Heading Up The Aisle's Wedding Planning Tips and Tricks

Wedding Fair Fashion Show - Addington Palace Wedding Fair - 27th February 2011

2011-03-01T06:14:00.001-08:00

Sunday saw our first visit to Addington Palace this year for the wedding fair and fashion show. It was a good day and we had lots of brides visit our stand. See a sneak peak from the fashion show below. We also were showcasing our new black flock chair cover sashes which the brides loved. See a picture of our stand below. Thanks to Deb from Creative Bridal Stationery for

providing us with this month's black and white featured stationery design. http://www.creativebridalstationery.co.uk/ Deb is providing us with a featured design for our design studio each month which we will feature on our blog for you to get ideas.

We also loved the Asian influence in this year's fair including the catwalk show and the drums by Ritzy Music.

Cupcake Cocktails and Chat Evening for Brides - 24th February 2011

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Thursday 24th February saw the start of our season of instore events. We were lucky to be able to offer a select few brides the opportunity to meet with our recommended make up artist to get make up tips for their big day, they joined us for 2.5 hours for cupcakes by the Yummy Cake company http://www.yummycakecompany.co.uk/

Cocktails were by Chambord see the attached link on how to make Chambord cocktails and where to purchase from http://www.5min.com/Video/How-to-Make-a-Chambord-Royale-Cocktail-82680519

http://www.chambordonline.com/Default.aspx tickets were £15.00 and included cupcakes a cocktail and an evening of make up tips and tricks. Next on our agenda is bridal hair, event entertainment and perfecting your first dance. We hope to see you there.

Mariott Hotel Wedding Fair Fashion Show 20th February 2011

2011-02-25T07:11:00.001-08:00

Sunday 20th February brought our second fashion show at the Bexley Mariott Hotel, it as a fantastic day and our models looked fantastic. This for us is a great opportunity to be able to work with the Mariott in showcasing our latest collections. We had 16 models ranging from previous brides, friends, neighbours and family who we are eternally greatful for their help in making the show a success. We would like to thank the Mariott hotel, and Dave Cosens of Photogenic images who took these amazing pictures as a record for us, Dave is an award winning wedding photographer. Dave's website is http://www.photogenicimages.com/

Inspired to make a difference - Why small businesses should help charities in difficult times, our visit to the Edge Youth Centre 8th February 2011.

2011-02-25T07:10:00.001-08:00

It is not often that people and their enthusiasm blow me away as I believe I personally have plenty of that to go around! However this is exactly how Maggie and myself felt when we visited Lyndsay at the Edge Youth Centre recently.

We wanted to see how our donation of new bridal gowns made a difference to this wonderful local charity. Twice a year we donate model bridal gowns to the 2gether shop in Chislehurst. The purpose for us is twofold, to ensure we keep our stock updated regularly and to aid a very good cause in supporting local youth.

Lyndsay met us at the door and her enthusiasm for the Youth Centre she has built up over the last two years is incredibly infectious.

The Edge centre for Chislehurst Youth for Christ, works with young people age 8-18 in different settings, school, church and the local community via their youth club on the Edgebury estate. It supports 70 children a week at the youth club in different age categories, under 13s, 14-16s, and 16 plus groups.

We were lucky enough to be there for the under 13s session and the one thing that struck us from the start was that the children attending the centre were on task, focused on what they were doing and are in a learning environment that is clearly making a huge impact on their lives. Some of these children haven't had the best start in life but at the centre are clearly developing and growing and more importantly have a place to go where they feel safe, can get support in securing a job and learning new skills.

This got us asking why don't more small businesses help charities like this? Perhaps the answer is that we are all too busy focusing on our sales and business challenges that we don't see the good work that is going on under our nose. As small retailers we always have stock that we can't sell for whatever reason and fills up our stock rooms, why not put it to good use and make a difference to an organisation like this? You could donate it to a charity where they will really see a benefit to the cash it generates for them. We suggest speaking to your accountant to see the benefits of charitable giving too.

So what more can we do? Here at Heading up the aisle we will continue to support this fantastic cause for as long as we can do. Lyndsay was able to educate us about her plans for the future in supporting the children to have a mindset change in their own lives and will be arranging a trip to Africa for them to learn new skills and develop themselves. We would encourage all small businesses in the area to visit the youth centre and see how they can help. Whether it is to volunteer your time or to make a donation of stock it can make a huge difference to these children's lives. In these tough times I think it is really important to keep connected to your community after all you never know when you might need their help to make a difference!

Both Maggie and I went away buzzing from our visit and if you can take the time out for a visit we know you will too. I personally was awake for half of the night thinking of other ways to help. To find out more about the youth centre and the 2gether shop http://www.2gethershop.org.uk/

or you can email Lyndsay on http://www.blogger.com/lyndsay@chislehurstyfc.org.uk2 gether will be holding their next bridal event on 6th April 9am -5.30pm at their shop just opposite us at Heading Up the Aisle where you will be able to view and purchase a selection of our newly donated bridal dresses and accessories at a fraction of their original cost.

Heading Up The Aisle will also be holding their spring sale for bridal gowns and prom dresses for the first few weeks of April also. For more information contact http://www.headinguptheaisle.co.uk/. Claire and her team look forward to welcoming you to their bridal event.

Top tips for a wedding in the snow - 20th December 2010 Kirsty and Stuarts snowy filled day - Wedding at Theobald's Park Cheshunt.

2011-02-25T07:09:00.000-08:00

For the last two years on the weekend before Christmas we have been blessed with lots of snow and this year was no exception. On 19th December we headed off to Theobald's park for Kirsty and Stuart's winter wedding. http://www.devere.co.uk/our-locations/theobalds-park.html

We thought it would be useful to document some of the tips we picked up over the last two years of snowy weddings incase you are looking to get married in the winter months.

1) If you don't have a wedding planner then cross check with your suppliers beforehand if they have a 4 by 4 vehicle or access to one and what their back up plan is.

2) Consider booking suppliers that are very local to your venue so it doesn't pose a problem if you are blessed with snow.

3) If the ceremony and reception are in two seperate locations work out a contingency plan of how guests can get there. Should they stay the night before to be sure?

4) Check with your venue as to how they grit pathways and roads and car parks especially to make sure that all your guests including any elderly guests keep safe.

5) Most vintage and classic car companies will not come out in snow as the vehicle weight is so large and poses too great a risk to the client and to the driver. Safety is of paramount importance at all times. As what their contingency is for snow and if they have a back up 4 wheel drive vehicle.

6) Items we included in our wedding kit for the snow are:-

Wellies in a selection of sizes and colours which make for great pictures.
Flask of hot and cold water for de icing car locks - use the cold first
Pashmina wrap for the bride incase she doesn't have one
A shovel
De icer
Blankets for the bride and groom in any vehicle
Hand warmers and a small hot water bottle for photographs and time outside.
A hip flask of brandy to keep them warm during the photographs.
Umbrellas just incase of light snow.
Ugg boots or wellies for any guests and for you to co-ordinate guests.

7) Check with the venue on their cancellation policy, if some guests are unable to make it what is the latest timeframe that they can have final numbers confirmed?

8) Look to see if guests can stay the night before especially if they are key to your day.

9) If people drop out, can you promote evening guests to day guests to make sure food isn't wasted?

10) Be aware that those not staying over may have to leave early if the weather worsens.

11) If you do have a wedding planner check that he or she has a suitable vehicle to cope with the conditions as you don't want to be left with co-ordinating your day yourself at the last minute.

Photography Credits, www.paulbarsby.co.uk

Flowers: www.isisflowers.co.uk

Cake www.theyummycakecompany.co.uk

Wedding Planning www.headinguptheaisle.com

Heading Up The Aisle's first Fashion Show at the Bexley Marriott 25th of September 2010

2010-09-30T11:58:00.000-07:00

On Sunday saw the first Heading Up The Aisle fashion show at the Bexley Mariott hotel wedding fair. We had a wonderful time and were able to showcase a number of our new designs for 2011. Our catwalk models were made up of previous clients, school friends, neighbours and ex work colleagues who we were very greatful for for coming along and showing off our stunning dresses. Thanks to the team at the Mariott for asking us and thanks to all our models for making our dresses look amazing. See us again on the 20th of February.

Big Greek Wedding Camberwell - 25th of September

2010-09-30T11:52:00.000-07:00

On Saturday we had an amazing day helping Andri Benson from Always Andri with this fabulous Greek wedding. It was my first Greek wedding and I really enjoyed all the customs which I have never experienced before as a planner. The atmosphere was great and Andri's design as always was lovely. Heading Up The Aisle supplied the chair covers with Burgundy sashes which truly transformed the room. I thoroughly enjoyed working with Andri and swagging the aisle with this lovely white fabric and roses looked stunning. See Andri's website for more details. www.alwaysandri.co.uk

On the Day Co-ordination Wedding at the Great Barn Rolvenden 18th September 2010

2010-09-29T23:01:00.000-07:00

On Saturday the 18th was Karen and Nick's wedding at the Great Barn at Rolvenden http://www.greatbarnweddings.com/, near Tenterden in Kent. We had a fantastic day and everything went smoothly. The venue is a real blank canvas with which you can do whatever you please and bring in which ever suppliers you wish.

We had a great day working with a lovely team of suppliers including the Pantiles Caterers http://www.pantilescatering.co.uk/ . See a sneak peek of the design here. Karen had lots of personal touches which she had made and asked friends to make and the venue looked very rustic. One of my favourite moments of a wedding day is revealing the room to the bride and groom and showing them their vision. Whilst doing this on a regular basis it still often brings a tear to my eye.

Chair covers at London Zoo 18th September 2010

2010-09-28T00:24:00.000-07:00

On 18th September we were at London Zoo working for Andri Benson of Always Andri on some lovely burnt orange chair covers. I just love the way that covers transform a room. This time we used wider sashes which created a ruffled look. See a sneak peak of the chair cover design above. I love the fact you can get married over looking all the zoo animals.

http://www.zsl.org/zsl-london-zoo/corporate-and-private-events/the-mappin-pavilion

To have a toastmaster or not........ Peter Thompson answers our questions around why one might be good for your day

2010-09-03T10:42:00.000-07:00

I ask Peter Thompson Kent's favourite Toastmaster why brides might consider his services.

What makes brides consider hiring a toastmaster?

Sometimes brides have seen toastmasters work and understand the benefits. If that is not the case brides meet toastmasters at wedding fayres. If that toastmaster is professional and well presented, and the benefits are understood, the bride will consider looking at hiring him or her. If a good impression is not made (as sometimes sadly happens) the bride is completely put off.

Alternatively, other brides or wedding professionals give recommendations and testimonials about individual toastmasters which prompts enquiries.

Images courtesey of Anthony Hurren photography http://www.anthonyhurren.com/

What are the benefits of a toastmaster?

Toastmasters doo add a little flair and perhaps an air of distinction and manage the ceremonial events of the day. As importantly the right toastmaster should diplomatically co-ordinate the celebrations and ensure the bride and bridegroom, their families and guests know exactly what is happening at every stage. This allows everyone to relax and get the maximum enjoyment from the months of planning (and often considerable cost) involved.

How do toastmasters work with wedding planners?

Both toastmasters and wedding planners are involved in the planning and co-ordination of the day. This can potentially lead to a a degree of conflict however the right professionals will work in close harmony and enhance the overall contribution of both.

What are your top 3 tips for brides planning their wedding in a marquee?

1) Take Advice early

It is not easy to plan marquee weddings as the wedding co-ordination services provided by some venues is not available and therefore every little detail of the day must be considered.

2) Give yourself space

You will need to consider adequate parking and make sure that the marquee is large enough to accommodate everything and everyone involved.

3) Get help on the day

Small hiccups can become quite big problems with marquee weddings. Without someone to co-ordinate the day, the family often spends a great deal of time working and not entertaining their guests and enjoying the day to the full.

Peter can be contacted via his website http://www.southeast-toastmasters.co.uk/

Wedding Design Bickley Manor 30th August - Green and Yellow wedding theme - Bickley Manor

2010-08-30T10:39:00.001-07:00

See today's wedding design at the Bickley Manor hotel, in a striking yellow and green theme we always like the challenge of working with something different.

Vintage Inspired Wedding Design - Oaks Farm, Shirley 29th August 2010

2010-08-30T10:27:00.000-07:00

On Sunday we were at Oaks farm doing some wedding design including sashes and lighting to this already stunning venue. I have to say in kent it is certainly one of my favourites the venue are outstanding, they look after all the suppliers to a very high standard. They make every client feel like it is the first wedding they are doing and still have an infectious enthusiasm for weddings which is what we like!

See our pictures of the venue and ceremony room above, more photos to follow.

Chair covers at the King Charles Hotel - Prize winners wedding - Sunday 29th August 2010

2010-08-30T10:19:00.001-07:00

On Sunday we were at the King Charles hotel again highlighting the difference chair covers can make to a venue which would otherwise be quite bland. The bride won our services at the Detling County Show ground wedding fair a year or two ago and was greatful of the difference that chair covers made to her venue. See before and after below. Martine was getting married at the local upnor castle.

Venue Visit Saturday 28th August - The Great Barn Rolvenden

2010-08-30T10:04:00.001-07:00

Saturday brought me to a venue visit at the Great Barn Rolvenden deep in the heart of the kent countryside. A stunning blank canvas venue where you can bring in your chosen suppliers. However you need to bring in absolutely everything from drinks to chillers to toilets but that is all part of the fun. You can make it exactly what you want it but I found it to be a lovely rustic venue full of kentish charm. Really looking forward to our wedding there in a few weeks.

Also whilst there I visited the church where my client's are having their ceremony, it had a flower show on so I couldn't resist taking a few snaps all of the arrangements were inspired by music.

Friday 28th August - Venue Transformation service - Wedding Planning at the Bull at Chislehurst

2010-08-30T09:54:00.000-07:00

On friday we were at the Bull at Chislehurst, our brides are always requesting solutions to things like unsightly curtains especially when they don't have a huge budget. This is an example of a transformation to some curtains along with our chair covers which make a tremendous difference to the room.

Ask us for details, in this instance we used uplighters and curtains and swagging to lighten the room and hide up the existing curtains.

Real Wedding On the Day Co-ordination - Carly and Garry Wilhouby 21st August 2010, the Warren , Wedding Planning, KENT

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We thoroughly enjoyed working with Carly and Garry their wedding was perfect and a stunning elegant venue transformation complete with an amazing George Michael look alike. They were an incredible couple and we also provided Garry coaching on his groom's speech and he did an amazing job. Can't wait to see the professional pictures. Couples like Carly and Garry are exactly why I love my job. I can't wait to see them when they get back from honeymoon and also to see the pictures. What I love about wedding planning is the amazing clients and great friends you meet.

14th August - St Dunstans College Chair covers amazing design by Isis Flowers and The Yummy Cake Company

2010-08-15T09:16:00.000-07:00

On Saturday I was working with Isis helping with Chair covers, at the lovely St Dunstan's college.

I love they way these fish bowls are arranged in groups they look so classy and elegant.

As always Isis did some incredible flower and wedding design and the Yummy Cake company produced a breathtaking cake, everytime someone went near the cake we almost rugby tackled them to the floor!!!!

As you can see breathtaking flowers and a mouthwatering cake. See their websites for details of other fab designs
http://www.yummycakecompany.co.uk/

http://www.isisflowers.co.uk/

7th August - Chair covers at the Copthorne Tara hotel, Kensington

2010-08-07T12:21:00.000-07:00

Today we were at the Copthorne Tara hotel doing a lovely venue transformation for Sherifa who chose silver for her chair cover theme. see the transformation below. This wedding also had some vibrant Yellow and Purple colour accents which really brought the room alive.

http://www.millenniumhotels.co.uk/copthornetarakensington/index.html

6th August 2010 -Chair covers at Dartmouth House Mayfair - Chair covers for Helen Carter Weddings - Silver theme

2010-08-07T12:18:00.001-07:00

On 6th August we were at Dartmouth House in Mayfair which is a real hidden gem of a venue we were working with Helen Carter who is another lovely UK Alliance wedding planner.

http://www.helencarterweddings.co.uk/ Here are our chair covers before an after in this lovely venue.

Go to http://www.leithsat.com/Venues/Dartmouth+House.htm for venue information.

Chair Covers at The Spa Hotel Tunbridge Wells - 6.8.10 Navy and Diamonte Theme

2010-08-07T12:15:00.000-07:00

On 6th August we were at the Spa hotel in Tunbridge wells doing some chair cover transformation. It still amazes me what a difference they make to the overall wedding look. See below along with the other details of the place cards and favours which looked incredible.

http://www.spahotel.co.uk/

Turkey Mill Maidstone 6.8.10 - Jo Hunt's wedding

2010-08-07T12:03:00.000-07:00

We had a lovely time working with Jo, who purchased her dress from Heading Up The Aisle along with chair covers, martini vases and her cars from Mechgem www.mechgem.co.uk

. Jo you looked stunning the pictures speak for themselves. We hope you enjoyed the day as much as we did being a part of it and helping you select your gown.

Turkey Mill is a small and intimate venue which really stands out from the rest for providing a personal and dedicated wedding service. We just love the gardens which are fantastic for your photographs and for guests to mingle. http://www.turkeymill.com/site/

Jo's dress was from our boutique and the designer is Victoria Jane by Ronald Joyce. She looked fabulous see above

Holiday in Wrotham - Lighting, Uplighters and Swagging - 24th July 2010

2010-08-07T12:01:00.000-07:00

We had a great time transforming the venue for our client's wedding on the 24th July at the holiday inn wrotham. The bride and groom wanted a real wow factor to transform the conference typed room into an elegant wedding venue.

Lights can make a real difference to the mood of the room as well as changing and hiding up elements of a room you are less keen on.

We placed curtains and lighting along the back of the room which enabled us to hide up unsightly curtains and did chair covers, column lighting and our other light curtains which created a soft and romantic mood.

Judy wanted swagging around each table which looked different and made it special for the guests.

A Hog Roast with a difference - Hot Trotters 17.7.10 Flowers by Isis and Cupcakes, The Yummy Cake Company

2010-08-07T11:57:00.000-07:00

We always like to recommend you great suppliers so you can share in their great service and we have been looking for a good and reliable hog roast company for a while now, it was great to work with them on an event on the 17th of July they did an amazing job, communication was great, service was excellent and everyone commented on their professional presentation (including getting the crackling off in one piece) and knowledge of the food and how it is cooked. Hot trotters have one mission, to be the best!! We think they achieve it.

We would recommend hot trotters for your hog roast needs.

http://www.hottrotters.co.uk/ Contact Paul for a price and tell him we sent you.

Cupcakes also from The Yummy Cake Company http://www.yummycakecompany.co.uk/ and Stunning flowers from Isis flowers.http://www.isisflowers.co.uk/

10th July Rebecca and O Keefe's wedding - Westheath School, Kent - On the Day wedding co-ordination service

2010-08-07T11:18:00.000-07:00

On the 10th of July we had an amazing day working on Rebecca and O Keefe's wedding at Westheath school, near sevenoaks http://www.westheathweddings.com/home/ it was scorching hot day with a lovely set of suppliers, a lovely bride and groom and some vibrant colour choices.

As always weddings always come with their challenges but we were able to source ice at the last minute, work with the caterer to get some extra items he needed along with ensuring everything went according to plan. The bride was a little delayed to the ceremony but as we were at the church collecting flowers to return them to the venue we were able to contact the caterer to ensure the food wasn't spoiled.

The highlight of this wedding for me was the family electric slide dance after the first dance which created so much energy in the room and kicked the party off with a bang. Rebecca and O Keefe a pleasure working with you and I can't wait to see the pictures and videos, make sure you pop in to see us soon.

New Bridal Collection - 2 Be Brides

2010-07-05T03:41:00.000-07:00

Hello ladies hope all is coming along well with your plans. We couldn't wait to show you this incredible new wedding gown which we are launching from our new collection 2 Be Bride. This is our favourite from the collection which has been flying off the shelves at Bloomingdales and Macys in New York. We hope you will love it as much as us. We will be arranging a pre viewing of this fantastic collection in August so hope to see you there.

To view the full collection of gowns go to http://www.2bebride.com/

Ice Cream Float Inspiration Design Concept

2010-07-05T02:59:00.000-07:00

While ive been eating ice cream floats this week it it struck me that ice cream floats and ice cream are such a fantastic idea for theming a wedding. See the design board below. Hope you like it.

Cakes from the little venice cake company http://www.lvcc.co.uk/

Ice cream float from www.flikr.com

Ice cream girls from the ice angels www.iceangels.co.uk

Dress 2 be brides www.2bebride.com

Just married bunting www.thelastdetail.co.uk

Ice cream cart www.chomoo.co.uk

Wear your wedding dress again for Breast Cancer care Brides at work day

2010-07-03T04:53:00.000-07:00

Fancy wearing your wedding dress again???? So if you got married recently or a long while ago breakthrough breast cancer is calling on all ladies to wear their dress again in aid of this fab cause so if you want to join in then click below and get your dress back on for the 17th of September 2010.

http://breakthrough.org.uk/get_involved/raise_money/brides_at_work/

I am in love with these childrens shoes from Lelli Kelly

2010-06-18T02:37:00.000-07:00

Whilst lunching in sunny Chislehurst with the fabulous Andri from Always Andri wedding designs we came accross these lovellies and decided they would be fab bridesmaid shoes that can be worn again. If I had a little girl as a bridesmaid I would be purchasing these, however my god daugter Eliza might just need a pair!! they are available in many colours and beaded designs and can be worn again at various parties as well. Being in my favourite colour pink they are a hit! You can get them at Davina Boutique in Chislehurst http://www.davinaboutique.co.uk/

Let them eat cake!! - HUTA loves these vintage cupcake holders

2010-06-14T03:29:00.000-07:00

I always love cake, I think it was my visit to Magnolia Bakery in New York that really started my cupcake addition, and I always love to see some different cake details especially those related to cupcakes. Here are some of them out there at the moment.... enjoy. Find these vintage and deco cupcake liners over at estilloweddings.http://www.estiloweddings.com/

Also whilst reading the Before the big day blog, I came accross these amazing wedding cake holders. These are Imeon Designs at Before the big day.

6 cupcake holders crumbs and doilies at before the big day, cake holders Imeon designs via before the big day.http://www.beforethebigday.blogspot.com/

Also whilst looking for unusual cake designs I came accross these lovellies at The little venice cake company. I love the idea of the individually iced cakes.

http://www.lvcc.co.uk/ to see these stunning individually created cakes.

Whilst speaking of cake we couldn't leave out the master of cake making Eric Lanlard http://www.savoirdesign.com/ and http://www.cake-boy.co.uk/. The cake image of 6 individual cupcakes below is from cake boy.

I think these are stunning, speaking of which it must nearly be cupcake o clock as we call it at Heading Up The Aisle!!

HUTA Loves - Not on the High Street - ideas to personalise your big day.

2010-06-04T03:14:00.000-07:00

We always love ways to make your big day your own. Check out these fabulous wedding details from Not on the High Street.com. They even have a wedding list service along with some wicked ideas for gifts and thank yous for your big day. I especially love this personalised planter that can be used on the big day and used again at home afterwards. www.notonthehighstreet.com

Flower inspiration - Less is more Hydrangeas are timeless

2010-06-04T02:32:00.000-07:00

Whilst reading the fantastic blog at before the big day, I stumbled accross this wymsical table design. The purples and the pinks just take your breath away. I love the contemporary elegance of the design here, less is most definately more.

Photo credits - Sweetie Table and Centrepeice, Stephanie Williams via Before the Big day and placecards. http://stephaniewilliamsphotography.com/ via http://beforethebigday.blogspot.com/

Bouquets Anderson florists via Flikr www.weddinglovetoknow.com

Cake May designs http://www.mayweddingflowers.com

Blue centrepeices www.weddinghydrangea.com

HUTA Loves these stunning Number candle vases from Cox and Cox and famous faces masks

2010-05-27T04:13:00.000-07:00

Oooo the Cox and Cox catalogue has just arrived this morning, which always means I have to reign myself in. We just love these Number candle vases which would be perfect table numbers for a small and intimate wedding. We love the vintage style printed numbers on them.

We always love finding new ways to keep your wedding personal to you. I love these famous faces masks as a great talking point for the table, especially if guests don't know one another.

http://www.coxandcox.co.uk/categories/any-excuse-for-a-party

Check out these fantastic items at the above link.

HUTA Loves these Eco Friendly bird seed decorations

2010-05-24T07:06:00.001-07:00

We are all for different things for weddings and we were very excited when we came accross these lovely bird seed decorations perfect for the summer garden wedding. We thought these would be perfect for those of you who have recently asked us about Eco friendly wedding ideas. They are perfect as decorations or as favours for the guests to take home.

We came accross these on the fabulous Before the big day blog site see them for yourself http://beforethebigday.blogspot.com/search/label/DIY

Ask the Expert - Toni Davey from Isis Flowers talks about this seasons must haves and latest trends and tips

2010-05-24T04:10:00.001-07:00

Toni Davey of Isis Flowers provides our ask the expert blog for this month.

What are the Flower trends you are seeing for 2010 and 2011?
Burgundy seems to be the colour of the year for 2010 and 2011, all shades such as merlot and claret. We have been using beautiful Majestic Red Call Lillies to create amazing bouquets and table arrangements. Using them on their own or with White Arum or Calla Blush to create elegant structured arrangements.

Vintage is still very popular with dusky pinks and creams, a mizture of stocks and blousy roses, we are currently using a variety of different containers such as cups and saucers, tin cans, tea pots and jugs.

What are the top three things a bride should consider when hiring a florist?

1) Reputation - ask around and find out what you can about your florist of choice. Don't be afraid to ask for references or testimonials and if you can contact previous clients.

2) Do they Know their stuff? have a consultation with them and don't be afraid to ask lots of questions, do they know your venue and can they recommend flower choices for the time ofyear. Hopefully they should come up with ideas as well to compliment yours without taking over.

3) are they competitive? Don't be afraid to get other quotations but always make sure that you do quote like for like to get a true cost comparison.

4) How far in advance should flowers be booked? If you want a parcitular florist that you know is popular and your wedding is in high season then it is best to book as soon as you can. You can normally do this by paying a small deposit to hold the day.

What are your top flower tips for a marquee wedding?

1) Marquees are predominantly white so don't be afraid to go for a splash of colour.

2) Marquees can be really hot especially in the summer so go for something that will withstand the heat like orchids and lillies. Go for something with a scent aswell.

3) Don't forget about the outside of the marquee, consider lovely bay trees dressed with flowers and organza at the entrance or some lighting or lanterns.

Toni and Claire's stunning shop is based in Hayes, see the website for details or to call and make an appointment. http://www.isisflowers.co.uk/

HUTA loves these fab downloadable wedding signs from Martha Stewart

2010-05-24T04:09:00.002-07:00

We love these downloadable flags and calenders

These can be downloaded from the Martha Stewart website, you can ask your younger guests to waive them at the correct moment whether that be first dance or cake cutting. We always love coming accross ways of personalising your big day we also loved this date map where guests are asked to place a pin on the year where they met the married couple, a perfect activity for reception drinks and a lovely talking point.

Image Credits Martha Stewart.com http://www.marthastewartweddings.com/photogallery/decoration-templates

HUTA loves these stunning wooden flower centrepeices

2010-05-24T04:09:00.001-07:00

We are always looking for different design ideas for your tables. Today I stumbled upon these beautiful Wooden floral centrepeices from Cynthia Martin Events which look so intricate perfect for brides who want something completely different. Photo credit - Cynthia Martin.com http://blog.cynthiamartyn.com/

Real Wedding On the Day Co-ordination - Tanya and Dax Whelan - The Spa Hotel Tunbridge Wells 15th May 2010

2010-05-24T04:08:00.001-07:00

15th May brought a lovely On the Day co-ordination and Design at the Spa hotel Tunbridge Wells. It was a lovely day for Tanya and Dax and all went according to plan. Apart from the DJ nearly not making it back from the Ash cloud. But un known to the bride we had already sourced a back up for her so she would not have needed to worry.

For this wedding we provided a full design service, hire items and floral designs including the bridal bouquets and centrepeices and garden games.

See design details for this day above. Our favourite was the pick and mix table we put together for the evening, which included scoops and bags and was a real talking point with guests who were like kids in a candy store when the realised there were bags, shrimps, cola bottles and rhubarb and custard!

Real wedding co-ordination - The Swan West Malling 8th May 2010 - Vodka Luge

2010-05-24T04:07:00.002-07:00

8th May brought the wedding of Claudia and Lee at the Swan hotel westmalling. It was a stunning and intimate wedding complete with roving buffet platters, a good time was had by all particuarly with the vodka luge which was a real talking point for all the guests. The luge was supplied by the Party Doctors and had to be delivered at a specific timeslot to prevent melting it went down really well with all the guests and created a wow factor in the venue which is predominantly of a rustic feel and perfect for small intimate weddings and events. Here's what Claudia and Lee had to say about our service:-

"Had I not had HUTA I would have been stressing about celebrants and catering and timings. Having the On the Day service meant that we could enjoy every part of the day with our family and friends. All pre and post event Management exceeded my expectations."

Real Wedding On the Day Co-ordination - Brandshatch Place Friday 7th May 2010

2010-05-24T04:07:00.001-07:00

7th May brought the lovely wedding of Nicola and Simon at Brandshatch place. Really important to the couple were that the day ran smoothly and without a hitch and that the children were entertained and enjoyed the day as much as the adults. here are a few elements of their day for you to see.

Saturday 1st May - Fabulous fishbowls and Chaircovers at the Brandshatch Thistle hotel

2010-05-02T02:11:00.000-07:00

We had a fantastic day on saturday I just love, the simplicity of the fishbowl arrangement. Vicky's theme was pink and she wanted some understated but classy centrepeices. We did this with large pink sweet avalanche roses, still grass, mirror plates and tea lights with flora lights lighting the flowers from underneath. They looked lovely see below. I am always still amazed at how chair covers transform a room even if it is a venue generally used for conferencing.

26th April 2010 - Make up tips with our make up artist.

2010-05-02T02:05:00.000-07:00

We always like to keep abreast of the latest trends and this week was no exception. I was trialling the services of our fantastic make up artist Lauren Jackson who was training another make up artist, Stephanie via her company the Face Wizards which is a private school which practices make up techniques and hair design . We have worked with Lauren for a while and love her approach to weddings and her work. You can see the transformation below. I took the time to ask Lauren who is a really experienced make up artist, what her recommended top tips for a bride are when selecting her make up artist:-

1) Check their experience, capability and portfolio
2) Take a look at their previous work
3) Don't necessary look locally as good make up artists will travel
4) Make sure you click with their personality, they will be there at a very special time. We also asked what Lauren's top skincare tips are for the 4 weeks running up to the wedding:-

1)Drink plenty of water
2)No facials up to 2 weeks before to prevent breakouts
3) Cleanse tone, moisturise and keep up your skincare routine don't try any new products.

Lauren's favourite product for brides at the moment is MAC Fix plus spray (see picture)

This sets your make up either underneath or on top to give a fantastic and long lasting look. This is a product that can have two purposes, a primer to be sprayed lightly over the face to prime the face or after full make-up application which sets the work you have done and extends longevity, no bride should be getting married without this one! Lauren's work and website is http://www.bridestobemake-upbylauren.com/ See my fabulous before and after shots, we will be showcasing Lauren's tips regularly along with her favourite products for brides so take a look at that on our blog regularly.

We also have the facility for you to have your make up trial in house at Heading Up The Aisle while you have your dress fitting so ask us for details.

Harrogate and the Bridal Buyer Awards - March 13th to 15th 2010

2010-05-02T02:03:00.001-07:00

We were so delighted to be nominated for "The Best New Bridal Retailer of 2010" at the Bridal Oscars in Harrogate on the 13th of March here we are celebrating at the awards dinner. We made it to the final six bridal shops in the country so we think that is great. Thanks to all our clients past and present who have given us valuable feedback on the service we offer. We will continue to strive for excellence.

27th of February - Wedding at Christchurch spitalfields - An incredible London venue

2010-05-02T01:55:00.001-07:00

We had a real treat on the 27th of February, we always love to find a new venue which just blows us away. We were working on a Wedding with Sarah and Stuart, based at Christchurch spitalfields which is a real wow factor venue. See below for some of the design details. We provided Sarah with her dress and accessories and assisted with some of the wedding design and co-ordination. See if you can spot her famous bridesmaid! Pixie Lott. See the link below for more details.

http://www.uniquevenuesoflondon.co.uk/christ_church_spitalfields/index.html

19th December - Chilston Park in the Snow and contingency planning

2010-01-08T04:10:00.001-08:00

The 19th December brought a fantastic wedding at Chilston Park in Lenham in Hussey Hall. This day higlighted the importance of contingency planning. We were providing On the Day Co-ordination for Melissa and Jim along with chair covers and some floral decoration and cars from Mechgem. Due to adverse weather conditions we couldn't provide a vintage car but got everyone there safely in 4 wheel drive vehicles.

This got me thinking about contingency planning and emergency kits for snowy weddings. I took a shovel which came in handy a few times, luckily I drive a 4 wheel drive vehicle which came in handy for transporting guests. I also took some anti freeze gloves, water and my warning triangle along with hot hands or a hot waterbottle (mini one) for the photographs, also supplying spare pairs of gloves for guests to have photos outside is a nice touch. Due to the severe snow in lenham there would not be any vehicle that could arrive at the venue in anything other than a 4 * 4 vehicle. So this had to be planned for aswell. We had a great day, with some power cut challenges which due to our close communication with the venue and guests did not spoil anything. As a wedding planner weather is always a factor in our planning of the day and made me glad that we bought a 4 by 4 as our car a few years back. This meant we could drive to the church the day prior to check conditions, advise all the suppliers, collect flowers which could not be delivered in short we managed to fulfill everything and more for the bride and groom. See the pictures below showing the venue in the snow and the table and chair decor.

Jonathan Ansell Opens our Design Studio - 5th December 2009

2009-12-11T21:48:00.000-08:00

We had a fantastic day last Saturday and were honoured to have Jonathan Ansell and Wedding TV officially open up our Design Studio. For those of you that attended we hope you enjoyed it. Based on your feedback we will be running similar Wedding inspiration days in 2010 so watch this space. Here are just a few pictures from the big day. Thank you Jonathan it was a pleasure to meet you. Thanks to Anthony Hurren and Helen England for the stunning pictures we will show more on our website.

5th December - Heading Up The Aisle Design Studio Opening Day

2009-11-20T07:27:00.000-08:00

We are so excited about December the 5th, weve got G4's Jonathan Ansell coming to officially open up our Wedding Planning Design Studio and we are holding an open day by registration only. You can come along and find out what we can do for your big day along with meeting all the wedding professionals which are part of our wedding packages. Such as The Yummy Cake Company, Stationary from Mandalay, Flowers from Jeanette's flowers, Photography from Helen England, Toastmaster - Peter Thompson, Lauren Jackson our make up artist, Rachel Nicolas from Indigo Silver our Tiara Designer and Rings and Jewlery from Flawless Jewelery. It promises to be an inspirational day come and view our new bridal collections which are available on a sneak peak basis only as they won't be out until February/March time.

To find out more and to register for this exclusive event click on the link below.

http://events.constantcontact.com/register/event?oeidk=a07e2ma60sm4e120a30
Wedding TV are also covering the event so we look forward to seeing you there. Register via the link above or by calling headinguptheaisle@hotmail.co.uk

Heading Up The Aisle's winter sample sale

2009-11-20T07:22:00.000-08:00

Hurry ladies our sample sale is running for just a few more days. Stunning dresses from just £100-150 for Bridal gowns and from £30-100 for bridesmaid samples.

We can't wait to see you in some dresses. For example Romantica Ursula gown was £699 now just £150.00

Sample sale continues 1 more week all samples are £150.00

2009-11-08T05:50:00.000-08:00

Bridal sample sale now continues until the end of this week 15th November. All bridal dress samples are £150-200 and bridesmaid samples are £30-100. Come along and see the lovely collection. Also see some of the styles available on our sample sale blog.

Detling County Show ground 25th October 2009

2009-11-08T05:46:00.000-08:00

We have now recovered from the Detling Wedding show which was a fantastic day and we really enjoyed seeing our dresses on the catwalk, if you wish to purchase one of our umbrellas then take a look at our website for details http://www.headinguptheaisle.co.uk/. See some of the pictures below from the catwalk show our umbrellas went down well as they are great for sun or rain and make fantastic photo opportunities. See some of the collections available in store now.

See the pictures of Maggie and I on the stand below.

Until next time

Heading Up The Aisle an award winning company

2009-10-30T13:44:00.000-07:00

We were delighted last night to be awarded a highly commended in the Retailer category for our commitment and passion in retail and in the Wedding Industry in Kos Media's Kent Business Awards. Look out for us in the Kent on Sunday this week.

http://www.businessforkent.co.uk/newsStory.aspx?id=527

The National Wedding Show 2-4th October

2009-10-23T08:24:00.000-07:00

Weve been so busy over the last few weeks since the National Wedding show, we had a great show and thoroughly enjoyed meeting so many of you. We hope to see you in the boutique soon.

See below a picture of our stand and Maggie along with Ozge and Rebecca modelling our beautiful gowns.

19th September 2009 - Addington Palace - On the Day Co-ordination

2009-09-25T09:40:00.000-07:00

We had a fantastic co-ordination day at Addington Palace on Saturday complete with lovely sky lanterns. For this wedding we co-ordinated the day and also did the flowers aswell as the Wedding Cars. Everything went according to plan apart from a lost panel of a dress which we magicked from an interesting place and a rather unsturdy cake which we managed to reassemble for pictures so that there were no problems with the cake during the meal.

I also met a chimney sweep for the first time at a wedding this was an old tradition and this gentleman also brought his lucky black cat for effect. He was fully trained to stay on his shoulder and pose for pictures aswell. This is a tradition that goes back 200 years, it was considered lucky to see a sweep on your big day and considered to bestow good luck and happiness upon you.

All went well, Elizabeth and Paul were a lovely couple to work with enjoy Sri lanka well done on the first dance and make sure you show us the pictures when you return.

18th September - Cooling Castle Barn an on the Day Co-ordination and Chair covers

2009-09-25T09:21:00.000-07:00

On friday we did a fabulous On the Day Co-ordination at Cooling Castle Barn which goes down as being one of my favourite venues for sheer excellence. It is a personal venue which is sooo flexible. It has a ceremony room permanently set up inside incase of rain, my clients were lucky to have perfect sunshine for their ceremony, followed by a hog roast later. The venue is a lovely stunning barn setting for a wedding which creates a lovely atmosphere. The staff are so helpful and accommodating, one to look at if you are looking to get hitched in kent for sure. It also has lovely photo opportunities, and Jules Holland lives next door how cool is that??

18th September - Tiffany Blue Theme Brandshatch Place

2009-09-25T09:17:00.000-07:00

We like the brandshatch place reception room as it is quite a blank canvas. For this wedding we provided hurricane lamps, chair covers, and the candleabra centrepeices.

Our trip to Harrogate and the introduction of a new collection

2009-09-25T09:09:00.000-07:00

Harrogate is a fantastic place and lovely to see all the new collections for the coming year. We can't wait for the new dresses to arrive, we have Ronald Joyce, Romantica and Victoria Jayne coming in the next month so pop along to have a look at them.

We had a great time at Harrogate and have pleasure in announcing we have acquired a fabulous new bridesmaids dress label.

Betsey Couture we know you girls will love it. We have a few dresses from the collection arriving in a few weeks so pop along to the boutique to see them and give us your reactions. Or if you can't wait that long go to http://www.betseycouture.co.uk/ for details.

They also make fabulous prom dresses or Christmas party dresses so we look forward to seeing you in them soon!

12th September Hilton Hotel Maidstone - Chair covers and floral designs

2009-09-25T09:05:00.001-07:00

We had a lovely time working with this particular client, their theme colours were Belle and the Beast from Disney so it worked really well. They hired some of our light curtains, heart light and had their chair covers and sashes co-ordinated in gold and burgundy. It looked fantastic and the floralytes in the flower arrangements really set off the gerberas.

Swanley Banqueting chair covers

2009-09-25T09:02:00.000-07:00

See our venue transformation of chair covers at Swanley Banqueting.

Burgundy is one of our most popular chair cover sash colours.

Eltham Palace Ceremony Room - 5th September 2009

2009-09-25T08:57:00.000-07:00

We have had a hectic few weeks at lots of different wedding locations providing a variety of services. See beautiful Eltham Palace ceremony room dressed up with our chair covers.

Emma and Steve's Beach themed Wedding - Richmond Hill Hotel 29th August 2009

2009-09-01T00:31:00.000-07:00

Weddings on the bank holiday weekend always make me smile, everyone has that extra day to prepare and to relax and this weekend's wedding was no exception. Emma and Steve chose a vibrant colour palette for their day in Orange and Turquoise. They wanted an uplifting, vibrant theme and it came together beautifully with some stunning flowers a cake covered in Shells and a lovely orange and turquoise table setting. See our transformation for details. On the Day Co-ordinations never cease to amaze me, there is always something that happens no matter how organised the couple are. This weekend the mother of the bride's corsage turned up in the incorrect colour so we had to go to a local florist and get another one made up. We hope you like the pictures for us it made a change to do something different and vibrant.

Preparing for the National Wedding Show 2-4th October 2009

2009-08-28T03:42:00.001-07:00

We are busy getting prepared for the National Wedding Show in October, where we will be with Mechgem and Heading Up The Aisle. Really looking forward to it this year as we have a slightly larger stand space which is great. See what George from Wedding TV said about us after the show earlier in the year. http:/blog.theukweddingshows.co.uk/date/2009/02/

We look forward to seeing you there, for more information go to the National Wedding show website. http://www.nationalweddingshow.co.uk/

22nd August - Marriot Regents Park Chair covers and Decor

2009-08-28T02:40:00.000-07:00

Last week were at the Marriot Regents Park providng some venue transformation items including chair covers, flowers and top table arrangements including lighting. See how the chair covers brighten up the room. The top table lighting arrangement is a lovely way of making your top table a focal point to the room. The flower arrangements looked stunning with the pearls dangling down the sides on the mirror bases and really transformed the wedding breakfast beautifully.

What we love about the job we do is the thank yous that come through to us at this time of year. It was a great surprise the day after the wedding to get a lovely voicemail from the groom which said" Hi Kay, we are just calling to thank you for everything you have done, the chair covers and decor were beautiful and so many guests commented on the room we really appreciate all your assistance and guideance and thanks for your professionalism and for meeting up with us to firm up our ideas. Thank you again and talk to you soon." This is what makes our job so fantastic we just love it when a wedding vision comes together.

Addington Palace 9th August - Main house

2009-08-28T02:39:00.001-07:00

We did a lovely stunning chocolate box colour purple Wedding theme at Addington Palace. See the pictures below.

8th August - Chair covers at Dulwich and Sydnham Golf Club - Cerise Pink

2009-08-16T07:18:00.000-07:00

Our chair covers are flexible and can even transform the most unlikely of chairs. See the example from Dulwich and Sydnham Golf Club. The chairs are very unusual and different to normal banqueting chairs and even though the bottom of the chair is not covered, they still make a difference to this venue in making it more like a wedding breakfast than a golf club function room.

8th August 2009 - Chair covers at Addington Palace - Ice Blue Theme

2009-08-16T07:11:00.000-07:00

This weekend we were at Addington Palace, doing 400 chair covers for a large wedding in an ice blue theme. We like working at the Palace, the venue are flexible and always helpful and accommodating.

Chair cover details at Bickley Manor

2009-08-16T07:03:00.000-07:00

For a recent wedding we were asked to get our creative hats on with some special additions to our sashes in the form of the diamonte pins shown below. It looked really different and we had many people commenting on it. Ask us for details of our chair cover accessories.

1st August - Wedding onboard the historic HMS Warrior

2009-08-16T06:59:00.000-07:00

Well this has to be one of my favourite wedding experiences. A wedding onboard a historic ship, dating back to the 1860's the couple's ceremony took place onboard HMS Warrior in Portsmouth which was held on the gun deck surrounding all the guns and amunition. It had a very special feel to it and the chair covers made the venue look very different. It was probably one of the most unusual transformations we have done to date. We had to be security cleared to access the ship and we took great interest in looking around the ship and seeing its history including the captains table see below.

Alexander House Hotel - 1st August 2009 Cadbury's purple theme

2009-08-16T06:58:00.000-07:00

This wedding had a chocolate box purple theme which really looked stunning. The couple also had a wishing tree instead of a guest book which has been a popular addition to many of our weddings this season. The Hydrangeas made an incredible addition to the wedding theme.

Royal Blue Chair covers - Ramada Jarvis Hotel - 31st July 2009

2009-08-15T10:39:00.001-07:00

Well weve been really busy over the last few weeks with lots of fantastic weddings. This one at the Ramada Jarvis Maidstone was no exception. We provided the chair covers and flowers for this wedding along with Mechgem providing the wedding cars. The Royal Blue covers really transformed the venue.

Friday 17th of July - Dorton House

2009-07-18T06:38:00.000-07:00

We really enjoy working down at Dorton House. It is a real hidden gem of a venue and the staff clearly love weddings which really shows. We love the main room at Dorton house which has a stunning stair case. We always think that the website doesn't really do it justice so you should make an appointment to see it for yourself.

Here are our before and after pictures which are a lovely sage green theme.

10th July Coombe Bank School, Sevenoaks

2009-07-17T01:17:00.000-07:00

Here is a venue we have heard lots about recently, many of our clients are looking at it as a potential wedding venue. It has lovely grounds and also quite a blank canvas to work with. On friday we were doing chair covers and top table swagging for our client. See below.

Nicola and Chris's wedding - 11th July - Kemsing Marquee Wedding

2009-07-17T00:52:00.000-07:00

11th July brought a fantastic on the day co-ordination Wedding Planning day for Nicola and Chris Smith. The day was set in a beautiful country church followed by a marquee wedding in their grandma's home. I love marquee weddings they are just so personal topped with the fact that you always have such a blank canvas. I really enjoy the excitement aswell in looking at the venue before and afterwards. We always like to attend the marquee handover meeting where possible to make sure all the suppliers know us and our role in the day. The theme was chocolate brown and looked breathtaking.

As always we got to work with some great suppliers and would highly recommend Peter Thompson as a toastmaster. Peter, blends in with the guests and ensures they day flows. It was great working with Peter and it made our life much easier, Peter had outstanding attention to detail and from a Wedding Planners perspective outstanding at what he does. http://www.southeast-toastmasters.co.uk/

As always on the day there are problems to be solved, this time including some missing orange juice for the toast drinks and ice for the ice buckets, along with keeping everyone dry and happy as it rained for most of the day. That is the great thing about having an on the day co-ordinator you know nothing about it and things are fixed behind the scenes.

Here are some pictures of the stunning day Congratulations Nicola and Chris, a pleasure working with you both.

Nicola and Chris said "Your One Sweet Day service is priceless, you were fantastic and allowed us to relax and enjoy our day free from any worries or problems."

27th June - High Rocks Silver and Burgundy Gerbera Theme

2009-07-17T00:45:00.000-07:00

On the 27th of June we were at High Rocks in Tunbridge wells transforming the venue with our chair covers. The theme was silver and burgundy with burgundy gerberas on each of the chair backs. It looked really stunning. We particularly liked the cake aswell which reflected the couple's personalities.

Orange, Pink and Purple Design Concept

2009-07-03T18:30:00.001-07:00

Well this week's design board is inspired by the bird of paradise flower. It is amazing how many colours you can add to orange to make it striking. Weve got some lovely burnt orange bridesmaid dresses now in store aswell. This theme would be perfect for a beach wedding or carribean theme.

Photo credits

Duet Photography

http://www.beau-coup.com/

http://www.peggyporschen.com/

http://www.chasing-fireflies.com/

http://www.verawangonweddings.com/

http://www.flowerclip.com/

http://www.invitationswithstyle.com/

http://www.velvetstore.co.uk/

http://www.sawyercompany.com/

http://www.johnandmaxmillsphotography.com/

http://www.flcflowers.co.uk/

http://www.weddingo.co.uk/

20th June 2009 - The Porchester Hall

2009-06-26T13:25:00.000-07:00

On the 20th of June we did a venue transformation at the Porchester Hall. See the pictures below of the chair covers and the feather centrepeices. Our bride and groom had double chair sashes in satin and organza.

Saturday 20th June - Multiple colours and the Little Silver

2009-06-26T13:22:00.001-07:00

One of our couples had a multi coloured theme for their wedding at the weekend. The chair cover sashes were based around different table names, and acted during the ceremony a bit like escort cards where the guests were asked to sit where their coloured sashes were.

Tiffany Blue Design Concept

2009-06-26T12:28:00.001-07:00

This week's design board is in tiffany blue and white. We did this bouquet for a bride last year and it worked well with the tiffany blue ribbon.

Image credits:-

http://www.serendipityprom.com/

http://www.mp.hairboutique.com/

http://www.bagborroworsteal.com/

http://www.weddingmagazine.co.uk/

http://www.birchblooms.blogspot.com/

http://www.zimboshoes.com/

Friday the 19th of June - Lympne Castle

2009-06-21T03:10:00.000-07:00

This friday we were at Lymnpe Castle which is a stunning wedding venue. See the before and after transformation with the double green sashes and the napkin ties and fishbowl flower arrangements.

Saturday 13th June - Nurstead Court- Brown and Burnt Orange Theme

2009-06-18T00:59:00.001-07:00

On the 13th we were at Nurstead Court Transforming a venue, see how the Burnt orange and Brown theme really transforms the marquee

Saturday 13th June The Chateaux, Croydon

2009-06-18T00:55:00.000-07:00

On Saturday we had a busy day transforming venues and the Chateaux looked stunning with our chair covers in a purple theme.

Shortlisted in Kent Business Awards 2009 - The Kent Business Challenge

2009-06-15T09:45:00.001-07:00

We are so excited at Heading Up The Aisle as we are one of 50 companies who have been shortlisted in the Kent Business Challenge. We are in the innovations category and up against 5 other companies. The winners are announced at an awards ceremony later in September, we are keeping our fingers crossed but are so pleased to have made the final shortlist to win a share of One million pounds in PR and Advertising and Marketing. Bring it on and keep your fingers crossed for us. The judges are looking for passion in their field and a vision for taking the business forward. We certainlly have that so wish us luck and we will update you after the big awards ceremony in September.

http://www.yourkenttv.co.uk/channels/default.aspx?page=business&vid=4108

Black Magic Classic Design Board

2009-06-15T01:10:00.002-07:00

We are starting the week with another design board which is centred around a black and white theme. We have these dresses with the white band in stock and they are fabulous and are from Cascata. They can be customised, available in 3 lengths and 3 back types along with 90 different colours and 6 different fabrics.

Black and white has been popular this season, with a few of our clients having tied this in with a Bugsy Malone theme. This Rolls Royce 1937 Limousine from Mechgem is perfect for setting a black and white theme for your day.

Photo Credits:-

http://www.cascatabridal.co.uk/

http://www.estiloweddings.com/

http://www.barneys.com/

http://www.bhg.com/

http://www.storepinkprincess.com/

http://www.flowersauckland.co.nz/

http://www.annawhitford.com/

http://www.woodensoldier.com/

http://www.media.canada.com/

http://www.poshgirlvintage.com/

http://www.pioneercolor.com/

http://www.mechgem.co.uk/

http://www.michaelcfina.com/

http://www.etsy.com/

Design Board - Sage Green Summer Sensation

2009-06-12T06:39:00.001-07:00

This design board is inspired by two lovely dresses from our range, one from Ronald Joyce and One from Romantica. The Ronald Joyce one we have in the window currently. Simply adding another accent colour like Lilac or Pink can really make the colour theme of your day stand out.

We have this Ronald Joyce dress in our window at the moment, pop along and see for yourself. Our table theming has a pink and green theme too.

Image Credits:

Ronald Joyce http://www.ronaldjoyce.co.uk/

Romantica - http://www.romanticaofdevon.com/

http://www.flickr.com/

http://www.priscillaofboston.com/

http://www.dessy.com/

http://www.jeweleryadvisor.com/

http://www.fleurdelisacakes.com/

http://www.peggyporschen.com/

http://www.davidsbridal.com/

http://www.fragrantica.com/

http://www.weddingmagazine.com/

http://www.neimanmarcus.com/

Sage Green and Lilac inspiration by headinguptheaisleweddings

La Royale - Venue Transformation - Sunday 7th of June 2009

2009-06-09T13:11:00.000-07:00

So on Sunday we were back out again although slightly jaded doing a venue transformation at La Royale in Tottenham where we fitted 500 chair covers. The chair cover sash colour really worked with the choice of Peonies which matched perfectly. See below. the whole team out in force!!

Kellie and Tuwame's Wedding Reception - The Corn Exchange Rochester, Kent. - 6th of June

2009-06-09T13:00:00.001-07:00

Following the rehersal on friday the 5th of June at St Paul's we were co-ordinating the Wedding the following day. Ensuring all went to plan, and that all guests knew where they were going. We also supplied chair covers, lighting and the cake stand. It was a lovely wedding and Kellie and Tuwame were a great couple to work with they were both so excited about the big day and the wedding design truly reflected their personalities.

There was a challenge around some table linen which we solved by finding some at the venue for the caterer to use. Also two car loads of guests were late arriving at the reception as they had come from London. So we had to arrange for them to be directed in and rejig the timings. We also organised the big brother diary room and solved the problem of a missing guest book. This is all in a day's work for a Wedding Co-ordinator some of those issues Kellie and Tuwame still don't know about and they are happily enjoying their honeymoon.

See below for the design concepts. We had the pleasure of working with some great suppliers on the day, with Robert Munro Photography http://www.robertmunro.co.uk/ , Leo Ferenc from Perfect Day Studios http://www.perfectdaystudios.co.uk/ . The cake was from Sugar Plum Cake company. I also recommend Chris Till who was their singer for the evening he was tremendous providing a selection of Swing and modern tunes which ensured the dancefloor was filled and he created a great atmosphere aswell as being very straightforward to work with. http://www.christill.co.uk/.

The Corn exchange is a flexible venue in that you bring in all your own suppliers including the caterer.

St George's hotel Chatham - Charity's wedding transformation. - 6th of June.

2009-06-09T12:58:00.000-07:00

On Saturday we were at St George's hotel Chatham providing lighting, a back drop and chair covers. Which really transformed the space. See below for the peices that we completed for the happy couple.

Wedding Rehersal St Paul's Cathedral- Friday 5th of June 2009

2009-06-09T12:54:00.000-07:00

On friday I was with Kellie and Tuwame for their wedding rehersal at St Pauls, such a fantastic place to get married. It has a real special feeling about it walking in past such famous people's tombs. We were there just to finalise details for the following day, make sure all family members knew what was going to take place on the Wedding day and ensuring that all the finer details were tied up. The wedding reception was one hour out of london so timing was critical and the rechecking of the details with all the bridal party ensured they were aware of the importance of the timing. Along with the other suppliers such as the photographer where we were able to discuss good photo opportunities and how these would work on the day.

A new take on the first night hotel - Tipi Tastic

2009-05-29T06:44:00.000-07:00

Well a week or so ago I was at the Shopping Experience down at the Kent County Show ground and saw a great new idea for your first night accommodation for your big day. Big Hill Tipis offer fantastic tipis for honeymoon suites which are perfect if you are having a wedding in a marquee. Why not arrange a Tipi for you and your new husband to spend the night, entertain guests in before your last ones leave. Would be an unfogettable experience to end your big day. Obviously it is only possible if you have the space at your venue and the flexibility of a marquee wedding is perfect for this. Tipi hire starts from £550.00 and will really add a touch of the adventure to your day. Why not hire a larger one perfect for children's entertaining at the wedding or even a small wedding reception. Go to http://www.bighilltipis.co.uk/

Knowlton Court a Classic Country Wedding - 23rd May 2009

2009-05-29T04:48:00.000-07:00

On Saturday we were co-ordinating and overseeing the Wedding of Melanie and Jozef at the wonderful Knowlton Court in Canterbury. It was just stunning, they got married in a local church in Kingston then on to this really outstanding venue.

Everything about the day went perfectly to plan. We were delighted. As always there are a few things that need ironing out but we were blessed with sunshine and a wonderful selection of suppliers thanks to Melanie and Jozef's organisation. We provided our on the day service along with a number of hire items. Knowlton court is amazing in that you can hire it for the weekend, from the friday round to the monday which makes for a really special celebration for all your guests. The accommodation sleeps around 68 guests in total which means your guests can really let their hair down and enjoy the whole weekend.

See below for some design ideas and our recommended supplier this week are CBH caterers who were just fantastic to work with on the day. Their team were flexible and the food was outstanding. Speak to Andy for details if you are looking for a caterer look no further than CBH who will exceed your expectations http://www.cbhcatering.com/

The bride and groom had some lovely ideas for the day, including a cake made of cheese which was stunning (see below)we provided lighting, hurricane lamps the theme was country chic, with green and ivory accents. Along with the guest book tree which was a real talking point. The band were also fantastic they are called the Ronnie Scott's rejects, they really kept everyone on the dancefloor to some fantastic tunes.

Mountains Country House and a Candelabra flower trial 24th of May 2009

2009-05-29T04:41:00.000-07:00

See the pictures below showing our candeabra complete with flowers. Flowers courtesy of Jeanette's flowers. This gives a good view of what our Candleabra look like complete with flowers on them.

Mountains country house was our venue on the 24th of May where we did chair covers and some venue transformation items. See the before and after with the chair covers in this lovely marquee setting. See the link below for details of the venue. http://www.mountainsevents.co.uk/

Andre and Lindsey's Rat Pack Themed celebration - 16th May 2009

2009-05-17T06:31:00.000-07:00

This weekend we were doing a Wedding Planning, Co-ordination day at Salomans in Tunbridge Wells. We had a wonderful day which thankfully stayed dry for all the photos required. There were some stunning touches which Andre and Lindsey had planned including a guest book tree and a candle uniting ceremony in the church which was just perfect. We really enjoyed ourselves Andre and Lindsey were such a lovely and special couple to work with and we were so happy to be part of their special day. We also provided some of the small accents you see, including the post box, lighting in the conservatory and silk swagging.

We can't wait to see the pictures, the venue were fantastic and I would highly recommend them. Emma Butterworth, and Kelly's staff teams were outstanding. All guests were speaking about the food and they delivered exceptional attention to detail. So if you are looking for a venue with exceptional service that exceeds expectations head to Salomans. See the link below for details of the venue http://www.salomonsweddings.org.uk/contact.html

The venue are flexible and very responsive to customer requests, and you have exclusive use of the main house ground floor which gives plenty of room for guests to mingle and enjoy themselves as well as the stunning photo opportunities that can be found all over the place. Andre and Lindsey have a wonderful honeymoon and I look forward to seeing you when you return. See some of the pictures below for design ideas.

Until next time..........

Bickley Manor - Chair covers - 3rd of May 2009

2009-05-08T05:46:00.001-07:00

On Sunday we were at Bickley Manor for a lovely wedding where we did chair covers for the ceremony which were then moved into the main room after the ceremony. A good tip is to check that your venue is fine for you to move the chairs which then means you don't need to pay for twice as many chair covers

Coombe Bank School - 2nd of May - A real hidden treat of a venue

2009-05-02T00:04:00.000-07:00

We were at Coombe bank today doing a venue transformation, with hurricane vases, flowers and chair covers, lighting and swagging. See below the before and after pictures of this lovely venue which really gives you a blank canvass to have it exactly as you want it.

3rd of May 2009 - Marcia and Nick Samba Magic at the Star and Garter in Putney

2009-05-02T00:01:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we were providing On the Day Co-ordination, floral design and venue decor including chair covers to Marcia and Nick, whose wedding was at the Star and Garter in Putney. The day went smoothly thanks to our well engineered timeline. The day was a real celebration, Marcia is Brazillian and this brought a theme to the day which included a lively samba band which created the most incredible and uplifting atmosphere. It was such a surprise for all the guests too.

The bridesmaids each had flowers which they brought together to form a bouquet which the groom tied at the alter to symbolise the joining together of their families. Thanks guys we loved every minute, enjoy your honeymoon and wedding celebration in Brazil and relax knowing your day went according to plan.

See all the little details, Marcia you looked incredible. You too Nick and it was a pleasure to work with you both.

Pretty in Pink - Venue Transformation 2nd of May

2009-05-02T00:00:00.001-07:00

On Saturday we were in Heathrow at the Thistle hotel, transforming a venue with chair covers. The difference here is amazing. I loved the cerise pink sashes we provided they really set off the theme of the day.

Cooling Castle Barn - Friday 1st of May 2009

2009-05-01T23:57:00.001-07:00

On friday we were at Cooling castle barn, doing a venue transformation for one of our clients. They had lovely weather for it and a stunning horse and carriage. We provided the chair covers and the dress and bridal accessories. Vicki hired her dress from us to save on budget which is a service we are always happy to provide where possible. Best of luck guys and enjoy the Galapagos Islands.

Pink Princess Pony Parties and an amazing cake - 26th of April 2009

2009-05-01T23:42:00.000-07:00

On Sunday I turned my hand to something different. The co-ordination of a fantastic children's party. It had a pink princess theme with pony rides and children's entertainment. The birthday girl Amelie arrived on Pickles and dressed as snow white. The children enjoyed themselves, the sun was out and hopefully the parents relaxed a bit knowing it was all under control.

Amelie's cake was outstanding and was provided by the Yummy cake company who always provide amazing cakes, ive only seen them in the Wedding capacity before but this cake for the party was unbelievable http://www.yummycakecompany.co.uk/, see their website for details. The cake was set up under a beautiful princess themed baloon arch which was provided by sensational events . The children's entertainment was provided by Little poppets.

See a few pictures from the event below. For children's party organisation contact me at Heading Up The Aisle - Fairy Godmother service. 07968 730837. We can also assist in organising entertainment for the children as well as all the other peices of the day, for a party or a wedding.

Congratulations to our prize winners - Karen and Nick

2009-04-24T03:00:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Karen King and Nick Burgess who were the winners of our Invicta FM prize, winning over £1000 worth of venue styling and Wedding Planning from us. Karen and Nick congratulations again it was great to meet you and we can't wait to get cracking to help you with your plans. The photo below shows Maggie and I with Karen and Nick just after they heard the news that they have won our prize. We can't wait to get your plans off to a flying start.

Detling Show Ground - 19th April 2009 Under my Umbrella....

2009-04-24T02:51:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, we enjoyed a fantastic show at Detling county show ground last weekend. We always enjoy meeting lots of brides and grooms and hearing about their plans and discussing their requirements for accessories and dresses aswell.

See our fantastic set from the fashion show where the girls showed offer our Wedding Parasols teriffically. These can be found on our website on the link below. http://www.headinguptheaisle.co.uk/products_services_wedding_accessories.htm They are £12.50 to purchase. We do offer hire on some of our parasols and umbrellas aswell so ask us for details too.

As always we always like to bring you new suppliers that we have come accross to give you tips and ideas. At the show we met the following suppliers that really impressed us.

http://www.exclusivecarriages.co.uk/ for your horse and carriage.

http://www.feathersbydesign.co.uk/ for your feather centrepeices.

The Corn Exchange Rochester - Venue Visit

2009-04-11T06:30:00.000-07:00

This week we were visiting a venue in Rochester for a wedding we have in June. Our tip of the week is to make sure you try to visit your venue on a day when it is set for a wedding which enables you to visualise what it will look like particularly if you are having chair covers aswell.

Here are some of the images that we took while we were there. The main room there has some lovely photo opportunities.

The table centrepeices make a great idea, for this wedding the baskets were filled with eggs for Easter. We thought this was great. The centrepeice and the flowers were the favours and decorations in one.

A hidden gem of a venue, Knowlton Court near Canterbury

2009-04-11T05:54:00.000-07:00

This week ive been out looking at venues and meeting clients which is the bit of Wedding planning that I love the most. This is for a wedding in a marquee at Knowlton court in May. We were meeting with the key suppliers on the day to make sure they are aware of how things will run and to discuss roles and responsibilities. The thing we just loved about Knowlton court are their flexibility and personal service. Knowlton court can sleep 68 people in various stunning cottage accommodation which means the whole family can stay there with you for the whole weekend - pure genius. Why not book a BBQ for the following day and extend your wedding celebrations. The marquee gives you the flexibility and there are some lovely photo opportunities everywhere including a disused chapel. The family still live in the main house which gives it a real special element to the day. Call Dawn to discuss your wedding now and you will not be dissapointed. http://www.knowltoncourt.co.uk/cottage.htm (Images taken from the Knowlton Court website).