Your First Dance

Some couples love the idea of performing a well-practised routine in front of their wedding guests; others are terrified at the thought. Whether you are at one of these extremes or somewhere in between, the perfect first dance can be yours. Here is some advice from www.weddingpath.co.uk

Our Song. Before anything else you need to choose 'your song'. Most couples pick first-dance music that is special to them: perhaps a song they listened to when they first met, or a romantic ditty that reflects their feelings for each other. Other choices could be music that fits with the theme of your wedding, or perhaps a lighthearted tune that mirrors your personalities and will make your wedding guests chuckle. There’s nothing wrong with a funny first dance!

Know the lyrics. Before you make your final choice of first dance song, be sure to listen to – and preferably also read – the words of the song. It’s amazing how many romantic-sounding songs turn out to be less appropriate than you might think. For example, couples have been known to choose 'Every Breath You Take' by The Police – allegedly about a stalker – or 'Perfect Day' by Lou Reed, about the singer’s heroin habit. 

Chat to your wedding DJ. If you are having a DJ play your first dance, make sure they have the song in their collection. This should be discussed well in advance, as should the rest of the evening's play list. 

Having a wedding band or singer? If you’re hoping your wedding band will play your first dance song, don’t automatically assume that they are familiar with the track you want, or will be willing to learn it. You should also consider whether the line-up of the band works for the song you have chosen. For example, if you are having a jazz quartet, they may not be able to play Aerosmith's 'Don't Wanna Miss A Thing'.
Classical musicians? If you are having a classical group, the musicians will probably be able to sight-read most pieces of music. However, you should discuss your requirements in advance as even good sight-readers will sound better if they have rehearsed the song.
Practise makes perfect. Of course, it’s not all about the song itself; your guests will be watching your dance intently. It’s fine just to sway gently to your chosen song, but it’s still worth having a practice beforehand. Couples who are a little more ambitious could always take a few dance lessons. Many dance teachers do special lessons for couples getting married. Another fun option is to have a dance teacher or two come to your wedding and give everyone lessons. You can start the evening with a group lesson and, when you are warmed up and the ice is broken, clear the floor and start your first dance.

Timing matters. Everyone’s wedding is different and there’s no right or wrong point in the reception to schedule your first dance. However, as with every aspect of wedding planning, it’s a good idea to think carefully about when the first dance best fits in to your wedding, rather than adding it as an afterthought. You should also make sure that there is an announcement just before the dance so that guests won’t miss out or chat throughout the whole thing. 

First dance favourites

Sonny & Cher - I Got You Babe
Stevie Wonder - You Are The Sunshine Of My Life
Robbie Williams - Angel
Frank Sinatra - I Get A Kick Out Of You
Harry Connick Jr - It Had To Be You
Bryan Adams - Everything I Do (I Do It For You)
Madness - It Must Be Love
Lonestar - Amazed
Van Morrison - Have I Told You Lately
Sade - Your Love Is King
Beatles - Something
James Blunt - You're Beautiful
Frank Sinatra - As Time Goes By
Savage Garden - Truly Madly Deeply
Elvis Presley - Can't Help Falling in Love
Take That - How Deep Is Your Love
Whitney Houston - I Will Always Love You

If you would like Kliq Weddings to cover your Video and Photography of your Wedding then please visit our website at: www.kliqweddings.co.uk to find out how we can help you.

Wedding Car Tips

Deciding on the right wedding car can be a tricky business. Philip Nunn of First Impressions Cars outlines some of the points to consider, whether you favour the romance of a Rolls-Royce, the authenticity of a true vintage car or the modernity of a stretch limousine.

Get it in writing

As with all transport arrangements, make sure what you'll get is specified in writing to avoid mix-ups on the day. You should also ask for a copy of the company's Terms and Conditions, and pay particular attention to distance and time constraints - if you opt for a limousine, in which journey times will be similar to those for a normal car, you'll usually be allocated a specified time slot, with the possibility that the car will be used for more than one wedding on the day.

With a vintage car, by contrast, chances are the company in question will not attend more than one wedding per day. You should, however, remember that journey times can be much slower than in a normal car. You should also take into account any particularly arduous hills, tight bends or islands, speed bumps or narrow lanes. Generally speaking, vintage cars can cope with all of the above, but it's better for the hire company if they are known about beforehand!

What's in a name?

Make sure you know exactly what you're getting. For example, many companies hire out 'vintage-style' or 'classic-style' cars. These are modern vehicles styled to look like they are of a certain age. Decide whether you're happy with this, or if you have your heart set on the tradition and romance of a true vintage or classic car.

Make sure what you'll get is specified in writing to avoid mix-ups on the wedding day.

Your driver

Your driver should be presentable, professional and experienced. You might want to check whether they have any relevant qualification such as Advanced Driving training, and you should definitely ask what they’ll be wearing on the day – our drivers wear a suit and tie, along with a professional chauffeur's cap and gloves, but we've seen weddings where the driver turns up in jumper and jeans!

Bad weather

Check what will happen in the event of foul weather - especially if you're hiring an open-top vehicle. Umbrellas are sometimes provided by the company, so check before you go and buy your own. If there's any chance of the weather being cold on your big day, remember to ask if the vehicle you've chosen is heated. The majority of vintage vehicles are not, so find out if blankets or wraps will be provided if needed.

Travel in Comfort

To be sure there's enough space for you to travel comfortably in the vehicle you choose, view it in advance (don’t just rely on a photo) - and take into account that wedding attire can take up a lot of room! Also bear in mind that, although a company might state that certain vehicles seat six or more, in reality, conditions might be cramped with any more than four or five passengers travelling.

Little Details

Don't forget to ask about the special touches that can add so much to your wedding day. For example, does the company provide wedding decoration for their cars, and if so, can this be customised to match your colour scheme? Does champagne come as part of the package, or is this only upon request? What's the company's policy on throwing confetti in the vehicle? These might seem like trivial matters, but if they bring a smile to your face, they’re important!

If you would like Kliq Weddings to cover your Video and Photography of your Wedding then please visit our website at: www.kliqweddings.co.uk to find out how we can help you.

Wedding Fayre!

Layer Marney Tower Wedding Fayre

Sunday 22 January, 2012

Layer Marney Tower Wedding Fayre will be held on Sunday 22nd January from 11.00am to 4.00pm

Come and see our stand and get a great quote for your Wedding Video and Photos!


http://www.kliqweddings.co.uk 

http://www.markammonphotography.co.uk – Leading Essex/UK Wedding Photographer

http://www.vintagethemewedding.co.uk/ - Everything you need to organise and plan your Vintage or Theme Wedding!

Groom's Speech Ideas!

The first point is don’t panic! That’s the Best Man’s job! Standing up in front of a room full of people is very daunting but from our experience of listening to many speeches over the years we have put together a list of do’s and don’ts to help you on your way.

• It doesn’t have to be funny! Leave that to your Best Man. It doesn’t hurt to put in some humour but don’t take it to far!
• Your speech should be heartfelt and sincere and be full of how wonderful and beautiful your new bride looks.
• Thank the guests for coming and for the people who have played key roles in organising the Wedding.
• Thank the Brides Father for his speech.
• Don’t insult your new mother in law with some of those wonderful jokes that we all know!
• Include a story about how you and your new wife met and when you realised she was the girl you wanted to spend the rest of your life with.
• Thank your best man for everything he is done for you over the years and if you have a funny story about him you may want to throw it in! After say how much you are looking forward to his speech.
• Number 1 rule: BE YOURSELF!!

If you would like Kliq Weddings to cover your Video and Photography of your Wedding then please visit our website at: www.kliqweddings.co.uk to find out how we can help you.

http://www.kliqweddings.co.uk

http://www.markammonphotography.co.uk – Leading Essex/UK Wedding Photographer

http://www.vintagethemewedding.co.uk/ - Everything you need to organise and plan your Vintage or Theme Wedding!

Winter Wedding Tips!

Winter weddings can have lashings of atmosphere and, with lots of preparation, be presented as a truly magical event. Here are some tips for the perfect winter wedding day from www.hitched.co.uk.

Winter decorations

According to Nick Bolton, founder and director of The Christmas Decorators, between November and January venues should offer a ready-made festive atmosphere.

Winter may be a theme in itself, but Nick advises going a step further: "Over the years we’ve created everything from a winter wonderland to Christmas in New York. If you want a colour theme, silver and green are the festive colours for 2011 with coffee browns and creams also popular."

Nick suggests adding festive treats, such as candy canes, to table décor and says fairy lights look great over windows and arches. "Scented candles truly set the mood," he adds. "And festive decorations such as silver bells, mini Christmas trees, snowflakes and pine cones also set an evocative scene."

Winter photography

Stunning images by Kliq Weddings show how striking winter ceremonies can look on camera.

You should aim for an early ceremony so there’s time to take photos before the light fades also brides could invest in a faux fur jacket or stole to keep warm between shots.

It’s also sensible to choose a venue with an amazing well-lit space inside for photos, in case snow, rain or ice forces you indoors. A Christmas tree can make a lovely backdrop - but remember you’ll be looking at the photos all year round, so do pose in a more neutral, but equally beautiful, spot too.

Winter transport

If you need to get to the church on time, Graeme Fillmore of Morse Cars suggests checking that your car hire company has a contingency plan in place. "Classic cars aren’t always suitable if the roads are very icy, but a good firm will offer a replacement vehicle to cope with the climate," he says.

Graeme says a well-maintained wedding car should run well through the winter, but advises brides to carry a stole, jacket or blanket on very cold days as vintage cars don’t always have powerful heating systems.

He also advises against white cars: "A white wedding car splashed with mud loses its glamour. Silver and dark classic cars look particularly stunning in winter wedding photography as they are so reflective."

Winter fashion

The perfect winter wedding dress is super-stylish with practical elements to keep you warm. If you wear a short dress, consider chic tights or stockings so you won’t be goose-pimply. Faux fur also gives you license to choose an elegant bandeau or spaghetti-strapped dress and still keep your shoulders under wraps when you’re outside.

Shoe-wise, Emmy Scarterfield from Emmy Shoes says winter weddings are synonymous with sparkle and decadence: "I’d suggest closed toe shoes with an embellishment such as a dramatic feather or crystal fan. Winter brides often choose our suede Elizabeth shoe with silver leather trim and ivory crystal detail."

Emmy advises brides to protect suede or leather shoes with a good quality spray and to buy a pair of white wellies to wear outside if the snow is heavy. "Hair decorations and sparkle bring out colour in the eyes," Emmy adds. "This works well in winter when the skies are grey. Try a velvet headband decorated with crystals, or a large feather and beaded comb."

Winter wedding guests

Unlike summer, when everyone can mingle on the lawn, keeping winter wedding guests happy requires a little extra planning.

"Think about their arrival," says wedding planner Bernadette Chapman from Dream Occasions. “Make sure that paths have been de-iced, and if it’s raining, make sure people have umbrellas. Check there are mats for people to wipe their feet on, otherwise they could slip in the church, and ask well in advance about heating facilities at your church and/or venue.

"Because it’s winter you can get creative with food and drinks to keep your guests smiling," Bernadette adds "To keep things elegant, create fabulous cocktails with seasonal fruits and spices, or serve hot drinks like mulled wine and hot toddies to warm everyone up"

Bernadette also reminds brides not to neglect their bridesmaids: "If you’re putting them in skimpy dresses, choose a warm and elegant shawl to keep them cosy – you don’t want any chattering teeth to spoil the ceremony!"

If you would like Kliq Weddings to cover your Video and Photography of your Wedding then please visit our website at: www.kliqweddings.co.uk to find out how we can help you.

50 Money Saving Tips For Your Wedding Day

50 Money Saving Tips from http://www.ukweddingbelles.com

The word wedding seems to have a huge price tag attached to it, but it really doesn't have to be that way. If you spend time thinking what you really want for your big day and finding the right vendors to make that happen, you can slash the cost of your wedding without losing out on the things that are important to you.

1) Plan ahead. If you get started early, you’ll have the time and flexibility to shop sales, cut coupons, do-it-yourself and comparison shop.

2) Get married during the wintertime, but not around the Christmas festivities. You’ll have your choice of venues and the low demand for weddings in this season will help keep your costs down. Avoid getting hitched around Valentines day as this drives up the cost of flowers, diamonds and other wedding expenditures.

3) Consider hiring a wedding planner. Wedding planners may seem like an unnecessary cost, but depending on the size of your wedding, they may be able to save you money by using their connections and knowledge of the industry.

4) Get married on a Sunday or a Friday. This will help you cut costs across the board.

5) Buy decorative lights on sale after Christmas. If you’re planning on decorating with string lights, pick them up dirt cheap at after-Christmas sales.

6) Check out after-Valentine’s Day sales. You’ll be able to buy lots of candy favors, heart decorations and other wedding supplies at a fraction of the cost. This is especially beneficial if your wedding’s colours are pink or red.

7) Have everything at one site. Have your ceremony and reception at the same place to save on hire fees, transportation, décor and other costs.

8) Hire a private room at a restaurant. Private restaurant rooms tend to be cheaper than hotel ballrooms as well as more intimate.

9) Announce your save-the-date by email or phone call. If you’ve set your date far in advance or on a busy weekend, you may want to send out a save-the-date announcement. Of course, these cards are an added expense. Instead of paying for paper, printing and postage, send your announcement via email or just pick up the phone to let everyone know.

10) Print your own invitations. There are a multitude of programs and paper packages that allow you to create your own invitations. Use one to save money as well as make your invites more personal.

11) It doesn't have to be a “wedding” dress. Check out bridesmaid, and department store dresses. You may be able to find a dress at a fraction of the cost. Or search for once worn or unwanted dresses on our classified section and google search.

12) Wear someone else’s gown. Ask your mother, grandmother or other family member if she’ll let you wear her dress. She will be honoured that you asked, and you can’t get cheaper than free. Remember, though, that you will probably need to have it altered.

13) Shop sample sales. You can find a designer dress for less if you hit sample sales. Sales are usually held during the winter and summer months.

14) Do your own hair and makeup. If you're not planning on doing something complicated and ornate. Look to wedding magazines for ideas and instructions, then try it out yourself. Remember to practice your style at least once before your wedding day to make sure things will go smoothly.

15) Buy a dress that fits now. Many brides plan on losing weight before they get married and buy a too-small dress for motivation. However, this strategy can set you up for disaster if you don’t make it to your goal weight. Buy a dress that fits now, then have it altered when you lose the weight. It’s always cheaper to take in a dress than to let it out.

16) You don’t need to spend lots of money on wedding jewellery. Chances are that someone in your family has something nice for you to wear on your big day. This saves you money and also takes care of finding “something borrowed.”

17) Rent the suits. Chances are your husband-to-be won’t need to wear the suit on a regular basis. Instead of buying one, hire it or just get a nice suit that he’ll be able to wear again.

18) Carry a single stem instead of a bouquet. A simple and elegant single stem can make just as strong a statement as a large bouquet. You’ll save money on both flowers and your florist’s labour by doing this.

19) Candles can usually be purchased for less than flowers, so use them to your advantage. Use fewer flowers, then put the spotlight on them with candles.

20) Use fashionable trends such as Rustic and Shabby Chic to create a modern vintage look at a small price.

21) Choose in-season, locally grown flowers: Flowers that don’t have to be flown in will be significantly cheaper.

22) Silk flowers are generally cheaper than real ones, plus you won’t have to worry about keeping them alive. That means you can buy them months in advance and shop for sales.

23) Give your florist a colour scheme, not particular flowers. Allow your florist flexibility so that they can pick out the most affordable flowers for your colour scheme. Remember to provide a list of flowers that you want to avoid.

24) Simple centrepieces: Don’t go overboard with a huge, expensive centrepiece that takes up half of the table. Keep your centrepieces simple and cheap, like a pretty bowl filled with water and floating candles.

25) Buy and cook your own food. If you’re having a small wedding it may be possible to achieve this. Buy in bulk and make preparation a fun, family affair.

26) Forget dessert, just serve wedding cake. Some caterers will add a dessert course to your reception menu, but when you’re serving wedding cake, it’s just not necessary.

27) Buffets instead of a sit down meal will always work out cheaper and will ensure that people with special dietary requirements are catered for.

28) Serve seasonal, local food. Like flowers, food tends to be cheaper if it doesn’t have to be flown in or extensively preserved.

29) Select a venue that lets you bring in your own catering and alcohol. A separate caterer may be able to give you a better deal than what’s offered at the venue.

30) Cupcakes instead of cake. Instead of paying a baker to construct a multi-tiered cake, consider doing a more economical cupcake tree.

31) Hire an individual instead of a bakery for your cake. Individual bakers have lower overheads and often make cakes as a fun side job.

32) Source independent wedding suppliers for practically everything you need. The final price will be much cheaper than High Street shops and there is much more attention to detail and personal service. Use our Wedding Directory, search on Google and our supplier contacts on Twitter to find vendors.

33) Make your own wine. Some vineyards allow you to make your own wine. Depending on your choice, this can cost less. For even more savings, print your own label and give extra bottles away as attendant gifts.

34) Toast with white wine instead of champagne. Champagne can get expensive, and not everyone likes the carbonation. Save money by offering a nice white wine instead.

35) Ask for a smaller package. Some vendors have a cheaper package that they don’t normally publish. You may find that it’s all you need.

36) Negotiate with vendors. Your vendor may be willing to offer you a better deal to beat out competitors.

37) Limit your videographer’s time. Ask your videographer if you can save money by only videotaping parts of the wedding, like the ceremony and first dance. That way, they don’t have to be there for more hours than necessary.

38) Get married later in the day, avoid a sit down menu and supply an evening buffet instead of two separate meals in one day.

39) Combine favors and place cards. Don’t spend money on two separate things that can be combined. Find place cards that can double as favors.

40) You can find great deals on nearly everything for your wedding online. Look for dresses, décor, silk flowers, plates and more.

41) Hit the cheap shops for plates, vases, and other supplies in your colour scheme. You can come up with cheap, eclectic decor this way.

42) Don’t mention the word “wedding” until you have to. Some venues and vendors charge a premium for them. Say it’s an event or family gathering instead and hold them to it unless they can justify extra charges.

43) Take on do-it-yourself projects. There are a few things that you can make on your own, but you may be able to think of even more that are applicable to your wedding. Just remember that DIY is not always cheaper. Research and consider the costs before you get started.

44) Keep attendant gifts simple. You don’t have to go overboard with attendant gifts. Choose something affordable but meaningful. Hand-picked books with personal notes inside, or framed photos generally work well.

45) Have a smaller wedding party. Every additional bridesmaid and groomsman means spending more on flowers, gifts, and food. Consider cutting back on attendants to save money.

46) Have a smaller wedding. Don’t feel compelled to invite your third cousin that you’ve never met. Make your wedding a small affair and you’ll spend considerably less.

47) Use a rewards credit card. If you’re going to be spending money, you might as well get something for it! Use a rewards card to get money back or earn points toward honeymoon travel. Just remember to pay on time to avoid finance charges, otherwise you might end up paying for more than you get in return.

48) Share decorating costs: See if another bride has booked your venue for the same weekend, then split costs if you can agree on any shared décor, flowers and other expenses.

49) Honeymoon in Blighty. Britain has some of the most romantic beautiful locations to stay in, at the fraction of the cost of a long haul destination.

50) Consider an intimate destination wedding. You’ll be able to slash the guest list and combine it with your honeymoon.

If you would like Kliq Weddings to cover your Video and Photography of your Wedding then please visit our website at: www.kliqweddings.co.uk to find out how we can help you.

Wedding Make Up Tips!

Whether you are a deft hand at make-up or couldn't tell a pot of camouflage cream from Creme de la Mer, you'll want to look your best on your wedding day. Here are Lauren Dunn's wedding make-up tips to guarantee you'll be the belle of the bridal party.

Make-Up Artist

The first thing you need to think about is whether you'll feel comfortable doing your own wedding make-up on the morning of your wedding. You're probably going to feel a little stressed so it might take the pressure off if you hire a professional make-up artist.

Book a Trial

If you decide to book a make-up artist, you will need to arrange a make-up trial before the big day. This is where you can take along photos and discuss make-up ideas. It's especially important you get a make-up look that suits your skin type and face shape. But don't forget to be yourself - just because it's your wedding day, that doesn't mean you have to wear loads of make-up!

Seek Advice

If you do decide to do your make-up yourself, visit a make-up counter to get some make-up ideas and advice. My favourites for wedding make-up are Bobbi Brownand Laura Mercier as both have great products that are really long-lasting, such as Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturiser and Bobbi Brown Gel Eyeliners.

Stick to What You Know

Be wary about changing your skin care regime too close to your wedding day as there's always a risk of breaking out as your skin adapts to change. Stick to the products that you have always used or go to a good beautician if you want any intensive treatment. If you are worried about break-outs, read our articles on spots and blackheads.

Drink Water

Help your skin look the best it can by drinking lots of water during the months before your big day. It sounds basic, but it really will help to keep your skin clear and your eyes bright.

If you would like Kliq Weddings to cover your Video and Photography of your Wedding then please visit our website at: www.kliqweddings.co.uk to find out how we can help you.

http://www.kliqweddings.co.uk 

First published at: http://www.channel4.com/4http://www.markammonphotography.co.uk – Leading Essex/UK Wedding Photographer
http://www.vintagethemewedding.co.uk/ - Everything you need to organise and plan your Vintage or Theme Wedding!beauty/style/weddings/wedding-make-up/20-wedding-make-up-tips