Photo credit: onewed.com

So, after months of planning your big day, it’s finally here…

Hopefully you’ve given yourself longer to pack than just a night but make things easier on yourself by checking off these crucial items….

Wet Wipes – The saviour item of any wedding day, pack these by the bucket load: they’ll remove any make up traces from hands and face (you do not want to mark your dress at all and preferably not before the wedding).

Waterproof Mascara – There are probably going to be a lot of tears (happy ones of course!) So – make sure you have packed this trusty item. Try before the big day in the unlikely event that you have an allergic reaction.

Hand pocket tissues – For the above reasons!

Passport – Hopefully you’re jetting off to sunnier climes…. Make sure your passport is in date and all the details are correct. Keep in a safe place or ask a trusted friend or family member to guard it with their life!

Honeymoon essentials – If you forget anything don’t panic – there’s always the airport but if you’re a contact lens wearer or need any specifics make sure you’ve popped them in your suitcase. If you are jetting off to somewhere hot then pack your sun cream (rather than pay premium prices at the airport).

Pen and paper – Sounds silly but I spent my entire wedding week asking to borrow a pen.

Phone charger – You will feel like a celebrity on your wedding day with constant calls, texts and good wishes. Make sure you’re in communicado!

Camera – and camera charger – For all of those wonderful honeymoon memories.

Shoes/ dress/ accessories – We shouldn’t need to remind you of this category but just in case!!

Deodorant – Pack a good deodorant that you have used before and that you know works. Sweat patches shouldn’t even register on your internalised checklist!

Eye mask and ear plugs – For a good night’s sleep the night before. If you’re sleeping in strange surroundings then a good eye mask and ear plugs will aid your beauty sleep.

Make up stay in place spray – Probably the one item that you can’t live without! Urban Decay’s ‘All Nighter’ is an absolute life-saver that won’t break the bank.

Diary – Whether you’re old school and have an actual diary or it’s all stored on your phone, there are numbers, times, notes that you will need at all times.

Spring is coming!

 

The daffodils will soon be unfurling and the birds will start tweeting….Spring time is about to arrive and we’re gearing up for a very busy wedding season here at High Barns HQ.

 

If you’re planning a spring time wedding then lucky you! Not only are you tying the knot at one of the prettiest times of the year but soon, many popular wedding flowers will be in season. Not only does this mean cheaper access to flowers (that will cost you an arm and a leg out of season) but also you can buy locally grown flowers and support local businesses.

Working with seasonal elements will make your bouquet look more natural – which is a trend that’s set to continue in 2017.

 

Here a few of our favourites (hand-picked) straight from our florist’s English country garden….

 

Bluebells: look elegant in a longer style bouquet and tie in perfectly if you’re introducing any shades of blue into your colour scheme. Add bluebells to white blooms for elegant buttonholes or a wonderfully simple bouquet.

 

Roses: timeless and elegant, roses have never really gone out of fashion. The variety of colours and the gorgeous scent makes it a favourite for many brides for their bouquet, button-hole or centre piece. Team with ferns and peonies for a beautiful trailing bouquet (which will create differing lengths and will make your bouquet look more organic).

 

Gerberas: A seasonal all-rounder that comes in all colours bright and bold, white and yellow are classy colours that will brighten up the room. From the same family, daisies are now becoming more popular and will complement them nicely.

 

Peonies: Blooming in late spring combine with ferns, clematis and….  Blooming in early spring and extending through late June, there’s an abundance of options and choice. A romantic bouquet of peonies, roses, ranunculus, and eucalyptus is great for a more traditional type affair or if you want something a bit more boho opt for peonies, garden roses, ranunculus, poppies, protea, sweet peas, scabiosa pods and dahlias.

 

Sweet Peas: Sweet-smelling, mix with peonies to complement. Add brunia foliage to create various lengths and to create that just-picked effect.

Tulips: Nothing says spring has sprung like tulips. Like gerberas and roses, the variety of colours will mean that you can work them in with your chosen colour scheme. Combine with stephanotis for a pretty ‘white wedding’ bouquet or combine pink tulips with lily buds and some long grass.

 

Hydrangeas: These will add body to your bouquet and then you can work around them, adding various colours. Or, opt for just hydrangeas on their own (in blue or pink) and tie with a simple ribbon. Simple, stylish and effortless.

 

 

Image from Martha Stewart weddings

 

NEW SPECIAL OFFER!

BOOK IN DURING JAN!

VENUE HIRE £2,500!!

Plus 5% off catering!

10 reasons why you should say ‘I do’ to High Barn (your perfect wedding venue) Well 11 actually if you count the above offer!

High Barn is steeped in history: Great Bardfield became a Royal manor when it was owned by Edward IV. During the reign of Henry VIII, the manor was granted in succession to Katherine of Aragon, Anne of Cleaves, Katherine Howard and Katherine Parr.

Barn weddings are big for a reason. And High Barn is not just any generic barn. Original beams, rustic timber stunning candelabras and impressive lighting all add to the character of the building (a pretty impressive backdrop for your photos!).

Prior to being a wedding venue, High Barn was a music venue which means the acoustics are amazing (perfect for speeches and the music during the reception).

We are licensed which means that the bride-and-groom-to-be can do the legal bit and hold the reception under one magnificent roof! There’s no extra stress of working out the logistics regarding how you will transport your guests which means that you and your wedding party can relax!

Here at High Barn our dedicated team are experts in making your wedding day unforgettable for all the right reasons. Click here to see our testimonials from previous happy couples.

We back onto gorgeous Essex countryside and you and your guests have access to the beautiful outside space. On a sunny day, your guests can meander out to look at the view with a glass of champers in hand.

We have a fully licensed bar and we can also offer account or cash bars on the day.

Our staff are experts in their field (as well as being professional, friendly, efficient and attentive to your every need). and they know how to make the day you get hitched free from any other hitches.

The venue hire includes tables, chairs, linen and tableware. We have a list of preferred suppliers to ensure that all the extras make your day the most magical it can be.

Our caterers are top of their game and have extensive experience in the catering and restaurant industry and our chef is on hand to make sure that your perfect menu is exactly that.

To find out more about High Barn and the events we cater for don’t hesitate to get in touch. Call 01371829259 or click here to send us an enquiry via email.

 

If your other half popped the question of questions over the Christmas period, the feeling of exuberance may now have given way to a feeling of slight panic…

 

As soon as you announce that you’re planning to wed, the questions start coming thick and fast from family and friends.

 

Keep calm and follow our helpful wedding tips…

 

Don’t feel pressured

People asking questions is a good sign as it means that they are excited. Try not to stress about this; it may be helpful to have a stock answer in your head until you and your partner are absolutely decided on what you’re doing.

 

Work out your budget

Discuss this at length with your partner and agree on a realistic sum that’s not going to leave you both living like paupers! Credit cards are very useful when it comes to weddings but make sure things don’t get out of control.

 

Say ‘I do’ to your perfect venue

Here at High Barn we will always show couples around before you book to ensure that it really is the right place for you and that you fall in love with it. Do your research, make enquiries and make sure that you are both happy with the venue choice.

 

Leave yourself enough time

A shotgun wedding is exciting but don’t leave yourself so little time that the whole run up to the big day is a headache. The planning process should be enjoyable so don’t rush for the sake of rushing. It also gives you a bit longer to work out your finances.

 

Don’t invite everyone you know

When you’ve just got engaged it can be very tempting to invite everybody you speak to along to the wedding (as well as asking ALL your friends to be bridesmaids). Sit down and start a spreadsheet with names of all your prospective guests (and start collecting their addresses/ email addresses as you go). Only when people drop out can you invite more. Have a magic number that you don’t want to go over (like the budget) and this will make things much easier further down the line.

 

Dress to impress

It’s a good idea to research wedding dress and suit options early on. Buy magazines, look online and try on styles you like so you can see what suits your shape.

 

Food for thought

Think about weddings that you’ve been to and think about what you liked about the catering. This should help you to decide what you would like and what you’re not so sure about. Food choices will depend on numbers, type of venue and budget. Talk to your venue’s contact about what they can offer you… Tasting sessions are a great way to suss out what works for you (and they mean that you get to sample some rather delicious cuisine, too!)

 

Delegate

Delegating is the key to a stress-free wedding. Match people willing to help with their skills set. Think about the big day itself and how your nearest and dearest can help out to take the stress out of the big day.

All I Want For Christmas… Is You!

Pic from silkblooms.co.uk

Ahh December: you conjure up many images: Christmas; presents; eating too much…. Weddings? The latter, perhaps not so much but that’s all starting to change as many couples are reaping the benefits from tying the knot at Yuletide.

 

Winter sun

Yes, we do live in the UK so positive thoughts for fair weather are usually in vain. Like festivals, it’s more of a lottery in this country. But with the summer solstice and turning the clocks back comes brighter, clearer days with the lowering of the sun’s position. Just remember to pack your shades!

 

Money-saving

Many venues will offer excellent details come the winter months and, not only that, but there’ll be more availability. Wedding accommodation will also be cheaper in comparison to the summer months which means more cash in your guests’ pockets, equating to happier guests!

 

Flowers

Work red into your bouquet to give it that festive touch or simply opt for warm, late blooms to bring the look to life… Gerberas, roses and hydrangeas are all good winter options.

 

Be unique

Winter wedding photographs can look really magical, especially if you are lucky with the weather. There’s something really romantic about shooting your wedding pictures on a cold, crisp day before going back into the warm to join in with the conviviality.

 

Suited and Booted

You’ll have a chance to wear more layers – meaning more accessories. Winter stoles or capes add elegance and connote 1950s film-star glamour.

The groom and best man can wear waist coasts plus suits and not be roasting: tweed and woollen suits are great options for winter months, as is a heavier shoe.

 

Cuisine

You can enjoy thinking up a sophisticated winter menu: either get away from Christmas entirely with cuisine that’s fresh and light or combine elements of the traditional roast into your meal. Serve your guests mulled wine or mulled cider on arrival.

 

Cosy surroundings

Christmas is a magical time and whether you’re a fan the festive period or not, people are in the mood to party at this time of year. Fairy lights and favours will transform your venue in to the most inviting space. Deck the halls with clear lights to make your venue look even classier.

 

Honeymoon

How could we forget the honeymoon? Winter breaks guarantee money-saving deals so you and your beloved can jet off for some winter sun in an exotic location. You’ll be sipping cocktails on a beach reminiscing about your wedding day. And what could be better than that?!

 

Have a wonderful Christmas from all the staff here at High Barn.

Have you heard about the recent post in a mumsnet forum regarding a wedding present? A bemused and shocked wedding guest asked for some advice on an ex-colleague’s reaction to her wedding gift?

Cash gifts were apparently asked for and £100 was given but the bolshy bride asked if ‘an adjustment’ could be made to the amount. The cash cheque was cashed rather quickly afterwards (unsurprisingly) but the outraged responses by users of the website quickly highlighted how shocking this was.  They received an email stating the recipients

“were surprised that your contribution didn’t seem to match the warmth of your good wishes on our big day…In view of your own position, if you wanted to send any adjustment it would be thankfully received”.

Interestingly, a recent survey of 2008 people by online gift retailer GettingPersonal.co.uk revealed that over half of respondents said they ignored gift lists, with 40% saying they did so in order to cut down on expenditure.

Do I need to be more specific about what I want, then?

Not exactly. Some guests will have an idea in their minds, anyway. All you can do is ask but like birthdays and Xmas, you might get something different to what you imagined…

So, what IS the etiquette for asking and receiving gifts?

A lot of guests will ask you so it’s good to have something in mind whether it be vouchers, gifts or cash.

What about the people who won’t bother?

You must accept that some people won’t bother at all (and some won’t even leave a card) and some will be overly generous but don’t get hung up about this. As cheesy as it sounds, it is people’s PRESENCE itself on the big day that means more than presents.

Is it ok to ask what we want to receive on the invitations?

Yes, there is absolutely wrong with this at all but bear in mind if you do you need to word it carefully. People will want to know so it will give them the heads-up but phrase it as a gesture rather than a diva-ish demand.

Some people give to charity, should we?

If there is a charity that you feel really passionate about then it’s a lovely idea. But don’t do it grudgingly: if you are saving up for a honeymoon or for new household items then ask for what you need.

How do we avoid doing what this bride did?

Remember, people aren’t made up of money and people have different budgets: what may seem a huge amount to one guest may be seen as peanuts to others. Do not judge people on what you think they can afford. It’s not what ultimately matters, anyway. Whatever you have received from your guests, it’s a really nice gesture to send at least a thank you text or a thankyou card or both.

How do we keep track of all the presents and money received?

Simple…Write it all down as you go. You’ll never remember, otherwise.

Capturing your wedding day! Smile!

 

 

 

 

photo from lacebridal.com

Great photographs are one of the most important factors of your big day; an everlasting reminder for years to come. Whether your budget is big or small, the good news is that there are lots of different options out there to suit you.

Professional Photography

The professional wedding photography option is a must for most bride and grooms who want high quality shots to remember their day by. Get a few wedding quotes in the planning stages and make sure you like the photographer. Quotes can vary from £1500 upwards – remember that it’s the editing time that can take the longest and is the priciest part of the process. The advantages are that you will get fabulous group shots, family shots and beautiful shots of you, the happy couple that you can treasure forever.

Look Local

Another option is to contact local colleges whose students may be looking for a chance to build up their portfolio. You could pay anywhere from nothing at all (just expenses) to anything under £500. Again, the same applies. Meet with the photographer and make sure you like them. Ask to see any previous work and any weddings they may have shot in the past.

Photo Booths

Photo Booths are so popular now at weddings and can cost anything from £500 and up. Guests love photo booths and it’s a great way to get your guests talking! Accessories come with it to make for some hilarious shots and your guests get a photographic memento of their day (whilst the other copy gets stuck in a book for you to keep). Photo booths are fun for children and friends alike. The only things to bear in mind are: budget and also sometimes you lose a chunk of your guests who stay snapping in there all night!

Polaroids

Hire or buy a “polaroid” camera and make your very own photo album. Details for the “polaroid” film can be found on Amazon: Fuji Instax WIDE film which is pricey but you’re spending hardly anything else with this option. Just buy photo corners and a scrapbook (medium Kraft) from somewhere like Paperchase. Then sign up to WED PICS the free app, and get a personalised code then email it to your guests before the big day. At your venue then write the code onto boards, then your guests upload their pictures of the day. This is definitely worth doing, as it costs nothing and is an interesting insight into how people see things?!

Instant cameras

Retro indeed, instant cameras on tables is a real throwback to the 1990s! There are pros and cons for this option: the cameras are so cheap and it’s a good way to try and get a complete view of the evening’s celebrations. The cons are that it’s possible that, as people get drunker, the photos get sillier and you may end up with 27 pictures of Uncle Ronnie’s nostrils…

Instagram

Set up a hashtag before the big day and also write this onto boards. This way you get to see everyone’s photos from their smart phones all day and all night. Make the hashtag simple and not too tricky to spell (this will only get harder as people drink more!) You’ll get a great array of shots though if you want to regain editorial control this may not be the best option!

The A-Z of Wedding Planning

A – Add up numbers of your guest list as you go and stick to it. Add all your names to a spreadsheet and be careful that you only invite the names that are down. It sounds harsh but otherwise your numbers may start to spiral. Both agree on your magic number that you don’t want to go over.

B – is for Budget. Like the above, this can snowball – very quickly. Do sum sums, talk about it and agree what you can really afford. Of course, give yourself some leeway but don’t get yourselves thousands of pounds in debt for the day of your dreams.

C ­– Compile and collect ideas from Pinterest, instgram and other wedding websites, as well as magazines.

D – Deviation: delegate the main jobs out to your best man, usher(s) and bridesmaids; after all, that’s what they are there for.

E – Energy on the big day: make sure you get a good night’s sleep the night before and eat enough before the wedding. Adrenaline burns calories!

F – First dance. Think it through and pick a song that means something to you both. Listen to suggestions on Spotify and get some inspiration from other people’s playlists.

G – Give your best man (or maid of honour) a list of rough time frames and the order of play. The day will be so busy they will thank you for this later on.

H – Hotels: make a list of hotels or air b and b’s and put them on the invitations. This will save you and your guests time later on when they’re looking at booking accommodation.

I – Invitations. Whether you make your own or buy them pre-made there are loads of great ideas out there: from vinyl invites to postcards of where you’re getting married, the invitations are the first time that your guests will get an inclination of what your wedding will be like.

J – Jot down instagram hashtags on a chalk board so that friends and family can upload photos of the wedding. It’s your very own photo booth (free of charge).

K – Keep drinking water on the day. It sounds boring but all that talking, dancing and running around will leave you dehydrated – especially when you are getting bought drinks throughout the night.

L – Listen to your nearest and dearest about their ideas and suggestions. Even if you don’t agree with their suggestions it’s always refreshing to hear another perspective.

M – Music is one of the main components: whether you choose a D, band or both, really think about budget and what you want. If you’re making your own playlist soul and motown are always good choices to get – and keep – the party moving!

N – Nail the dress: research, research and more research. Give yourself enough time to find out what suits you and what doesn’t. If a dress is way out of your price range don’t try it on. You will know when you’ve found ‘the one’ but don’t panic if that doesn’t happen straightaway…

O – Order your accessories in time. There’s nothing worse than worrying your bits and pieces won’t arrive in time. Check order delivery dates if you are ordering online.

P – Presents. If people give you presents and money have an allocated space to leave cards and gifts. When you open them all keep a pen and notepad close by to make sure that you have noted down what you have received and who from; this will make the thankyou process much easier!

Q – Quickly. Time will fly! So enjoy every minute of your big day.

R – Rings. ‘I thought you had them?’ Funnily enough, this is one of the things that most people forget in the wedding planning process. Do some internet research and shop around: remember that some outlets require time to resize and order in your bands. If you are buying them already made, then make sure you both get your wedding fingers measured (most jewellers will do this for you FOC).

S – Speeches: the only rules now are that you make your own rules so feel free to break with convention; mix up the order of play, keep them brief or don’t do them at all. But whatever – make sure everyone is clear on what you are doing, especially if you have asked them to say a few words.

T – Trust a member of your family or your chief bridesmaid to be in charge of your bag or belongings and ensure that they keep an eye on them and keep them safe.

U – Utilise the space of your venue. Speak to your wedding coordinator about what to put where; their experience will mean that they know what they’re talking about as they’ll know what works and what doesn’t.

V – Vino: make sure there’s a good range of wines: red, wine and rose – many venues will invite you on wine tasting days which are a great way of picking the perfect wines for your big day.

Weather – Ahh yes, the great British weather can surprise at any time of the year. If you’re planning an outside do really consider a marquee to make it wonderful and less of a wet weekend!

X – Make sure that none of the speeches are X – rated; you do not want to offend friends or family. Steer clear of swearing or offensive jokes, however funny they may seem at the time of writing!

Y – Yuletide. If planning a Christmas wedding give guests ample notice as this is one of the busiest times of most people’s calendars.

Z – ZZZZ – Make sure there’s a space for babies, children or the older generation to enjoy a quick cat nap.

What can I say about our Wedding Fayre that took place this Sunday other than…WOW?! Thank you so much to our suppliers, models and staff who worked so hard to make it a really special day!

Firstly we had Fifi’s Cakery – http://www.fifiscakery.com/  who make gorgeous bespoke Wedding Cakes – Hear it from someone who has tried some of her samples, they need to be considered as part of your special day if you want something with a real ‘wow factor’!

My colleague India and I had an absolute blast with our Managing Directors Daughter, we met the playful team behind Photobooth.One’s operation! Check out their website http://photobooth.one/ to capture some ideas. This tucks really nicely into High Barn’s Bar area for high-jinks and hilarity to ensue after a few glasses of Champagne!

Who wouldn’t be tempted by Truly Gladly Sweetly, I don’t think any couples managed to resist the treats on offer from the Sweetie Carts which were a real crowd pleaser! http://www.trulygladlysweetly.co.uk/ Have bunting, sweet carts and can create gorgeous wedding favours too!

No Wedding Fayre would be complete without a Catwalk show! The stars of the show (our beautiful models) offered up the chance to see dresses by Martels Bridal Boutique… Dapper Chaps Men’s Suit Hire catered for our Grooms who are not to be overshadowed! Check them out http://www.martelsevents.co.uk/ https://www.facebook.com/dapperchapsformalwear/

I have to thank our own Chef Neall Whiting who not only made food for all of our guests but was even thoughtful enough to make sure our suppliers were looked after! Our versatile chef can offer a range of delights from a sumptuous Barbecue or Hog Roast Wedding Breakfast to a delectable 3 Course Traditional Meal, including irresistible canapes and unbelievable puddings!

Our Wedding Fayres at High Barn should hopefully give an insight into the level of detail we can put into your service, we will cater to special requests, deal with your suppliers and event manage your day for you with no hidden costs or last minute fees!

Also part of our event we had Christine’s Occasion Wear (you must check out her facinators!)  Blossom Florist, Eclipse Live Band, Chris Shotton Photography (his photos from the Wedding Fayre will be available to view soon!) London Stansted Chauffeuers – Wedding Cars, Evolution Disco’s – LOVE Letters, Dance Floors, Lighting and DJ’s, Suesallaboutyou (make up artist and stylist) COO Jewellers and Acer Morgan – Health and Wellbeing.

Details of our next Wedding Fayre will always be available on our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/HighBarnEvents/?fref=ts

We can’t wait to meet more lovely couples looking to make their dream day a reality with the help of High Barn and the team!

 

The Strictly Come Dancing Wannabes

This routine is slick, practiced and semi-professional. This bride and groom do not shy away from the limelight and may have even taken dance lessons in preparation for the big day. They will be expecting high scores from their routine…

The “Oh do we have to?” couple

This couple shy away from attention and secretly dread their big dancing debut. Often, one half of the couple is less keen to strut their stuff and they’ll be dragged – with a forced grin and clenched teeth – on to the dance floor by their better half.

The old romantics

They say the old ones are the best and this pair will only dance to traditional love songs like Ella Fitzgerald or Frank Sinatra. Oblivious to what’s going on around them, they shut their eyes and get completely lost in the moment – and the music which is greeted by cheers and ‘ahhhs’ from their adoring audience.

We’re not doing it!

Way too cool for school, this bride and groom refuse to bow to the peer pressure of ‘but you HAVE’ to have a first dance… At the optimum point they’ll be DJ’ing, at the bar or dancing with their pals whilst militant members of their family try and pull them on to the dance floor!

The comedy dance

Completely under wraps until the moment of the big day, this routine will be one guaranteed to tickle all the guests. The happy couple may have even got some allies to help them out for this one and gradually, more and more guests start to take part in the routine as the other members of the audience look on in disbelief.

The group dance

Holding each other for possibly less than two seconds, this couple like the order of things on the day but would rather enjoy the moment privately… As soon as they’ve given the nod, they’ll encourage their friends and family to join them on the dance floor where it turns into a free for all.

The Dance Off

Run DMC eat your heart out, this bride and groom tear up the rule book with a romantic start which then gets mixed up into a dance track by the DJ who’s in on the joke. The groom, best man, ushers and co. stand on one side, the bride, bridesmaids and flower girls on the other, as the dance battle begins. Prepare to see the bride in trainers  and some serious moves!