12 modern & traditional symbolic acts for your wedding ceremony and the top tips on how to choose them!

12 modern & traditional symbolic acts for your wedding ceremony and the top tips on how to choose them!

Your wedding day is something you’ve dreamt of for years! The love of your life finally gets down on one knee and pops the question, There are so many things to consider when planning your wedding day! But have you thought about what you want for the ceremony itself? The ceremony is a perfect way of offering that personal touch! 

Sometimes weddings can feel like they have been picked off the shelf, the couple’s names have been slotted into a template. Why not stand out from the crowd? Incorporating a ritual or symbolic act of unity, personal and unique to you and your partner.

Not sure where to start? Luckily Nett Furley Humanist Wedding and Partnership Ceremonies Celebrant is here to offer some modern and traditional ideas for symbolic acts in  your wedding ceremony and advice on the how to make your ceremony be meaningful

Symbolic acts – why have them?

Ever wondered why brides traditionally wear a white dress & veil? Or why we are familiar with the saying ’something old and something new? Traditions often originate from the fashion of the times;

The white wedding dress and veil was adopted after Queen Victoria’s wedding, symbolising affluence and extravagance. ‘Something Old’ represents the ties to the bride’s family and ‘Something New’ represents the new life with her husband.

Even the exchanging of rings is a tradition from ancient Egypt.  The ring symbolises a never-ending circle and the space inside is a gateway. Strategically placed on the fourth finger on the left hand as the “ring” finger contained a ‘vein of love’ which leads straight to the heart.

The bride and groom not seeing each other before the wedding can be traced to ancient arranged marriages, an attempt to not let the couple see each other beforehand, in case they called it off.!!

Rituals are important to us and some have been observed for many hundreds of years.

So, what can you do at your ceremony that has meaning for you as a couple?

Circle Ceremony - for an intimate wedding!

Guests are seated in a circle around the bride and groom, what better way to bind your love literally surrounded by your loved ones—it'll make everyone feel included too!

Sand blending - perfect to include children!

Uses individual grains (you) blending forever with other grains (your partner). The bride and groom each have different coloured sand and takes turns pouring it into a bottle or box, forming a layered effect. Great if you have children or family, incorporate colours that represent them too and ask them to join in!

Drumming circles

Drumming circles can be romantic, tribal and powerful and can bring people who don’t know each other together in a fun way!

Flower circles

Each guest brings a wildflower and places them around the couple during their ceremony. After the newlywed couple can even use the flowers to make the bride’s bouquet, a great way to include your guests and this will make some pretty photographs!

Handfasting

Involves a couple standing face to face holding opposite hand as they are tied together with ribbon symbolising unity and togetherness. Why not involve friends, parents, children or the celebrant to bind the ribbon.

Plant a tree or pot a plant - Perfect for an outdoor ceremony!

During the ceremony, the couple should place soil from two separate pots on top of the plant! Representing two sides coming together and growth of a relationship!

Tying the Knot (literally!)

The couple should tie a knot in a fisherman's rope usually after the exchanges of vows and rings. Add an extra unity touch by passing the rope around all the guests first!

Hope Tree - perfect for a rustic wedding!

Get everyone to write their hopes for you on a wooden leaf and attach it to a tree that was handmade by one of your guests and can be kept as a keepsake;

 Give a gift to your guests – Maybe a packet of wildflowers, in exchange for a spoken message of support from each of them.

Candles - perfect for a twilight wedding

Each guest lights a candle for the bride and groom - beautiful and traditional. Candles will always create a romantic intimate atmosphere. Perhaps the parents of the bride and groom will start lighting a candle and each guest will be passed the flame to light their candle.

A wine, beer or cocktail blending ceremony

For a tasty non traditional unity ceremony! Blend your favourite drinks together in a Quaich to create the perfect blend and mix (just like your marriage)! A great symbolic way to celebrate the mixing of two cultures and to end your ceremony with guests! Cheers!

Time capsule or memory box

Includes love letters to each other, poems or meaningful items. You can even ask your guests to write well wishes for you both to include. Add your favourite photos or some polaroids from your wedding day! Hammer or lock the box closed together taking it in turns. Plan to open it on your 5th, 10th or even 20th wedding anniversary!

 Pass the rings around

Each of your guest is to hold your wedding rings and offer well wishes and positivity!!

Clay imprint

Making an imprint for firing later! This could be of your hands and involve your friends or children! 

Bread or food sharing

Break up the food and share with each other or guests, a symbol of nourishment!

Material

Every guest brings a piece of material to be made into a quilt during the first year of marriage!

Arch of swords- perfect for honoring a military bride or groom

The newly weds passes under the sword arch as they leave the place of  their ceremony

Paint or sketch a picture - for the artistic couple!

Sketch each other or paint a picture together! Why not sketch each other while not  looking down at the paper! Focus on each other and enjoy the end result! A bit of fun

 And a few more… think of the elements

Wind symbols - Wind spinners, blow bubbles, banners, flags or chimes!

 These are just a few to mention. The possibilities are endless! So, what can you do at your ceremony that is unique & has meaning for you as a couple?  Have a good think.

Nett’s top 4 tips when planning a symbolic act for your wedding ceremony!

1. Choose something that has real meaning to you as a couple or something that represents what you are aspiring to.

If you and your partner are into dungeons and dragons, is there an activity that you can create around it that also symbolises what you mean to each other? If you’re musicians can you use that skill and passion to symbolise your aspirations? If you’re firefighters, how could you use fire to represent the heat in your hearts? Choose something that is totally unique and personal to you.

2. Don’t forget to consider the environment when choosing symbolic actions.

Releasing lanterns can be dangerous to wildlife; Letting balloons loose means that plastic ends up polluting our landscape; Is it appropriate to cage birds just so that they can be released at your wedding? There are so many things you can do that are even more effective and beautiful – Think biodegradable, ribbons and streamers, planting trees, scattering flower petals, flying kites and spinners, blowing bubbles.

 3. Consider involving your guests

Using symbolic actions to involve your friends, family or children can be very moving and often fun.

4. Do not just pick a symbolic act off the shelf.

If you saw something done at your friend’s wedding, then the chances are everyone else has too. Think about what you want to convey and then find a way of saying it, rather than picking a symbolic act you like the look of and simply slotting it in. That’s not to say don’t have something you have seen before, but just be clear why you want it.

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For all your North West ceremony needs contact Nett Furley- Humanist Wedding and Partnership Celebrant who can help make your wedding day perfect and unique to you! Covering Cheshire & Merseyside and all of the North West!

Website: www.nettfurleyceremonies.com/symbolic-actions | Email: nett.furley@care4free.net | Telephone: 07771 595 626

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4 reasons why you need an engagement shoot and 7 expert tips to make it amazing!

4 reasons why you need an engagement shoot and 7 expert tips to make it amazing! A blog by Pixsmiths Photography!

Wedding planning can be stressful and sometimes it seems to be the only endless conversations you’re having! It's such a special time in your lives and needs to be celebrated! 

After much searching, you’ve finally found an amazing photographer and they suggest, why not have an engagement shoot? Some may jump at the chance - especially if complimentary - but the camera shy couple might think "eek, no way, the wedding day will be enough time posing!’’

With weddings on hold and the hope of lockdown being lifted as soon as possible, the talented photography team Sandy & Dave from Pixsmith are here to share their thoughts and tips on why having an engagement shoot is a must!! And how to make it a fun and enjoyable experience that you will love! 

4 reasons why you need to have an engagement shoot!

Reason #1 Quality time together

An engagement shoot is an opportunity to just spend time with each other, in a favourite location. Enjoying the surroundings, breathing in fresh air, just the two of you and forgetting about the stresses of wedding planning or everyday life! 

Reason #2 You get to know your photographer

It’s the perfect opportunity to meet your wedding photographer who will capture some beautiful natural images of you along the way! They will want to get to know your personalities and bring that out in your images.

Reason #3 Build up your confidence!

Don't think of an engagement shoot as just posing.  Your photographer can obviously give pointers if you're unsure where to place your feet and hands. It's more a case of getting to know your photographer and building the confidence of being with them and in the rapport you will have on the day.  

Reason #4 Incorporate the photographs into your wedding day!

With the beautiful images created you will want to get some printed or used in a creative way at your wedding.  Examples include retro prints from the session displayed at the wedding or create a guest book personalised with images. You could even choose your favourite image to use as your ‘Save The Dates’ too! 

Pixsmiths Photography’s top tips for getting the most out of your engagement shoot!

Tip #1 Combine the engagement session with your makeup trial!

A perfect opportunity to look your best, and to make sure you’re happy with how your makeup looks on camera too! 

Tip #2: Choose outfits you feel comfortable in.  

As well as something you would be happy to see in a large print, especially if incorporating the images into your wedding! Contrasting colours are often good for photos - It’s not a good idea for both of you to come wearing the same colours.

Tip #3  If you have family or pets why not include them on the shoot too! 

Take the opportunity to update your family photo album too! If you decide to bring young children it’s always a good idea to bring along an adult to supervise as I'm sure your photographer will want to get images of just the two of you.  Sometimes it's good for the session to be just about you.  How often do you get a chance for just some "us time" kids free!

Tip #4  Make it an experience!! 

What do you and your hubby or wifey-to-be love doing?? A favourite hike? An activity like ghetto golf? Or a picnic in the park? The more unique the idea is, the more your photographer will squeal with delight! We once had a fun couple who had a paint fight session - that was wild! And the images reflected their personalities perfectly - fun, laughter and full of colour!

Tip #5  Shoot just before sunset!! 

Pick a time when the light is soft, often an hour before sunset is good.

Tip #6 Location, location, location!

Pick locations with a handy cafe nearby or a covered location in case of rain. 

Pixsmiths know many great locations - Caldy Beach, Red Rocks, Port Sunlight, Royden Park, Hadlow Road train station, Liverpool city centre to name a few. Some have even been destination pre-wedding shoots too - perfect for sunset shoots!

Tip #7 Consider the season!

If you’re having a Spring wedding, opt for a session in the autumn for contrasting colours!

Bonus tip!

Having the engagement ring photographed is a good record for insurance purposes too! 

Finally, who is romantic and brave enough to organise a surprise proposal.??!!

It needs careful coordination beforehand with the person proposing, but it’s something we have done before and would love to do again!  So if you dare to do this we would love to chat and help you plan this.

About Pixsmiths Photography

We hope you found these tips useful. If you have any questions or would like to see more of Pixsmiths Photography please contact Sandy & Dave on 07850251366 or contact@pixsmiths.co.uk or visit www.pixsmiths.co.uk to view their portfolio.

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What to do if you have a Wedding Scheduled During the Covid-19 Outbreak

Covid-19 has forced events, fayres and weddings to be postponed. Businesses and shops  closed to enforce social distancing, numerous safety measures introduced to avoid spreading the virus.  The knock on effect, with great speed has stunned everyone.  Right now there is, a whole new world for all of us.

On the upside – this effect – has actually prompted couples to innovate!  Now, we’ve seen couples planning to marry in Las Vegas, ditch their own plans and simply marry in their living room. In Spain a couple got married on their balcony!  Others have had a more intimate wedding, just the two of them, connecting family members through video calls, postponing their big day but promising a renewing of vows next year with a big party.

Understandably these limited options are just what they are – limited.  So, to put it simply for you and on a positive, with all this uncertainty in the air we want to offer some thoughts and advice to brides and grooms everywhere who are engaged and hoping to get married.  

Postpone don’t cancel. – THIS IS IMPORTANT!

Firstly, if your wedding is due to take place in the next 12 weeks you should be looking at the option to postpone. The lockdown in China has lasted around three months so the UK may be a similar time frame, there is light at the end of the tunnel.

In some ways, with the lockdown on industry and business you are being forced to postpone – and that is right.  Hang onto the word postpone.  Do not CANCEL!  When business is back to usual, which it will be - your wedding IS going to happen!

Canceling may come with some risk.  Businesses may be forced to stick to agreed cancellation terms and conditions, which may leave couples out of pocket. Remember you want your wedding to happen and - Your wedding will happen, it will be the most incredible day of your lives the only change that needs to happen is the date!

Communicate with your wedding venue & suppliers. Don’t panic! 

When postponing, wedding suppliers and venues will want to be flexible. They’re ready to work with you to reschedule your wedding. Most are even working outside their usual terms and conditions to offer you a date change with little or even no transfer fee.  This will vary from supplier to supplier so look over your contracts and speak to them.  

Don’t put off potentially difficult conversations. If a wedding is going to be rescheduled, you might run the risk of losing your deposit especially if you fail to have that conversation. Putting off that talk isn’t going to change the outcome.  Remember all other couples will be nervously dealing with this problem too!  The sooner you have an alternative = less time worrying! Be mindful that suppliers may be swamped with messages. They will get back to you, just be patient.

Keep in touch with your guest list! 

If you’ve been forced to postpone, update your wedding guests as soon as possible. Keeping your loved ones in the loop. They can lend some emotional support through these tough times and help guide your decision making if need be.

Be Flexible

Be as flexible as possible when booking a new date. The industry will be affected with a surge of date changes. Bear in mind your supplier may already have a full calendar. Avoid popular dates like bank holidays, you may even need to book a mid-week wedding. Find a date that works for everyone.

Decide who will communicate with your wedding venue & suppliers.

If dealing with date changes gives you a headache, use an event planner. Take the stress out of all the phone calls. Or decide between you and your other half who would be best to deal with these calls or emails. You could even ask a family member to help who is less emotionally involved.

Be kind & self-care!

 Stress is a huge but perfectly normal response when postponing your wedding. You’re going to have some meltdowns and it’s ok to feel them. Make sure that you don’t make decisions or deal with suppliers while stressed. Be as kind as you can, and try to think that we’re all in this together. Your suppliers don’t want this to be happening any more than you do! 

Self-care is so important at this time, exercise, eat and sleep well, read a book or try a new enjoyable hobby that will occupy your mind! 

If your wedding is taking place from June onwards.

If you’re planning to marry from June onward, take a deep breath and see how all this pans out.  With an ever-changing situation it’s important not to make any decisions too early. 

Keep on wedding planning!

Understandably, you may be cautious to book any suppliers for your big day. Our advice is to keep on wedding planning! Speak to potential suppliers, some are offering lower deposits to secure your booking and a no fee date change (due to covid-19). Just because we’re on lock down it doesn’t mean that all businesses and planning will stop. Over the next few weeks/months everyone will adapt.  Lots of businesses are working from home and you can access them online. Click here to view a list of our recommended wedding suppliers

Arrange a call or video chat to get to know them see how they can help you. Life will go back to normal and you will have made amazing contacts!

Occupy your time with some DIY wedding accessories 

With time on our side, update your Pinterest boards, read wedding blogs, research ideas, let your creative juices flow with wedding DIY: table settings, create your own guest book or even create your own save the dates or invites! There are tons of ideas on Pinterest to give you inspiration, the list is endless!

The best way to get through this is with a lot of kindness, empathy, and supporting one another as love will always find a way!

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Stay safe and let’s stay connected > We’ve an online wedding planning service, wedding fayre and tons of recommended suppliers set up for bride and grooms, sign up to our newsletter below to find out more!

Visit the Who’s website to keep up to date with the disease here

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The top 4 tips to that wedding ready smile!

You have found the perfect venue, written the guest list and checked historical weather patterns from the past five years but have you thought about your SMILE? Dental work doesn’t have to be expensive or painful to be effective, recent surveys suggest over 70% of the UK population are not happy with an aspect of their teeth.

Thankfully, Little Sutton Dental Practice are here with their top 4 tips on how to achieve the perfect smile you have dreamed of.  It isn’t all about filling holes and pulling teeth, its about YOU, your self esteem and helping you fell and be your #BESTSELF. 

So, whilst you are spending hours planning the perfect wedding, take some time for yourself, #SELFCARE is so important and you deserve it. 

Fresh Breath and a Dazzling Smiles    

Whether it’s making your wedding make up ‘pop’ with a contrasting white smile or replacing those silver fillings that shine in naturally captured photographs.

Here are our top 4 tips to that wedding ready smile!

1. Getting a quick, radiant smile with a professional clean, remove coffee and other stains, for best results we recommend the zest Air Polish system or scale and polish.

2. For a whiter smile to compliment your healthy, bright marriage together; consider Tooth Whitening to restore or lighten the shade of your teeth and remove deep staining. 

3. Replacing unsightly or old dental work with natural coloured fillings and material, chipped teeth can be smoothed over and reshaped to get them even. You won’t be able to help but smile from ear to ear

4. For you early birds, gaps or overcrowded teeth can be solved in as little as six months with invisible braces. 

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About Little Sutton Dental Practice

Little Sutton Dental can help you boost your smile and enhance what you have. It will do wonders for your self-confidence when the spotlights are on you. Why not speak to them on 0151 339 0406 or email CMCH.Dentalsutton@nhs.net about improving your oral health and getting the smile you deserve.

To compliment the perfect smile, Little Sutton Dental also do a range of facial aesthetics, including dermal and lip fillers to enhance lips, reduce fine lines and wrinkles. Visit their website here or follow their facebook page here to see what they can offer you for your big day.

CONGRATULATIONS on your big day and here is to the next chapter in your life together.

You would be amazed how easily we can change things for you.

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8 reason why you should choose the Maldives as your honeymoon destination!

The Maldives is one of the most beautiful destinations for honeymoons and has topped the charts for being relaxing, peaceful and offering absolutely breath-taking white beaches and scenery, just what you need to unwind after the stress of wedding planning and coming down from the high of your wedding day! Thankfully Daniel from Mi Travel one of the top North West travel companies is here to give you the top 8 reasons why you should choose the Maldives as your honeymoon destination!

1. Unwind and relax in a romantic and scenic getaway

The destination has countless exclusive retreat islands, making it one of the best honeymoon spots and perfect for newlywed couples who are looking for a romantic, scenic getaway.  When deciding about your honeymoon destination, we know you’re looking for a peaceful luxury trip, and this is where we come in.

2. Go Island hopping and explore the exotic fish and coral!

With around 1192 Coral Islands, famous for their deep sea & coral reef fish, Maldives has established as one of the most exotic honeymoon destinations and for all the right reasons! The best time to enjoy the weather is between November and April. To ensure your stay at Maldives is perfect, here is a list of the most wonderful islands to engage in fun ocean cruises and river cruises.

• Malé Island

• Maafushi Island

• Alimatha Island

• Nalaguraidhoo Island

• Vaadhoo Island

• Villingili Resort Island

• Milaidhoo

• Baros

TIP: If you are staying at a high-end resort, you will have the opportunity to swim in the clear waters anytime you want.

3. MALE the capital city is a must see!

You should visit the capital city of Male (MLE). Male is always recommended as a luxurious honeymoon spot in Maldives. There are many beautiful resorts and islands but Male has its own splendid beauty. The three top rated island resorts in Male are Maalifushi by como, Centara Ras Fushi Resort and Spa and Makunudu Island.

4. Resorts, water rides and sea diving at Maldives:

You can visit beautiful resorts while swinging at the island, cruising, experiencing water rides, sea diving, and of course enjoying a relaxing couple spa day.

5. Explore the Maldives by Submarine!

Take a superb and unique submarine ride, a whole other experience where you discover the beauty of the ocean and the underwater life by submarine! Spectacular!

6. Dine underwater at Ithaa Aquarium

Imagin dining five meters below the surface of the ocean, in the world’s first undersea restaurant, with panoramic coral garden views and fusion menus matched with fine wines! Well, you can do just that when visiting the underwater Ithaa Aquarium which is an absolute must!!

7. Swim with whale sharks!

Tick swimming with whale sharks off your bucket list!! Swimming with the gentle giant of the sea is another heart throbbing experience and should be a must-do activity while you stay in Maldives!

Tips:  Best hotels to stay and to swim with the whale sharks in the Maldives:

• LUX South Ari Atoll

• Lily Beach Maldives Resort

• Vilamendhoo Island Resort & Spa

8. Relax with couples spa:

To further relax your trip, ease all your stresses away with massage with their native coconut oil, over a beautiful and breath-taking views of the Azure water. This honeymoon massage is going to ease all your sore muscles so that you’re fresh to enjoy more activities.

MI Travel has lots of different tailored options and travel packages to give you the most memorable and special honeymoon whether you choose the Maldives or another destination! Pick up your phone or log onto their website for further inquiries, let Mi Travel make your honeymoon a memorable trip for you, one that you will cherish forever. Call them at 01244 917035 or email them at hello@mitravelgroup.co.uk.

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The 5 reasons why brides can’t get enough of the harp for their wedding day.

The 5 reasons why brides can’t get enough of the harp for their wedding day.

The harp is a beautiful and curious instrument. Dating back at least as early as 3000 BC, it’s one of the oldest instruments in the world.

The harp appears as an important symbol in several cultures, possibly due to its powerful effect on the body and the senses. Many mythical creatures have been depicted playing harps, including angels, mermaids, sirens and gods.

Since the thirteenth century, the harp has been Ireland’s national symbol, and has even been adopted by the popular beer, Guinness, which features a harp in its logo.

The harp was once adored by royalty and harpists were required to evoke three emotions from the audience: tears, laughter, and sleep.

Why are harps so popular?

Famous harpists, such as Elias Parish-Alvars–who is considered one of the best harpists of all time–helped to increase the popularity of the instrument in the early 20th century. More recently, popular artists, such as Florence and The Machine, have brought the harp back into the mainstream. 

It’s no surprise then, that the harp is the instrument of choice for countless couples to walk down the aisle to. 

Oona Linnett, an accomplished harpist with over 20 years' experience playing for weddings shares the 5 reasons why brides keep harping on about having a harpist for their wedding day!

1)  Enjoy a sound like no other

With its rich, romantic sound and dramatic visual impact (not to mention how fantastic it looks,) a harp lends a sophisticated and elegant backdrop to your day.

2)  Dial the stress levels down

The harp is inherently soothing and relaxing. This is especially helpful on a day which can be hectic and stressful. A groom recently wrote to thank me, saying he felt quite tense before the ceremony waiting for the bride to arrive, but the harp music really helped him to relax.

3)  Metallica meets Bollywood?

It’s versatile! Don’t just think of whooshy sounds, angels and ball gowns. Yes, a good harpist can play traditional wedding classics, but if you’d like a bit of Metallica or the theme from Harry Potter, some Bollywood or your favourite song played on the harp, why not? The harp is infinitely adaptable and has the knack of making any piece of music or song sound like it was written for it!

4)  No entourage needed

A harp is self-contained. You get the melody and harmony all in one instrument! No need for backing tracks or another musician to provide accompaniment. Also, a good wedding harpist will provide their own amplification if needed.

5)  Your day, your rules

A harp can go anywhere (almost!) It can easily be moved from room to room if needed and can follow the guests wherever they are throughout the day. I can even provide a smaller harp if space is tight, and can also play outside if the weather allows. I provide everything I need to do so, including a battery-powered amp.

Who is Oona?

Oona is an accomplished harpist with over 20 years' experience playing for weddings and functions throughout North West England and North Wales. She provides music for the ceremony, drinks reception and wedding breakfast, and has recently been highly commended in the 'Best Wedding Ceremony Act' (North England) category at the Event Entertainment Awards 2019. 

To explore how Oona’s music can enhance your day, view her repertoire, listen to sound clips and much more, visit her website now! https://www.oonalinnett.com/

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The Hottest Trends in Wedding Entertainment

The Hottest Trends in Wedding Entertainment

From fire breathers to magicians and living statues, there are more wedding entertainment options than ever!

Couples are constantly searching for new ways to entertain their wedding guests and create the perfect memories of their big day.

We’ve rounded up some of the most popular wedding entertainment ideas, to give you some inspiration for your big day. Something missing from our list? Let us know by commenting on our Facebook post here!

Magicians

Keeping guests entertained between breaks is essential. Magicians have been entertaining at weddings for hundreds of years and they’re still just as popular now. Magic tricks are perfect for during the reception, waiting for photos to be taken and entertaining guests throughout the entire day.

The Red Events team recommends Kevin Jay Magician, a talented magician that incorporates comedy and even hypnotism into his magic tricks. Card tricks, disappearing acts and sleight-of-hand wonders never fail to entertain wedding guests and add an extra bit of magic to the day.

Classical Music

For those looking to add a classical touch to their big day, classical music will never fail to hit the right note with guests. Stunning string quartets, like the Serenata String Quartet, and heartwarming harpists, like Maxine Moline-Rose and the Melandra Duo, are popular choices for elegant wedding entertainment.

Those wanting to make sure the soundtrack to their wedding day will never sound out of style opt for classical music–and it’s not just Pachelbel's Cannon being played. We see many couples that request their favourite contemporary song to be delivered by classical guitarists, like the incredibly talented Mat Lomas, to add a personalised touch to their ceremony.

Hire Acts and Fire breathers

Simply perfect for outdoor, tipi or garden style weddings, the choice here will definitely turn the heat up at your wedding!! Think outside the box!  Unique selections include roller skaters/living tables/red carpet ladies/living statues/dancers/hosts and hostesses/stilt walkers/circus acts! What ! I’m exhausted !

Caricaturist

Not only something fun for your guests it is a momentum of your wedding day that your guests can keep and remember forever. Great for between proceeding’s  or during wedding photographs!

Casino Table

A perfect ice breaker to keep guests mingling and entertained is a casino table, like Sapphire Occasions, with full-sized casino tables and professional croupiers.

Glitter Bar

One of the biggest trends we’ve seen this year is the popularity of makeup, glitter & tattoo bars, like Coco Vintage, where brides and guests can get glittered up for evening celebrations.

Animals

Animals are becoming very popular additions to wedding ceremonies again. Animal lovers across England cannot resist including their pet dog, cat (and even horses!) in their celebrations, with some even bringing their animals down the aisle with them!

Dog owners are spending hours training their canine friends to be the official ring bearer of their wedding. Even cat-loving guests can’t help but delight in adorable dogs playing such an important role in the ceremonies.

For those without pets, you can even hire animals for your wedding day. Jessie’s Miniature Shetland horses are extremely popular with kids and adults alike and make for the most beautiful wedding photos.

Outdoor games

While we can’t always guarantee good weather–even in the great British summer–outdoor games are becoming very popular ways to create memorable experiences on the big day.

Wedding guests are going crazy for giant snakes and ladders, croquet, horse shoe throw, giant Jenga and even tug-of-war games enjoyed outside. Events Hire companies like Glamour Events Hire even specialise in Lawn Games to help create the perfect outdoor entertainment on wedding days.

If the rain comes falling on the day, many games can easily be played indoors to get guests of all ages mingling and having fun. Retro Arcade games such as Pakman, Donkey Kong and Pinpong can all be enjoyed indoors. If all else fails, add some sparkle to your big day with a firework show that guests can enjoy from inside or outside.

Live bands and music

Whether it’s a solo singer, duo or a 12-piece brass band, live bands and music are the ultimate way to get your wedding party going. Guests can dance to live jazz, rock and roll or even a tribute act of your favourite idol or band.

Live music sets the mood for celebrations in the day and the night. Live acts like Blue Lion Band, The Pedal Tones and Lee Gordon are extremely popular acts in the North West that can really get the party started at weddings. Sets can be tailored to your personal choices, and guests will love the unique atmosphere that only quality, live music can create!

Photo booth or magic mirrors

It’s obvious why photo booths and magic mirrors are hugely popular at weddings! These beautiful and hilarious pictures are incredibly fun and make perfect treasured keepsakes for you and your guests.

Companies like the Booth Tube even bring props to help make your photos unforgettable. Guests love the talking point, and it’s a great way to get your guests mingling with each other.

For the Kids

An important thing to keep in mind when planning the entertainment for your wedding is to keep any young kids entertained. Failing to keep the little ones sufficiently entertained can lead to unhappy parents. Fun-filled goodie bags or a play area makes it easy to put a smile on kids’ faces.

You can also hire wedding nannies who will keep your kids entertained with arts, crafts and games. Companies like Squib & Squidge help to take care of kids and make sure all your guests–no matter how old–will enjoy your wedding day!

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How to choose the perfect first dance song!

How to choose the perfect first dance song!

Deciding your first dance song can be tricky! Do you choose upbeat or laid back? Classic or Modern? Dj or Live music? Ron Sanders Music is here to share his top tips on how to choose the perfect first dance song to compliment you and your partner as a newly wed couple!

As a wedding singer, one of the most common questions I am asked is what first dance song to choose; after all, the first time you dance as a married couple is a beautiful moment and one which you should cherish for the rest of your life. Of course I can’t give a definitive answer, there is no ‘one right song’, and arguably there are no wrong songs either!

The reality is that choosing a first dance song is a deeply personal decision which takes careful thought, but there are some key areas that you should consider. Here are my top 5 tips for choosing the perfect first dance song.

Upbeat or Laid Back?

I always think of this as one of the easier questions to answer. Close your eyes and visualise your first dance. Is it a slow and intimate affair with your one-and-only love or are you banging out a killer choreographed routine with your partner in crime?

Do you want to be joined by lots of other slow dancing couples or are you expecting your friends to invade the dance floor and get the party started? This will give you the perfect starting point in your decision.

Classic or Modern?

Next up, consider the era of music you want to choose from. Modern songs will likely be recognised by many of your guests but you also run the risk of using the same first dance song as many other weddings, leaving your guests uninspired.

Older songs may not be so recognisable to some of your (particularly younger) guests but might provide a more personal choice and therefore a more memorable experience. Consider your theme here too. For example, if you choose a vintage themed wedding, then you might like to choose an older song.

Personal or Popular?

This leads nicely into the next consideration. Often I hear couples torn between choosing something that means a lot to them, but that is not well known or a more popular song that has less personal meaning to them. My advice would be to follow your heart. If it’s special to you, it will create the magic you are looking for–and isn’t that’s what it’s all about? 

Obvious or Unusual Lyrics?

By this I mean songs which are explicitly clear in their meaning or ones which are more ambiguous.  One thing I’ve learned is that during the first dance people are a lot more focused on the happiness of the couple than the lyrics of the song. Believe me when I say that no one else will be scrutinising the words of the song, instead they will be taking in the whole atmosphere of your day and the connection between the newly married couple.

So if you have a favourite song, don’t discount it because it mentions a break up. This is one time not to get too hung up on the details, but instead put on your headphones and close your eyes–does it create the magic you are after? That’s all that matters.

DJ or Live?

The answer to this question will depend heavily on the song you choose. If you are very attached to the arrangement and vocals of your song exactly as it is then I would advise using a DJ. But if you prefer the atmosphere of live music and are willing to allow your wedding musician/musicians to put their stamp on it then live is definitely the way to go.

If you’re not sure, ask! Any wedding musician worth their salt should be able to audition their version for you so that you can make an informed decision.  After all, it’s a privilege to be picked to play for you–so it’s the least we can do.

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About Ron Sanders Music:

Ron Sanders is one of the leading singers in the North West. Providing high quality entertainment for Weddings, from acoustic solo and live looping ranging from pop through to folk and all in between!

Contact Ron now:

Website: www.ronsandersmusic.com

Phone: 07515702306

Email: ronsandersmusic@gmail.com

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