A celebrity wedding planner has revealed her top tips for a winter wedding, as well as common mistakes people make on their big day.
Emma Gold, events planner and founder of GSP Events, has organised many extravagant celebrations, including extravagant ceremonies, and even a luxurious six-day-long event on the French Riviera.
Now the expert shares the most important do’s and don’ts for a couple-to-be, including sticking together to greet guests, avoiding too many group photos, and hiring a videographer.
She even worked on Ronan Keating’s marriage to Storm in 2015, with many famous guests, including Ed Sheeran.
“The couple wanted to keep the wedding intimate and true to them both,” Emma, from London, told NeedToKnow.co.uk.
“They played golf and had a welcome party at the main house, and then had a romantic outdoor ceremony followed by a seated dinner with Ed Sheeran playing the first dance for them.
“In true Ronan form, the wedding ended in multiple family and friends on the stage singing and dancing the night away.”
Now, focusing on the upcoming winter season, Emma shares her top tips for making the ceremonies memorable.
She said: “Make sure you embrace the season with a comforting menu and advise the guests on the correct footwear.
“Think of lighting, including candlelight.
“You’ll need heating and draping to create a close, intimate space.
“Firepits and blankets are a great idea.
“And of course, you want some winter cocktails.
“The best winter wedding I did, we installed a faux ice floor with real ice bars and DJ booths.
“We had flowers frozen into ice for that extra wow factor.”
The ceremony itself can be overwhelming, but Emma is here to help, advising on common mistakes that people make.
She said: “Leave yourself long enough to get ready.
“Use the golden hour for photography.
“Momentum must be thought about carefully so the guest journey keeps building throughout – make sure that each moment doesn’t have too long in between i.e. ceremony, reception drinks, gaps between dinner and the band.
“Avoid too many group photos and have a videographer!”
Although there is a lot to remember, it’s essential that you enjoy every moment of your big day.
She added: “Do take a moment at different points throughout the day to take it all.
“Don’t sweat the small stuff people won’t notice.
“It’s important to have the time just the two of you as won’t get the day back again.”
