Wedding Sites

Julie Cobbe of SimplyWeddings.com suggests that brides look on the internet for wedding services, 'Go online and use the internet to source wedding services, suppliers and resources. There's a wealth of information to help any bride-to-be.'

Invitations

Audrey Hughes of Weddings @ Lantz says “ When calculating the number of wedding invitations you need to order, take the total number of guests, divide by two and then add ten – this will provide you with enough invitations and some spares”.

The Dress

Fiona Todhunter of Fiona Todhunter Bridals suggests trying on at least five different dress styles. “It’s important to try on different styles and colours (such as cream, white, ivory), different tops and skirts, and different combinations of the two, in order to get the best design for your shape”.

The Rings

Bernadette O’Farrell from O’Connor Diamonds advises, “When you are choosing your rings, take inspiration from the jewellery styles and pieces you already have”.

Flowers

Niamh Dempsey from Oasis Flowers emphasizes that brides keep an open mind when choosing wedding flowers. “Often a rigid idea can be difficult to fulfill, as the flowers are out of season or very expensive. By planning well in advance and consulting with the florist, every bride should be able to get her dream flower arrangements using the wide variety of plants available”.

Car Hire

Anna Duggan from The Classic Car Company says couples “Should view the cars before hiring them, as often cars can differ slightly from what was expected”.

Hair

Sarah Jane McCarthy from Aidan Fitzgerald Hair Stylists encourages every bride-to-be to “Take along photographs of the back and front of the style you want to wear, to communicate easily with the stylist. It is essential to have a trial haircut and it is best to approach the stylist at least four weeks before the wedding.”

Photography

Wedding Photographer Dermot Byrne Photography believes that couples should “ Ensure the quality of their photographer by seeing at least one full wedding album of photos and the proofs of at least one wedding. Browse photographers websites for styles, quality and prices.”

The Venue

Gretchen Ridgeway from Barberstown Castle says, “Take a few weeks to look at wedding venues, when you have a clear idea of the number of guests. By visiting a maximum number of two venues per day there is less chance of confusing rooms or locations.”

Wedding Favours

“Don’t include wedding favours unless you have the budget for them,” says Tara O’Neill from Cakes and Favours. “They should be pretty and luxurious and can be done simply with time and flair.”

The Cake

Roisin Carton, from Donore Cake Craft encourages couples to bring their ideas to the cake maker. “If possible, taste some sample cakes, to ensure the blends of fruits or chocolate is to your liking. At the end of the day, it is your cake so make sure you get the one you want!.”

The Honeymoon

“If you plan to get married abroad, book nine months in advance for a church wedding or six months in advance for a civil ceremony,” says Brian McCarthy, product Director at Escape 2 travel agents. “Many venues only accommodate one wedding a day. Remember to consult your travel agent on the weather at your dream honeymoon location to avoid the rainy seasons.”