1. Avoid the hottest months if you’re travelling to Italy to get married

August sounds nice… imagine the hazy evening sunshine over vineyards as you celebrate your wedding with al fresco dining. However – August is super hot: like, reliably and consistently VERY hot.

Avoid melting in the sunshine by choosing a wedding date in a slightly cooler month!

2. Could peak tourist season impact your Italian wedding?

The simpler answer is yes: busy airports, packed hotels and sightseers around your venue might all change the vibe of your day. Opting for a less manic time of year than high summer will feel more relaxed, so avoid school holidays (in both countries!) when booking your wedding.

David Bastianoni Photography

3. Embrace Italian charm and luxury

5 star luxury in Italy won’t be the same as it might in London; especially in rural areas and countryside destinations. High end and sought after wedding venues come with a dose of Italian charm which might not feel ‘perfect’ by UK city standards. Embrace the splendour and excellence the Italians adore their venues for; rather than expecting the same luxuries as you’d find at the Savoy.

4. Know what to expect from your destination wedding suppliers

There are some incredible Italian wedding suppliers whose work we’ve featured in our destination weddings category for years. However, Italian weddings are different, and you’re very likely to find your choice of suppliers is limited, compared to what is readily available in the UK. Michelle speaks really openly about the choice of Italian wedding suppliers on her blog:

“in Italy (particularly in the more rural or remote areas) you simply can’t expect the same variety or standard of wedding suppliers that you find in the UK, US or Australia. The wedding industry in Italy hasn’t expanded or developed at the same rate as ours, and couples often find that there are less options to choose from within a particular category (e.g. florists or make up artists).

To be clear, we’re not saying that suppliers in Italy aren’t as good as in the UK – far from it! We work with some truly world-class wedding suppliers on our couples’ celebrations in Italy, achieving incredible results with wow factor. The fact is though, there aren’t as many of them and the options for more bespoke or personal items is limited. Many of our couples choose to fly in at least some of their suppliers from the UK, as we’re often unable to meet all our requirements using solely local vendors.”

This is worth knowing, so you can relax your expectations a little and embrace the location itself perhaps, rather than breaking yourselves trying to achieve perfection or Pinterest-level wedding style for your destination wedding!

Gabriele Fani Photography

5. Supplier roles are different in Italy!

I always find this really interesting. An Italian wedding florist will often be responsible for venue styling in its entirety, providing all the hire items. Knowing supplier roles can be so different makes communication really important – and this means effective, crystal clear communication so you and all of your suppliers know exactly who will be doing what on the day.

6. Communication will be crucial every step of the way

Little things like booking processes, paying deposits and signing contracts – even if they’re translated into English for you – won’t be as simple as they can be for UK weddings. You’ll also have to be aware of Italian working patterns, bank holidays and long lunches (I loved lunchtimes when I worked in Italy!) as you work with suppliers to plan your wedding.

A stress-free, relaxed wedding planning experience?

Following Elegante by Michelle J for the last few years has convinced me – utterly, 100% – that a wedding planner is absolutely crucial for destination weddings. If I was looking to get married in Italy I wouldn’t think twice, and this is why:

• I wouldn’t be confident communicating with suppliers without professional help
• I’m sure there are dozens of things I don’t know about how Italian weddings work
• Having someone with a trusted network of suppliers – able to pick up the phone and ask questions – feels invaluable
• Language barriers are real! Knowing someone whose team includes fluent Italian-speakers, is managing key aspects of planning, would be everything

Of course, I’m biased: I love Michelle’s approach and have the utmost respect for everything she does. I’m not saying every couple has to hire a luxury wedding planner – that’s for you to decide! But I will leave you with these wise words, which I think are worth bearing in mind:

“Just as you wouldn’t perform dentistry on your own teeth or install a new kitchen yourself, we don’t recommend trying to plan such an important life event with no prior knowledge either. Especially in Italy” ~ Michelle Jacobs, destination wedding planner at Elegante by Michelle J.

The post Honest advice for couples planning a wedding in Italy – and the differences to expect appeared first on English Wedding.

This is everything we love at English Wedding. Authentic, joyful, exciting weddings where traditions are what you choose to celebrate your cultures (rather than rules to be adhered to!) The joy in Rike and Sachin’s eyes, and shining from their guests’ grins, is so fabulously real.

“This wonderful pair wanted their wedding to be a true expression of who they are and what they love and, in turn, we worked hard to draw on the ideas that come easiest to us and shape them into images that we hope reveal as much in us as they do in the wonderful Rike & Sachin.” ~ York Place Studios.

Château du Feÿ is a 400 year old castle in the Burgundy region, a designated Historical Monument of France which has been lovingly preserved to maintain its historical charm while embracing modern principles of design. Sustainability and creativity are the heart and soul of this romantic wedding venue, with its breathtaking views and rural French charm.

York Place have inspired English Wedding over the years to really champion documentary wedding photography. This style is a dream for me after 15 years of publishing real weddings on our blog. While trends come and go, and photography aesthetics change with the seasons, these images which capture every couple’s wedding as it unfolds, naturally and authentically, stand the test of time. If you’re new to wedding planning and curious about this wedding photography style, you might find the answers to your burning wedding photography questions here.

We’re proud to have been working with York Place Studios for quite a few years on English Wedding. Their work as London, UK and destination wedding photographers is always exciting, fresh, and fascinating – they truly stand out for their talent and expertise, and are sought after as leaders in their field by other wedding photographers, speaking at photography events worldwide.

Rike and Sachin’s Indian wedding is one of my absolute favourites and I hope you’ll forgive me for sharing so many of their stunning images! More, as always on instagram @englishweddingblog

The post Rike & Sachin’s colourful, creative, incredible Chateau du Fey wedding with York Place Studios appeared first on English Wedding.

In my 15 years of writing about weddings, I’ve learned that the cost of a destination wedding depends very much on location, guest lists and styling. But in all of that time I’ve never had a detailed insight into all of the factors which can affect costs of getting married abroad. Today, that changed! I’ve been reading a fabulous article by Michelle Jacobs (luxury destination wedding planner) which really explains everything you should consider when you’re weighing up the relative costs of UK or destination weddings. (Read How much do destination weddings cost? The 7 deciding factors here.)

Image credit: David Bastianoni Photography. Planning and styling: Elegante by Michelle J.

Most importantly, there are no guarantees that a destination wedding will cost less than getting married in the UK.

Yes, having a smaller guest list will reduce certain costs. If a wedding in Europe will cut your guest list from, say 100 to 20 guests, you’ll be able to plan a simpler, intimate wedding. However, if you’re heading to a popular tourist destination, hiring a wedding venue, or entertaining your guests for more than just one day, you need to factor in those extra costs.

If you’re thinking of a slightly smaller wedding, but still want a ceremony and styled sit down meal with entertainment for your guests, then you’ll need to consider costs and your budget very carefully before you commit. Michelle identifies 7 factors which usually make destination weddings more or less expensive than getting married here in the UK:

1. Your guest list
2. Currency fluctuations
3. Your destination country
4. Styling and florals
5. Additional events
6. Suppliers
7. Miscellaneous items (this is the ‘oooh I hadn’t thought of that!’ section)

In a nutshell (remember there’s lots more on Michelle’s website) here’s what you need to know about the costs of a destination wedding.

Will a smaller guest list mean your destination wedding is cheaper?

If you’re inviting a wide circle of family and friends, you’re likely to have a lower rate of acceptance when you send your invitations. Michelle quotes a 20 – 30% drop out rate for destination weddings compared to a 10% drop out rate for UK weddings. You might naturally invite a smaller group to a destination wedding too. Based on guest numbers alone, this can indicate cost savings… but it’s not that simple: there’s more you need to consider.

Image credit: David Bastianoni Photography. Planning and styling: Elegante by Michelle J.

Currency conversion rates will affect the cost of your destination wedding.

Exchange rates are worth considering before you book your wedding abroad. A strong pound will mean you get more for your money, but if the currency of your destination country is stronger, this will impact what you’re paying overall. This article on Wedinspire has some examples of how exchange rates could impact the cost of your wedding.

Negotiating currency conversions when booking venues and suppliers will be complex, so consider hiring an experienced wedding planner with contacts in your destination country, and experience in managing invoices, deposits and payments for wedding suppliers.

Choose your country wisely! Destination weddings don’t all cost the same.

Michelle gives the example of weddings in Tuscany – a popular and luxurious holiday destination. Getting married in the Italian Lakes is likely to be expensive compared to other destinations. (Again, some useful and interesting examples on Michelle’s blog)

How weddingy can your destination wedding afford to be?

A venue which cries out for floral installations and full wedding styling will mean you pay more for your wedding. Full table styling, catering and entertainment and all the bells and whistles of a traditional wedding carries a price tag.

Other aspects can save money: a venue with breathtaking views across countryside might mean you spend less on beautifying the space for your ceremony, for example. There’s a lot to be said for letting nature be your backdrop!

Will your destination wedding be a one-day event? Or two, or three…?

Image credit: David Bastianoni Photography. Planning and styling: Elegante by Michelle J.

A wedding at home in the UK is likely to be focused around a single day (although wedding weekends are on the rise!) But destination weddings are little holidays for your guests, and having everyone together in your amazing location means planning get togethers before and after your wedding day.

Saving you’ve made elsewhere won’t matter if you’re spending on extra events – so remember you’ll need to welcome your guests and spend time with them. Hosting other gatherings should be factored into your destination wedding budget.

Choosing the best wedding suppliers for your destination wedding

At the core of your wedding supplier decisions is the question of whether to use local businesses.  Often venues will have set suppliers and packages – florists often take on table styling and hire items (we mentioned this in our blog with Michelle: How to choose your wedding flowers – it’s worth a read!) so your choices may be limited.

At Elegante by Michelle J, 3 factors are all-important when deciding whether to hire local suppliers or fly in vendors from home. These are: cost, environmental issues and authenticity.

It’s often cheaper to hire local wedding vendors, but your choice may be limited – especially in rural locations. Think beyond flowers to photography and videography, wedding entertainment, hair and make up, and your wedding planner of course! If you’re flying in a trusted wedding photographer you’ll have to cover their travel and hotel costs and expenses. Flying in a wedding band (and their equipment) will add a significant amount to your budget, but having a packed out dance floor and amazing covers of all your favourite Ed Sheeran songs might be worth it!

On the other hand, who needs Ed Sheeran when you could have the authentic sounds of Italian love songs as a background for your romantic evening reception?

The “ooh I hadn’t thought of that!” things that can make a destination wedding more expensive

I think this paragraph proves just how invaluable an expert destination wedding planner can be!  I wonder how many nearlyweds forget to factor in costs for guest transport (hiring a coach for guests to travel from their hotels to that gorgeous villa on the hillside). Or how often couples realise that a welcome bag for guests is more than an optional extra: it’s a lovely and important gesture to show your guests how grateful you are they’ve travelled to be there with you on your wedding day.

Even the little things will add up: in my wedding stationery business I’ve advised couples on alternatives to traditional table plans for a wedding in Europe (because a table plan will not travel safely in your Dad’s suitcase!). More importantly, we recommend travelling with a traditional airline (as opposed to a low-cost one) if you’ll be wearing a wedding dress. Find out all about travelling with a wedding dress here.

Every destination wedding is different. We hope this article helps you imagine how yours will look, and what it might cost.

There’s no single answer to the question “are destination weddings cheaper than UK ones”. The fact that every wedding is unique means you can plan a celebration as unique and as weddingy as you’d like!

If you do dream of a wedding in Europe, and you imagine it to look like a classic wedding with all the beautiful styling touches and lots of your favourite people, then I would very strongly recommend you find an excellent wedding planner like Michelle Jacobs to navigate you through all of the planning, and help you have your perfect destination wedding.

Find out more: Destination weddings in Europe with Elegante by Michelle J.

Elegante by Michelle J is a member of English Wedding. 

Image credit: David Bastianoni Photography. Planning and styling: Elegante by Michelle J.

The post Does a destination wedding cost more or less than getting married in the UK? appeared first on English Wedding.

Photographer: Pippa Mackenzie // Florist: Paula Rooney // Planner: Elegante by Michelle J.

Deciding on your wedding look and style

Before you approach a florist or start looking for inspiration for your wedding flowers online, decide and agree on the style of your wedding. Do you both love elegance and minimal styling (for example, in your home)? Perhaps you love statement design, big and bold or colourful displays (what’s the artwork on your walls like?) Think about flowers you’ve bought each other in the past: have they been wild and wonderful, muted and natural in tone? Extravagant or simple and romantic?

Look together at real weddings online. Get an idea for your colour palette and overall look and feel of your wedding. It could be country charm, inspired by the destination where you’ll be wed, modern and chic or artsy and eclectic.

Then you can start to look at the options for your wedding flowers.

Photographer: Pippa Mackenzie // Florist: Paula Rooney // Planner: Elegante by Michelle J.

Choosing a florist you trust is key

Different florists have very different styles and approaches. Some are really modern in both the look of the flower arrangements they create and the way they run their business. Others are more traditional – and it’s your choice which you prefer.

The look of your wedding flowers

Modern bouquets and arrangements can be structured and compact, or wild and organic. Consider a rose bouquet: it could be a tight bunch of beautiful blooms with few leaves and no other flowers, in a clear palette of two or three colours. Or it could be a mixture of roses and leaves dotted with stems and seedheads and smaller flowers for texture, in a variety of summer colours. Both are effective, but it’s likely one will appeal to you more. Florists also have their preferences, and a floral designer who works with wild and spectacular arrangements would be the wrong choice if your tastes are more refined and traditional.

Think of colours to match your wedding palette. If you’re leaning towards vibrant and bold colours, look for a florist whose creations jump out at you for their hues. If the colours you’re thinking of for your wedding are more muted, natural and romantic, look for floral designers whose socials and online portfolios tend towards those tones.

And all the time you’re looking online at photographs of wedding flowers, note the designer: where are they based, could they be an option for styling your own wedding?

Photographer: James Mason // Flowers: Il Giardino delle Fate Floral Design // Planner: Elegante by Michelle J.

A note on wedding flower inspiration online

Pinterest is a fabulous place for wedding inspiration, as is instagram. These platforms have incredible images and can be a wonderful resource – but be aware of AI generated content. The floral images that can blow your mind might just be fake, or unachievable at your venue or within your budget. How to tell if a wedding flower image is AI? Look who’s posted the image and who it’s attributed to. A few of the top wedding creators on insta are AI-driven. If a photo on Pinterest or instagram is linked to a specific florist, then you can trust the source (and that the creation isn’t an impossibility!)

Dealing with your wedding florist

A really good wedding florist will excel at floral design, have amazing knowledge of flowers and seasons, and run a business that gives clients a fabulous, stress-free experience. Communication is key. When you’re looking for a wedding florist, and especially if you’ll be dealing with them personally rather than through a wedding planner, be sure you’ll have an open channel of communication that works for you.

Choose a wedding florist who is honest and open, and who gives you the amount of information that you need about your florals. If you have your heart set on your gran’s favourite flower, or one you remember from your dad’s allotment – those specific details will be so important. Alternatively, if you’re happy for your florist to construct something wild and wonderful to surprise you on the day, communications won’t need to go into great detail on design, but will cover the logistics and costs of your wedding flowers.

Photographer: David Bastianoni // Florist: Il Giardino delle Fate Flower Design // Planner: Elegante by Michelle J.

How to get the most from your wedding flowers

Trust is everything. Once you’ve found a florist whose style you both adore, and whose approach you enjoy and are comfortable with, you’ll know your wedding flowers will be beautiful. Ask what you need to about your flowers, and trust the advice from your experts. If you choose a wedding florist who’s never worked at your venue before, they’ll have recommendations for structures and arrangements to suit the interiors (meadow style arrangements around a staircase, for example). Your wedding planner will also be able to advise on what works beautifully in your space, so do ask for recommendations and suggestions from both!

You can also ask your wedding planner to recommend floral designers. Planners have a wealth of knowledge and will consider things you might not have thought of – from a Plan B for wet weather (which might involve hastily creating an adapted floral arrangement indoors) to the logistics of getting florist’s vehicles to a remote island wedding venue!

“At Elegante by Michelle J weddings the flowers tend to be a real focal point, and we put a lot of time and consideration into ensuring our couples work with the right florists to achieve the cohesive, flowing aesthetic they desire. When it comes to the question of how to choose your wedding flowers, our years of experience and deep-rooted connections with fabulous industry florists help our couples bloom – and we want to help you, too.” ~ Michelle Jacobs, Elegante by Michelle J.

Photographer: David Bastianoni // Florist: Il Giardino delle Fate Flower Design // Planner: Elegante by Michelle J.

Choosing a florist for your destination wedding

I would very strongly recommend hiring an experienced wedding planner if you’re marrying overseas and looking for amazing wedding flowers. The logistics and negotiations between venues and florists can be complex and time consuming if you try to manage this by yourselves!

Michelle mentions that options for wedding flowers in venues in Europe can be more limited. Venues are more likely to have lists of approved suppliers you’re expected to choose from – but if they don’t suit your style it might not be an ideal situation to deal with alone. There’s also a likelihood that your venue’s chosen florists will be stylists too, bringing in their own decor from glassware to table linens. This can be helpful, but in some cases restrictive too.

There is the option of flying in a florist you love, especially if you’re having a luxury wedding and your budget allows. Always work with a florist who’s comfortable working overseas, and has experience in doing so! It will be crucial to work with your wedding planner who will coordinate with your venue and florist to ensure this can happen.

Photographer: David Bastianoni // Florist: Il Giardino delle Fate Flower Design // Planner: Elegante by Michelle J.

“If you are working with a wedding planner they will help you understand the kinds of florals that will work with your overall wedding vision and plan. Developing your desired aesthetic and atmosphere for your wedding day properly means that, when it comes to choosing your wedding florist and flowers, each element makes sense alongside the rest.” ~ Michelle J.

Are there alternatives for couples who don’t like flowers?

There are other options for styling your venue without flowers, although they rarely have the effect that real florals will. You could consider dried flowers or paper art installations, but they don’t have the softness and texture of floral design, which can really soften the aesthetic and add wow factor to your venue.

Fabrics can bring softness and colour to your wedding venue, with thoughtful styling and approach to design. Draped fabrics and silk ribbons for table styling could work as a beautiful alternative to florals, and it’s a look we’d love to see here at English Wedding! Having said that, it would look even more wonderful with greenery so it’s definitely worth discussing alternatives to wedding flowers with your wedding planner!

Do check out all of Michelle’s insider tips for choosing incredible wedding flowers at https://elegantebymichellej.com

The post How to choose your wedding flowers – for UK and destination weddings appeared first on English Wedding.

Do grab a cuppa and scroll slowly through this perfect destination wedding in Italy. Corine & Neil are gorgeous and their love sparkles from the screen. The styling is exquisite, the floral arrangements are out of this world. All of the breathtaking images you’re about to see are from Charm Wedding Florence and the venue is Tenuta di Artimino in the Carmignano wine-making region of Tuscany, Italy.

This wedding was planned and styled by UK based luxury wedding planner Elegante by Michelle J, alongside a curated team of expert Italian wedding professionals.

Destination wedding planning: Elegante by Michelle J.
Photography: Charm Wedding Florence
Venue: Tenuta di Artimino
Videography: Vertigo Wedding Films
Florals: Giardino delle Fate Flower Design
Ceremony: True Blue Ceremonies
Stationery: Dimitria Jordan
HMUA: Guilia Makeup Firenze
Catering: Delizia Ricevimenti
Production: Wedding Music and Lights

The post Corine & Neil’s beautiful golden hour wedding in Tuscany, with Elegante by Michelle J appeared first on English Wedding.

Wedding photographer’s website

Liam & Stam – www.liamcollard.com

Wedding photographer review

We found Liam and Stam online and were immediately drawn to their wedding photography style. We wanted photos that felt natural and unposed, capturing the overall ambiance, setting, and the emotions of not just the bride and groom, but also our guests. For our original pre-COVID wedding plans, we envisioned two events: one in Huahin, Thailand, and another in London, where Sanjay and I live. It felt like serendipity when we discovered that Liam and Stam were based in both Thailand and the UK, making them the perfect choice for both celebrations.

When COVID hit, they were very understanding of the situation and willing to wait and see how things unfolded. In 2022, when we reached out again, they were incredibly accommodating, and we were relieved that they were still available. Fast forward to November 2023, and Liam and Stam made us feel so at ease throughout the wedding. Neither of us is used to being in the spotlight, but instead of feeling self-conscious, we were able to relax and enjoy the moments thanks to their calming presence.

Their connection with us went beyond just photography. They took the time to understand the significance of each cultural ceremony—whether it was the Hindu wedding, Chinese tea ceremony, or Thai water blessing—and this made the photos feel even more meaningful. They truly captured the spirit of each tradition, as well as those in-between moments, like the emotional exchange during the tea ceremony or the laughter shared with friends during the door games. Not only are they true professionals, but they also helped pace the day by coordinating with vendors to keep everything on schedule. When things got a bit hectic, they even whisked us away for some much-needed breaks, which we were so grateful for.

By the end of the wedding, we had complete trust in their ability to deliver stunning photos. Their dedication continued during the post-production process. Stam carefully curated the best photos for the album, but still made sure we were involved by asking for our input to ensure it captured our favorite memories. The results were incredible. When we saw the digital photos, we were blown away, and the hard-cover photo album was even more impressive. We love sharing it with anyone who visits. Since we opted not to have a videographer, these photos are even more precious to us, as they beautifully encapsulate the memories of our special day.

Your best wedding moment or memory

Our favorite memory has to be the finale to Saturday’s dinner. After a long day of traditional ceremonies, teary speeches, and champagne toasts, the night culminated in a moment that felt like pure magic. As we prepared to walk out from the dinner lawn, The Palayana’s beautifully landscaped path stretched out before us, leading from the beach to the hotel lobby.

Our guests—family and friends who had traveled from every corner of the world—lined the path, each holding a sparkler, their faces lit up with joy and love. As the opening notes of Banners’ ‘Someone to You’ played, Sanjay and I began our walk, hand in hand, up that sparkling pathway. It felt like time stood still. We took in every familiar face, overwhelmed with gratitude for each person who had come so far to be with us. Many of them we don’t get to see often, as life has scattered us across different cities and countries, yet here they were, united for us, in this beautiful place.

The air was filled with a mix of celebration and deep emotion, and we were flooded with the realisation of just how loved we are. Each step up the path felt like a reminder of the incredible support system we have, and how truly lucky we were to share this moment surrounded by the people who have shaped our lives. It was a moment of pure joy and gratitude—a feeling we will cherish forever.

Tell us anything you did differently – we love hearing about NEW traditions (or none at all!)

Our wedding was different in so many ways! We had the challenge — and joy — of blending three distinct cultures into a single celebration, so our guests essentially got a 3-in-1 experience.

With an Indian, Chinese, and Thai background between us, we aimed to honor each culture while keeping the day manageable. For instance, our Hindu wedding was much more concise than the traditional multi-day affair.

We were a bit apprehensive about this part since the rituals can often feel long and drawn out, but our Bangkok-based priest, Pandit Lalit, made it light-hearted and engaging, which turned it into a really fun experience.

Both families were also very involved in the Chinese and Thai ceremonies, which added to the sense of connection and unity. It was incredibly special to see everyone learning about each other’s cultures—many for the first time.

Our wedding didn’t just celebrate our love; it also became a celebration of the blending of our traditions, creating something truly unique and meaningful for all of us.

Venue name + review

We chose Hua Hin because it’s where Iphin’s parents live, offering a laid-back, chilled beach vibe compared to the more popular wedding destinations like Koh Samui or Phuket.

Iphin’s parents scouted several venues for us, and when we saw photos of The Palayana, we fell in love instantly. The lush landscaping, individual chalets, and charming Thai touches—like the Sala overlooking the beautiful pool—made it stand out.

When we arrived in Thailand for a tour and tasting in December 2019, it exceeded our expectations. The food was incredible. Shaun and his talented team are culinary magicians, blending innovative Indian and Thai flavors—perfect for our multicultural wedding. Our guests raved about the delicious cuisine throughout the celebration.

Sumeet, the owner, and his team were invaluable throughout the planning process. Despite hosting numerous weddings every year, they always made time for us and offered fantastic advice that helped shape our special day. We felt confident that our guests would be well taken care of, and they certainly were. From the service to the attention to detail, The Palayana made our wedding unforgettable.

Tell us a little about your outfits – both of you!

Where to start? We had quite a few outfit changes!

For the Hindu Ceremony: Sanjay wore a white embroidered kurta paired with gold trousers, embracing a traditional yet elegant look. Iphin wore a mint green lengha with pink accents, complete with a matching dupatta gifted by Sanjay’s grandmother. The outfit was complemented by gold jewelry, including necklaces and earrings gifted by Sanjay’s parents. The lengha and kurta were purchased in Brickfields, Bangsar, as a nod to our Malaysian roots.

For the Chinese Ceremony: Sanjay donned a traditional gold silk Chinese shirt and jacket that we found in Bangkok’s Chinatown (Yaowarat), perfectly suited for the occasion. Iphin wore her grandmother’s treasured silk bridal gown from the late 1950s, which was remarkably well-preserved. It needed only a few delicate repairs to the silk but no alterations. Wearing such a precious heirloom required extra care, especially since Iphin is known for being a bit accident-prone when it comes to clothing!

For the Thai Ceremony: Sanjay opted for a refined sand-colored linen-blend suit from Hawes & Curtis, giving a modern touch to the traditional setting. Iphin wore a beautiful ivory Thai dress with gold embellishments, custom-made by Alta Bridal at The Old Siam Plaza in Bangkok. The look was completed with a peacock brooch, a sentimental piece gifted by Iphin’s grandmother.

Dress or suit shop name + review

Rajwaada Royal Collections, Bangkok
Praveen Aunty and her team truly worked miracles for us! Due to a miscommunication, we realised just a week before the wedding that Iphin’s lengha wasn’t finished when she arrived in Bangkok. With no time to spare, we were in a mad rush to find a tailor who could complete the alterations in just 48 hours. Thankfully, we found Praveen Aunty, and the relief was palpable! Not only did her team expertly finish the lengha, but they also completed the blouse and added beautiful complementary adornments. Iphin’s sense of relief and gratitude at the end of it all cannot be understated; she was overjoyed with the final result, which truly captured her vision for the day.

Alta Bridal, Bangkok
Since Iphin lived in London, all her mom could provide Alta Bridal were some basic measurements. When we arrived for the fitting just a week before the wedding, we were holding our breath, hoping everything would fit. To our delight, it fit perfectly! The dress was absolutely breathtaking, with exquisite detailing that left us all in awe. Even Iphin’s dad, who isn’t one for compliments, was blown away and said Iphin should wear it every day! The craftsmanship and attention to detail from Alta Bridal made this dress not just fitting for the occasion but a cherished piece for years to come.

Stationery maker’s name + review

We didn’t have a separate stationery maker for our wedding, as Iphin designed all the cards herself. She created various pieces, including welcome cards and informational cards explaining each ceremony and its cultural significance. This approach allowed us to personalise our wedding materials while effectively communicating the different traditions to our guests.

Any crafty projects or homemade styling touches?

Iphin’s mum was the main florist for our wedding, and she took the phrase “keep it local” to a whole new level! Instead of using imported flowers, she decided to source decorations right from our community — because who needs a fancy florist when you have a pair of shears?

She spent weeks cruising around town, charmingly asking residents and shop owners if she could cut their bushes for cuttings. We like to think she became the neighborhood’s unofficial “flower thief!” A significant portion of the hand-arranged bouquets came from her own beloved garden, which made the arrangements not only beautiful but also deeply personal. Her hard work was no joke! She spent countless hours experimenting with different arrangements, creating a rough map of where to snip as the wedding date approached — because, let’s be real, those cuttings wouldn’t survive more than a few days in the tropical heat. In the late nights leading up to the wedding, she was busy preparing and arranging the bouquets, all while trying to keep them fresh in the sweltering weather. Her commitment to “keeping it local” turned out to be a labor of love that made our wedding uniquely special.

Wedding readings?

We didn’t have traditional readings at our wedding. Instead, our siblings and close friends took the stage to deliver some truly amazing speeches

First dance song? Playlist recommendations?

For our final dinner, we had the incredible jazz trio, Siam Live Music Band, who set the perfect mood for the evening.

In a classic case of “how did I let him talk me into this?” Sanjay managed to persuade Iphin to enter the dinner to the Star Wars theme song — talk about making an entrance!

After much bickering and negotiating (let’s just say there were some strong opinions on both sides), we finally settled on an acapella version of Ellie Goulding’s “Love Me Like You Do” for our first dance, beautifully delivered by the jazz band. But before we could take the plunge into our first dance, Sanjay’s guitar teacher cousin, Vishaal, surprised us with an impromptu performance of Green Day’s “Time of Your Life.” It was such a touching moment that it had us on the dance floor before we even got to our song.

As for playlist recommendations, if you want to keep the vibe lively, I’d suggest mixing in some jazz classics, heartfelt ballads, and a few cheeky surprises that reflect your personalities—like the Star Wars theme for the laughs!

Wedding planner name + review

Bliss Events – www.blisseventthailand.com

From the very beginning, Chat of Bliss Events impressed us with her dedication and professionalism. She made the long nine-hour drive from Koh Samui to Hua Hin in the early hours of the morning back in December 2019 to meet us at The Palayana for our tasting and tour. At that moment, we knew she was the right fit for us, and we were never disappointed.

Being remote, it must have been challenging for Chat and her team to coordinate with us due to the time difference and our work commitments. However, they ensured we stayed on track by prompting us to make decisions and advising us on the best course of action.

Sanjay and I were adamant that we didn’t want anything lavish; we desired a laid-back, authentic wedding that truly reflected who we are. This may not be the typical dream brief for most wedding planners, who often aim for extravagant settings, but it didn’t stop Chat and Wann from delivering something absolutely magical while staying within budget.

They also had an amazing network of vendors, including our band and makeup artist, which made the planning process seamless. Throughout the wedding, they were incredibly helpful, and we knew we could trust them with every detail.

Hair + makeup name + review

Phuri Makeup
We chose Phuri Makeup based on high recommendations from Chat of Bliss Events, and we were not disappointed. Due to our tight schedule, we didn’t have time for a bridal makeup trial, so the first time Khun Phuri saw Iphin was literally the morning of the wedding. With the Hindu ceremony starting at 7 AM, Iphin was up and ready for makeup by 4 AM. Phuri and his team made the long overnight drive from Bangkok just to be there for us.

When Iphin arrived at the makeup room, she was truly overwhelmed by the professional setup—a dining table full of makeup and lights everywhere. For someone who doesn’t usually wear makeup, Khun Phuri made her feel at ease right away. He prepared three different looks for the various ceremonies and seamlessly transitioned her hair and makeup from one look to another, ensuring they were distinct yet complementary to each outfit.

Despite the long day, the team maintained a high level of professionalism throughout. Friends and family were surprised to see Iphin, who typically has a very casual style. Khun Phuri accentuated her features beautifully, and the results were stunning both in person and in photographs.

portraits

The post 3 cultures in 1 for Iphin & Sanjay’s beautiful Thai wedding, with Liam Collard Photography appeared first on English Wedding.

The most important thing to consider when choosing your wedding venue in Italy

Your choice of wedding venue can be simple. I always advise my couples to think about how they want guests to feel on their wedding day. That will provide the first step for a successful event. Do they want a rustic wedding in the countryside, an elegant affair in a historic villa, or something more informal by the sea? It’s important to make a list of priorities and to start exploring the various options which Italy can offer.

Once you’ve chosen your wedding venue, what’s next?

My advice would be to contact a local wedding planner. It can be really challenging to plan a wedding from abroad. An Italian wedding planner will be able to provide you with the best wedding location, trusted vendors, and further information on local requirements. Moreover, their assistance can overcome most of the problems that arise as a result of language and cultural barriers, which will make your wedding planning easier and more enjoyable.

The second important thing to do is establish and manage a budget. At Amore Wedding Italy before we begin planning, we send a budget file to the couple so they understand the approximate cost of each service they want to include in their wedding. We also take the couple’s budget into consideration at this stage. A good wedding planner should be able to organize a wedding without overspending more than the budget the couple envisioned, and it isn’t necessary that they even use it all. In fact, because a local wedding planner will have a list of trusted Italian wedding suppliers, they’re more likely to be able to get decent prices for good quality services.

The impact of weather on Italian weddings, and how to plan for every season

It’s really important to take the local climate into consideration when planning a wedding in Italy. Generally, spring and autumn are great seasons. The temperatures are mild and landscapes look incredible. Summer is the most popular, but it also means that it is the hottest and most crowded time in places popular with tourists. Winter should not be forgotten, of course, with its romantic atmosphere – it’s so uniquely beautiful, especially in Venice and Florence. It is always worth checking for any local festivals and holidays, too, since these could result in a number of vendors and venues not being available.

At Amore Wedding Italy it’s always our priority to have a backup plan in case of weather. All of our events outdoors have a plan B; make sure that a venue has an indoor alternative or tents that can be put out at the very last minute. A good wedding planner will know how to plan for such eventualities.

What should couples book after choosing a location and venue?

The next step is to choose responsible vendors. As I mentioned before, that’s when a wedding planner in Italy makes the difference, helping you avoid unprofessional vendors or those with overly high prices. The list of vendors you could choose from (but do remember some of these are optional!) includes catering, photographers, florists, musicians. If couples want to proceed on their own, I always advise them to do a lot of research, read reviews, and if possible, even meet some vendors in person. Trust is important, so it is very important to select professionals who understand your vision and with whom you feel comfortable.

How to give your Italian wedding personality

Every wedding tells a story. I always advise couples to choose a theme or colours that reflect your personalities and fit best with the venue. Details from decorations to flowers to invitations should be in the same theme to bring cohesion and to make all of your styling touches memorable whether you’re having a classy, rustic, or bold wedding.

So this is Italy: how important is food and wine?

Italy’s famous for its food, and your wedding shouldn’t be an exception. Definitely provide a menu featuring local produce, but also add some regional specialties to give your guests a real taste of Italy! And don’t forget to add the right wine. Italy is famous for its world class wines, and a great wine can really make food shine. A buffet of appetizers or an informal aperitivo can be a great way to welcome guests.

Expert tips for wedding ceremonies in Italy

There’s nothing better than a customised ceremony including aspects of each couple’s love story. I always advise my clients to include some readings, songs, or rituals that mean something for them. If it’s a civil wedding, check if you’ll be allowed to adjust the ceremony wording itself. Involving friends and family makes the ceremony even more special and memorable. A symbolic wedding can, of course, be celebrated anywhere, while a civil wedding is a bit more restricted. At Amore Wedding Italy, we can arrange for a civil wedding anywhere.

Looking after your guests’ arrivals, accommodation and experiences

For most of your guests travelling from abroad, it’s important to think about the arrival experience. Provide useful information on transport and accommodation, but also on local attractions. Organise pre- and post-wedding events, such as a welcome party, to make your guests feel welcome and get to know each other before and after the main event.

Enjoy your wedding day in Italy!

The wedding day will just pass so fast. So really make an effort to take time to enjoy each moment and celebrate love with your other half and all of your loved ones who’ve travelled to share it with you. If you’ve hired a wedding planner to coordinate things on the day, follow their advice and don’t stress about the little details. This day is all about you and your love so make the most of every moment!

Buon planning a tutti!

For more advice and to enquire about Kathrine‘s Italian wedding planning services, visit Amore Wedding Italy at www.amoreweddingitaly.com

The post The Secret to a Perfect Wedding in Italy, with Kathrine Brenne from Amore Wedding Italy appeared first on English Wedding.

Credit: Anna Roussos Photography Tap the image to see Claudia and James’s dream wedding in Mykonos on our blog!

Booking your flight with a wedding dress

1. Choosing a non-budget airline gives you more chance of storage space for your dress

Budget airlines are really limited on space. Overhead lockers will fill quickly, and… that’s it. You could pay extra for Fast Track at the airport, but it won’t guarantee you space for your wedding dress.

2. Flying premium economy, business or club class gives you more luggage allowance and storage space

“Even if you just fly from the UK to Italy with British Airways, for example, choosing to fly in the Club World section means you have an extra ‘seat’ space in the middle of a row – which is often where your wedding dress can sit!” ~ Michelle Jacobs, Elegante by Michelle J.

Credit: Gabriele Fani. Tap the image to see more from Anjali & Porus’s wedding in Chianti, with Elegante by Michelle J.

Credit: Gabriele Fani. Tap the image to see more from Anjali & Porus’s wedding in Chianti, with Elegante by Michelle J.

Planning your trip

3. Plan your accommodation carefully. Where will you store your dress (hidden away?)

Of course you’ll want a luxurious place to stay – but might you need another room for your wedding dress? Picture the scene: you’re staying with your partner when you arrive. You need to hang your dress, but you don’t want them to see it before the wedding. Where’ the empty wardrobe with space to hang / store your dress (secretly)? Perhaps book an apartment with an extra room, or a five star hotel with plenty of wardrobe space (check before you book!)

4. Also make sure there’s space to dress in your room – and for MUA and bridal party etc.

It’s not just your wedding dress that you’ll need extra space for in your room, suite or accommodation. If your bridesmaids/men or family will be spending the morning getting ready with you, will there be space enough for everyone? Always choose a large enough room for your hair and makeup artists (and their kit, which can take up a surprising amount of room) – and for getting changed into your wedding dress.

Credit: James Mason Photography. Tap the image to see Natasha & Marc’s Lakeside wedding in Italy on the English Wedding blog.

Choosing and packing your wedding dress

5. Some wedding dresses travel better than others!

Choosing the perfect dress for a destination wedding is all about:

• finding a wedding dress you will look and feel amazing, confident and comfortable in
• being aware of the likely temperature on your wedding day, and choosing a dress for the heat / humidity of your destination
• selecting a dress which will travel relatively easily (sleek and streamlined dress shapes are smaller to pack; some materials crush more than others. Ask your bridal boutique!)

6. You can ask your seamstress or boutique to help pack your dress

I wouldn’t have thought of this, but there’s an art to folding a dress to prevent – as much as possible – creasing and crushing while it’s in storage and in transit. What I do know is that seamstresses and boutique owners are the loveliest of people. Ask them right from the beginning of your dress journey if this is something they can help you with.

Credit: Charm Wedding Photography. Tap the image for more from Charlie and Bobby’s luxury wedding weekend in Chianti, planned by Michelle Jacobs.

Taking your wedding dress on the plane

7. There’s no way to guarantee or reserve space for a wedding dress on a flight

Your dress will travel with you, and just like your other carry-on bags, it will most likely end up in overhead storage. You can’t pre-book space up there, but there are things you can do to give your dress the best chance of a safe flight to your wedding destination!

8. You can’t book a plan seat just for your wedding dress (despite this being a bit of an urban myth)

I’m not sure where this idea came from – but don’t rely on it, because it is not true! Airlines won’t let you book a seat for a dress. Seats have to be occupied by people; at check-in if there is a seat available and no one has physically checked in to claim it, they’ll give it to someone else. (Buying a ticket for the seat next to yours gets you nothing other than some bloke sitting on your dress. Not worth the risk!)

9. Experts advise very strongly against checking in your wedding dress as hold luggage

This is pretty clear cut: you can’t risk your dress going missing / on another flight / getting lobbed around the underbelly of an airport like a football. It travels with you: you don’t take your eyes off it until you’re at your hotel!

Michelle says this is, “less of a myth and more of a MUST…don’t be tempted to check your wedding dress in as hold luggage. I advise you don’t let it out of your sight, and so need to be prepared to carry it onto the plane with you.”

Credit: David Bastianoni Photography. Tap the image to see more from Taylor & Matt’s luxury Italian destination wedding

Credit: David Bastianoni Photography. Tap the image to see more from Taylor & Matt’s luxury Italian destination wedding

When you arrive at your wedding accommodation

10. Hang up your dress when you arrive!

This is super important and gives your dress the best chance of being crease-free on your wedding day. If you’ve chosen the right fabric for your destination wedding dress, and followed Michelle’s advice about having it professionally packed for the journey, your dress might just need to be hung up for the creases to fall out.

See tip 3 above though: make sure there will be space in your accommodation!

11. If your dress needs to be steamed, have it done professionally.

This is another question to ask your dress designer, boutique or seamstress in advance. Will your dress need to be steamed to get rid of any creases from the journey?

There is a risk to doing this yourself: it might not be easy to get the creases out and worst case scenario: you damage your dress. You could try contacting a boutique (even better: a stockist of the same designer) near to your wedding venue in advance, and if they’re willing, book for them to prepare your dress before the big day.

There’s lots more essential advice for travelling with a wedding dress on Michelle’s blog – do head over there and read her tips!

The post 11 Things I didn’t know about flying with a wedding dress appeared first on English Wedding.