Question 1

Should we visit a wedding fair?

Accepted Answer

Whether you have been planning your wedding for a while, and only have the finishing touches to arrange, or whether you've recently become engaged and are at the beginning of the wedding planning journey, visiting a wedding fair is a must for every couple. Wedding fairs work well because you get the chance to meet the suppliers who you are entrusting your special day with, and spending your money with. You can't build up that trust and relationship via a computer screen. The best wedding fairs will offer a wide variety of experienced exhibitors who can help give you practical, sensible solutions at reasonable costs, whatever your budget. You'll also find the latest must-haves and trends by visiting one which will help bring all of those finer details together. Many companies also offer discounts to couples they meet at a wedding fair which aren't available elsewhere. A Wedding Showcase or Open Day is usually organised by the venue in which it is held and is quite often a smaller event aimed at couples who have already booked to celebrate their special day there, or who are considering the venue as an option. A Wedding Fair is usually organised by an external company, such as Berkshire Wedding Fairs. These large events are where you'll meet plenty of exhibitors, some of which will be recommended by the venue where the fair is held. All couples are welcome, whether they are celebrating at the venue itself, or are just wanting to connect with the exhibitors and have booked a venue elsewhere.

Question 2

We're an engaged couple living in Oxfordshire where we both work full-time so there isn't much time left for wedding planning. We're thinking of marrying in Europe and hiring a planner to arrange our special day for us from here. How does the process work?

Accepted Answer

In recent years, there has been an increase in destination weddings with 2022 proving to be popular for Italy, with the Amalfi Coast topping the list. France, Greece, and Spain are other popular hot spots. Here are my five top tips when starting to plan your wedding abroad: • Take the questionnaire on the www.gov.ouk website by searching 'marriage abroad' - it's a great starting point to understand the minimum requirements because not all European countries allow for civil ceremonies so this tool will guide you through the first steps and even recommend approved translators. • Consider at least 18-12 months of planning time when wanting to marry abroad. The requirements may change from town to town and bureaucracy can play a big part. • Be aware of the hidden costs. If you're looking for a legal ceremony, there may be some requirements that will inevitably cost you, such as document translations by a recognised translator or CNI (Certificate of No Impediment) to be requested at the local registry office. You may also need to stay at the chosen location for several days before the wedding. • Have a budget in mind alongside the services you may need. This will help you stick to it and have a clear vision of what you would like on your wedding day.• Look for a wedding planner who can assist you with all of the above taking some of the wedmin off of you and providing you with a budget tool that will help you make your choices wiser.

FAQs and expert advice about wedding planning