Floral

The wedding bouquet originated with the ancient Greeks, who desired to protect the bride from envious guests and to ward off evil spirits. Roses are one of the most popular choices of flowers for the bridal bouquet with orchids running a close second. Couples will spend anywhere from 10 to 20 per cent of the wedding budget on flowers. A typical order will include your bouquet, bridesmaids' flowers, boutonnieres for the groom, ushers and the fathers and corsages for both mothers and grandmothers.

Cakes

It was in the late 19th century that the wedding cake became popular. The cakes were originally given the title 'bride cake' to emphasise that the focal point of the wedding was the bride. Early cakes were simple single-tiered cakes and it was a while before the first multi-tiered cake appeared and the wedding cake started to resemble to-day's modern creations.

Hotel

Ensure that the hotel of your choice is experienced in organising wedding receptions.

Gifts

The trend today is to send out a Gift List with the Wedding Invitations. Ensure that the cost of the gifts on your list caters for those who are on a tight budget.

Reception

A wedding reception needs careful planning. If the reception is to be held in an hotel, keep the manager informed about changes as they happen. If you are catering for the wedding yourself, make sure you cater for those who are coming to the wedding and not for the number you have invited.

Marquees

Hold your wedding reception in a marquee for flexibility and versatility. The interior can be personalised to suit individual tastes, colours, lighting, furniture etc. Hire from a reputable company

Hair & Beauty

Your hairdresser can be your best friend when it comes to working out a beauty schedule. As soon as you have chosen your head dress take it to the salon, so your hairdresser can help you decide how you are going to wear your hair on the day.

The Groom

The groom has many arrangements to make before he turns up at the church for the big day. His duties include: arranging the ceremony, choosing the best man, hire morning suits, if formal clothing is to be worn, obtain Registrar's certificate, arrange travel for the honeymoon and cars. Prepare a response to the toast to the Bride and Groom and prepare a toast to the Bridesmaids and choose gifts for the bridesmaids.

Mother of the Bride

Whilst the bride is the most important person at a wedding, most brides feel that her mother is just as important. It is vital to ensure that she looks her best in every way. Ensure that the colour of her outfit doesn't clash with that of the bride's gown and check with the groom's mother so that their choice of colours complements each other.

Photography

It is vital to pre-plan in detail with your photographer what is to be covered. Not all churches allow photographers in during the service proper. Remember that quality photographers are always in demand, so you must be prepared to book them early.

Video

It is vital to pre-plan in detail with your videographer what is to be covered. Not all churches allow photographers in during the service proper, but where they are, the particular skill of the videographer is needed in installing microphones in the church and at the reception. Remember that quality videographers are always in demand, so you must be prepared to book them early.

Stationery

The standard invitation has a maximum of 14 lines of copy. Traditionally it is black ink with centered text on white or ivory paper. Your invitation is the first thing your guests will see of your wedding, therefore make it reflect your style and taste

Honeymoon

The choice of destination and way to go is limitless. As well as being exotic, honeymoons are also supposed to be romantic, but are the traditional destinations still the best? Paris, of course, is the heart of romance, but other destinations have become as popular over the years.

Cars & Carriages

Arriving in style for your wedding is a must. Today there are many forms of transportation to choose from, from a horse drawn carriage to a stretch limousine

Music & Entertainment

To enhance your special day, quality music and entertainment are needed.

Balloons & Decorations

It is essential you create the right atmosphere at your wedding reception and balloons and decorations are being used more to ensure this is achieved.

Fireworks

Enhance your special day with a fireworks display - a perfect ending to a perfect day.

Buying a Home

Setting up home can be a lengthy and near-heartbreaking experience. There are many pitfalls and these should be avoided if at all possible. You will do well to get some good financial advice before you start and to be realistic about what you can afford.