May 03 2013
Last week we started a series of blog posts with ideas on how to stop costs from spiralling for your wedding, with some money saving tips – we genuinely do believe that it is possible to have all the wow factor without the astronomical price tag!
Table centres are another area where the budgets can vary massively – again seasonal produce and a little bit of clever thinking can save hundreds of pounds. Simple majestic candelabras which can be hired (make sure the candles will last for the whole day though as otherwise a false economy) make a big statement but cost under £27 per table, alternatively little touches like lace covered jam jar candles, painting your own bottles with a paint sampler and setting on a mirror have the big impact but aren't so hard on the budget…
…or some flowers in a small or large pot can also be of a lower cost. Depending on the time of year Hydrangeas can work well in a fish bowl vase, pots of lavender smell beautiful and add a touch of colour, or wild flowers in a coloured bottle can look stunning. Baby’s breath is also a very good filler with big impact and low cost. For the marquee we have old oak whiskey barrels in house which you are welcome to use free of charge – these are great for a vintage wedding style and work especially well with the features within the barn…
For table numbers you can simply ask the caterer to provide, or your table centres can be images of the two of you in different poses / locations holding up numbers – through to your favourite destinations… or places that have a special meaning to you.
The all-important dress… whilst some people are set on a certain designer or dress from an early age it may well also be worth considering waiting until the wedding dress shops have their sample sales – or if you can’t wait ask if you can buy the sample you try on. Good shops will have these in very good repair (like new) looking as though they have never been tried on and should clean and alter a dress for you. Larchfield Estate brides also get a good discount at one of the very good local shops here, so worth thinking about.
These to me are the things that make your wedding unique – and hopefully at Larchfield we offer the venue and flexibility to be able to do this, but with the full time team of four on hand to help at every stage with contacts and ideas...
Rather than a guest book have you thought about some finger art? You start with a silhouette of you and your partner and ask guests to put thumbprints in the sky above you – these look like balloons… or have a camera and photo frame hanging from the marquee – ready for people to take pictures of themselves for your informal album….
If you are talented with a needle and thread we have had couples (and mums!) who have made bunting or hanging hearts – but if like me you are not so domesticated Ikea is always good for a few hanging paper lanterns, or just use our ivy balls which are there for you to use in the barn or marquee free of charge.
