If you are a bride-to-be you’ve more than likely been collecting ideas for how you want your wedding to look. I know it can feel like a hugely overwhelming task to put a cohesive style plan together, particularly if you have opted for a blank canvas venue and need to source a lot of the decor items yourself.
You’ve probably already come across a handful of ‘wedding checklists’ online, but the vast majority only touch on the big items. Somehow I don’t think there’s much chance you’ll forget to order the ceremony chairs, or neglect to mention your bouquet needs to your florist.
It is almost always those finer little details that get forgotten, and as always I’m here to help. Presenting our list of all those little things that you’ll be totally annoyed about if you forget - let’s nail those decor details!
1. Guest Book
Some think they’re a little old-fashioned, but I believe it’s a really lovely way to keep a record of who was there with you on your special day and it’s fun to read through the heartfelt, (maybe half-drunk, ha!) messages for years to come. There are lots of variations on the old-skool book and pen arrangement that can tie into your theme, or your lives together, and it gives guests another thing to do during the evening, when they’ve exhausted the photo-booth or need to rest their dancing feet.
2. Tables
Yes, it seems obvious, but you’d be surprised how often it's forgotten til the last minute. You’ll need a variety of smaller tables at the reception to hold your guest book, bombonniere, gifts and/or wishing well, cake and desserts, and photo-booth props. Don’t forget a signing table at the ceremony!
3. Ring Box
Jump on etsy and order yourself a beautiful wooden box to hold your wedding rings on the day. Much easier for the best man to keep safe, and a beautiful detail shot for your photographer.
4. Signing Pen
Ask your celebrant if they provide a pen to sign your marriage paperwork at the ceremony, and if so, what kind of pen is it? A lovely Parker pen, or something equally elegant looks a lot better than a Bic biro with a chewed lid :)
5. Cake Knife & Toasting Flutes
If you want something nicer than a carving knife from your venue’s kitchen to cut the cake, you’ll need a knife and server set. They look much nicer in photos and can be easily found in any department store or kitchen specialty store. Similarly, you might also like a nice pair of champagne flutes filled and ready to enjoy at cake cutting time.
6. Vases
It can be a great idea to have simple glass vases filled with water and evenly spaced along the bridal table, ready for your bridesmaids to display their bouquets in on arrival. It provides a little extra help with your reception decorating budget, and makes your investment in flowers last the whole day.
7. Practical Needs
Start watching the weather forecast a week out from your wedding and think through any items that may make your guests more comfortable - we’re talking fans and umbrellas to provide shade in hot weather, and blankets in cold weather at the least.
There you have it lovelies! I’m thinking of making up a freebie for you with a comprehensive list of of essential decor items including the ones listed here and many others. Stay tuned, and don’t forget to check out our Styling service if you’re thinking about enlisting our help to make your special day look magical! Emma xo
