A Pic'n'Mix Proposal

This is one for all the sweet tooth's out there...
www.candy-buffets.co.uk


Specialists in all things sweet, Candy Buffet can supply you with a number of delightful super tasty extra's for your wedding. My personal favourite being the Candy Buffet itself. Candy Buffets start at £220 and can be personalised to your wedding theme, colour and taste preferences. Check out this amazing purple buffet below.

Furthermore Candy Buffet provide an 'Unique wedding experience' package that lets you choose exactly what you want from your big day. They offer a giant pic n mix stand (as shown below) that comes packed full with 20 varieties of your favourite sweet, 500 pic n mix bags,a full evening of picking time and a professional uniformed member of staff to help with your sweet selection. Candy Buffet will also arrange a full set up service on the day so you don't need to worry about a thing.

The fun doesn't end there, candy buffet can also offer chocolate fountains, sweet centre pieces, popcorn carts,candy floss hire and a large selection of cute wedding favours.

This really is sweet heaven!!

Check out their website from the link at the top of the page.

A xxx

Wedding Dresses 2011

As the end of 2011 comes near, it is hard not to look back at the year gone by. It is with this in mind that I started thinking about my favourite dress of 2011. There have been some very beautiful and grand dresses during 2011. Kate Middleton and Abbey Clancy to name just two. The dress for the Royal wedding was just perfect for the occasion as it was regal and elegant.
However I have to say my favourite dress of this year goes to Nancy Shevell. The new Mrs McCartney looked simply stunning.

www.zimbio.com

Nancy, an American Heiress, looked lovely in her knee length dress. But with her new daughter in law being Stella McCartney, there was no chance of her not looking wonderful.

I know this dress wouldn't be everyones choice due to its simplicity. But I adore it because of that. It suited the bride and the venue and was a perfect choice. By far, my favourite celebrity dress of 2011.

I am looking forward to seeing what 2012 will bring ....

Laura xx

I am Staggered!

I have just found a great website that I need to a share with you all! http://www.iamstaggered.com/ is the best resource I have found for the man in your life. It is quite literally jam packed with all information they will need for the big day.

The tips start right from the proposal. Men can be guided on how to design their own ring and also how to pop the question at Christmas which might just come in handy this time of year.

Iamstaggered also offers money saving advice, tips on the very best Stag Do and Honeymoon advice. Every man getting wed should read this as it can guide them at every step of they way. Genius!

Laura xx

Mini Treats

Surprise your guests with Miniature Cakes!


Miniature wedding cakes are a great way to give your guests a little token of your special day to show your thanks and appreciation. 


Save the hassle of cutting the cake and have these elegant delights, boxed and ready for your wedding party to take away with them.


They also make perfect favours that can easily be tailor made to suit your wedding theme/colours and lets face it... everyone loves cake!


Available from a number of cake shops including http://www.thecakeparlour.com/ as shown below.

Alternatively why not try making them yourselves?

Bake a sponge cake and use circular cake cutters to cut out your miniature treats. Stick together with butter icing and decorate with Royal icing as your please. Simple but very effective.

Ayesha xxx

Inspire Me



www,inspiremedesigns.co.uk

 As well as wonderful creative invites http://inspiremedesigns.co.uk/ also offer post box hire. This will be a real talking point at your wedding and will mean that guests will be in no doubt as to where to post their cards.

This post box can be hired in Surrey, Berkshire and Hampshire and a personalised front panel is provided too.

This is a great idea and also means that any monetary gifts guests might want to post will be safe and secure.

At just £35, the hire is a bargain!

Laura xx

A fairytale Wedding by Alfred Angelo

Have you always dreamed of a fairy tale wedding?


Check out the new Alfred Angelo Disney Fairy Tale collection at
www.alfredangelo.com/disney/


Alfred Angelo have teamed up with Disney for this fantastic Princess inspired Bridal Gown collection. These stunning gowns come in sizes 0 - 30 (USA) and prices range from $599-$1199.
Available online now!

Daydreaming of Summer.....

I know Christmas is looming, but with snow on its way, I am already thinking of the summer/ If you are planning a summer wedding, then have a look at the below for some inspiration.

If you want some alternative seating for your guests then why not make them totally beach-worthy and go for deckchairs. http://www.deckchairhire.com/ Your guests can then relax in style and they will give you the beach theme you are after.

For a sweet treat then Vintage Scoops is simply perfect! http://www.vintagescoops.co.uk/home.html Betty - the ice cream van- will arrive at your event in all her vintage glory. The variety of flavours are fab (mine choice would be banana and butterscotch) and Betty will also serve classic drinks and retro lollies.

For novelty place card holders then these flip flops fit the bill! http://www.kateaspen.co.uk/beachcombers-flip-flop-placecard-holders.html Quirky and cute they will add to your beach theme - even if the sea is nowhere to be seen....

Finally, I adore the Pirate Cupcakes and Mermaid cake from http://www.happy-cakes.co.uk/index.php?/specialoccasions/cat/main_page/ They will suit both the Bride and Groom and will be a talking point amongst your guests. Perfect for a beach theme and will add a splash of fun to your day!

Laura xx

Amado on Twitter

For the latest tips, news and tweets please follow me on Twitter - www.twitter.com

My username is @amado_laurac and my lovely fellow planner Ayesha, username @amado_ayesha

Thank you!

Laura xx

Breaking Dawn and Twilight Fever

For all of you Twilight fans out there, this one is for you. If like me you waited in anticipation to see Bella and Edward get married then I have to say, we weren't disappointed. The wedding in the movie is beautiful and so was Bella's gown. The dress worn in the film was by Caroline Herrara and her shoes, Manolo Blahnik. But fear not if these are out of your budget as a replica of the dress has already been created. Alfred Angelo have the gown in stores already and the price is just $799.  Follow these links to see the gown in all its glory. http://www.alfredangelo.com/events/promo.aspx?promoid=39 and http://www.alfredangelo.com/collections/styles/8400 The detail down the back of this gown is stunning and is a fantastic copy of the dress for all you Twi-Hards (including me!)

For full wedding details of the Breaking Dawn nuptials then take a look at http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-2064849/How-look-like-wedding-Bella--799-replica-Breaking-Dawn-gown-hits-stores-just-days-movie-release.html and you can recreate this. Although their budget was thought to be close to $50,00, so you may need to make a few changes if you want to copy the movie style wedding.

Laura xx

Sample Sale

Few can resist 70% off so I had to share this with you.

Anna Mcdonald Bridal is having a Sample Sale!! http://www.anna-mcdonald.com/ Anna stocks some absolutely beautiful dresses, so keep your eyes peeled for your dream dress at a dream price.
Entry is free to the event and Anna Mcdonald can take card payments on the day, so be prepared.

Along with the wonderful dresses, there will also be free wine tasting and various workshops throughout the day. The event is also raising money for Cancer Research, which in my eyes makes it even better.  Bag yourself your "something old" as former brides sell on their treasured wedding items and the "something borrowed" section, where you can borrow ideas from other weddings.

Address: The Tally Ho Hotel, Ploughley Road, Arncott, Bicester, Oxfordshire OX25 1NY
10.30 -3pm

Enjoy xx

Christmas

Yummy!

Christmas is on its way, it's official. The red cups are now in Starbucks and that's my official marker in the run up to Christmas. Just over 6 weeks away, it is time to prepare. I have even baked my first batch of mince pies, as a test run ofcourse! I feel I need more practice, but my first attempt was quite tasty.

If you are having a Christmas wedding, there is still time to add those little touches to wedding that will make it full of the Festive spirit.

House of Fraser

Christmas decoration departments are a great place to start looking for those finishing touches. There are lots of lovely decorations around and lots which would easily fit into your wedding day. This one I found in House of Fraser is a bargin at £4 and is a really great statement piece. www.houseoffraser.co.uk This would look good on your guest book table as it is slightly larger than the average Christmas decoration. It would also be a great addition to a sweety table, nestled amongst vintage jars of sweet treats.



Paperchase Crackers



Fish charm and joke!



As cute and quirky favours, then take a look at these mini crackers from Paperchase. www.paperchase.co.uk/. They are really bright and are emblazoned with the message "I Love Xmas". Inside are silver plated charms and the usual cheesy joke. They would make great favours for your female guests, who would then have a trinket they can keep and treasure.



If you don't want the traditional Christmas fruit cake but want a festive cake, then this one from Marks and Spencers is perfect. http://www.marksandspencer.com/Marks-and-Spencer-Daisy-Four-Tier/dp/B002962SNA?ie=UTF8&ref=sr_1_38&nodeId=80083031&sr=1-38&qid=1320788992 It is available as a chocolate or plain sponge and is iced to look like a very appetising present.

Finally don't forget to relax in the build up to your big day. Treat yourself to this lovely set from Philosophy as an early Christmas present. http://www.selfridges.com/en/Beauty/Categories/Bath-body/Bath-shower/Here-Comes-the-Bride-gift-set_475-2000487-00641238/ Indulge yourself and enjoy a nice long bath.

Laura xx



Label Lust

While the focus will be on the Bride's dress, please don't forget the shoes! A striking pair of shoes under your dress can create a great quirky addition to your outfit.

I currently love these fabulous Miu Miu pumps. A pure indulgence, but they are fabulous. Check them out http://www.net-a-porter.com/product/172079.

But if your budget doesn't quite stretch then don't worry too much. There are some great high street versions out there too for a fraction of the price. These are my favourite from the high street http://www.dune.co.uk/whirl-glitter-platform-court-prodwhirld90silver/ and they are a really version.

Laura xx

On the Run....

It goes without question that all brides (and grooms) want to look their best on the big day. Your photos last a lifetime and your full attention goes into every detail of your big day. If you feel like you want to get into shape for your wedding then you might be starting to feel some pressure. But fear not, however close you are to your big day, getting in shape is easier than you think.


I'm not a bride to be myself but I have had a recent change of pace when it comes to keeping fit. The first thing I did to kick start my new regime was to quit the gym. Slightly back to front I know but it worked for me. In all honesty, I never went to the gym and not going was costing me £35 a month. With the money I saved I bought a Nike+ Sportband http://nikerunning.nike.com/nikeos/p/nikeplus/en_GB/ and it's one of the best things I have ever purchased. It is great to track your progress and keep you motivated. If you need an inspirational video to watch, check out Ellie Goulding on the Nike website. She is a great advert for running and how to look uber cool whilst doing it. I have to say I do not quite achieve that level of cool as I pound the pavement clad in fluorescent pink but it is the taking part that counts!


I run with my friend Charlotte and we have both caught the running bug. Our first race was Race for Life and next up is our Halloween fun run dressed as cats. I would highly recommend getting a running buddy or joining a club. As the evening get darker, it is important to keep safe and not run on your own. A buddy will also make sure you don't quit after the initial few weeks enthusiasm has worn off.  Check out www.joggingbuddy.com for tips and help in finding a fellow runner.


My new regime however is not exercise alone. I have also joined Slimming World www.slimmingworld.com I have lost over a stone through the plan and exercise and I cannot recommend it enough. I have finally found a diet that allows you to eat as much as you like and where treats are still allowed. It has really worked for me and is a plan I will now stick to and keep those pounds at bay.


I am not saying however that you must join Slimming World and start running marathons to be the perfect blushing bride. You simply need to find a routine and exercise that suits you. Whether it's Zumba, tennis or swimming, just make sure you enjoy it. This will make it easier to stick to and keep you going. As you see results and others notice your new figure you will have the boost you need to help you achieve your goal.


Good Luck!! xxxx

Pretty Pastels

Check out these great pastel coloured nail varnishes from budget brand Barry M. They're fresh colours without being too bold or bright. Mint Green, Strawberry and Peach Melba might be too colourful for the bride, but don't forget your bridesmaids!

If you can't afford to pay for your maids to get their nails done (and neither maybe can they!) then why not treat them to some fun colours. Create small gift bags including a varnish in a colour that will go with their dress. Pop in some other fun manicure accessories so they can do it themselves and have neat and tidy nails for your big day. This will be a nice treat for them and will avoid any questions on what colour they should go for - especially if you want them all to match!

Laura xx

Really Retro

There is no denying that vintage is a lovely, pretty trend. However those of you with a slightly quirkier edge, may prefer things a little more retro.

Retro is a much bolder colour palette and has a naturally fun side to it. There are many things that you can do to ensure your day has a retro theme and you can embrace as little or as much as you like!

Retro sweets are great to have out for guests to pick on during the

evening. Fill jars with a selection of sweets and provide metal scoops and sweet shop bags for guests to fill. For full on retro think coconut mushrooms, dolly mixtures and cola cubes! A great place to source these is www.aquarterof.co.uk/ and try Amazon for the scoops and bags.

For refreshments, classic mini glass coca cola bottles are perfect. Iconic in design, they will instantly add a touch of old school to your day. You can find these easily in most supermarkets. To complete the look add red and white stripe paper straws from www.papermash.co.uk/ The red stripes sit perfectly with the cola bottles and will help keep your guests refreshed. To make them even more perfect, they are biodegradable for the environmentally conscious couple. Papermash also supply a great range of products to help you get creative. Think printed tape and party banners to name but a few. Also check out their *free* section for some great craft ideas - including one which uses the fabulous straws.

For your menus - take a look at these great cute postcards I have found in Paperchase.

At just 60p each they are great value and will add a splash of colour to the tables. Simply type up your menu and stick to the back for a quick and effective way of displaying your menu.Party Pieces - www.partypieces.co.uk have some great place card holders which you can use to display these.

Finally if you want to give your guests a hint of your theme then you can invite them with a wedding tea towel! The designs at www.weddingteatowels.co.uk/ are truly wonderful and each design is classic and quirky. Whilst they are not the cheapest option for wedding stationery they are individual and can be made especially for you with their bespoke service .They can  also be kept by guests and cost just one Large Letter stamp to post out.

Laura xx

Wedding Cake Alternatives

As you will learn as you read this blog, two of my very best friends are getting married! So whilst I aim to provide advice for all brides, there may be a slight bias towards my two favourite brides to be.

Claire is due to marry my cousin, so is also becoming family with her upcoming nuptials and is the inspiration for my first blog. Claire is gluten intolerant and I want to show you that this is no reason not to still have a fabulous cake.

There are bakeries which will create a gluten free version of a traditional wedding cake. Most good bakers will offer a gluten free alternative to their usual recipes. I found some great examples at

www.bespokebakery.co.uk/ and www.maisiefantaisie.co.uk/ . The cakes of of Maisie Fantaisie are the cakes many brides dream of! With a cake like this, you would be following in the steps of Chelsea Clinton - she reportedly had a five tier gluten free wedding cake.

However if Maisie Fantaisie is a little out of budget with their couture creations, don't dismiss them entirely. Take a look at www.cupcakewrappers.com/. These would be a great choice for those couples who wanted to venture into the realms of homemade. Their inspiration gallery will provide you with some delightful ideas for some really special cupcakes. Their wrapper designs vary from quirky and retro to cute and romantic, so there will be something to suit every taste.

If homemade isn't your first option then why not try www.glutenfreedelices.co.uk/. Here you will find some lovely gluten free cakes. Fairy cakes jewelled with glace cherries, heart shaped chocolate brownies and chocolate cupcakes to name but a few. Why not use a variety of these cakes to create a fete style cake stall. This is great way of incorporating a selection of cakes and also keeps the costs down.

Meringues are a great alternative to cakes for those who are gluten free (or who have gluten free guests). There are some lovely miniatures at www.theminiaturebakery.com/ . These are bite size and totally delicious! If you don't want these as a cake alternative, they could also be a cute idea as a favour for your guests. If miniature isn't quite your style, then maybe luxury dark chocolate meringues would be a better choice. www.meringues.co.uk/ offer a bespoke service and would be able to create something tailor made to your tastes.

Last, but by no means least is a French classic - the macaroon. Add a touch of Parisian glamour to proceedings with these French treats. A tower of these pastel coloured delights would make a simply fabulous cake alternative. The best of these can be found at www.laduree.fr/ www.paul-uk.com/ and www.lamaisonduchocolat.co.uk However if you fancy a trial run and an excuse to indulge, why not try www.deliciousmagazine.co.uk/recipes/multicoloured-macaroons  - you can then try to create your own centrepiece for your big day. C'est Magnifique!

Happy Planning! x