choosing ‘The One’, as it should truly reflect who they are at their core and speak to them. It is important to be open-minded in your wedding dress search, as some dresses will suit your body shapes and others will not - this is not a reflection of you and not a negative. It is important to try on different dress styles and shapes and see which makes you feel most beautiful.  1. A-Line A-line dresses hold a fitted bodice with a relaxed flare from the waist down. An effortless style that fits a variety of tastes, ranging from classic chic to modern and romantic, a-line dresses may appeal to the bride looking to blend classic and modern elements. You have an appreciation for simplicity and sophistication, whilst wanting the detailed delicacy that can come from the embellishments on your dress. 2. Ball Gown The Ball Gown is infamously characterised by its fitted bodice and volumous skirt. Think classic, elegance, romance… Personally, I think of tulle - lots and lots of tulle (although this isn’t necessarily the case). The Ball Gown bride is the Disney princess bride… you’ve kissed a few frogs and love a fairytale ending. You exude timeless elegance and and embrace a romantic and traditional aesthetic. You might even have horse and carriages to whisk you away at the end of the night… 3. Mermaid The figure-hugging Mermaid dress emphasises a fitted bodice and flares dramatically at the knee. Screaming confidence, elegance and attention, Mermaid dresses are not for the introverted bride. If you’re looking to make an entrance (if being the bride isn’t quite enough), and demonstrate your bold charisma and unapologetic glamour, the drama and extravagance of a mermaid dress may be for you.  4. Sheath / Slip Defining the sheath dress is its streamlined silhouette that falls straight from the neckline to the hem, gently grazing any curves but, generally, falling sleek. For the bride that desires modern minimalism and refined elegance, a simple statement like a sheath dress may be the choice. You’re confident and appreciate the understated sophistication of the style. Why not pair it with a statement pair of heels to add a focal point? 5. Bohemian The Bohemian gown is characterised by its flowing fabrics, delicate whimsical designs and boho-chic aesthetics. For the free-spirited and laid-back bride, this style screams artistic and at one with nature. You often experience wanderlust and need to feel connected to the world around you. 6. Suit / Two-Piece Suits/Two-pieces provide a modern and stylish alternative to the traditional wedding dress. This bride embraces their individual style with confidence and independence and don’t desire to conform to traditional norms; but exude effortless power and sleek elegance.  7. Strapless The strapless dress is for the confident and daring bride. You are bold and fearless, making statements and drawing attention to yourself; adventurous; and flirty, embracing your lively personality, enjoying the freedom of movement and showing off your shoulders. 8. Long-Sleeved Long-sleeved dresses can fit in many of the categories mentioned throughout this post, but they are known for their sleeves that extend beyond the shoulders. They’re perfect for the modest, classic bride who loves timeless beauty. Whether it be puffed tulle or delicate lace, sleeves add sophistication to any dress. 9. V-Neck / Plunge V-neck/Plunge dresses can vary massively in their style, ranging from a shallow to a deep V. The deep V creates a striking and sensual look. For the bride that screams confidence, femininity and desires to make a statement. You love glamorous and sultry aesthetics, and love to stun the room with your alluring sophistication. 10. Halterneck The halterneck dress provides a flattering neckline that wraps around, creating an elegant and chic look. For the graceful and elegant bride, with a refined taste in fashion and appreciation for the intricacies of design. You are confident, independent and embrace modern style through a contemporary silhouette. 11. Tea-Length Tea-length dresses fall into the ‘midi’ range - where they sit between the knee and ankle. This style is for the vintage brides, who want to add a touch of whimsy and playful charm to their day. You have a love of retro fashion, are playful and thrive on the nostalgia of vintage styles. 12. Short Short wedding dresses are for the casual and non-traditional bride, and can be perfect for an outdoor or destination wedding. This bride is practical and active, favouring comfortability and movement; youthful and vibrant; and relaxed, opting for a less formal style to break away from convention. You might place great focus on another aspect of your wedding attire, like your shoes, as they will be on show in a way they may not have been with a longer dress.  The wedding dress search can be very stressful, especially with a herd of people around you giving their opinions - solicited or not. It is so important to remember that you are the person wearing the dress; you will be the person in the photos; this is your day. It is so important to choose a wedding dress that aligns with your personality - as this will create an authentic and unforgettable look that will be true to you. Prioritise how you feel about each dress, what resonates with you and which makes you feel the most comfortable, beautiful, confident and unapologetically true to you. *NB: The suggested personality traits are generalisations and can vary from person to person. It is important for each bride to choose a dress that resonates with her own unique personality, style and preferences. Written by Siobhan Tinnion Events & Marketing Manager Sustainability is not a trend, but nearly-weds are increasingly placing a level of importance on the eco-consciousness of their wedding. The events industry is never going to be 100% sustainable - it is not possible - and this is an important factor to remember… This makes it all the more crucial that we work to make each and every event as sustainable as possible. There are always little steps to be taken toward making your wedding more eco-conscious, and some are even budget-friendly! Below, we have listed 5 tips for making your wedding more eco-conscious.  1. Venue and Catering Your choice of venue can have a massive impact on the footprint of your wedding. Is it local to you/your guests to reduce the overall distance people have to travel? Do they have policies to ensure they are doing their bit for the environment? When considering potential caterers, are you thinking about whether or not they are using local and sustainable ingredients? Do they cook seasonal dishes, or a selection of vegetarian and vegan? Do they take responsibility in reducing food wastage? Do they avoid using single-use plastics, or do they substitute in biodegradable/compostable products? Are you hiring tableware, rather than using single-use items? Don't be afraid to question the venue and caterers on their commitment to sustainability before you book them. Let them know that this is something of importance to you as a couple - and any good supplier will work with your requests. 2. Decorations and Favours When looking for decorations, try to hire as much as possible. This will reduce the amount of waste post-event. Alternatively, there are Facebook groups for second-hand items which (largely) will have just been used once or twice and can be purchased for a fraction of the price! This is not only great for the environment, but also the wallet. You can also look to be using decorative items that are made from natural or recycled materials, like florals, and favours that are sustainable and not ‘throw-away’. A great idea for favours could be something to eat (meaning there’s no waste) or something for the environment, like flower bombs or bee survival kits.  3. Flowers and Confetti When picking your florals, you want to try and opt for arrangements made with local and seasonal flowers. As previously mentioned, using a local and small business is going to be beneficial when reducing trying to minimise mileage. One thing I hate to see at weddings is unnatural confetti. Paper, card, plastic are all wasteful and harmful materials to be throwing into the environment - and they, often, look cheap. I find it hard to believe that people would rather those options than dried flower petals, or something of the sort. Whether you buy individual packages for each guest, or buy a large bag from which guests are invited to grab a handful, the effect is amazing. Adding beautiful colours to your pictures (of course, tailorable to your colour scheme) and leaving no negative trace on the environment, dried petals really are a small yet significant difference you can make. 4. Invitations and RSVPs To be brutally honest, most of your guests are not going to cherish your wedding stationary in the way that you will. Once you have come to accept this, the ‘unglamarous’ e-vite becomes more appealing (not to mention the price difference). This isn’t to say you shouldn’t print any invitations at all. It’s great to have one for you as a couple for a keep-sake, some for photographs on the day and some for your close friends and family. If you opt for this, look into using recycled paper and a conscious printer. If you have your heart set on physical invitations (there's no shame in this at all!), printing on seed paper has become increasingly popular and is widely accessible. Not only does it add some interest to the texture of your invitation, but it involves the guests from the word go. Whether you opt for an e-vite or physical invitations, utilising electronic RSVPs can make your wedmin that little bit easier: One simple online form can collect all the data you need (name, attending/not, food options, allergens etc.).  5. Wedding Attire When searching for your wedding dress and/or suits, consider buying a pre-owned wedding dress. As people often only wear these outfits once, it may just be that you need to take it to a tailor to get the perfect fit from it. Or, if you don’t want your wedding outfit to be taking up storage space, collecting dust for years to come, you could consider renting it. There are amazing bridal rental services out there, allowing you to be more conscious in your choices (and possibly even giving yourself the opportunity to explore multiple wedding outfits). If you do opt to buy your wedding outfit new, but don’t want it to sit in storage for years, why not consider selling, donating or recycling it. There are some super talented tailors around that could repurpose your outfit and turn it into something that has more wearability. For the wedding guests out there, we absolutely recommend hiring your wedding outfit… especially if you’re guilty of wearing something for one occasion and then letting it sit in the wardrobe until it doesn’t fit you anymore (it’s me, I’m sorry). There are amazing shops and apps that let you hire outfits for a period of time, saving you so much hassle and guilt. 6. Transportation Whether you’re hosting a wedding close to home or not, there are things you can do to limit the number of cars travelling on the day. Whilst some couples are happy to book group transportation from their home area to the venue (e.g. a coach), others may want to encourage guests to carpool or take public transport. It’s not uncommon, however, for venues to be off the beaten path and, as a result, not easily accessible by public transport. This may be something you want to keep in mind when choosing your venue, or considering guest logistics. Group coaches are a great idea if the majority of the guests are travelling from one area. Not only is it a simple way to reduce vehicle emissions, but it gives the guests a chance to meet, mingle and get to know each other from the get-go. It also shows them that you have thought about them whilst planning your wedding, increasing the feeling of inclusion in your big day.  It is important to remember that no wedding is going to be 100% sustainable, but being conscious, taking steps and making small changes can go a long way in changing the way our industry works. Doing your best to make your wedding sustainable can be so rewarding and lets others know that the changes don’t have to be huge and life-altering, but consistent and conscious. It's important to remember that your wedding can still look how you've always imagined; it's just about being conscious of the footprint you leave behind. I encourage you all to implement these changes in your own weddings, or the weddings of which you are a part and feel free to share some more ideas of ways to make your wedding more sustainable in the comments below. Written by Siobhan Tinnion Events & Marketing Manager Your wedding day is a momentous occasion - a celebration of the union of two souls embarking on a lifelong journey together. You have your whole life ahead of you to make memories together… and that starts today. It is a day filled with love, joy, and cherished memories. Amidst the flurry of excitement and the whirlwind of emotions, there is one piece of advice that often gets overlooked but holds immense significance: Do not leave your partner’s side. It may seem like an obvious rule, but in the midst of chaotic schedules, last-minute errands, and diverse responsibilities, it’s crucial to pause and reflect on the reasons why you should remain by your partner’s side on this occasion. We’ve highlighted the impact that staying together on your wedding day can have. From emotional support to the symbolism of unity, there are compelling reasons to resist the temptation to wander off, get caught up in tasks, or get dragged away (yes, we’re giving you the perfect excuse to avoid that smelly Aunt).  Emotional Support Reason number one is that your wedding day is going to be emotionally draining. It’s a gathering of all the people that mean most to you as a couple, a promise to devote your life to one other, and the beginning of a new chapter. And if, God forbid, anything does go wrong, they will be at your right hand to support you as you deal with it together. There will be so many emotions you encounter on the day of your wedding and going through that alone would be quite difficult (not to mention mildly odd). This person you are promising to share your life with should now be familiar with how to acknowledge your feelings, calm any anxieties and share your joys - all things you will appreciate on this day and for many to come. To Look After Each Other Following from the emotional support, there may also be a requirement for physical support. Now, I hope there will be no illness on your wedding day but trust me when I say: As a bride/groom, it is very easy to lose track of time, get distracted, and get pulled in a million different directions all at once. This can mean that you don’t get a chance to eat, drink, wee, breathe, etc. etc. By staying together, you increase your accountability for one another and ensure you are getting to experience all the lovely things you’ve spent so long choosing and have paid a lot of money and attention to, like canapés and wines, as well as the people.  Symbolism of Unity A wedding literally symbolises the unity of two people… The melding of two lives… When two became one… This one seems relatively self-explanatory, but being physically present and united reinforces the idea of unity and shows you two off. Remember, these people came to see you, to celebrate you AS A COUPLE - so give the people what they want. Share a Mutual Experience This day has likely been coming for a while and you’ve imagined it a million times over. You’ve worked so hard to pull it all together and now is your chance to enjoy it. These moments cannot be relived. Go on, read that again. When reflecting on your day, you don’t want to have lots of stories your partner can’t relate to. Instead, you want to both laugh and share moments that were experienced together. Obviously, there will be a few moments or stories to share (maybe they missed Uncle Dave busting out the worm), but as a celebration of the two of you, you don't want to have to fill your partner in on your experience of the day and hear they had a completely different experience. This mutual experience is one you will be reflecting upon for years to come. Having separate experiences or missing out on key moments can make it challenging to fully share in the memories of the day, so being together can create a stronger connection and shared history.  Deal with Unexpected Challenges Together Going back to the idea of being each other’s emotional support, as I mentioned, being together on your wedding day means that there are two of you to tackle any delays, mishaps, and challenges. The wedding planning process is stressful and it all culminates in this one day - being together to deal with any stresses and overcome challenges as a team will make your wedding day much more enjoyable for you both. Increased Photo Opportunities Another painfully obvious reason, I know, but by sticking together, your photographer is able to get more photos of the two of you. This can be great for the particularly picky subject, but it also allows for more candids, family shots, and small moments you might not realise the significance of at the time. Having these moments to flick back through can be such a special surprise when you receive your wedding photos. The importance of being physically together with your partner on your wedding day cannot be overstated. There are countless reasons to resist the urge to separate. By remaining by each other’s side, you create a bond that strengthens your connection and forms the foundation of shared memories. You’ll laugh, cry, and celebrate together, knowing that every moment was shared. Written by Siobhan Tinnion Events & Marketing Manager The phrase ‘something blue’ comes from the old good luck rhyme for brides: ‘Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue’. If a bride is to have all 4 of these accounted for on her wedding day, it will bring her good luck and blessings in different areas of her marriage. ‘Something blue’ is thought to promote purity, fidelity and deters the evil eye. Traditionally, the bride would wear a blue garter, but if you’ve read our blog post ‘10 Ways to Modernise the Traditional Wedding’, you know we aren’t always ones to go along with tradition. We have collated a selection of creative ways to incorporate something blue into your wedding day, for both the brides and grooms - because we all need some good luck.  Wedding Dress Some brides who are not keen to follow tradition to the letter may opt for a non-white dress. Whilst daring colours like black are becoming more popular, there is nothing to say the something blue can’t be a wedding dress. Groom(s) Similarly, the groom(s) could be the something blue. The Wedding Party: Bridesmaids/mates and Groomsmen/mates You’ve selected these friends and family members to support you on one of the biggest days of your life - I’m sure they would love to be the ones to bless your marriage and bring the good things that come from being your something blue. This option may be limited should the colour not match the decor and theming of your wedding, as the outfits of the bridesmates and groomsmates tend to match the overall look of your day. If there’s no blue already incorporated in your stationery, flowers, or table settings, then having a blue wedding party may look out of place - although this is completely to your taste. If you are keen to have a person as your something blue, the other options could include your flower girls, your parents, or any children involved in the ceremony. The effect of this can be something of importance to the person chosen - as they may not be already involved in the ceremony in a large way (i.e. the immediate wedding party), and so can make them feel more involved.
Details For those that would like to stay more in-line with tradition and keep the wedding dress white, you could always get it personalised in some way - like you might your veil (mentioned below). This little detail would make your dress infinitely unique and would be a great little touch for the photos. Similarly, grooms could get their cuffs, collars, jackets or even socks personalised with initials, dates, or little symbols like love hearts or smileys. Caitlin Tinnion Bespoke is an independent Savile Row trained tailor, providing completely bespoke services for you to get exactly the look you want for your wedding attire. She is a great option for brides and grooms in the South West looking for a way to make their wedding attire that little bit more unique. We asked Caitlin what her favourite ‘something blue’ personalisation was: ‘If you’re going for subtle, I would say buttonholes or a little personal embroidery. It’s a hint of something that only a few people know is there, so feels super special. But if you want to make a statement, I love putting in personalised lining for people. It really gives that sense of individuality for the garment and is something people always love to show off.’ Caitlin offers complete tailoring services, alterations and details, and is open to personal requests, so get in touch with her directly to brainstorm your ‘something blue’. Shoes A bride’s wedding shoes aren’t necessarily seen for a lot of the day, which can be a shame when they are often expensive and time goes into choosing them (and they probably love them an awful lot too). They can also be the first thing to get ruined when venturing out for your wedding photos post-ceremony - especially for the outdoor wedding/unpredictable English weather combination we often seen here in the UK. I’ve not seen a lot of grooms opt for blue shoes, but if it didn’t clash with their suit, then I don’t see why they couldn’t - again, it’s personal preference at the end of the day. Wearing blue shoes can not only reduce the visible damage that is endured throughout the day, but can also add a fun pop of colour when they peep out the bottom of your dress as you walk. Garter As much as we want to give alternatives to tradition, there is always the option to keep it simple and follow suit in what has been done for years. Although not every bride opts for a garter anymore, there are some stunning ones on the market - and some blue ones at that. We would recommend checking out Etsy shops and getting something handmade or personalised, to make it all the more special if you do want to go down the traditional route. Jewellery Whether it be a necklace, bracelet or earrings, your something blue could be worn in the form of jewellery - from something small and delicate to something bold and out there; whatever matches your taste.
Headwear Some brides wear veils, some wear tiaras, some wear decorative pins. Whatever the choice of headwear, why not consider a blue tone? It is becoming increasingly popular to personalise a veil (please tell me you’ve seen Kourt’s custom Dolce & Gabanna veil?!) with something small like stitching of yours and your partners initials and/or your wedding date, or something more extravagant, like a depiction of the Virgin Mary - which could, of course, be blue. Cuff Links There are so many different styles of cuff links available and personalised ones make a great gift for yourself or your groom for the morning of the wedding (and, of course, could be your something blue). Ring Boxes A very simple and small detail to your day: The ring boxes. They will be photographed numerous times and will hold one of the most important aspects of your wedding. Nail Art Yes, yes, I know the modern bride has her heart on Hailey Bieber nails, but hear me out… You could go for a French tip, subtle pastel detailing, or bold and bright accents. What’s fun is that it can be completely tailored to each person’s taste and how much blue you want to bring into your day. Nail art is not just for the brides around either, so why not consider a matching design or something that compliments your partner’s look? Something Old, New, or Borrowed For many of these options, there are numerous ways you can double up on the criteria it fills. Whether it be something bought brand new, passed down through generations or borrowed from someone close to you in the wedding party, you kill two birds with one stone. Whilst we love the idea of bringing ‘something blue’ into your wedding, we know that it isn’t something everyone desires. The rhyme is an old-time tradition and the modern couple may want to stray away from such. If this is you, why not read our blog post with ‘10 Ways To Modernise The Traditional Wedding’? Written by Siobhan Tinnion Event & Marketing Manager What an amazing weekend we had celebrating the wedding of K&L. With all three arms under the Melt Umbrella being utilised this weekend, we were able to show what we could do at our best. Melt Productions sorted the audio-visuals, Melt Bars quenched everyone’s thirsts, and Melt Weddings managed the day and transformed the ceremony tent post-ceremony into a chill-out zone for guests to shelter from the ever-changing weather. A chill-out zone can be such a thoughtful addition to the guest experience; providing somewhere to take 5 minutes and re-centre. Our goal was never to take away from the reception tent and the rest of the event, but to provide an area for guests to regroup and recharge in a cosy atmosphere away from the unpredictable weather. With a blank canvas, roughly drawn-out plans and a vision, we knew how we wanted the chill-out zone to look - but it was all going to come down to the feel. The weather in the UK has been super unpredictable as of late - switching from beautiful sunshine and a light breeze, to hammering rain and storm-like winds. We knew our little safe-haven had to feel warm and welcoming for the guests to enjoy it and make the trip from the other tent worth it. Starting with 36 strawbales from Countryside Events, a mixture of real plants and dried flowers, some Persian rugs, a boatload of candles and a sketch of what we wanted to create, we were determined to make the space feel snug and inviting. The styling was designed to match the wedding’s theme where boho meets the farm. Bringing in the Moroccan style added warming tones and a homely feel, allowing guests to find their calm. Get in touch today to explore more decor options we have available and how we can assist in bringing your vision to life. You can check out more of our content on our Instagram. Written by Siobhan Tinnion Event & Marketing Manager |
Our BlogThings we've created and things we love! Archives
November 2023
|
RSS Feed
From our couples
|
'Thank you so much for all of your hard work and support to ensure that our wedding day went so smoothly.
Hiring a coordinator was one of the best decisions we made for our wedding day and we most certainly couldn't have planned such a memorable day without you! A & J, August 2023
'The team were attentive, friendly and busy ensuring the event went smoothly with no hassle for me, and I could ask for nothing more. In my opinion, exceptionally good value for money... They certainly have my whole-hearted recommendation.' A & N, April 2023
'Your support and input from start to finish was truly invaluable and this was reflected in the end result. The entire event ran without a hitch and I cannot recommend your team highly enough...' D
|
'You were absolutely amazing. You guys did everything and it all just went so smoothly and I couldn't be happier.
We had the best day!' K & L, April 2023
'We couldn't recommend Melt enough. They did the set-up for the sound and lighting at our wedding and the end result couldn't have been more stunning. They were so easy to work with and couldn't have been more helpful and attentive during the lead up to the big day. Massive thumbs up from us.' C & D, March 2023
'Thank you for making our wedding party as special and spectacular as it was. We will be sure to recommend you and will of course be in touch for any future parties and events. THANK YOU!' C & L
|
Services |
Melt Weddings |
|
