Wedding Dress Shopping Q&A with Eleanor of Sixpenny Bridal.
Eleanor, owner of Sixpenny Bridal, Clitheroe
I caught up with the lovely Eleanor, owner of the gorgeous Sixpenny Bridal in Clitheroe, to talk lace, logistics, and everything you’re too polite to ask about wedding dress shopping!
Sixpenny Bridal
The Story
Katie: “I’m a sucker for ‘The Love Story.’ I’d love to hear how you fell in love with the idea of running your bridal shop in the Ribble Valley. Take me back to the start: what was the moment you decided to open Sixpenny Bridal right here in Clitheroe? Was it a long-held dream?”
Eleanor: “I actually started dreaming about opening my own bridal boutique years ago - but with everything timing is important! In 2024 things finally worked out and we settled in gorgeous Clitheroe which is just the perfect place for all things weddings! I think really, I’ve always been passionate about weddings (I’ve even been a bridesmaid 7 times!) and I knew that starting my own business I wanted to be able to pour my heart and soul into something. Bridal for me really is that. Every moment I put into Sixpenny is a moment of joy and it really genuinely makes me so happy to help brides with this exciting (albeit sometimes overwhelming) part of their life!”
Wedding Dress Shopping
Katie: “I always tell my couples that their ceremony should feel like them. How do you make sure the appointment feels the same way? For a bride who might be feeling a bit nervous or self-conscious, what’s the ‘Sixpenny Vibe’ when she walks through your door?”
Eleanor: “I absolutely believe the same! Each bride that steps through the door is their own unique person and not just ‘another bride’ to me. I love hearing the engagement and proposal stories and finding out how I can support their own individual needs. Brides get a pre-call from me so that I can see how they’re doing, and I try to put any nerves at ease before you even step through the door - we keep things really relaxed and welcoming so you can completely be yourself and settle into things. I often say we just take it one dress at a time! It should be enjoyable rather than daunting and I’m here to help make it a positive experience for you!
Bridal appointment at Sixpenny Bridal, Clitheroe
The Sixpenny Bridal Boutique Experience
Katie: “We’ve all seen the scary bridal shows on TV! But I know you do things very differently. Is it strictly appointment-only so the bride has the whole boutique to herself? Talk us through that personal experience.”
Eleanor: “Yes! So don’t get me wrong, these shows can be so fun to watch! But it’s worth remembering they are often heavily edited and they’re not representative of your own experience. I think it’s one of the best things about the Sixpenny experience that you get the whole boutique to yourself - it’s completely private and means you can really make yourself at home. All the dresses are available to you, there’s no risk of one being in with another bride, and it’s just you and your guests, so you get complete 1-2-1 focus. We also keep our collection quite small compared to some boutiques - this prevents being overwhelmed whilst still maintaining a great range so you can try on lots of different styles without being fatigued. I have heard from brides many times how surprised they are that actually you don’t need 200 dresses to find the perfect one!
The Timeline: Wedding Dress Shopping and Alterations
Katie: “For the super-organised (and the last-minute!) brides, what is the ‘perfect timeline’ for coming to see you, saying yes to the dress, and getting those fittings booked?”
Eleanor: “There is no ‘perfect timeline’ really - it’s whatever feels best for you! I know some brides like to get in early and organised, so start looking around 18 months before the wedding. But some brides have been on a quick turnaround and are looking much closer! To ensure you have all the options open to you I would say 9-12 months is an ideal spot, with it taking up to 6 months for a made-to-order dress to arrive, 2 months for alterations and then some buffer time for decision making etc! But if you don’t have that much time do not worry! We can work with our designers on quick ship or rush order options (just be aware there may be a charge for this) or alternatively we can find you a dress from our samples that you can take away the same day! I’m here to minimise any worrying or stress for you so anything on timelines please just reach out!”
What to Wear for the Bridal Appointment?
Katie: “Okay, let’s be real for a second: what on earth should a bride-to-be wear to the appointment? Are we talking full Spanx and strapless bras, or can they just turn up in their usual bra and comfy pants?”
Eleanor: “Again, it’s whatever you feel comfortable in! You definitely do not need to go out and buy anything new, and most brides whip that bra straight off to be honest as most of the dresses have built in cups! But if you know you’ll feel your best in Spanx or similar then of course go ahead. Same with comfies! It really is whatever you like. It’s also totally OK if it’s ’that time of the month’ - this is a space for you to feel your most comfortable, we’ve popped a bride into a dressing gown so she could have a break to breastfeed before too!
The Budget: What Does the Average Wedding Dress Cost?
Katie: “Weddings are an investment. Can you give us a rough idea of the price range at Sixpenny Bridal? And do you have any options for brides who might need to spread the cost?”
Eleanor: “We have dresses that range from £900 - £2700, with majority of the dresses being under that £2000 mark. It’s definitely an investment purchase, and what I would say is that you’ll notice straight away that these dresses are very different to buying from a high street store. They are often hand stitched, with high quality materials (and a lot of it!). I do believe that it really is worth spending a chunk of time and budget on your dress as you want to feel your best on the day, and you’ll be looking back at these photos for years to come! When a bride puts her dress on and lights up with confidence it’s absolutely priceless.”
Bringing the Bride Squad
Katie: “As a celebrant, I love a big wedding party, but I know dress shopping is an intimate experience. Can a bride bring her whole ‘I Do Crew,’ or do you find it’s better with a smaller, supportive gang?”
Eleanor: “I find the best appointments are the ones with a smaller entourage, sometimes even just mum or sister! Often the more people you bring, the more conflicting opinions there are and it can be hard to hear your own thoughts. It’s totally well meaning of course, but everyone is going to have their own favourite! It’s about remembering what you want. There is also the option of choosing your dress, then inviting a larger crew back for your collection appointment so they can be part of the experience but without the decision making. This is totally something we can do! Or it’s also super fun to keep it a surprise for the big day for some people!”
The Look of Love: What are the Wedding Dress Trends for 2026/27?
Katie “I’d love to know what’s coming next…I’m seeing so much personality in ceremonies lately. What are the big vibes for 2026 and 2027 fashion? Are we seeing a full return to big ballgowns and basque waists, or is it all about sleek, modern silhouettes?”
Eleanor: “Basque waists are definitely not going anywhere this year - they are super flattering and I think will be around for a little while longer. Lace has been big the last few years too, but we’re seeing a lot of brides move into sleeker and chic simplicity for 2026/27. But I always encourage brides to go with what feels right for them, not necessarily what’s trending. Something can look amazing on Pinterest or on a celeb and then just not suit you - and that’s totally OK!”
Versatility: Detachable Skirts and Sleeves!
Katie: “I love it when a bride surprises everyone with a look change before the reception! Are you seeing many dresses that transform, like removable sleeves or overskirts? It’s such a great way to get two looks for one.”
Eleanor: “For a lot of brides I’m seeing that comfort is key! And I think this is actually a big driver for second looks sometimes - especially if they’ve chosen a heavy dress for their ceremony. You don’t have to buy an all new dress to change up your look though - we have lots of options for that 2-in-1 look, with detachable skirts, sleeves or even a dress that has a full lace overlay and then converts into a whole new material underneath! You can also change up your headpiece or change lipstick and add some fun earrings if you’re wanting to go a bit more fun for your evening do!”
Accessories: What is on Trend for 2026 and 2027?
Katie: “Let’s talk finishing touches. What are you loving right now? Is it pearls, sparkle, or are we seeing the return of the dramatic cathedral veil?”
Eleanor: ‘My absolute favourite veil is a chapel length sparkle one, made with ivory Italian tulle. I just love how it catches the light and how it is so versatile - it goes with every dress without distracting! I do have a soft spot for pearls though and we’re getting some amazing chantilly lace options in in the new year! A veil for me is so worth it though, there is just something special and so bridal about them.”
Matching the Dress to the Lancashire Wedding Venue
Katie: “Eleanor, you and I both know we have some stunning venues around Lancashire. If I was officiating at these spots, what would you dress the bride in?”
Wennington Hall
Katie “I love a Wennington Hall Wedding; it’s got the ‘wow factor’, and I’m obsessed with the outdoor aisle. If a bride is getting married there, what dress gives that ‘Luxe Manor House’ energy? Maybe something with a bit of drama?”
Eleanor: “Ooooh I love these questions! I think for Wennington, I would love to see a bride in our Arundel dress by Dando London - so elegant but with an incredible statement train!”
Holmes Mill
Katie: “Holmes Mill Clitheroe, has the cool, industrial and edgy vibe. What would you pick for a bride getting married in the Cotton Room? I’m picturing something modern, or maybe a bit sparkly to catch those lights?”
Eleanor: “I love the cool vibe of Holmes Mill - and I definitely think you could go for a bit of sparkle here! The Tintagel dress by Dando London has that edge of sparkle that catches people by surprise and would look amazing under some of the spotlights.”
Stirk House
Katie: “Stirk HouseHotel is a majestic 17th century manor full of romance, history, and character, set in beautiful gardens and ancient woodland.
Can you suggest the perfect gown for a real-life fairytale setting?”
Eleanor: “I’d love to see a bride in our Cassidy dress from Serene by Madi Lane at Stirk House - for some reason I imagine a bride running through a garden in it! It’s a dress that makes you feel like a modern day princess whilst still remaining really light (meaning you can party in it!)”
The Tipis at Riley Green
Katie: “I adore this venue; the Tipis at Riley Green have such a lovely vibe, and the grounds are brimming with beautiful flowers. For a bride who wants a relaxed, boho vibe, what would you recommend? Something flowy and boho?”
Eleanor: “3D flower appliqués can give a real boho and natural look - and I love our Lucille dress from Maya Bella for this. We have it in a blush in the studio for something a little different, or you can order in Ivory!”
Expert Advice from Eleanor
katie: “Just a few final fun ones before we let you get back to your brides… If you could give one piece of advice to a bride before she books her appointment with you, what would it be?”
Eleanor: “It’s so much easier said than done but ‘don’t worry’ is my first piece of advice. Please do try and enjoy this special time and your experience! With that, I would also say come ready to find your dress - there’s a high chance you will find your dream dress with us but so often brides hold themselves back, let nerves or pressure to go to lots of shops get the best of them, or they end up overthinking things. If it feels right, then go for it! Take the pressure off, get excited, and if you feel great in the dress then that’s a sign to lean into the enjoyment and have your yes moment!”
The 'After' Moment: Cleaning and Storing your Wedding Dress
Katie: “And finally… what should a bride do with her dress after the wedding? I’m guessing ‘bin bag in the loft’ is not the right answer! Can you recommend a cleaning service or preservation method?”
Eleanor: “Absolutely we can help point you in the right direction for getting your dress cleaned - don’t worry about it getting dirty though, enjoy your day! You aren’t going to be able to 100% prevent a bit of mud, dance floor dirt or drink getting on your train so try not to let it bother you and we can sort it out after! What I am loving at the moment is brides re-using their dresses, so if you have time an idea is to reconfigure it into a dress you can wear on your honeymoon! If you need a bit of time to think about it then we can get it packaged for you in a proper presentation box that will keep it nice and protected. I also really want a bride to bring their mums old dress in so we can surprise her with trying it on - so if you know anyone who wants to do this please let me know - I would love to be involved!!”
Katie: “It’s always such a joy chatting with Eleanor. Her passion for empowering women and making them feel incredible is exactly why I love chatting with wedding suppliers like her. If you’re looking for a dress experience that feels natural and easy, Sixpenny Bridal is the spot. When you go for your appointment, say ‘hello’ to Eleanor from me, and take your Mum and her old dress!!”
Katie x
Celebrant Led
Ps. If you’re newly engaged and overwhelmed with wedding planning, click here and check out my insiders guide to planning a wedding.
Registrar vs Celebrant see the difference 📸 Same Couple, Same Day, Same Photographer!
Registrar and celebrants both offer ‘personal wedding ceremonies’, so whats the difference?
If you've already booked a registrar, maybe skip this one, I really don't want to put a dampener on your excitement when I show you the proof! But if you're newly engaged and still figuring out the ceremony side of things... keep reading, because what I'm about to show you might just change everything about your wedding planning.
Congratulations, You're Engaged! 🥂
First things first, CONGRATULATIONS! You've just said yes to forever with your favourite human, and I'm genuinely buzzing for you. Now, before you get lost in the Pinterest rabbit hole of table runners and napkin folds, let me share something with you that nobody tells you when you're first planning a wedding in the Ribble Valley, Yorkshire Dales, Lake District or in fact anywhere in England and Wales.
Here's What They Don't Tell You About your Wedding Day
You have a choice of officiant for your wedding ceremony. Your venue may have told you to “now go book the registar” because their training manual is old and hasn’t been updated. Savvy couples know to separate the legals from the actual wedding ceremony by doing the legal admin at the register office and then having a celebrant to officiate at their venue…and they known that the difference is wild!
Here are two sets of photographs, first the legal admin at the register office and then the celebrant ceremony at their venue. It’s the same couple, the same photographer and the same day.
The registrar wedding ceremony completes the legal paperwork, it’s led by nice ladies, but they are complete strangers and I’ll never understand how they are allowed to state ‘personal’ in their marketing . Focus and main character energy is all on the government process, not on you.
Then we have the personal celebrant wedding ceremony, the genuine personal ceremony, heartfelt moments to tell the couples love story so far, led by a professional wedding celebrant who is not a stranger to the couple and now feels like a friend. Full focus and the main character energy is all on the couple and their love story.
First, the register office - the legal bit:
Very formal stance
No words needed, body language saying it all
Barely breathing…
Look at the body language. The formal stance. The "we're getting through this" posture. That gorgeous couple standing stiff as boards, hands clasped in front of them, barely touching. Even their little one looks uncertain. The registrars were nice, but they were still strangers who only met this couple a few minutes before their ceremony and you can feel and see this disconnect! This is the disconnect that I’m always talking about on my TikTok channel, I’ve seen this disconnect hundreds of times, this always happens when couples invite strangers, government officials into their venue… it feels all wrong.
Same couple, same day, same Photographer… difference in body language, energy & connection is wild!
Relaxed, we were discussing what we thought Chloe’s dress would look like
Here she is and doesn’t she look fabulous!
Happy tears…
Heartfelt vows and a few giggles… the guests are immersed in the ceremony.
A surprise third ring and cute family vows, because it was all about being family too 🧡
Genuine smiles for Mum and Dad.
The kiss…
Genuine connections, no strangers!
…and the perfect dip!
LOOK AT THE DIFFERENCE.
Look at how comfortable they are. Fully connected, totally relaxed. Laughing during the ceremony, emotion, happy tears, sharing genuine smiles with their guests, everyone completely immersed in the experience… and then the dip!
The same photographer captured both ceremonies, I’ve said it before, but the difference in energy and body language is wild!
The Disconnect is REAL
In the register office photographs, you can feel the formality. The "let's get through the legal bit" atmosphere. Barely breathing, uncertainty. It's giving airport security vibes.
But here's the thing, it's actually WORSE when registrars come to your venue. This is what I’m always telling couples on my TikTok and Instagram - the strict, cold, registrar ceremony doesn’t fit into the rest of your relaxed and warm wedding day at your venue. You’ve personalised everything, but you’ve been told to settle for a rigid ceremony template delivered by a stranger, someone who makes you act formally and not like your natural self?
Picture this: It’s your wedding day, you’ve spent all morning getting ready, surrounded by your people. Music playing. Fizz flowing. Your family and friends around you, they are your security blanket.
Then the registrars arrive. Everything changes, it suddenly becomes all "passport control” and “headteacher in your classroom” serious!
These strangers ask for "a moment alone" with you. Your security blanket is gone as family and friends are banished into the hotel corridor. And you're being quizzed about your freedom to marry, just minutes before you’re meant to glide down the aisle looking relaxed and happy. Vibe =anxious!
This whole section of your day is WRONG. It looks wrong and it feels wrong.
When I was a wedding manager I witnessed this disconnect hundreds of times over, it's the reason I became a celebrant. Because couples like you deserved better, they deserved:
NO STRANGERS demanding alone time just before your ceremony
To choose the CEREMONY TIME (no "sorry, we only have 11am available" - meaning hair + MUA at 5am)
To choose the LOCATION (literally anywhere, licensed or unlicensed venue)
UNRESTRICTED CONTENT (your vows, your music, no content police telling you "Ordinary" by Alex Warren is banned because it says "holy water")
NO BORING TEMPLATES that sound like everyone else's wedding
Everyone in the wedding industry knows this disconnect exists. Your photographer sees it. Your venue coordinator feels it. That's why wedding suppliers LOVE celebrant-led ceremonies, we finally get to see couples being themselves, actually feeling comfortable.
I wasn't a stranger meeting for the first time on their wedding day, I was someone they trusted. I'd even been invited to their home, I'd watched their daughter doing gymnastics in the living room. I'd had their dog sprawled across my lap while we put the finishing touches to their ceremony.
That’s the connection that makes all the difference, puts you at ease, allows you to relax. That’s the way it should be.
And your photographer catches ALL of that.
So You’ve Found the Dream Wedding Venue, What Next?
WAIT – Before You Book Anything, Read This! 🚨
Your wedding venue might say:
"Congratulations! Now go book the registrar to attend on the day."
Even worse? They might offer to provisionally book the registrar FOR you!
Don't fall for it.
This is old venue training manual advice. Venues often don't know (or don't understand enough to be able to explain to you) that you can separate the legal bit from your actual ceremony.
So. Here's what savvy couples do instead:
The Legal Bit (book a 2+2 Statutory Ceremony):
£68.50 at your local register office
3 minutes
2 witnesses
1 line to repeat + your full names
Done. Legally married.
No vows. No rings. No fuss. Just the paperwork.
Think of it like getting a birth certificate for your marriage. Important? Yes.
The highlight of your life? Absolutely not, in fact dare I say the 2+2 statutory ceremony is a completely underwhelming experience, do it a few days before and get it out of the way, so you can really enjoy your wedding day!
Your ACTUAL Wedding Ceremony:
This is where the magic happens. This is what modern couples want. This is what a Celebrant Led 🧡 ceremony:
✨ Connection – Someone who knows YOUR story
✨ Choice – You choose ceremony time, not what the registrar has available
✨ Freedom – Marry anywhere (licensed or unlicensed venue!)
✨ Emotion – A ceremony that makes your guests cry ugly tears, get go
✨ Personalisation – So personal your guests say "OMG That was SO them!"
✨ Intent – Feeling, purpose and values are all aligned.
✨ Memories – The ceremony people talk about for years: "Best ceremony I've ever been to!"
The Photos Never Lie
Georgie Beck captured both moments beautifully, but even the best photographer can't photoshop in connection. They can't edit out low energy, fear, strained body language or anxiety.
Your photographer captures every moment. Every smile, every tear, every quiet glance. And those photos are forever.
Which energy do you want? "Completing government admin formal" or "best day of our lives"?
Because you'll see the difference every time you look at your wedding album.
This is why photographers and musicians love celebrant-led weddings, your energy enhances their best work.
Let's Make Your Wedding About YOU 🧡
I'm not here to bash registrars, they're just doing their job! But I am here to tell you that you have a choice. A choice that most couples don't even know exists.
You can have both. The legal bit AND the meaningful bit. The paperwork AND the magic.
And honestly? Once you see the difference in these photos, it's hard to unsee it.
Huge thanks to the gorgeous Chloe and Anthony for allowing me to share their experience and photographs, so I can educate couples just like you. Photography credit to the fabulous Georgie Beck.
So to recap, if you're newly engaged and reading this thinking "wait, can we do THAT?" Yes, you absolutely can!
Let’s chat about your celebrant led ceremony for your 2026, 2027 or 2028 wedding. (And if you’ve changed your mind about having registrars, get in touch via the button below and I’ll tell you what you need to do.)
Let's make it happen 🧡
Katie x
P.S. Share this blog with your partner and your engaged friends. They deserve to know they have options!
P.P.S. Seriously, look at those photos one more time. The difference is everything.
Katie Flanagan is the number 1, go to sustainable wedding celebrant for personal weddings across the Ribble Valley, Lune Valley, and the Yorkshire Dales.
Award Winning | 5 ⭐ reviews |Yorkshire |Lancashire | Cumbria
Katie Flanagan Wedding Celebrant
Katie Flanagan James Places’ recommended celebrant, in action at Falcon Manor, Settle.
Katie Flanagan - Independent Celebrant
Expertise: Former Wedding Manager | Wedding Industry Expert | Editor of Celebrant Led
Values: Inclusive | Sustainable | Reliable
Vibe: Warm, fun and friendly… if Jane McDonald did weddings!
Superpower: I know weddings inside out, you and your wedding are in very safe hands.
Training: International College of Professional Celebrants
Location: Yorkshire, Lancashire, Cumbria + Destination
Fee: 2027 £995 | 2028 £1095
Venue Favourites: Wennington Hall, Grantley Hall, Falcon Manor, Eaves Hall, Denton Reserve, Ponden Mill Weddings, Holmes Mill, The Tempest Arms, Broughton Hall, Riversdale Park, Eight at Gazegill, The Tithe Barn, The Devonshire Arms
Master Storyteller
Let’s be honest: nobody wants a wedding where the guests are staring at their watches, wondering when the fun bit starts. I’m an ICPC trained Independent Celebrant, and with my background as a luxury Wedding Manager, I know weddings inside out!
I don't do templates, and I certainly don't do boring. I take your vibe, values, personalities and love story, I edit out the fluff, and deliver the most important scene of your life with heart and soul.
The Full Main Character Experience
Working across Yorkshire, Lancashire, Cumbria, and beyond. I’ll write a bespoke ceremony from scratch that sounds and feels exactly like you, I manage the energy of the room, and weave your love story into a modern celebration where you two get the main character energy.
Expect happy tears, laughter, and the peace of mind that comes from having a wedding pro at the helm.
The Expert Script Writing Service
Have you asked a friend or family member to officiate, only to realise they’re now waking up in a cold sweat and considering spending thousands of pounds on celebrancy training? Don't let them wing it.
As a freelance wedding writer, I’ll craft the entire ceremony for you. I’ll provide the bespoke ceremony, the flow, and the vital prompts that us wedding professional know, so your bestie can deliver the goods without the panic.
Katie is also the Editor in Chief of Celebrant Led, where she freely shares her extensive wedding knowledge and showcases the best suppliers and venues for modern, celebrant led weddings.
What couples say…
“⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Katie was nothing short of perfect. From the very beginning she took the time to truly get to know us, not just our story but who we are as people, and somehow turned that into the most beautiful, heartfelt ceremony we could ever have imagined. She told our love story in a way that was magical, personal, and so us that it felt like she had known us our whole lives. Every single guest told us how special and unique it was, and many were moved to tears. Katie’s warmth, kindness and talent made the heart of our wedding day unforgettable. We will treasure those words forever. I could not recommend her more highly. She does not just create ceremonies, she creates memories you will hold in your heart for a lifetime. ”
“⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ The biggest THANK YOU!!
We were lucky enough to have Katie marry us two weeks ago, and from the very beginning she was absolutely amazing. She took the time to really get to know us, even coming to our home, and created a ceremony that was so personal and meaningful. She beautifully included our daughter, told our love story in such a special way, and made sure every single detail was perfect.
The ceremony was more incredible than we could have ever imagined – heartfelt, relaxed, and completely us. We honestly couldn’t have wished for anything better. Choosing a celebrant-led ceremony was the best decision we made, and we’re so grateful to Katie for giving us memories we’ll treasure forever. Thank you!
The Barstows 💕”
“⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Katie was absolutely wonderful she not only wrote us a beautiful and special ceremony but she helped us make sure the day ran smoothly, supported our planning, helped keep us calm and content and made us feel so at ease. Everyone complimented our ceremony and we completely know why. It was perfect. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Katie to anyone looking for a personalised ceremony. ”
So you found the perfect venue! What do you do next?
You’ve just got engaged! What should you book first? Where to start?
The moment you’ve been waiting for has finally arrived — someone popped the question, and you said yes! Now the excitement of planning your dream wedding begins, a day you may have thought about for years. But before diving into the details, it’s essential to sit down with your partner to establish your budget and timeline, do you want to get married in Summer, or off season when it’s usually cheaper? It used to be tradition to get married on Saturdays, but the covid backlog changed that and couples get married on any day now and you may pick up a Monday - Thursday bargain.
Once that’s set, here are the first six things in my opinion as a former wedding venue manager that you should book to kick-start your wedding planning adventure!
One top tip - don’t choose New Years Day, it sounds romantic with a new year to have your new start together as a married couple, but in reality your guests turn up hungover and asking around for painkillers, trust me it’s not a vibe handing out hangover kits pre ceremony!
1. The Wedding Venue
This is the biggie! Your wedding venue sets the date for your entire celebration. But then you have to decide what kind of a celebration you want.
Are you dreaming of a festival vibe with a teepee adorned with fairy lights, or would you prefer the elegance of a stately home, a luxury hotel venue or a cozy village hall?
Maybe you’re a nature lover and envision an outdoor wedding in the summer, overlooking a serene lake, or perhaps you’re lucky enough to have a relative with a fabulous garden to host your special day.
For those of you with a sense of adventure, why not consider a destination wedding on a beach, where you can say “I do” barefoot in the sand?
Or if you and your partner are thrill-seekers, imagine an exhilarating wedding abseiling off a cliff (my friends at Lost Earth Adventures could assist with this) or an adventurous ceremony being winched down to the foot of Gaping Gill!
And let’s not forget about transportation as locations for your ceremony, you could marry on a vintage steam train, or sailing down the canal on a barge? The possibilities are endless!
2. Time Off Work
You’d be surprised how many couples forget to set reminders to book their annual leave! Make sure you take the time off as soon as possible to enjoy the lead-up to your big day. And don't forget to tell family and friends to save the date — they’ll want to mark it on their calendars!
3. Me!
The sooner you book, the sooner I can get to know you both and begin to craft your story. www.celebrantled.com
4. Legal Registration
Book a simple 2+2 legal registration at your local Register Office to take care of the legal side of things. This step is crucial to ensure everything is official, save your personal vows and the exchanging of wedding rings for your ceremony in front of loved ones.
5. Wedding Insurance
This might seem like an afterthought, but trust me, wedding insurance is a must-have! You wouldn’t believe the amount of panicked calls I’ve received from brides dealing with unexpected mishaps — everything from broken bones to last-minute emergencies with poorly parents. Protecting your investment will give you peace of mind leading up to the big day.
6. Photographer
Finally, securing a talented photographer is essential. The best photographers get booked up quickly, so don’t leave this one to the last minute! I used to manage a wedding team and have a wealth of contacts in the industry. If you need recommendations, just let me know! Some of my personal favorites include Hayley Baxter, Lisa Kershaw, and Vivienne Edge — each of whom captures the magic of weddings beautifully.
With these six essentials in place, you’ll be well on your way to planning the wedding of your dreams. 🍾 🥂 Let’s toast to love, laughter, and happily ever after!