Things to Consider When Planning a Beach Wedding

Having a beach wedding can be an amazing and romantic experience. The setting, the water, the spectacular photo opportunities, but planning a beach wedding also comes with unique challenges that require extra planning.

If you’re dreaming of saying “I do” with your toes in the sand, here are some key things to consider to ensure your beach wedding goes smoothly.

1. Choose the Right Beach

Not all beaches are wedding-friendly. Research locations near you that allow weddings and check for necessary permits. Some councils have certain rules around fees that are payable for example, if you are setting up chairs and interrupting the natural use of the beach etc.

Also consider factors like accessibility for your guests, your privacy, and any other local regulations before you make a final decision.

2. Check the Weather and Tides

The weather plays a major role in outdoor weddings, especially at the beach. Research the seasonal climate, avoid high wind or monsoon-like seasons, and plan around high tide to prevent unexpected water levels affecting your setup. I have definitely done a wedding where the tide came in and all the guests ended up standing in water!

3. Have a Backup Plan

Mother Nature can be very unpredictable, so always have a contingency/backup plan. A nearby indoor or tented venue will help ensure the wedding continues smoothly if the weather doesn’t cooperate.

4. Choose the Right clothing

Beach weddings call for light, breathable fabrics to keep you cool. Brides should consider flowy dresses without long trains that might drag in the sand, and grooms can opt for linen suits or casual beachwear. Encourage guests to wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing as well, especially if it's going to be hot.

5. Consider Footwear Options

High heels and sand don’t mix well! Sinking and getting stuck is a real possibility. Brides, grooms, and guests may prefer barefoot ceremonies, sandals, or flats, or of course, thongs! You could even think about providing a designated shoe station where guests can switch into more suitable footwear.

6. Think About Guest Comfort

It can get extremely hot and uncomfortable standing in full sun for long periods. Where possible, provide shaded areas, fans, and plenty of hydration options to keep guests comfortable. If the beach is remote, consider renting chairs and ensuring restrooms are available nearby.

7. Prepare Items for Wind and Sun

Beach conditions can be unpredictable and wind can be a major issue. Secure décor properly, use weighted tablecloths, and consider microphones for the officiant and vows since wind and waves can affect sound quality. Sunscreen and sunglasses can be thoughtful favors for guests as well!

8. Plan for Beach-Friendly Décor

Opt for decorations that complement the natural setting and won’t be easily blown away. Consider things like hessian mats, driftwood arches, seashell accents, and flowers that withstand heat and humidity.

9. Consider Timing

Sunset weddings are popular for beach ceremonies, providing beautiful lighting and cooler temperatures. Midday ceremonies can be too hot and bright, making late afternoon or early evening a better choice.

Final Thoughts: A beach wedding can be an unforgettable and magical experience with the right planning. 

Give guests plenty of notice that they’ll be attending a beach wedding. Provide details about the location, dress code, and any special considerations so they can come prepared. By considering logistics, guest comfort, and environmental impact, you can create a seamless and stunning wedding by the sea. With proper preparation, your beach wedding will be as beautiful and stress-free as you imagined!

The Wedding Gurus x

Wedding Planning - Handling things that go wrong on the day

 Your wedding day is one of the most important and memorable days of your life. You've probably spent months, maybe even years, planning every little detail to perfection. But as with any big event, things don’t always go exactly as planned.

The key to a stress-free and enjoyable wedding day is being prepared for the unexpected and knowing how to handle any hiccups that might come your way.

Check out our suggestion for tackling some common wedding day mishaps with grace and ease.

1. Weather Woes

Outdoor weddings are beautiful, but Mother Nature doesn’t always cooperate. If you’re planning an outdoor ceremony or reception, have a backup plan in place. Rent a portable tent or marquee, arrange for an indoor space you can move to if the weather is bad, or provide guests with umbrellas and blankets in case of rain or chilly weather. If it's hot, have large umbrellas on stands, fans, water stations, and shaded areas available.

2. Wardrobe Malfunctions

A torn hem, a broken zipper, or a missing button can cause last-minute panic. Pack an emergency kit with a sewing kit, safety pins, double-sided tape, and stain remover wipes. Designate a bridesmaid or groomsman, or even a trusted friend or family member as the go-to fixer for any fashion emergencies.

3. Late or Missing Vendors

If a vendor is running late or doesn’t show up, stay calm and where you can, delegate. Have a trusted friend or wedding planner handle the situation for you if that’s at all possible. Pre-confirming all vendors is wise in the weeks leading up to the big day, and have a list of backup vendors just in case.

4. Technical Difficulties

From a microphone not working to a DJ’s playlist disappearing, technology can fail at the worst moments. Do a sound check before the ceremony, have a backup speaker, and store important playlists on multiple devices. A good wedding coordinator or celebrant will be able to adapt and keep everything going no matter what! The main objective of the day is to be married to the one you love, so as long as that happens, it’s all good.

5. Family or Guest Drama

As many couples are aware, weddings bring together people who may not always get along. If tensions are high, consider assigning a trusted friend or relative to play peacemaker. Plan your seating arrangements carefully, and remind everyone that the day is about love and celebration, not old grudges.

6. Running Behind Schedule

Timelines are great, but delays happen. Make sure your schedule has a little extra time built in as a buffer for hair and makeup, travel, and photography. If things start to run late, prioritize the most important things and trust your wedding planner or coordinator (if you have one) to help keep things moving smoothly.

7. Food or Cake Mishaps

If your caterer is running late or a cake gets damaged, remain calm (or at least try to!) and be flexible. Most caterers have contingency plans, and your venue may have extra supplies. If your dream cake gets smudged, embrace the imperfection—it’s a great story for later!

8. Cold Feet or Emotional Overload

It’s completely normal for both brides and grooms to feel overwhelmed or nervous in the days before the wedding and especially on the day. Take a few deep breaths, step away for a quiet moment if needed, and remind yourself why you’re getting married. Surround yourself with positive, supportive people who will keep you calm and excited, and as the wedding is taking place and you are standing there, staring at the one you love, soak it in. Let that wave of love, excitement and joy for the future engulf you together.

9. Remember the Bigger Picture

At the end of the day, your wedding is about celebrating love and starting a new chapter.  As I said before, the goal of the day is to be married – and you will be!

Things may go wrong, but what matters most is that you and your partner are surrounded by love, joy, and the people who care about you. Embrace the unexpected, laugh at the little hiccups, and enjoy every moment – both good and not so good!

Final Thoughts No wedding is ever truly perfect, but that’s what makes it uniquely yours. The most important thing is to stay flexible, focus on the love you’re celebrating, and make wonderful memories—no matter what surprises come your way.

XX

Wedding Rituals and Traditions - The Dove Release

In this post we've chosen to bring you a look at the Dove Release which can be a beautiful and symbolic addition to any wedding ceremony.

White Doves have been used around the world for centuries to symbolise purity, peace, faith & love. Doves are considered a symbolic release at Weddings because they stay faithful to each other for life and form strong family bonds and share the care of their young. They're also beautiful and a dove release can create a fabulous and significant event to share with your guests.

Please note: It's important to ensure that you get your doves from a reputable and ethical dove handler who is experienced and careful with the birds. 

Celebrant:
"White doves mate for life and much like a married couple, sometimes the doves take flight and follow their own path for short periods of time, not tied to each other every moment of every passing day. But when the darkness sets in, whether their day’s journey has been together or apart, they both return to the safe place they know is home for the night, to each other.

The releasing of these white doves is a blessing to you both on this day. It is a reminder that while your lives, your paths and your other commitments may often lead you in opposite directions, you always have a place to come home to, to find each other and be one."

Release the doves
"As these doves fly they will carry for you and all of your loved ones here present, wishes for peace, love and hope for your future life together."

Wedding Photos - What Does Your Photographer Need to Know From You?

Planning a wedding is one of those experiences that will be forever remembered. You'll recall the moment you found the perfect dress, the day you and your significant other agreed on the venue, and the second you chose your wedding photographer for those picture perfect moments. The latter is one of the most important of these moments, because those pictures are going to be what really keeps your memory sharp.

 

Once you’ve chosen your wedding photographer they will usually ask to meet with you to run through some questions, and you may be wondering what it is they want to know. Here we take you through some of the bases they’ll cover, so you can be ready with the answers that best reflect what you want from your wedding photography.

The Family Dynamic

One of the first things that your wedding photographer will want to know from you is your family dynamic. This includes biological family and in-laws. The reason it is important to inform your photographer of your family dynamic is that most pictures taken will include family, and when there is a negative feeling between family members, the entire photograph can be ruined. So, to mitigate this issue, the photographer will be able to be more selective in who stands in a photo and who does not. Also, when mentioning family dynamic, explain which individuals you'd like in certain photos and any standard family photos that you'd like.

What is Your Style

One of the most important things a photographer will ask is what style of photography you have in mind for your wedding photos, and whether you think their portfolio is a good fit for you. You may have chosen the photographer on the basis of price or because they’re a friend or a friend, but it is important to them, and to you, that you actually take the time to look through their past work and make sure you’re happy with their style – because every photographers’ work will be different. Choose some of their photos that you really like the style of so they know along what lines you’re thinking, and if you come across a photo in a magazine, online or even an old family snap that you love, bring them along – the more reference you can provide the better.

Customary or Religious Considerations

The photographer will want to know about the ceremony side of your wedding and any customs or considerations they should be aware of. If they have experience in the type of ceremony you will be having, whether it’s Catholic, Hindu, Greek, Jewish etc., they may also be able to provide you with some insight into considerations that you may not have thought of. For example, many Catholic brides and grooms are not aware that some Catholic celebrants are not comfortable having a photographer circling the bride and groom or stepping onto the altar and causing distractions during the sacrament of marriage. Therefore they must first get permission from their celebrant before inviting a photographer into the ceremony. The more information you can give the photographer, the smoother your day will run – the last thing they want to do is step on any toes or make a faux-pas!

The Venue

In many cases, wedding photographers want to know what to expect when attending a venue. The venue is an extremely important element for photographers to take into consideration – it allows them to plan for lighting requirement as well as brainstorm some creative ideas based on surroundings.

Specifics of the Wedding Day

The photographer will understand the extent of careful planning going into your wedding day, and they’ll want to make sure they fit themselves in seamlessly with the itinerary you have in mind, rather than dictate it for you. To make things easier for the photographer and to allow him or her to do their job, one thing you should do is provide the itinerary and also let them know what specific moments you want to be photographed. This could include after the meal, during dancing, before the ceremony, during the ceremony, and so forth. Being clear about what you want is the best way to go about the process.

The Best Man or Bridesmaid

The next thing to cover is preparation for the photographs. While you can provide as much detail as possible about ‘who’s who’ in the family, the photographer won’t know you or your guests well enough to round up the right group or find Aunt Millie in the bathrooms. As well as this, during the course of taking the pictures someone might need something held, something moved, hair fixed or dress trains moved. While the photographer can direct, he or she cannot take charge of holding things while taking the photograph. So, one thing the photographer will want to know is if you have someone who can help you out during these instances – usually the best man or bridesmaid. It will make the photographer's job easier and it will create a more relaxed environment for better photographs.

About the Guest Blogger

Anna-Nicole Del Re is a professional photographer and the Marketing & Operations Manager at Viva Photography, a leading Wedding and Portrait photographer in Perth, Western Australia and Melbourne Victoria. Connect with Anna-Nicole on Google+

 

Wedding Favors - How to Choose

Some couples find choosing a wedding favor one of the most difficult tasks when planning their wedding. I'm going to share with you some tips in making this process easier... and maybe even a little enjoyable.

Note: all images from My Wedding Favors who have an amazing range of fabulous favors to choose from at www.myweddingfavors.com

Choose something practical. Can your guests use the item after the wedding or will it become another dust collector on their shelf?

Choose a favor that represents you as a couple. You may like to choose something that is personal to you as a couple. Perhaps you met at a coffee shop, a set of short black coffee glasses would be perfect... and tick the box of something practical also!

Everyone loves an edible favor. Your guests will love a tasty treat - and im not talking sugar coated almonds either.

Does the item fit your theme? If you are having a rootin-tootin cowboy theme? Then choose a wedding favor that represents this.

Budget ( I bet your sick of hearing that word!). Yes you must consider your budget when choosing a wedding favor. Try to choose something that can be used by the couple, that way you are not buying a per person male / female gift - instead you are buying something they can share.

I love the range of wedding favors from www.myweddingfavors.com - check them out for some inspiration!

The Wedding Gurus

xx

Wedding Rituals and Traditions - A Fishy Tradition for the Groom (Korea)

 A Fishy Korean Ritual/Tradition

If you're looking for something out of the ordinary, then this one is for you!

In this Korean tradition the poor groom is subjected to some pretty interesting antics. Usually done in the spirit of providing him with increased strength for the wedding night, this ritual begins after the main ceremony. 

The Groom’s ‘friends’ (using the term loosely right now) will tie his ankles together with rope then take off his socks in order to beat the soles of his feet with a fish – A Yellow Corvina.

Pic From: bluedragon.en.ec21.com

Odd? Yes a little, but it is all done in the spirit of good will and as a fun gesture of friendship, so who are we to judge?

We just love these strange and out there rituals/ideas, so if you know of any you would like us to use, please feel free to drop us a line in the comments section.

The Wedding Gurus
xxx

Wedding Planning - family arguments and disagreements

Over the last 20 years as a marriage and funeral celebrant, I have seen literally everything when it comes to weddings, planning stress and family difficulties.

I have worked with so many couples who were dealing with issues like:

• Family disputes

• Divorced and non-speaking parents

• Family issues related to dislike of the person you’re marrying

• Family or friends who are refusing to come because someone they don't like is invited

• Bridal party fights and issues

• Bridal party members who are making trouble or not showing up

• Issues around kids being invited

• and religious issues for the couple and their families

And that’s just the tip of the iceberg. There are so many more!

So, the point of this post is to consider some of the ways couples can reduce their stress around these issues so that they can have the day they want to have, not the day that has been changed and even at times ruined by others.

REMEMBER: No matter what happens, at the end of the day, the goal through all of this is to be married and you will be. You absolutely will be.

Preparing for potential issues:

It is rare for a couple to plan a wedding without encountering a single hiccup. It's important to remember, you are not alone if you're facing some stressful issues. However, you can set yourselves up for a smoother ride by panning ahead. 

First, from the moment you get engaged, understand that problems will come up and accept that. Things won't run perfectly so don't be alarmed when something does happen.

Second, don't overreact. In high stress situations it's easy to catastrophise, so when something does come up, take a minute, breathe and look at the big picture BEFORE reacting or saying anything you might regret. Give yourself a minute to think.

Third, assess whether the issue/s will really have an impact on you and your partner long-term. Will this be something that causes long-term harm, or is it just a hiccup that won't matter too much when you're looking back at the day in years to come. Talk it over with your partner and make sure you agree on your assessment of the situation. You're a team!

Fourth, understand that while your wedding is important, people around you have things going on too. When someone can't make it, can't get a baby sitter for that night, or can't help you with something they said they would, let yourself feel the irritation and move on quickly. People have things going on that others might not know about and it's better to just move on quickly and find another option rather than dwell on why they can't help or whatever the situation might be. Dwelling will waste your energy and lower your mood. Don't let the actions of others reduce your excitement and shine.

Fifth, build in pockets of time in the lead up to the wedding to take time out and de-stress. Take some time alone to remind yourself that the point of getting married is to commit to your partner. It is not to have every tiny detail fall perfectly into place for your fairytale. Relax, meditate if you need or just go for a calm walk in nature and reset your emotions so you can keep moving forward with a clear head. (Check out our post for Bridal Meditation).

Sixth, and last but not least, while it is your big day and your family and friends should behave well and support you, ALWAY try to put yourself in the other person/peoples position when issues arise. If it is a family member who doesn't want to see another guest, try to be empathetic and do what you can, but if you can't resolve it, simply explain to the person that you can't and allow them to either suggest a solution or not attend if they feel they can't. Forcing people into uncomfortable situations isn't good for anyone, including you and your partner. If it is someone who is wanting to bring their child and you are having a child-free wedding, simply write them a nice message saying that you totally understand if they can't make it due to parenting responsibilities. Many couples are now live-streaming their ceremony so distant family and friends can still attend (and it's a great way to reduce cost!)

REMEBER - be calm and empathetic but firm in your responses to issues that others bring up. Even if all of the above were to happen, and even if important people couldn't be there for you, the wedding is about marrying your partner and by the end of the day, you will be married. That's all that really matters. 

Check out some of our other posts for other ideas while planning your big day.

Good Luck!

The Wedding Gurus xx

Your Wedding Day - How to make sure you soak it in

 

As a wedding celebrant I have the unique opportunity to be standing right there beside hundreds of couples as they take that huge leap into marriage and commit their lives, hopes and dreams to each other. 

It's an interesting vantage point because over the years it has really demonstrated to me how we all love and commit to another in our own unique way. Some couples are laughing and joking, others are teary and nervous, and others are so focussed on each other they barely notice anyone else is even there!

No matter what kind of couple you are, the most important thing is that your wedding day really reflects who you are. Sure, it's a serious occasion and you might have lots of guests there, but when those people who know and love you walk away from your wedding thinking, that was so them, then that is what really counts.

So, if you and your partner are the kind of couple who joke and tease each other, your ceremony should really have that feel. If you and your partner are serious and romantic, then that should shine through in your wedding ceremony and the vows you say to each other.

But, there's one very important thing I always try to reinforce when I'm working with couples, no matter how they intend to approach their wedding day - MAKE SURE YOU TAKE A BREATH AND SOAK IT IN. 

It is so easy to get caught up with all the noise, the details, the planning, who is where and whether everything is going to plan, but on that day, the most important thing is being there and being present with the person you love, in the moment, and committing your life to them. Even if small things go wrong, you'll still be married at the end of the day, which is the whole point of doing it!

Sometimes when I'm standing beside the groom (or the partner who is beside me) and the bride (or other partner) is about to walk down the aisle, I'll whisper, 'This is it. It's finally here. Look where you are.' and I'll hear them suck in a breath and hold it. The emotion, the excitement, the nervousness as their loved one is about to come and join them and take vows filled with promises of forever. It's a beautiful moment to be a part of and so very important for the couple.

Another opportunity to really soak it in is when signing the legal paperwork (if it's done that way in your country). The couple and celebrant go over to the signing table and the couple sit down. I often fuss around a little bit and give them a minute to chat and laugh and look at each other and then I'll say to them, Can you believe you're now married? and you see the way they look at each other in that moment. It's as if all the stress and worry melts away and their hopes and dreams and being set in motion.

There are also other opportunities to connect and bring yourself back to the moment throughout your wedding day. Every time it's feeling busy on the day, let that be a reminder to you to take a deep breath, look around you and commit it to your heart and memory. Squeeze your partners hand and let yourself feel the excitement of this life changing moment because in the coming years, and particularly in your older years, you will look back on this day and draw upon those feelings. it will become one of the defining moments of your life. 

Good luck!

The Wedding Gurus xx

 

Wedding Rituals and Traditions - Dance of the Crown from Finland

The stunning country of Finland, known to many as the land of a thousand lakes, is rich in beauty, culture and tradition. 

Like many, Finnish people love a good wedding and it is at the wedding ceremony that we see many of their rituals and traditions at work. We’ve chosen a few of our favourites that can be easily incorporated into your own wedding whether you are of Finnish heritage or not. On the day of her wedding, as the bride prepares for her big day, a golden crown is placed on her head for her to wear throughout the ceremony. She continues to wear the crown as they commence to their reception and it remains on her head until the time that the ‘Dance of the Crown’ is performed. 

 

This ritual dance sees the bridesmaids place a blindfold on the bride as they begin to move around her, dancing and confusing her of their place. Much like the tradition of the garter toss, the bride then places the crown on the head of one of the bridesmaids (it is left to fate as the bride cannot see who she is placing it on). It is this bridesmaid that is then, according to the tradition, the next one to be married. 

 

Another fun tradition that takes place at a Finnish wedding is the dance to end the celebrations. This is something that anyone could include in their wedding just for something different and fun. 

The last dance is known as the ‘Weaning Waltz’ and a group can be easily shown how to participate. To kick of the dancing an instrumental waltz is played as all female guests dance with only the bride and all male guests dance with only the groom. This works best if everyone gets in on it, even the grandparents and older guests and small children assisted by their parents. The bride and groom are whisked around the dance floor, briefly dancing with guests who endeavour to make them ‘forget’ their marriage partner. There is lots of laughter and fun until the bride and groom finally return to each others arms to complete the dance and show to all present that nothing can keep them apart. 

 

One of the most magical things about rituals and traditions in ceremony is that you don’t have to be a part of that culture to incorporate some of the fun and meaningful elements into your own ceremony. Find one that suits you as a couple and will add to your enjoyment of your day. 

 

The Wedding Gurus xxx

Wedding Rituals and Traditions - Libation Ceremony

 

There are some traditions or rituals practised throughout the world which are not unique to any one culture. These rituals, while often similar in nature, may have different relevance or significance depending on the situation. This is certainly true for ‘libation’ rituals.

The term libation; ‘the pouring of a liquid offering as a religious ritual’, is a traditional part of ceremonies practised by the ancient Greeks and Romans, some African tribes and Burmese Buddhists, to name only a few. The liquid offered may be any number of substances (wine, water, oil), depending on the cultural origins of the ceremony.

Requirements: Liquid of your choice, pouring vessel.

In some African cultures, an essential part of any ceremony is the pouring of a libation. Sometimes water, but more often a traditional wine, is used for the ritual. A prayer calling all to attend and participate is given by an elder, who through this tradition, invokes both ancestors and Gods to be present.

Example: A Libation Prayer

We give praise to the Almighty power

Praise to our ancestors and the roots from which we came.

To truly know his Creator, a man must know his roots.

Let our ancestors and the spirit of the Creator bring us closer in unity.

This ceremony demonstrates the people’s recognition and obligation to their ancestors and to their Gods. The Ancient Romans were also great believers in the use of libation rituals in ceremony. The pouring of wine and perfumed oil was considered an eminent act of veneration.

Libation rituals are still found today in formal ceremonies, (eg. baptism, formal toasts and even in the launching of a ship), and in popular culture, (winning the Grand Prix or ‘drowning your sorrows’ at losing a football match).  In the United States, the term ‘tipping a forty to their memory’, involves tipping a small amount of liquid (usually liquor) from a glass before drinking, paying respect to and in memory of those no longer with us.

A Libation Ritual is a simple and practical ritual to use in a wedding ceremony.  It doesn’t cost anything extra and allows the  ‘head’ of either family, a grandmother or grandfather, the Celebrant, Best Man or anyone of the couple’s choosing to conduct the ritual and say a few words as to the sentiment behind it. A libation is a simple, yet powerful way to acknowledge and pay respect to those unable to participate; a family member separated by distance or a loved one who has passed away.

‘The two eldest members of these families have been seated in a very special place today - one on the bride’s side and one on the groom’s. They have been given pride of place at this ceremony for good reason - in the aisle, nearest the couple, to remind them that the wisdom of their elders is always within reach and close at hand.

‘I have been charged with the responsibility of offering a libation in the hope that the living and the dead, the young and the old, may come together. I pour a libation of ‘Uisge, Baugh’ (Irish Gaelic ‘The Water of Life’ - Irish Whiskey) itself a ‘spirit’, which represents stimulation, invigoration and energy. It is poured in the four directions -- North, South, East and West -- to open the way for the spirits of our ancestors and loved ones to be here with us’.

‘I call on our forebears, who stood for unity and togetherness, to stand beside us on this day, and I invite everyone present to call out the names of those who are dear to them, both ancestors and those more recently passed, in the hope that they too, will cast their love, wisdom and courage on these two people who are coming together to be married. They have, by their very presence promised to do their best to maintain this relationship and the unity of family.

May the love that has been bestowed upon you today remain with you through whatever may come and may this libation always remind you that your connections to past and present are ever near.’

The Wedding Gurus x

What music should you have for your wedding ceremony

Music is a huge part of your wedding ceremony and to be honest, it really sets the tone and feel for the day. Live music is always amazing, but for some (many) couples, money is just too tight and it can't make the budget. 

It's really important to be clear about what options are available when it comes to the use of music on your big day. 

The following options might help you out:

Option 1.  Use the celebrant's PA system. 

Most celebrants will have their own PA system for you to play your music from (be sure to ask them in your planning meeting). 

On the day and you can just bring along a phone or iPad (or whatever device you have your songs on) to plug into the PA. 

Note: with this option, you may need someone from your group to press the play and stop buttons as the celebrant will be up the front with you and not near the PA and may not have a remote control. The celebrant can easily give the person a quick run through of what to press before the ceremony starts.

If you choose to play from a device, you might want to create 3 separate playlists. This is best done using an app like Spotify premium (no ads!) and downloading the playlist to the device in case there are any wifi issues at your ceremony location.

The playlists can be put into the following categories for ease of playing.

1.     Before – this is a playlist with about 10 songs that can be played in the 30 minutes or so while guests are arriving. This sets a nice tone and feel for the ceremony.

2.     Entrance – this is the entrance song for the bride/groom and bridal party if they are entering in the traditional way. This can be 1 song or 2 if you want the bridesmaids to have a different song from the bride.

3.     Signing – this is a playlist of about 5 songs to be played while the couple and their witnesses are signing the legal documents. It allows the guest to enjoy the moment and the atmosphere.

Option 2. Instead of using the celebrant's PA system, you can bring along a portable speaker of your own to play the music. You can have a friend look after setting it up and pressing play and stop. This options also means that you can test your music etc before the big day and give the friend a run-through.

Option 3. You can book an audio person to handle all of the sound/mic stuff for the ceremony on the day. this means you can relax and not worry about a thing!

Option 4. You can hire a live musician for your ceremony. This creates a fabulous atmosphere and is the best option if you can afford it. 

No matter which option you choose, putting a bit of time and planning into your ceremony music will ensure that you and your guests really set the tone for a fun and gorgeous day.

The Wedding Gurus x

Wedding Rituals and Traditions - Song of the Bride (Romania)

There are a treasure trove of rituals and traditions that originate from Romania and people from different regions practice these in varied forms. The important ceremonial rituals practiced as part of a wedding are heavily dependant upon which region the couple come from.

One ritual/tradition that we came across takes place in the hours leading up to the wedding when the bride is preparing for the day. While she is dressing, the bridesmaids and best friends all gather and assist her.  This is a very important part of the preparation and can be a very emotional and moving moment for the bride and those closest to her. 

As they prepare her for her ceremony a song, "Say farewell bride to your family and house"- "Ia-ti mireasa ziua buna" is played and with an overflow of emotion, is often accompanied by tears and embraces  from all present. We found a rough translation of the lyrics:

Song of the Bride:
Say goodbye bride to your mother, to your father
To your sisters, to your brothers, to your garden with flowers
To your friends and neighbours, to the games or lover
Cry bride, today is the day
It's time to forget your father and love your husband
To forget your mother and to love your mother- in- law
To forget about your sisters and to love your sisters-in-law
 
You will go with your husband and you will leave behind everything you had.

Today with many couples living together before they are married, much of this significance can be lost, but for those who are coming from their parents home to join their husband in a new home and a new life, this rite of passage is still very special.

The Wedding Gurus xx

 

Ditch the Bridezilla and be a total Bridecess

 

Yes we made it up, but ‘Bridecess’ is our new favourite word!

... July is upon us and it has prompted our thoughts to turn to wedding trends and ideas for 2023.

 Now this may be somewhat controversial given the society we live in, our love of good drama, and the popularity of some TV shows, but it is our belief (The Wedding Gurus) that

‘Bridezilla’ is well and truly OUT!

Being a bride has always carried with it a certain elegance and beauty that those of us who have not been lucky enough to walk down the aisle can only dream of experiencing.

We imagine ourselves moving graciously down the flower adorned aisle or pathway to join our fabulous waiting partner as all our guests and loved ones look on in awe and shed a tear in response to the heart warming exchange between the couple - the loves of their lives.

With this in mind, how then did it ever become fashionable to transform into what we know as 'Bridezilla'?

The word itself brings to mind a horrific picture: A bride in a huge flouncy dress screaming and frothing at the mouth as others try desperately to tame and calm her outbursts. Is it really ever pleasant to have people see us this way on what should be our time to really shine?

Lets be real. Do you honestly want to be seen as an out of control, screaming, nasty bride to be, so feared by not only your bridesmaids, but also your friends and family that by the time the big day arrives they would much rather suffocate you than be part of your special day?

Or do you want to aspire to the persona of someone like Princess Kate Middleton (see where the word Bridecess came from?) who showed courtesy and good manners to all those around her and pulled it all off with such elegance and class? (or if you don't want to go that far, which is understandable, just be someone that puts on a good show and makes people feel welcome!)

We want to convince every one of you to aspire to be a gorgeous and glowing bride, one that is calm, in control and who leaves every person in the room thinking what a perfect choice the groom/partner has made.

Let the singles wish they were you or wish they had found you first. Let the elderly people comment on your glow and your fun, while the married women wish they had been so fabulous on their wedding day. Let your parents burst with pride at what a great job they have done and your in-laws feel grateful for the daughter they are gaining. Let your bridesmaids feel excited and privileged to have such a great friend and to have had an absolutely fabulous time helping you with this wedding. But most of all ,let your partner feel that they are absolutely the luckiest person alive to be the one standing beside you.

So......ditch that old Bridezilla (its so 2015) and find your inner Bridecess. Your friends, family, bridesmaids and soon to be marriage partner will all thank you for it.

We’ve put together a few ways that we think you can achieve the true title of ‘Bridecess’

1. Accept the fact that things will go wrong, they always do but it is the way you react to it that will determine whether it complete ruins your wedding or is remembered as merely a road bump on the way to a perfect day.

2. Surround yourself with loving and supportive people who will be there to help you and remind you of the real meaning of the day.

3. Be organised, plan and work out every detail so that nothing can pop up and stress you out.

4. Scheduling 'you' time that does not involve wedding planning and is relaxing and uplifting.

5. Throw out all the old sayings you have heard –

"You cant please them all so just please yourself",

"You can pick your friends but you cant pick your relatives".

“Weddings are as stressful as a death in the family"

All of these statements carry some degree of truth, but if you approach wedding planning in this negative frame of mind you will feel nothing but stress and anxiety. Of course you have to think about your guests and wedding party, it’s primarily your day but they are all playing a part and deserve to enjoy it too.

6. Lastly but most importantly don’t forget that you are a couple and this is supposed to be the happiest day of both of your lives. Imagine how it feels to be a partner about to marry thier true love only to see her go from being a wonderful person to a total out of control train wreck.

Do you want your tantrums, tears and bad behaviour to be etched in the memories of your guests when they recall your wedding day? or do want them to be using you as their example when they begin planning their day?

Queens, you've got this. 

The Wedding Gurus

xxx