Today I am delighted to welcome Big Day Discounts as a new Sponsor on the Blog.
Emma Waring, and Terri Peckham started their company late this year to help achieve cost savings for couples in what can be one of the most expensive times of their lives.
Tell us a little bit of history
"Terri and myself have had a great love for all wedding related products, and services after spending 2 years planning my own wedding back in 2006."
"We knew this was more than a hobby, when 4 years after the wedding we were still buying Wedding Ideas and Cosmopolitan Bride to help keep us up to date with bridal trends !"
"The idea for Big Day Discounts came just over a year ago - we are both subscribed to 'Travelzoo' and looked forward to our weekly email providing us with holiday bargains.
"We thought there was no real reason a wedding related one wouldn't work, especially in the current economic climate."
"Over the following year we did alot of research & planning and we were very pleased to launch http://www.bigdaydiscounts.co.uk/ in September 2010.
What do you do ?
"Big Day Discounts aims to help couples save money when planning their wedding.
We are all aware of how expensive your big day can be, and any savings that can be made are usually gratefully received."
"Organising a wedding is also very time consuming, averaging 250 hours of planning time, making it very difficult for couples to find the time to compare different suppliers in order to find competitive prices.
Big Day Discounts looks to eliminate this problem."
"We are hoping that this will also become a useful tool for Wedding and Event planners so they will be kept informed of the special offers available for their clients."
What are your plans for the future ?
"This is going to be a big year for us with lots of change - we will be concentrating on Big Day Discounts full time, and we will be launching our regular email alert at the end of February which will see all of the current 'Featured Offers' emailed to our subscribers.
Registration is free and just requires a name and email address - http://www.bigdaydiscounts.co.uk/register."
"We are also going to be launching a new Big Day Discounts Blog in January, and a free downloadable monthly magazine/newsletter which is due to launch in May."
"It's going to be a very busy year but one that we are very much looking forward to and are very excited about !"
To Contact Big Day Discounts
Website: http://www.bigdaydiscounts.co.uk/
Email: emmawaring@bigdaydiscounts.co.uk
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=102978766422580
Twitter: http://twitter.com/bigdaydiscounts
Friday, 31 December 2010
Thursday, 30 December 2010
Real Life Wedding - Lisa and Ian - Images by TP Photography.
Today I am delighted to share the wedding of Lisa Julia Thorpe, and Ian Gordon Duncan, from the lens of Greg Thurtle of TP Photography.
Greg is a wedding photographer based in Dorset, and his aim is to provide the very best in contemporary wedding photography.
As a Wedding Photographer he has photographed weddings up and down the UK, and overseas to France.
This couples Big Day took place on the 14th of August 2010 at St Pauls Church, Chippenham, and then on to a Reception at Chippenham Town Hall, and it had a little bit of a Scottish twist.
Thank you so much to Greg for allowing us to share a glimpse of his lovely work.
To Contact Greg
Website: http://www.thurtlepower.com/
Email: greg@thurtlepower.com
Phone: 07834 490393
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/tpphotography
Wednesday, 29 December 2010
New Sponsor - Wedding and Baby
Today I am thrilled to welcome on board Louise Graham of Wedding and Baby as our new Blog Sponsor.
I featured Louise and her company back in April and her feature is here.
Wedding and Baby is a small family based business located in the West of Scotland.
With an honours degree in Product Design making "things" has always been part of Louise's life.
She has been heavily involved in the wedding industry since 2003, and has more recently branched out into wedding accessories.
Her designs have been worn by celebrities to red carpet events, as well as by many brides wanting to look extra special on their big day.
All her items are handmade by her, and her team of very creative suppliers.
Louise tells us a little bit about her fabulous new 2011 Collection.
"LHG Designs is our very own label of handmade wedding tiaras, vintage headbands, vintage combs, jewellery - necklace, bracelets and earrings."
"In the 2011 collection our designs are not only trend focused, we also have unique fashion forward designs that are sure to create new trends."
"Ruffles, flowers and lots of fabric are HOT in wedding dresses for 2011, so what does the on trend bride do with her accessories?
The LHG Designs collection at http://www.weddingandbaby.co.uk/ have got that sorted.
Look no further than your complete guide to accessorising your dress."
"Traditional tiaras are starting to take a back seat with most discerning brides opting for headband and combs, that are adorned with rhinestones, feathers and flowers."
"Birdcage veils were extremely popular in 2010, however for 2011 the trend is moving away from these as dresses become embelished with fabric flowers and ruffles."
"LHG Designs have been creating accessories for the last two years that are not only sought after by celebrities, but also provide value for money and longevity.
I regularly speaks with brides and develop designs that can be used long after the wedding or special occassion."
"For the bride that wants to create the veil effect without the added fabric, our Marquise Veil Comb is the Show Stopper in our 2011 collection.
Amazing diamante claw set rhinestone comb creates this striking piece.
Beautiful vintage style floral focal design mounted onto a silver silver comb.
Birdcage veils take on a whole new dimension with our unique rhinestone side veil design. What makes this ultra special is that it can be converted into a brooch and worn again!"
http://www.weddingandbaby.co.uk/combs.htm
"Floral wedding dresses need to remain with the theme, without adding more fabric to the design.
So the best option is rhinestone embelished floral combs and headbands."
"If you have opted for the simple dress but want to incorporate the floral theme, why not add fabric flowers to the hair.
These can be flat on the head as in our Floral lace design below."
"In our 2011 range also comes a romanesque headband /circlet.
Stunning for a Grecian style wedding.
Silver beadwork creates leaves and branches for this earthy design."
I featured Louise and her company back in April and her feature is here.
Wedding and Baby is a small family based business located in the West of Scotland.
With an honours degree in Product Design making "things" has always been part of Louise's life.
She has been heavily involved in the wedding industry since 2003, and has more recently branched out into wedding accessories.
Her designs have been worn by celebrities to red carpet events, as well as by many brides wanting to look extra special on their big day.
All her items are handmade by her, and her team of very creative suppliers.
Louise tells us a little bit about her fabulous new 2011 Collection.
"LHG Designs is our very own label of handmade wedding tiaras, vintage headbands, vintage combs, jewellery - necklace, bracelets and earrings."
"In the 2011 collection our designs are not only trend focused, we also have unique fashion forward designs that are sure to create new trends."
"Ruffles, flowers and lots of fabric are HOT in wedding dresses for 2011, so what does the on trend bride do with her accessories?
The LHG Designs collection at http://www.weddingandbaby.co.uk/ have got that sorted.
Look no further than your complete guide to accessorising your dress."
"Traditional tiaras are starting to take a back seat with most discerning brides opting for headband and combs, that are adorned with rhinestones, feathers and flowers."
"Birdcage veils were extremely popular in 2010, however for 2011 the trend is moving away from these as dresses become embelished with fabric flowers and ruffles."
"LHG Designs have been creating accessories for the last two years that are not only sought after by celebrities, but also provide value for money and longevity.
I regularly speaks with brides and develop designs that can be used long after the wedding or special occassion."
"For the bride that wants to create the veil effect without the added fabric, our Marquise Veil Comb is the Show Stopper in our 2011 collection.
Beautiful vintage style floral focal design mounted onto a silver silver comb.
Birdcage veils take on a whole new dimension with our unique rhinestone side veil design. What makes this ultra special is that it can be converted into a brooch and worn again!"
http://www.weddingandbaby.co.uk/combs.htm
"Floral wedding dresses need to remain with the theme, without adding more fabric to the design.
So the best option is rhinestone embelished floral combs and headbands."
"If you have opted for the simple dress but want to incorporate the floral theme, why not add fabric flowers to the hair.
These can be flat on the head as in our Floral lace design below."
"In our 2011 range also comes a romanesque headband /circlet.
Stunning for a Grecian style wedding.
Silver beadwork creates leaves and branches for this earthy design."
"And if you are looking to include vintage and floral theme then look no further than the new range as shown below - that will be hitting the website very soon."
To Contact Louise
Website: http://www.weddingandbaby.co.uk/
Email: weddingandbaby@yahoo.co.uk
Phone: 07748628797
And as well as finding Louise's gorgeous creations with her, she also stocked at three central Scotland locations, and one online shop.
WEDDING IDEAS AWARDS - FINALIST
In just over two weeks time, on the 14th of January 2011, the Wedding Ideas Awards hit London. The Wedding Ideas Awards are the only wedding industry awards voted for by the readers, and this year the event is taking part at The Brewery Hotel in London
There will be a Champagne Reception, a three-course meal, an afternoon of excellent entertainment and of course, most importantly, the Wedding Ideas Awards !
The afternoon will be hosted by GMTV, and National Lottery presenter Jenni Falconer, and post awards entertainment will be by former X Factor contestant Andy Abraham.
Today, I am quite literally speechless, and for those that know me that is something that doesn't happen very often to have been shortlisted as a Finalist in the Wedding Planner Category.
I am beyond excited and can't wait to get on my glam dress, and my sparkly heels and meet all my fabulous Twitter friends for a day of fun and frivolity, and very hopefully, maybe, WIN something !
I am so honoured and blessed to be in this position, and thank everyone from the bottom of my heart for voting for me, and supporting me in my fledgling business.
I hope 2011 will be the start of bigger and better things for Plans and Presents and I would love for you to join me on my journey.
There will be a Champagne Reception, a three-course meal, an afternoon of excellent entertainment and of course, most importantly, the Wedding Ideas Awards !
The afternoon will be hosted by GMTV, and National Lottery presenter Jenni Falconer, and post awards entertainment will be by former X Factor contestant Andy Abraham.
Today, I am quite literally speechless, and for those that know me that is something that doesn't happen very often to have been shortlisted as a Finalist in the Wedding Planner Category.
I am beyond excited and can't wait to get on my glam dress, and my sparkly heels and meet all my fabulous Twitter friends for a day of fun and frivolity, and very hopefully, maybe, WIN something !
I am so honoured and blessed to be in this position, and thank everyone from the bottom of my heart for voting for me, and supporting me in my fledgling business.
I hope 2011 will be the start of bigger and better things for Plans and Presents and I would love for you to join me on my journey.
Tuesday, 28 December 2010
A Taste of the Divine - Madeline Isaac James 2011 Collection
Today I am honoured to share with you some of the divine gowns from the 2011 Collection of Natalie Gladman of Madeline Isaac James.
In the words of the lady herself "The Madeline Isaac-James collections capture the essence of a modern woman – pieces are strong yet romantic and feminine whilst always remaining true to the female form making use of flattering shapes and styles."
This can certainly be said for the Designer's 2011 Collections.
The Candlelit Collection is all about romance, with full skirts and detailed bodices.
Each gown perfect for your classical fairytale Wedding, and definetely fitting to bring out your inner Princess.
While the Starlet Collection reflects more the styling of a Bygone age with the sleek elegance of the 20's and 30's Movie Star.
The gowns are sophisticated with an edge, and are perfect for the Bride wanting to incorporate a Vintage theme into her Big day.
All brides who purchase their gown from Madeline Isaac-James’ Farnborough boutique between 4th and 31st January 2011, will be entered into a free prize draw to WIN the dress ordered !
To see previous MIJ posts from Plans and Presents Blog see - Snow Queen
- 2010 Collection and Bio
- Is Black the New White ?
- Special Follow Friday
As a recent aside to the gorgeous new Bridal Gowns Natalie has brought out a stunning accessories Collection to accompany the gowns.
To Contact Madeline Isaac James
Website: http://www.madelineisaacjames.com/
Email: mailto:info@madelineisaacjames.com
Phone: 01252 377725
Blog: http://www.madelineisaacjames.com/blog/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Madeline-Isaac-James-bridal-boutique/67074526641
Twitter: http://twitter.com/madelineisaacj
Photo Credits: http://peoplebyryan.com/weddings
In the words of the lady herself "The Madeline Isaac-James collections capture the essence of a modern woman – pieces are strong yet romantic and feminine whilst always remaining true to the female form making use of flattering shapes and styles."
This can certainly be said for the Designer's 2011 Collections.
The Candlelit Collection is all about romance, with full skirts and detailed bodices.
Each gown perfect for your classical fairytale Wedding, and definetely fitting to bring out your inner Princess.
"May"
"Tuesday"
"Rachel"
While the Starlet Collection reflects more the styling of a Bygone age with the sleek elegance of the 20's and 30's Movie Star.
The gowns are sophisticated with an edge, and are perfect for the Bride wanting to incorporate a Vintage theme into her Big day.
"Marina"
"Charlize"
"Marilyn"
I myself, adore the "Tuesday" gown, for me, this is pivotal show stopping glamour, the fabric, detailing, and style is just exquisite
And if you visit the Madeline Isaac-James’ Farnborough boutique between the 4th and 8th of January 2011, there is a massive 10% off all dresses purchased.
Then just when you thought you were spoiled enough to book an appointment to try on on of these stunning creations, along comes another simply fabulous opportunity.
To see previous MIJ posts from Plans and Presents Blog see - Snow Queen
- 2010 Collection and Bio
- Is Black the New White ?
- Special Follow Friday
As a recent aside to the gorgeous new Bridal Gowns Natalie has brought out a stunning accessories Collection to accompany the gowns.
To Contact Madeline Isaac James
Website: http://www.madelineisaacjames.com/
Email: mailto:info@madelineisaacjames.com
Phone: 01252 377725
Blog: http://www.madelineisaacjames.com/blog/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Madeline-Isaac-James-bridal-boutique/67074526641
Twitter: http://twitter.com/madelineisaacj
Photo Credits: http://peoplebyryan.com/weddings
Monday, 27 December 2010
New Sponsor - Katie Vale Designs
Today it is my very great pleasure to welcome the lovely Katie Vale as a Sponsor of Plans and Presents Blog.
I showcased Katie's company a month ago, and link to that profile is here.
Katie has been designing & hand making tiaras and bridal head wear since 2004.
All items are created by using high quality Swarovski Crystals & Pearls; complimented by Silver, Gold and Copper Plated Wires.
Katie also specialises in creating bespoke items, individually created to compliment your chosen dress, colour theme & hair.
I showcased Katie's company a month ago, and link to that profile is here.
Katie has been designing & hand making tiaras and bridal head wear since 2004.
All items are created by using high quality Swarovski Crystals & Pearls; complimented by Silver, Gold and Copper Plated Wires.
Katie also specialises in creating bespoke items, individually created to compliment your chosen dress, colour theme & hair.
And in recent news Katie, like myself was lucky enough to receive a retweet for Small Business Sunday by Dragon Theo Paphitis
Thank you so much to Katie for being our new Sponsor.
For news of promotions, or further Collections please keep checking back.
To Contact Katie
Website http://www.katievaledesigns.com/
Phone 07939 216792
Saturday, 25 December 2010
Wedding Theme - Winter Berries
All this wintery weather and the long school walks have had me taking in all the colours of nature, against the brightness of the snow and icicles and the glistening frost.
Taking this into consideration, I want to consider a Wintry Wedding Theme with a vibrant twist .
A classic white theme is elegant, crisp and chic and it can be very simple to bring together, and when you accent with a shade such crimson/scarlet, it becomes instantly striking.
As a lovely introduction to your event, consider these invitations as a prelude for your guests.
This theme could be carried through in placecards, menus, order of service and a Table Plan.
For the decoration of your venue, white tablecloths serve as the classic base.
Keep on theme with white napkins and accent them by binding them with some crimson ribbon, or with rose petals.
For your centrepieces you could consider a cube vase tightly packed with red roses or carnations and some fern, placed on a mirrored plate, dependant on preference, with some scented t lights surrounding, or use scattered rose petals or table diamonds to highlight your arrangements
For wedding attire, of course there is the brides beauitful white gown, I love this Forever Yours Dress [style 42211] accompanied by a vibrant red and berry bouquet.
For the bridesmaids consider gowns in resplendent berry shades.
For your favours consider these elegant favour boxes.
For a delicious treat for your guests, why not try something like this lovely creation for your Wedding Cake.
Taking this into consideration, I want to consider a Wintry Wedding Theme with a vibrant twist .
A classic white theme is elegant, crisp and chic and it can be very simple to bring together, and when you accent with a shade such crimson/scarlet, it becomes instantly striking.
As a lovely introduction to your event, consider these invitations as a prelude for your guests.
This theme could be carried through in placecards, menus, order of service and a Table Plan.
Keep on theme with white napkins and accent them by binding them with some crimson ribbon, or with rose petals.
For your centrepieces you could consider a cube vase tightly packed with red roses or carnations and some fern, placed on a mirrored plate, dependant on preference, with some scented t lights surrounding, or use scattered rose petals or table diamonds to highlight your arrangements
For wedding attire, of course there is the brides beauitful white gown, I love this Forever Yours Dress [style 42211] accompanied by a vibrant red and berry bouquet.
For the bridesmaids consider gowns in resplendent berry shades.
This collection has co-ordinating Flowergirl gowns.
And Waistcoats and ties for the male wedding party.
For your favours consider these elegant favour boxes.
For a delicious treat for your guests, why not try something like this lovely creation for your Wedding Cake.
These are just a few ideas that you can use to incorporate a lovely warming colour into your Wintry Big Day.
If you would like any help putting these ideas together, or with any other aspect of your Wedding Day, I would be delighted to help.
Contact alisontinlin@plansandpresents.vpweb.co.uk for a Free Consultation
Happy Christmas
I would like to take this opportunity to say Thank You very much to those who chose Plans and Presents for their event this year.
2011 looks to be the most exciting yet for my little company, and I value your continued support.
I look forward to 2011, and to planning many more Weddings or Events and would be thrilled and honoured to share the most wonderful of experiences with you.
Take Care, Happy Christmas and I wish you everything you wish for in the coming year.
Much Love
Alison x
Friday, 24 December 2010
A Very Special Christmas Wedding
Christmas is such a special time.
Its a time for love...and so I have brought together a Christmas Wedding Theme Blog.
Carols, candy canes, pretty trees and presents are all symbols that we are familiar with, and the colours of christmas are so opulent.
Fabulous reds, deep green and rich gold are warm, inviting colours and give you a lot of scope for co-ordinating your special day.
Why not bring thse decadent colours into your choice of Wedding Stationery.
As an introduction to your event, why not have egg nog or mulled wine or hot chocolate as a warming start instead of the normal champagne reception.
On a chilly cold December day this will be welcomed by your guests and by yourself as a wedding gown is not particularly warm.
For the decor of your venue, consider these above seasonal colours for your tablecloths, or just simply use them for your napkins or table runners.
Gold charger plates would bring a hint of luxury to the proceedings too.
There are many ideas you could use for centrepieces.
Consider christmas baubles in the above colours in a clear bowl.
You could wrap small boxes in many colours and stack them in the middle of the table.
Similarly, these boxes could be used to store the wedding favours.
You could also use chunky candles of different sizes and place together on a candle plate with other round candles, or a few christmas baubles.
If you are a fan of candles you could also consider floating candles in a bowl.
Fairy lights, whether when hung from ceilings or around the Christmas or topiary trees. etc brighten up a room and glitter means gorgeous.
The Christmas tree will bring warmth into the room, all by itself.
For favours, you could consider
- miniature snow globes
- personalised Christmas tree ornaments
- christmas themed mint tins
- christmas bottle openers
- or the very popular Christmas cookie.
For a really great selection of Christmas inspired Favours see HERE
For your cake, it can be decorated very simply with colour co-ordinated ribbons, or you could have a Christmas tree shaped cake or a wintry scene, or layered like a stack of presents or any other exciting Christmas theme that you can imagine.
For wedding attire red is a very popular choice and this colour is stunning for a bridesmaid gowns.
For the gentlemen, the colour could be brought through using the tie, cummerband and waistcoats and even for the Bride , red is an unusual but absoloutely stunning choice.
For some pictorial Inspiration to go with this Theme see FACEBOOK
I hope this has given you a little inspiration for your Christmas Big Day.
Its a time for love...and so I have brought together a Christmas Wedding Theme Blog.
Carols, candy canes, pretty trees and presents are all symbols that we are familiar with, and the colours of christmas are so opulent.
Fabulous reds, deep green and rich gold are warm, inviting colours and give you a lot of scope for co-ordinating your special day.
Why not bring thse decadent colours into your choice of Wedding Stationery.
As an introduction to your event, why not have egg nog or mulled wine or hot chocolate as a warming start instead of the normal champagne reception.
On a chilly cold December day this will be welcomed by your guests and by yourself as a wedding gown is not particularly warm.
For the decor of your venue, consider these above seasonal colours for your tablecloths, or just simply use them for your napkins or table runners.
Gold charger plates would bring a hint of luxury to the proceedings too.
Consider christmas baubles in the above colours in a clear bowl.
Deep red flowers in a tall vase
Deep red flowers could be interspersed with holly and ivy for table arrangements.
Similarly, these boxes could be used to store the wedding favours.
You could also use chunky candles of different sizes and place together on a candle plate with other round candles, or a few christmas baubles.
Fairy lights, whether when hung from ceilings or around the Christmas or topiary trees. etc brighten up a room and glitter means gorgeous.
For favours, you could consider
- miniature snow globes
- personalised Christmas tree ornaments
- christmas themed mint tins
- christmas bottle openers
- or the very popular Christmas cookie.
For a really great selection of Christmas inspired Favours see HERE
For your cake, it can be decorated very simply with colour co-ordinated ribbons, or you could have a Christmas tree shaped cake or a wintry scene, or layered like a stack of presents or any other exciting Christmas theme that you can imagine.
For wedding attire red is a very popular choice and this colour is stunning for a bridesmaid gowns.
For the gentlemen, the colour could be brought through using the tie, cummerband and waistcoats and even for the Bride , red is an unusual but absoloutely stunning choice.
For some pictorial Inspiration to go with this Theme see FACEBOOK
I hope this has given you a little inspiration for your Christmas Big Day.
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