If you’ve been following my blog and social media for a while you will have seen that my daughter is planning on getting married next summer. I’ve been enjoying being part of the planning process and am starting to get a feel for what being the Mother of the Bride is all about.
So far all that’s been set is the venue and the date and of course, there are a million and one things to be chosen and planned. So my daughter and I, along with the chief bridesmaid and a close family friend decided to visit The National Wedding Show in London Olympia to get in the wedding mood and see where that would take us.
All was going well and I had the champagne bar in my sights when my phone just died…. well as a blogger that’s probably the worst thing that can happen when you’re planning on taking all the photos and tweeting about the great time you’re having. But truthfully, as Mum of the bride, it was probably the best thing to happen as I was able to spend my time on what really matters and that’s spending the time with my daughter, paying attention to what interested her and paying attention to detail.
There were so many great ideas and brands there with everything from favours to cars and dresses that caught our eye. I’ve made a note of a few of the things that stood out to me here to give you a flavour of what you might find there if you’re planning your special day. There’s another London show coming up in April at the Excel and other dates through the year around the country and you can find details here. I’m pretty sure that we’ll be going again to follow up on some of the ideas and recommendations we picked up on – oh and this time – maybe I’ll get to take some photos!
Ann’s Designer Cakes – a leading artisan cake company, and have been making cakes of distinction for over fifteen years. Some beautiful designs were on display and also there was the chance to have a cheeky taste!
Confetti Magazine – a great source of wedding inspiration – we got a free copy on entry.
Buckleigh of London – traditional, bespoke tailors specialising in the hire of top quality gentleman’s formal wear for all occasions.
David’s Bridal – the world’s largest bridal retailer with more than just wedding dresses – there’s lingerie, shoes, hair accessories, jewellery, and party dresses, too.
Doris Loves – Lots of goodies to hire including a temporary tattoo station and light up letters & words.
Eastend Wedding Cars – unique and rare cars with professional chauffeurs.
Encade – capture mages to evoke that moment, that memory – reproduced in any format
Ivana Ciabatti – Chocolate pralines selection, alcohol-free and decorated with edible gold.
Richard Ward – products from award-winning royal and celebrity hairdresser Richard Ward.
Shropshire Petals – Natural petal confetti, wheat arrangements and dried flowers
And there was so much more to see with hundreds of wedding specialists to discover. I’m sure that you’ll enjoy it as much as we did and will be inspired! We’re still in the process of planning so let me know how you’re getting on or what your experience of wedding planning was – I’d love to hear your tips!
Hazel
strandonbeauty.com 