Everywhere we look, streamers and drapes have been massively trending for the years ahead. These days, it’s all about personalising your big day which means focusing in on all the little details – and luckily for you, there are numerous ways to give your wedding the WOW factor!

From stunning streamers to dreamy drapes, we’ve rounded up all the décor inspo you need to add those finishing touches and create a picture-perfect day…

RELATED TO: 15 Cute & Creative Cocktails To Personalise Your Wedding Day

Ceiling Drapes and Fairy Lights

You are guaranteed to have some picture perfect moments with ceiling drapes and fairy lights. Imagine how beautiful this room would be in the evening time when it gets darker? This dreamy aesthetic will truly make your dream day memorable for the rest of your life. This image is from The Wedding Room NI.

RELATED TO: 14 Celebrity Wedding Ideas To Steal For Your Big Day

Beautiful Backdrops

We love a good backdrop – especially when it has a beautiful simplistic drape! From a ceremony backdrop and welcome signage to bar décor, with decorative flowers or without, it is a sure to make the party pop. Much like this artsy piece from Look Events NI.

RELATED TO: Which Wedding You Should Have Based On Your Star Sign

Ceremony Streamers

We have noticed that bright colour are definitely going to be trending going into 2023! Why not bring some bright energy into your wedding by having some streamers within your ceremony room? Or mix it up by having it in your reception area also. We think this makes your wedding look super vibrant and fun. Valeria Ferrari Wedding Planning and Design created this overall look!

RELATED TO: Most Popular Month in Northern Ireland for Weddings!

Entrance Arches

The candid photos of you and your groom walking out of the ceremony are ones to remember! With this in mind, don’t underestimate the effects of using draping at the ceremony entrance — you’ll want to make sure it’s unforgettable. We’re obsessing over this entrance arch from Bling and Bloom Styling which shows how you can take an already stunning setting and create a breathtaking effect.

RELATED TO: Discover Your Wedding Style!

Window Draping

Not so much in love with the curtains in your wedding venue? Why not cover them with window drapes. That way you can still implement your own colour theme into the room without affecting the overall aesthetic? This gorgeous example is from Charm Wedding Studio. We are obsessed!

RELATED TO: Wedding Welcome Signs That Make a Big Impression

Striking Streamers

Have as little or as many streamers as you like – you are guaranteed to make your wedding ‘pop’! This is a simple yet effective way to ramp up the style on your day and take your wedding to the next level. This stunning décor from Streamadelica is the perfect combination of simplistic and stylish. Why not mix up the colours or add some metallic streamers to make it stand out even more?

RELATED TO: 3 Nature-Inspired Style Ideas for an Eco-Friendly Wedding

In need of some more w-day help and advice tips? Check out more articles HERE or visit our room decor directory HERE!

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The post Drapes & Streamers: Ultimate Décor Details for YOUR Wedding Day! appeared first on Wedding Journal.

We love a good Real Life Wedding in Ireland! Today we’re sharing Aria and Pierce’s chic and rustic day at Ballybeg House in County Wicklow on the 19th of July 2022!

This perfect pair had everything from sequin bridesmaid gowns to a dreamy venue! Rob O’Neil Photography captured every heart-felt moment where we could really feel the love, so let’s take a closer look…

HOW THEY MET

We’re throwing it all the way back to the early 2010s when Alia and Pierce were work friends, but their love story didn’t really begin until Alia handed in her notice to start another work adventure!

“Pierce and I met in Glasgow at a business meeting at The Corinthian Club in 2013. We both worked for the same company, but he was based in Belfast and I was based in Edinburgh. It was two weeks before I was leaving the company that our paths crossed and we met. I’d only ever dealt with him via email, so when we met I was like ‘wow, he’s gorgeous!’

RELATED TO: Love Wins: Rowan & Daniel’s Fun-Filled Day at The Merchant Hotel

“I said to the girls who I worked with I’m going to marry Pierce Hunt, they laughed at me. But I knew that he was the one. Thankfully, he felt the same about me and then a few weeks later, I was leaving and I sent out a generic thank you email to head office. He was the first to reply! He messaged saying he would like to look me up when he’s next in Edinburgh. 6 months later he came to visit for a weekend and we have been together ever since. We officially got together in the May and then I moved to Belfast in January 2014.”

THE PROPOSAL

Alia and Pierce got engaged on the 30th November 2019 and it came as a surprise! They had been together exactly 6.5 years. It was a tradition to celebrate every 6 months. Alia explains how she expected her proposal to go.

She explains, “we travel a lot and I always thought Pierce would propose on a trip away. It was a Saturday afternoon after I’d been out shopping with his sister!

“We had glug and games planned at our friends that night. I came home and Pierce said there was a change of plan and that we were going out for dinner that night. I said ‘oh okay’, and went to start getting ready. Pierce was dressed and changed in the fastest time that I’ve ever seen!”

THE BIG MOMENT

After an hour, Alia returned down stairs and walked into their gorgeous lounge where they had put up their Christmas tree a few days before.

Alia describes the moment, “There was a bouquet of beautiful pink roses for me and I said, ‘what are these for?’ He said because I deserve them, at this point I had no clue. We went into the kitchen to get a vase and I couldn’t find a single one! Pierce mentioned they were under the sink. I was busy getting the vase and as I turned around to find Pierce, he was already down on one knee!

“He very romantically told me that it was our 6.5 year anniversary and that he wanted to marry me, he had the ring box open and I started crying. I was so over joyed and cried saying ‘Yes, of course!’

“He also said that going away was too predictable and that he wanted to catch me off guard, which he really did. In our home that we built together was truly the most romantic place he could have picked.”

THE PLANNING PROCESS

Since the proposal happened at Christmas, the couple decided to hold off the planning process until the New Year. That way, they were also able to enjoy the buzz of being newly engaged. Alia and Pierce had always dreamed of getting married abroad, however the pandemic hit and they were unable to plan any further!

A trip to Donegal convinced the lovebirds to focus on a wedding in Ireland instead. Alia explains the thought process for their real life wedding in Ireland.

“I started looking at venues all over Ireland that would give us the flexibility and freedom to still enjoy the feeling of an abroad wedding and a 3 day duration. Whilst looking on countless articles, I stumbled across Ballybeg House in County Wicklow and it was described as a quirky and intimate venue set against the back drop of the Wicklow mountains.

RELATED TO: Opposites Attract: Melissa & Mark’s Showstopping Day at The Wool Tower

“We were sold and we arranged a trip down to view the venue as soon as we were able too. The minute we turned up the drive way we both looked at each other and said this is it. Greeted by a paddy the owner he was so warm and welcoming I knew that is how I wanted our guests to feel when they arrived.

Ballybeg House is available for exclusive private hire Monday -Thursday and has accommodation for up to 50 guests. This meant that Alia and Pierce could have that ‘abroad’ feeling they always wanted.

Alia says, “The estate is big and there are a couple of properties set way up in the woods and it is just stunning.”

WEDDING PLANNER

“We appointed Tee o Toole as our wedding planner she got married at Ballybeg and she really was a super star from start to finish.

“Tee very quickly understood the style we wanted to create and she was always on hand to ensure everything was just as had wanted. She made our wedding so special she had thought of things I hadn’t even thought of. Tee made my bouquets and offers this service along side the wedding planning and she is such a special lady to have with you on your big day.”

DREAM WEDDING SUPPLIERS

 Our wedding suppliers were:

• Venue – Ballybeg House County Wicklow,
• Wedding Planner – Tee o Toole,
• Makeup – Anita Conroy Makeup
• Wedding Dress – Reflections Bridal Lisburn
• Wedding Dress Designer – Naviblue “Blandy”
• Hair – Michelle Conroy
• Music -Ukebox for drinks reception, Santoria in the evening, Day Two – Local singer, Mush Malloy.
• Catering – Pauline and Infrid Furlong, Mollys Larder.
• Flowers – Tee o Toole

RELATED TO: How To Find Your Dream Wedding Team

“Our photographer was the incredibly talented Rob O’Neil photography. He captured our day in such a way we are gobsmacked!

“My Wedding Dress was bought at Reflections Bridal Lisburn. The designer was Naviblue Bridal and my dress was Blandy. I wore Jimmy Choo shoes and my bridesmaids wore sequin gowns from coast. The men wore black tie tuxedos.

“Pierces tux was one he already had and loved so he actually wore it again!”

FAVOURITE MOMENT

One of the couples favourite moments was the 31 degree heat as they were having the drinks reception with ‘Can’t take my eyes off you’, by Frankie Vallie playing!

They truly got their dream real life wedding in Ireland!

“Our wedding band, Ukebox played ‘Can’t take my eyes off you’ and my bridesmaids started doing a little leg kick together. Pierce and I decided to also dance and everyone was watching! The sun was shining and it was that moment we realised we were so full of love and loved by everyone else. It was just a really special moment!

RELATED TO: Bold & Beautiful: Jenna & Ashleigh’s Rustic Real Life Wedding

“The mountains are dazzling behind and the moment was just so special as it was completely unplanned. Also as we walked through the confetti arch after just being married it was a real feeling of joy and love.”

BRIDAL ADVICE

Alia says, “Our biggest piece of advice is literally create the day you want and pick a venue that allows you to do just that. There were many venues we viewed that were very strict and for us having the freedom of the venue was key to our day.

“Also do what brings you joy and try not to people please and do what you as couple both desire. Enjoy the day and soak it up, it’s the one time all the people you love are all together in one place just for you.

“Since our wedding, my darling Grandmother passed away and to be honest I’m just so grateful that we had such a magical few days all together. I’ll treasure the pictures!

“Also remember if your budgeting try and stick within in it, all the little details you think so much about really on the day don’t matter. Everyone is there to celebrate you so do just that and enjoy it all”

What a perfect real life wedding in Ireland!

If you would like your wedding day featured in Ireland’s Wedding Journal, feel free to contact us at: chloe.murray@pentonpublication.co.uk. We would love to see your pics also!

Have you booked your tickets for The Wedding Journal Show yet? Get exclusive VIP & discounted tickets online now…

The post Idyllic and Intimate: Alia & Pierce’s Blissful Real Life Wedding appeared first on Wedding Journal.

You won’t believe what dreamy dresses we have coming up on our bridal catwalks in Belfast & Dublin!

The Wedding Journal Show is back in Belfast and Dublin where you can view all the latest dress collections from the world’s top designers.

This time around we have the amazing Enzoani label who will be showcasing their latest from the Enzoani and Blue by Enoanzi collections – so if you’re still looking for your dream gown, you might be in luck!

TIMELESS CLASSICS MEET MODERN DESIGN

Enzoani are a luxury wedding dress brand that merge traditional and modern European styles into exquisitely handcrafted gowns. It has become one of the most sought-after designer labels due to its innovative style, exceptional quality, and above all, a fit and finish like no other!

Let’s take a look at some of our fav dresses you can expect to see on the runway…

Enzoani 2022

Rosalie effortlessly presents elegance and the wow factor! A modern plunging V-neck, figure-flattering illusion side cutout panels, whimsical lace placement, a sheer stretch chiffon lining, and the fit-and-flare silhouette are all strategically designed to create a body-contouring effect for the most flattering look.

Rosie is all about the unique details. This delicately fitted mermaid gown is embellished in beaded Victorian-inspired embroidered laces. A shimmery sequined Chantilly lace overlay offers the subtle sparkle and extraordinary dimension, with soft tulle gracefully cascading out the bottom with just the right touch of appliqué.

Blue by Enzoani 2022

Our bridal catwalks also have something for all the bridal party! Including grooms wear, bridesmaids and occasion wear from mother of the bride and groom. Stay tuned for more news on what to expect at The Wedding Journal Show

Other Show Highlights:

VIP Experiences

Exclusive discounts & offers

Bridal Beauty Zone

Quirky Wedding Zone

GET EXCLUSIVE VIP & DICOUNTED TICKETS ONLINE NOW!

The post Watch Your Dream Dress Come To Life On Our Bridal Catwalk With Enzoani’s 2022 Collections appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Meadow Walker, the daughter of beloved Fast & Furious actor Paul Walker, just announced her wedding over the weekend sharing pictures of their intimate ceremony in the Dominican Republic.

The 22-year-old model wore a custom Givenchy Haute Couture gown in a slinky minimalistic style with her husband, actor Louis Thornton-Allan wearing a sleek black suit and tie.

HAVE YOU GOT YOUR TICKETS TO THE WEDDING JOURNAL SHOW? GET YOURS NOW WHILE YOU STILL CAN!

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Meadow Walker (@meadowwalker)

The ceremony comes after Walker and Thornton Allen’s two month engagement in the prestigious Amangiri resort in red-rock Utah.

Vin Diesel was also more than a wedding guest as photo show him by the brides side as he gave her away, to honour her late father and co-star Paul Walker.

RELATED TO: Get The Look: 9 Low Back Wedding Dresses Inspired by Ariana Grande’s Bridal Style

Diesel looked sharp for the occasion wearing a pale blue suit and sunglasses as he proudly escorting Meadow down the aisle.

It was a fitting role for the action star, who is Meadow’s godfather and has remained close to her since her father’s tragic death in 2013.

RELATED TO: Get The Look: 9 Sleeve Wedding Dresses Inspired by Lily Collins Vintage Bridal Look

The actor, who also starred in films like Joy Ride and She’s All That in addition to his lead role in the Fast & Furious franchise, was 40 when he died in a car accident. 

Diesel wasn’t the only Fast & Furious wedding guest in attendance. Actress Jordana Brewster, Walker’s onscreen love interest, shared photos from the wedding day, which show Diesel’s children at the wedding.

Fellow Fast & Furious actor Ludacris was among those sharing their love for Diesel’s fatherly gesture. Other celebrities such also shared their comments.

“Such a beautiful day I loved seeing you shine xx see you when I come out of the woods :)” commented Ruby Rose.

“Vin walking down was so heartwarming. Paul is shining down,” A fan commented.

“Vin walking you made me legit tear up and I’m a damn guy,” another added.

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A post shared by Meadow Walker (@meadowwalker)

At the afterparty, Walker donned a similar styled miniature version of her first wedding dress. The Givenchy number featuring silver chain detailing which complimented Walker’s minimal tennis bracelet.

The third change of the evening was a beautiful, albeit risqué, pearlescent tank top with a matching bikini, diamond sarong-style Ludovic de Saint Sernin skirt and thong sandals perfect for the shorefront gathering.

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The post Vin Diesel Walks Paul Walker’s Daughter Down The Aisle At Her Beach Wedding appeared first on Wedding Journal.

We love a good pre-pandemic wedding so today we’re sharing Jenna and Ashleigh’s stylish and cosy day at Tullylagan Hotel on 2^nd November 2019 – just before the world fell apart!

This perfect pair had everything from famous quotes to DIY décor and a statement cake which has us head over heels in-love with their day! Samantha Quinn Photography captured every heart-felt moment where we could really feel the love, so let’s take a closer look…

HOW THEY MET

We’re throwing it all the way back to the early 2000s when Jenna and Ashleigh were classmates, but their love story didn’t really begin until one daunting friend request over 15 years later!

“It’s a bit of a strange one,” Jenna says. “We actually went to school together years ago but didn’t really ever speak so when Ashleigh sent me a friend request on Facebook years later, I didn’t fully recognise her – partly because her hair had changed from brunette to blonde, so not entirely my fault!

RELATED TO: Love Wins: Rowan & Daniel’s Fun-Filled Day at The Merchant Hotel

“We were about 16 in school and I left in 2000 so we’re talking over 15 years before we started chatting online – I knew I recognised Ashleigh’s face but I just couldn’t quite pinpoint it, so I had to ask her ‘where do I know you from?’ which resulted in her unfriending me!

“When she uploaded a new photo on Instagram with her hair back to brown, that’s when I remembered! I liked the picture and she must have thought, ‘I’ll give her another chance’ and wrote to me again. We ended up meeting up a week later, had a drink and never looked back!”

THE PROPOSAL

So after a bit of a rocky start, Jenna and Ashleigh fell head over heels in-love and after one year of amazing memories, Jenna planned the perfect proposal on Lover’s Beach, Grand Canaria – who could turn that down?!

“We got together in August and then a year later in September, I proposed in Grand Canaria on Lover’s Beach – how cheesy!” Jenna laughs.

“I planned it all and was absolutely bricking it! I thought I would do it towards the end of the holiday but I just couldn’t wait so I took Ash down to what’s known as ‘Lovers Beach’ in Amadores Grand Canaria and while she was watching the sunset, I wrote in the sand ‘Will You Marry Me?’.

“When she turned around, she was totally and utterly shocked! She cried and I think she even swore a little – we were both just over the moon and of course she said ‘YES’ straight away!”

THE PLANNING PROCESS

Jenna and Ashleigh wasted no time in starting their wedding planning journey and began looking for venues straight away before they came across what they describe as a ‘hidden gem’ in Cookstown.

“We we’re so excited and started looking for venues and getting everything in order,” Jenna says. “One night we went to Tullylagan Hotel Cookstown for a wedding event they had on – we weren’t even going to go because it was a Sunday and we were a bit hungover, so we just went for the craic and ended up absolutely loving the place!

RELATED TO: Opposites Attract: Melissa & Mark’s Showstopping Day at The Wool Tower

“We spent another couple of nights there and got to planning with Crystal and John at the time who were brilliant! We thought for that time of year in November it was the perfect Autumn/Winter venue and we could decorate exactly how we want – it was a real hidden gem!”

When it comes to wedding planning, there’s always one strategically organised planner while the other one keeps them calm and stress-free – can you guess who is who here?

“I’m a pretty laidback person and Ashleigh is the more organised and strategic planner so she had everything in order, but when it came closer to the day I started to brick it a bit!” Jenna laughs. “But I like to think, we balance each other out and I kept her cool – overall, we really enjoyed planning it ourselves!”

DREAM WEDDING SUPPLIERS

“Our entertainment was Our Wedding DJ NI and Chris and Sarah were able to supply some décor pieces like backdrops and fairy lights and ribbons for the chairs. We all went down together to decorate and made a weekend out of it with my Dad who’s a builder and my Mum being a interior designer helping us along the way!

“We tried to do a lot of it ourselves and Ashleigh would be very into books so that’s where our theme came from where we used quotes from famous Authors and made it all very rustic!”

RELATED TO: How To Find Your Dream Wedding Team

“Our cake was from Sari’s Supreme Cakes, Helens Bay. We just found her on Facebook and she was great to work with and we had our little figures as well as our cat – we loved the simple and fun design which was perfect for us, and of course we needed the rainbow colours for a gay wedding!

“We got our flowers from Therese from Designs, Cookstown – we went for two different types as Ashleigh wanted something plain and I wanted something with a bit of colour and I think they really complemented each other!”

CAPTURING THE DAY

Samantha Quinn Photography along with Emer Agnew every heart-felt moment of Ashleigh and Jenna’s dream day with an array of beautiful candid and picture perfect memories.

Jenna says: “We actually had a different photographer booked who fell pregnant just before the wedding so they recommended Samantha Quinn to us and we booked her and Eimear Agnew. They were amazing and we also had our engagement shoot with them as well!

“We absolutely loved how they turned out! We’re not very posey people and it was just very relaxed and captured so many incredible memories with everyone that we love looking back on.

“Neil Hobson from Honour Wedding Videos in Dungannon did our wedding video. We only contacted him two days before the wedding because we actually weren’t going to have a videographer and he did it at the drop of a hat which we’re so grateful for!”

WEDDING WARDROBE

Both brides looked stunning as Ashleigh wore a princess ballgown ‘Delancey’ and Jenna wore a chic 1950s tea length dress ‘Audrey’ from WED 2B in Belfast.

Jenna says: “Ashleigh went one day and I got sent over to the pub for a drink because I wasn’t allowed to see her dress which she had picked months before me by the way!

RELATED TO: Summer of Love: Melissa & Barry’s Beautiful Boho Affair

“I was kind of last minute, but I found it so hard to choose as I’m not one for a dress. I just went in one day with my Mum and sister and found the one – for me it was all about comfort and we both cried so that’s when you know!”

The bridesmaids wore beautiful wine dresses from Asos and the groomsmen and page boys were decked out in checked navy House of Cavani suits from StreetLife in Newtownards. Their little flower girl, Lily, also looked perfect in a princess Monsoon dress.

FAVOURITE MOMENT

One of Jenna’s favourite moments from their day was seeing her new wife Ashleigh walking up the aisle – and she just couldn’t contain her excitement!

“My reaction to seeing Ashleigh walk down the aisle in her dress has to be up there with one of my favourite moments – when I saw her, I meant to say ‘WOW’ in my head but it came out really loud but it was really how I felt!” Jenna laughs.

“When were doing our vows we also felt really overwhelmed with emotion and even everyone in the room said they could really feel the love, so that for us was really touching.

“Getting to spend the whole day with everyone as well as our first dance were also amazing moments – we could do it all again tomorrow!”

BRIDAL ADVICE

For all the busy brides-to-be planning their dream day, Jenna and Ashleigh have some positive words of advice.

“Try to not stress the small stuff and go with the flow as much as you can,” Jenna says. “Remember to breathe! I know everybody says it, but it really does go so quick so try to take a bit of time to yourselves during the day to sit and have a moment to take it all in.

“We took ourselves off on a wee walk and had a cry and just reflected on the day and it was really lovely. I’m even getting emotional now thinking of it!”

If you would like your wedding day featured in Ireland’s Wedding Journal, feel free to contact us at: emma.fegan@pentonpublication.co.uk – we would love to see your pics!

Have you booked your tickets for The Wedding Journal Show yet? Get exclusive VIP & discounted tickets online now…

The post Bold & Beautiful: Jenna & Ashleigh’s Rustic Real Life Wedding appeared first on Wedding Journal.

When it comes to autumn and winter weddings we’ve all seen the same colour palettes from mustards, burnt oranges to greens and reds. Not that we don’t love these, but there’s a new wedding trend on the market giving us all the regal and royal inspo for a fresh new look!

Think emerald greens, plush plums and deep purples – sounds a little bold, but together these be-jewelled tones create an edgy and chic combo! The beautiful mix of dark shades work so well with different textures like vintage lace, dark wooden tables and soft velvet accents.

An old country house or estate would be the perfect setting (somewhere with a peacock roaming around the lawns!). Don’t be afraid to get bold with your flowers, suit and décor and choose all the jewel tones you can find. Add in some gold finishing touches and you’re on your way to having a stylish and sophisticated affair!

GET THE LOOK…

The Dress

The Bridesmaids

For the girls, go bold with rich shades of plum, emerald or teal. You can either have them all in one solid shade or mix it up with some maids in dark emerald or teal, and some in deep purple, wine or plum – trust us, when they all come together it’s going to look amazing! Here’s some style inspo by Sorella Vita from Marie Me Bridal.

Find out more about Marie Me Bridal HERE

The Flowers

Go wild with your wedding flowers and choose deep tones mixed with bright colours and decadent green leaves. We love this bold and beautiful bouquet by Bella Botanica for a rich and luxurious look! Go for English garden roses, Sterling Silver Roses and Angustifolia for different shades of plum, purple and delicate blues and tie together with a lush velvet ribbon.

Find out more about Bella Botanica HERE

The Suit

For the groom and the guys, don’t shy away from bold colours such as wine, plum and emerald. These tuxes from Freddie Hatchet are giving us all the regal and royal wedding inspo! Mix and match with touches of black or even go for a velvet number for that extra style factor!

Find out more about Freddie Hatchet HERE

The Cake

Get creative with your cake and go for rich emeralds, teals, wines and plums paired with wild flowers and a touch of gold. We love this cake design by MM Cookies for a royal and feast-like statement centrepiece – almost too good to eat!

Find out more about MM Cookies HERE

The Stationery

Don’t be afraid to go for a dark tone of invite with lighter font in gold or rose gold like these stunning creations from The Invite Hub. Mix straight edged paper and rough textured, hand-made paper for a contrast in textures that complement each other beautifully!

Find out more about The Invite Hub HERE

The Décor

This wedding look is a quite decadent so plush velvet, teal and touches of gold with beautiful floral arrangements like this set-up by Fairy Tales Wedding & Event Specialists will really add to this theme. Choose a blush table cloth with some match taper candles for a touch of contrast and glamour.

Find out more about Fairy Tales Weddings & Events Specialists HERE

The Accessories

Add the finishing touches to your wedding wardrobe by adding some gold vintage glamour! Accessories aren’t just for the bride, you know – the groom can also spice up his suit with some sparkly cufflinks – check out these pieces from Steensons Jewellers for some style inspo.

Find out more about Steensons Jewellers HERE

Cute Coverups

The wedding day leather jacket has to be one of our favourite recent trends that also works perfectly with this wedding colour palette! Add your own personal touch to your cover-up with your new name on the back and some cute flowers to tie the whole look together.

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The post How To Pull Off A Cool Jewel Toned Wedding appeared first on Wedding Journal.

What’s the difference between mermaid and fit-and-flare anyway? Learn the wedding dress silhouettes before you start your dream dress search!

For every bride-to-be, the ring isn’t the only thing you’re going to say ‘YES’ to. One of the most exciting and important decisions to come next is the dress, and every detail counts – right down to the silhouette!

Don’t know all the wedding dress terminology just yet? (totally normal btw!) We’re here to give you a helping hand with a rundown of all the wedding dress silhouettes so you can find what best complements your style and shape.

RELATED TO: How to Choose The Best Wedding Dress Style For Your Body Shape?

As you browse, keep these rules in mind to prepare you for your bridal appointment…

• A fitted column, mermaid or fit-and-flare gown will accentuate your curves (or create the illusion of them).
• Pleats or gathers around the waist can magnify this area. A tight-fitted high-waist and loose skirt will combat this. 
• When in doubt, consider an A-line gown which works for almost any shape! 

Ball Gown

Did someone say fairytale princess? Well that’s exactly what you get with the ballgown silhouette! Volume? Check. Drama? Check. Classic? Yes, of course! The ball gown has a fitted bodice and a full skirt and is ideal for most body types, but can be overwhelming on petite brides with small frames. Check out these stunning dresses from McElhinney’s of Ballybofey and La Bella Sposa for the ultimate princess gown!

Find out more about McElhinney’s of Ballybofey HERE

Find out more about La Bella Sposa HERE

Fit-and-Flare

If you’re looking for a style that shows off that gorgeous figure, this dress does just that! The fit-and-flare style is literally fitted through the body and flares out mid-thigh – ideal for brides looking to accentuate a small waist and it also works well with hourglass figures as well as petite body types. We love these figure-hugging styles from Romantique Bridal and The Wild Rose Boutique.

Find out more about The Wild Rose Boutique HERE

Find out more about Romantique Bridal HERE

RELATED TO: Dress To Impress: Get The Body To Suit Your Wedding Dress

Mermaid

Similar to the fit-and-flare gown, this style is sleek and sexy and contours the body from the chest to the knee and is flared thereon. The silhouette is known to emphasize the waist and hips rather than narrowing it, especially if you’re apple-shaped. Accent your curves in these showstopping styles from Divinity Bridal and Angelo Bridal!

Find out more about Divinity Bridal HERE

Find out more about Angelo Bridal HERE

Column

The column silhouette is a more toned-down version of the mermaid dress – think a narrow shape that flows straight down from the neckline to the hem with the flare starting mid-thigh. These dresses usually have a high neckline, hence the ‘column’ nickname, and are best suited to lean frames and athletic body types. They also work great with hourglass figures and for the brides who want to flaunt their curves. Steal the show in one of these gorgeous dresses from Amsha Bridal and The Bridal Company NI.

Find out more about Amsha Bridal HERE

Find out more about The Bridal Company NI HERE

A-line

This silhouette is a universal favorite as it complements almost every body type. Feminine and oh-so-flattering, this style of gown cinches you at the waist and flares out into a beautiful full skirt – giving you a princess feel, but with less structure and more flow. This is a great choice for pear-shaped or curvy brides. We love these styles from The One and White Gold Bridal!

Find out more about The One HERE

Find out more about White Gold Bridal HERE

RELATED TO: The Curvy Bride’s Guide To Wedding Dress Shopping In Ireland

Tea-Length

This is the perfect style if you’re looking for that ‘something old, something new’ feel. This ankle-grazing silhouette is giving us all the vintage vibes and is perfect for the fashion-forward and unconventional bride. With a hemline that falls above the knee, it’s elegant, girly and a little bit different – and best of all, it looks just as good on a slim frame as a curvy one. Get inspired with these styles from Orchid Bridal Studio and Marie Me Bridal.

Find out more about Marie Me Bridal HERE

Find out more about Orchid Bridal Studio HERE

Still looking for your dream dress? Check out all our bridalwear suppliers HERE

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The post The Ultimate Guide To Wedding Dress Silhouettes appeared first on Wedding Journal.

These days, it’s all about personalizing your big day which means focusing in on all the little details – and luckily for you, there are numerous ways to give your wedding the WOW factor!

From neon signage to prosecco walls and floral arches, we’ve rounded up all the décor inspo you need to add those finishing touches and create a picture-perfect day…

RELATED TO: 15 Cute & Creative Cocktails To Personalise Your Wedding Day

Neon Signage

We love a good wedding sign – especially when it’s of the neon variety! From a ceremony backdrop and welcome signage to bar décor, displaying your favorite saying or quote in a neon wedding sign is a sure to make the party pop. Much like this artsy piece from Blooming Backdrops NI.

RELATED TO: Which Wedding You Should Have Based On Your Star Sign

Fairy lights

As basic as it seems, let’s face it – fairy lights make everything better! This is a simple yet effective way to ramp up the style on your day and take your wedding to the next level. This stunning décor from Ultimate Touches is the perfect combination of simplistic and stylish.

Mother Nature

If you’re having an indoor wedding but still want a rustic and earthy aesthetic, bring mother nature indoors with botanical inspired décor like this display from Aisle Love You. Not only does this add to a naturally beautiful wedding theme, but it also adds a touch of life to really make your day pop!

RELATED TO: 3 Nature-Inspired Style Ideas for an Eco-Friendly Wedding

Aisle Details

The candid photos of you and your groom exchanging vows are ones you’ll treasure forever. With this in mind, don’t underestimate the effects of aisle and altar décor — you’ll want to make sure it’s unforgettable. We’re obsessing over this display from Wild Feather & Event Styling which shows how you can take an already stunning setting and create a breathtaking effect.

RELATED TO: Discover Your Wedding Style!

Table Settings

Table setting décor may seem like the last of your wedding priorities, but it can be one of those finishing touches that really brings your day to the next level! They can consist of much more than dinnerware and linens, so spruce them up with accents, such as a colourful ribbons, flowers and and greenery like this stunning display by Fairy Tales Wedding & Event Specialists.

Candles

Candles are a simple and mesmerizing way to light up any area of your wedding! Just like this gorgeous setting by Wedding Flowers by Josephine, they can bring a romantic glow and set a stylish tone for your day – especially when combined with a beautiful array of flowers!

RELATED TO: 5 Ways To Style Balloons On Your Wedding Day

Floral Arches

Flowers are a key component of any wedding décor, but why not go one better and create a truly spectacular space with a stunning floral arch. We’re loving this amazing display by Bella Botanica and just imagine the photos!

RELATED TO: Nine floral arches that will wow your wedding guests

Marquees

Marquees are the ultimate blank canvas you need to get extra creative with your wedding décor! All marquees should feature mesmerizing lighting that brings the space to life as the evening draws in. Festoon lighting works particularly well to drape overhead for a magical canopy effect! This marquee set up by North Down Marquees is the perfect example of a fairytale finish with a natural colour scheme and foliage décor.

Prosecco Wall

Add a touch of class to your day with a stylish and sophisticated prosecco wall like this one from Dream Wedding Events. This also becomes the perfect backdrop so you and your guests can sip your bubbly in style and go crazy with those must-have Instagram photos!

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The post 9 Décor Details To Take Your Wedding To The Next Level appeared first on Wedding Journal.

The pomp and ceremony of the glam wedding isn’t for everyone – and now that weddings are heading into the open air, there’s absolutely no reason why you shouldn’t go for a rock festival style wedding that matches your personal style!

Thanks to the pandemic, more and more venues have been investing in their outdoor spaces and will be only too glad to help you with plans for outdoor lighting and styling that will bring a laid-back festival aesthetic. Think wristbands, pallets, tipis and campervans – and of course, that all important live band!

RELATED TO: Unique Unions: 4 Real Life Quirky and Unconventional Weddings

The Venue

We’ve heard of more than a few weddings being held in fields lately! You can dress up a marquee with gorgeous garlands and festival style lighting – we love this magical look from Carnival Marquees.

RELATED TO: How To Plan The Perfect Outdoor Wedding 

Alternatively try a tipi with all the works – Magnakata in Co Down has some great Nordic ones.

RELATED TO: How To Have A Woodland Themed Wedding

However, if the thought of being too far from civilization gives you wedding nerves, lots of venues are really upping their game when it comes to magical gardens and candle-lit terraces  – check out the gorgeous new spaces at the Galgorm Hotel and Spa Resort. 

The Stationery

Why go for the usual invites when you can send out festival-themed tickets to your guests? We love these tickets from Wedfest, not to mention their oh-so-cool wristbands and table planners as well!

RELATED TO: The Hottest Wedding Invite Trends Of 2021

The Transport

Forget the shiny wedding cars – why not rock up in a cute camper van? You can hire Brodie, this stunning 1965 VW split screen camper van in cream and white from Star Car Hire to arrive in style.

RELATED TO: 11 Wedding Expenses Every Bride Forgets To Budget For

Or if you’re feeling very brave and your dress is under control, what’s to stop you screaming to a halt outside your venue on this 1976 Harley Davidson custom chopper from Star Car Hire – straight out of Easy Rider?

You could even transport your guests in Lola, this cute VW camper van/bus from Star Car Hire.

RELATED TO: Why You Shouldn’t Use Instagram To Plan Your Wedding

The Style

There are so many ways you can go when it comes to your dress – there’s no shortage of boho style dresses for that Woodstock sixties vibe, or why not go for a wedding dress teamed with leather for a Donnington look?

We love this boho-esque new gown from Kelsey Rose (974A9828) and this pretty Ottilie gown from True Bride’s Brighton Belle for that 50s rockabilly style!

RELATED TO: 10 Gorgeous Boho Wedding Dresses Worn By Celebrities – Get The Look!

The Hair

It goes without saying that floral dos are bang on trend at the moment and they merge beautifully with the boho festival aesthetic. Try a floral crown like this pretty one from Blossoms and Bluebells or a relaxed floral plait like this look from Wedding Flowers by Josephine.

RELATED TO: 11 Showstopping Floral Looks For Your Wedding Hair

Alternatively, go for this pretty floral crown style with extra dangling garlands, or this understated daisy look styled by Loving Weddings.ie.

We also love the styling in this laid back make-up look by Maid by Sinead styled by @oopard!

The Flowers

When it comes to the styling, flowers are your friend – check out these pretty floral displays from Wedding Flowers by Josephine (left) and Blossoms and Bluebells (right). Bouquets can be anything you like, from an understated bunch of wild flowers to a glorious wealth of mix and match hues.

RELATED TO: Jessica and Jonny’s Joyous Festival Wedding-Palooza

The Decor

We love these styling ideas from Look Events NI with their laid-back forest look – the rugs are such a great idea for setting the scene, and the paper lanterns are so pretty!

RELATED TO: 9 Floral Arches That Will Wow Your Wedding Guests

 And of course jam jars filled with lights or flowers are perfect for that boho festival look –  such as this floral display (left) by Fairy Tales NI or this pretty candle display by VIP Weddings in Co Mayo.

RELATED TO: Why Dried Flowers Are Perfect For Your Wedding Day

The Food

Why not go for something relaxed and outdoors, such as fish and chips in a paper cone? We’re even hearing of brides hiring a food truck to serve up burgers and vegan fast food to their guests, or serving up tasty desserts from a waffle or crepe van!

RELATED TO: 9 Ways To Save On Your Wedding Venue And Catering Costs

The Entertainment

This is the all-important thing – it wouldn’t be a festival without entertainment! Keep your guests entertained throughout the day with a magician or a caricaturist, or hire this VW camper van from The Quirky Camper Booth as a festival style photo booth where your guests can take their own fun pics!

There are so many other things you can do – circus entertainers, acrobats, even hire a few fairground rides such as the ones from Mohan’s Funfair in Armagh. They offer dodgems, carousels and candy carts for wedding hire – and even a few bare knuckle rides!

RELATED TO: 75+ Unconventional Ideas For The Unique Bride

And of course, you have to include live music if it’s really going to be a festival!  There’s no shortage of bands and singers out there that can deliver the kind of sounds you’re looking for, whether it’s rock, folk or country. For a great combination, we love The Real Shindig, who deliver Irish folk music and trad mixed with modern contemporary acoustic covers and a few old classics thrown in – we’d defy any of your guests to stay in their seats all night!

RELATED TO: How To Find Your Dream Wedding Team

RELATED TO: 10 Things I Wish I’d Known Before Planning A Wedding

 Still organising your perfect day? Check out our gallery of fabulous suppliers HERE.

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The post How To Create Your Own Rocktastic Festival Style Wedding appeared first on Wedding Journal.

‘Something blue’ has been connected to weddings for centuries thanks to the Old English tradition of the bride having ‘something old, something new, something borrowed, and something blue’ as a sign of good luck on her big day.  

But there’s no need to stick with the old standbys when it comes to searching for your ‘something blue’, so why not go for something a little different to spice it up?

RELATED TO: Wedding Traditions & Superstitions: Everything You Didn’t Know

So, if you’re still on the lookout for your something blue, we’ve rounded up some unique and modern ideas to incorporate this tradition in your special day

1. Blue Booms

Say ‘I do’ to a beautiful blue bouquet or line the aisle with colorful flowers in every color, including rich blues. It’s an easy, impactful way to bring a little luck to your big day! We love this simple yet effective touch of blue in this wedding bouquet by Bella Botanica.

2. Fancy Footwear

Add a pop of colour to your wedding wardrobe with a subtle blue shoe like these Allure baby blue peep toe heels from McElhinney’s of Ballybofey. Choose a similar blue-hued statement shoe for your own dose of good luck and style!

3. Cute Clutch

A bold blue clutch – like this one from Emmy London – is a good choice for your ‘something blue,’ especially if you’re looking for something you’ll use again after the big day.

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4. Sweet Treats

Why not include your something blue in your wedding cake? This unique tiffany blue wedding cake from MM Cookies was done in the prettiest shade and is sure to make a statement center piece on your sweet treat table!

5. Blue Bridesmaids

Start your day with ‘something blue’ by decking your best girls out in stylish blue bridesmaids dresses, like this one from Perfect Day. Not only is blue a trending shade in bridesmaid gowns right, it’s also a beautiful colour for your wedding day theme and colour palette!

6. Blue Bling

If you’re a bride who wants a simple way to include ‘something blue’ in your big day, then a barely blue diamond pendant is your answer! We’re obsessed with this dainty detailed necklace from R. McCullagh Jewellers for a simple yet sparkling touch.

7. Statement Wedding Dress

Make a statement on your big day with a bold blue wedding dress like this one from Rio Styled. This a great way to check off your something blue whilst also making a style statement! Or if you’re looking for something a little more subtle, opt for a powder blue shade.

RELATED TO: 7 Blue Wedding Dresses That Will Leave Your Groom Speechless

8. Navy Number

Let the groom get in on this tradition, too. Make like these guys wearing Royal Blue suits from Gowdys Menswear or go for a wear royal navy number for a stylish wedding wardrobe whilst also getting your ‘something blue’ in there.

10. Getaway Car

A vintage Beetle like these ones from Vintage Wedding Vehicles – or any blue ride as sweet as these ones – means you’ll drive off into the sunset in your ‘something old’ and ‘something blue’.

Celebrity ‘Something Blue’ Inspo…

Beyoncé

Queen B for a cobalt blue manicure as her ‘something blue’, which complimented her dazzling 18-karat Lorraine Schwartz engagement ring.

Chrissy Teigen

Model Chrissy Teigen kept her something blue in a private spot. She reportedly wore Christian Louboutin peep toe heels with a subtle blue lining at her destination wedding in Lake Como to her now husband John Legend.

RELATED TO: Gwen Stefani unveils stunning images of her wedding to Blake Shelton

Kate Middleton

For the what many would call the royal wedding of century, Middleton kept things simple and minimalistic when it came to her ‘something blue’ – a blue ribbon was sewn into her Alexander McQueen wedding dress to honour the tradition.

Christina Applegate

The actress and comedienne carried a bouquet of white lilies and lavender blossoms for her subtle yet effective ‘something blue’, which was designed by renowned Brooklyn-based florist Jeanne Costello when she married her ex-husband Johnathon Schaech.

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The post 9 Unique Something Blue Ideas You Need To Know appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Protocol for Men have been a top favourite suit store in Ireland, helping countless grooms find their dream wedding wardrobe since 1985.

We’ve chatted to so many grooms from our real life weddings who choose Protocol for Men for their big day and their suits did not disappoint!

So, if you want to look sharp beside your blushing bride, then head down to their Dublin or Swords stores to find the suit of your dreams.

RELATED TO: Supplier of the Week: JJ Donnelly Menswear

We spoke to the Assistant Manager, Daniela Soares, who told us all about the top style and service from Protocol for Men.

“Our biggest brand would definitely be Benetti which is also an Irish label, and they are very popular and a forward thinking brand, especially for wedding suits,” she says.

READ OUR LATEST MAGAZINE ISSUE – SUMMER 2021 OUT NOW

“We also have Herbie Frogg which is an English Brand and Carl Gross which is a German brand and Skopes – they would be our main suit collections.”

In addition to these luxury labels, Protocol for Men’s other suit collections include Marc Darcy, Travis and Black-Tie which are also very popular with grooms. Although when it comes to the most popular style of suit, the navy number is still a big wedding winner.

“The bestseller is definitely still a good fitting navy suit.” Daniela says. “It’s still the top dog, even though navy has been around for a while and we think sometimes grey might take over, right now it’s a big style for weddings.

“The tuxedos would probably be the next most popular choice – they are definitely making a huge comeback for weddings and are a classic style which gives you a little something different for your day.”

With a lot of attention on the brides when it comes to weddings, Protocol for Men are passionate about making the groom a number one priority.

“Sometimes the bride gets a lot of attention for the wedding, but we make sure the groom is our number one and gets 101% from us,” Daniela adds.

RELATED TO: Statement Styles for Summer Grooms

“Even if they just come in for an hour or they want more time, we never rush and it’s zero pressure. Our staff soon become the groom’s friend in a way, and they can have a little banter and talk about football and other things and it’s always a comfortable and fun experience.

“Some guys can come in feeling a bit like a deer in the headlights and walk out afterwards like ‘that’s nowhere near as bad as I thought’ and they can actually enjoy the suit shopping experience!”

And to make suit shopping even easier, Protocol for Men also offer tailoring and alterations, whilst catering for a range of budgets and providing options for both hire and rental suits.

RELATED TO: How To Write The Ultimate Groom’s Speech

“In our Dublin Branch we have a tailor in-store who has been highly trained for 15+ years and we work with another expert in Swords and provide all the tailoring for our suits when needed.

“We also never charge for alterations on top of our packages so our wedding suits will always include alterations.

“With hire and retail options, we don’t just stick to one or the other and have multiple choices for both. Sometimes people will buy one or two suits and then hire the rest, so you’re able to have a mix and match and do what works best for you and your budget.

“Our retails packages include three suits for €750 and the hire package would be three suits for around €450 and we do a lot of different package deals which we’re very well known for. We also discuss budgets and try and work around the customers’ needs and provide good quality for a fair price.”

Although an appointment is not needed, Daniela recommends booking a designated time when you can discuss your needs with expertly trained consultants.

“We’re not strictly only by appointments and we try and help people where we can, but we definitely encourage appointments, especially with how busy things are now – it really does help.” Daniela says. 

RELATED TO: Has Your Man Turned Into A Groomzilla?

“For the first appointment we recommend a 1-on-1 consultation with the bride and groom so we get to hear exactly what they want. After this, we can then start the measuring process for each of the groomsmen. The final stage is one last fitting just to make sure everything is perfect and ready for the big day!

“We are with them through every step of the process and would like to think we take the hassle out of it for the grooms, especially with the alterations, tailoring and finding things like waistcoats to match etc – from start to finish we make sure everything is looked after for that special day.”

To find out more about Protocol for Men, view details HERE

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The post Protocol for Men Reveal The Most Popular Suit Style for Grooms appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Your wedding is only one of the biggest days of your life, so you need to take ev-er-y-thing into account.

Believe it or not, your star sign can tell a lot about not only your personality and traits, but also what makes your dream wedding day, right down to the venue and dress!

Whether you’re into star signs or just curious about what we think your dream wedding will be, we’ve predicted everything from the theme, venue and dress style so you can have a day that’s truly written in the stars…

RELATED TO: Sexy Lingerie Based on Your Star Sign

ARIES: March 21 – April 19

Aries is the first sign of the zodiac, which makes sense for such a ambitious and competitive sign. If you’re a fiery Aries, you’re bold, passionate and love control – but you’re also sweet, open-minded and loving, so you get away with it . You tend to leave things to the last minute and make spur of the moment decisions which can get a little tricky, especially when it comes to wedding planning. Your random bursts of energy and child-like nature may mean your wedding may be a bit spur of the moment, but probably the most fun and exciting!

READ OUR LATEST MAGAZINE ISSUE – SUMMER 2021 OUT NOW

Your Dream Wedding

Aries are an independent and bold sign with a strong sense of self who are unlikely to hand the reins over to a wedding planner. We think you’ll love the experience of planning your own dream day and feel proud at every stage when it all comes together. Your adventurous spirit and high energy may mean a destination wedding abroad is on the cards. Make sure to add your own unique style and touches with a bright colourful theme and lots of fairy lights.

Here are some venues we think an Aries will love…

Your Dream Dress

If you’re booking a destination wedding or travel themed day, then you’ll need a stunning dress to match! For beach brides, we recommend a flowy and light boho number or a short style that matches your quirky taste.

Here are some styles we think an Aries will love…

TAURUS: April 20 – May 20

Ruled by the planet Venus, Taurus’s are big lovers of romance. Your symbol is a bull which embodies both the fierce and serene nature of this gentle giant. You tend to love the outdoors and being surrounded by nature, and are one of the more chilled signs of the zodiacs. Be careful not to let your laidback tendencies turn into laziness when it comes to wedding planning, and don’t leave the bigger (and more boring tasks) until the last minute.

RELATED TO: Are Your Star Signs Compatible?

Your Dream Wedding

You tend to be a people-pleaser, which isn’t the worst thing as it means you’ll be really focused on the guest experience and creating an unforgettable day! You also love the finer things in life so guests can expect not only a fun-filled event, but an elegant and glamouros day. This combined with your love of nature could make an outdoor ceremony the perfect wedding venue for you – think country house gardens, forest vows or coastal views.

Here are some venues we think a Taurus will love…

Your Dream Dress

When we think of a Taurus bride we think of a fairy-like goddess who looks breathtaking in an airy and feminine style as she says ‘I do’ surrounded by Mother Nature. Lace sleeves, soft blush or intricate embellishments are all styles that would look perfect on you.

Here are some styles we think a Taurus will love…

GEMINI: May 21 – June 20

As the most social signs of the zodiac, your wedding day will definitely be something to remember! Geminis usually thrive on variety and are very creative, which means you’ll probably prioritise different guest activities and entertainment. However, make sure to keep communication with your bride or groom-to-be – it’s about what they want too! You’ve got the brains, the energy and the social skills to pull off a memorable event, but what should you choose?

Your Dream Wedding

You tend to change your mind a lot and have many different ideas (which you’re totally entitled to!), so make sure you spend plenty of time researching what you want. We think you’ll love a blank canvas venue where you can add your own style and personality. Or you could go for an already unique venue that suits your quirky taste – whatever you choose, it’s got to have a fun and fabulous theme like a festival or circus style wedding.

RELATED TO: How To Match Your Engagement Ring To Your Star Sign

Here are some wedding venues we think an Gemini will love…

Your Dream Dress

As Geminis are the sign of ‘The Twins’, you are known for having two conflicting sides to your personality which can make things difficult when it comes to making decisions. So, if you’re finding it hard to choose just one dress, why not have multiple outfits for the ceremony and reception, or better yet, a multifunctional dress where you can switch things up? Whatever you decide, it has got to be glamorous and a style statement.

Here are some styles we think a Gemini will love…

CANCER: June 21 – July 22

Ruled by the moon, Cancers are emotional empaths who tend to be real homebodies. Family will be a big part of your day, so you’ll probably opt for a cosy, classic and romantic celebration with all your loved ones by your side at every stage of wedding planning. We love your caring and sensitive soul, but be careful that the stress of wedding planning doesn’t make you lash out (though it’s hard not to sometimes!)

RELATED TO: What Your Engagement Ring Says About You

Your Dream Wedding

You’re an old soul and a romantic at heart, so there’s nothing more suited to a Cancer than a intimate and chilled ceremony where family is the focal point of your day. For you, it’s all about a relaxed atmosphere, creating a joyful experience and romantic elements – imagine a cosy hotel ceremony with candles, elegant décor and flowers galore!

Here are some venues we think a Cancer will love…

Your Dream Dress

You’re very sentimental which is why we think you may want to wear a family heirloom as your wedding dress. Or if you’re set on having your own dream dress, we think a floral lace style is perfect for you – you can even add in elements from a family member’s dress, veil or jewellery to add that meaningful touch.  

Here are some styles we think a Cancer will love…

LEO: July 23 – August 22

If there’s one thing we’re sure about, it’s that no one is going to outshine a fiery Leo on their big day! Leos are ruled by the sun, so yes, that means everything technically is revolved around you – you love to be in the spotlight and are sure to look like a celeb as you strut the aisle. As you should, but our only advice is to stay clear of drama. You can be a bit of an overthinker and are very protective when it comes to getting things done right, so if you can control your perfectionism and manage your ego, we’re sure you’ll have your red-carpet day.

Your Dream Wedding

As your symbol is the mighty lion, Leos are the kings and queens of the zodiac. You’re sassy, yet extravagant and elegant so a stunning ballroom venue would bring your wedding dreams to life. When it comes to theme, it’s black tie all the way! Think Gatsby glamour with lots of sparkles.

RELATED TO: Tullyglass Hotel’s Stunning New Ballroom Venue

Here are some venues we think a Leo will love…

Your Dream Dress

When we think of a Leo bride, we think either a fairtytale princess or stylish celebrity. Whether it’s an extravagant ball gown fit for a queen or a sleek and sexy silhouette dress which hugs all your curves, its got to be a showstopper!

Here are some styles we think a Leo will love…

VIRGO: August 23 – September 22

Being an earthy sign representing the goddess of wheat, Virgos have a very down to earth personality with logical mind and perfectionist tendencies. When it comes to planning your day, we have no doubt you’re going to think of every detail. However, be careful not to get too focused on the minor mishaps that you can’t control.

RELATED TO: 13 Stress-Free Steps To Help Plan Your Ultimate Wedding

Your Dream Wedding

Virgos already probably have a vision of their dream day in mind, which we are guessing is a serene and meticulously planned nature and rustic inspired wedding. Think of a chic setting filled with fairy lights, candles and lots of greenery and add your own unique twist with textures of pampas grass, bright colour schemes and wildflowers.

Here are some venues with think a Virgo will love…

Your Dream Dress

We all know how meticulous a Virgo can be when it comes to details, so it may be best to go for a sleek and minimalistic gown so you’re not so conflicted when it comes to choosing patterns, textures and details. A simple yet stylish dress will match your sophisticated and classy style and you can add in some quirks with statement jewellery!

Here are some styles we think a Virgo will love…

LIBRA: September 23 – October 22

Libras tend to get a bad rap for being indecisive, but this shows how much you care about the finer details. You’re represented by the scales which means you’re all about seeking harmony and balance in every decision. You want to be fair to everyone and make sure everyone is happy, and this can get a little tricky when wedding planning. Sometimes you just can’t please everyone, so focus on what is important for you and your beau and you’re sure to have the Pinterest-worthy wedding of your dreams!

Your Dream Wedding

Libras thrive in social settings, so your dream day will probably consist of a big party celebration with lots of family and friends. Being ruled by the planet Venus, you have a love for the finer things in life and this, combined with your contemporary style, would suit a chic city wedding! Add a flower arch for an extra feminine and chic aesthetic.

RELATED TO: 6 Chic City Wedding Venues in Ireland

Here are some venues we think a Libra will love…

Your Dream Dress

If there’s one thing we’re sure about Libras, it’s that they’re very fashion forward with a strong sense of style. As Libras are a big lover of detailing, we think an intricate corset dress is the perfect option for you – think soft details, elegant patterns and a flowing skirt with a long train.

Here are some styles we think a Libra will love…

SCORPIO: October 23 – November 21

Scorpios are known for being passionate, strong leaders and master multi-taskers so wedding planning will probably come naturally to you. With a mysterious demeanour, you never quite know what a Scorpio is thinking – you lean towards the unexpected and are all about trying new things, so don’t be surprised if your guests are unsure of your decisions. Make the choices that are right for you!

Your Dream Wedding

As a water sign, the Scorpio is very affectionate and emotional (but can sting if you try them!). Therefore, a beach wedding or coastal venue with serene sea views would be perfect for you. We’re confident that you’ll throw in your classy and elegant taste and create a fairytale fantasy like no other. Just be careful of your perfectionist streak when it comes to planning – as long as you pick the right suppliers, they will create your dream vision.

RELATED TO: Coastal Venues With A View

Here are some venues we think a Scorpio will love…

Your Dream Dress

There’s no denying that Scorpio is one of the sexiest signs of the zodiac! Your sultry and mysterious nature makes a plunge, illusion or cut out dress a perfect option for you. And if you’re not up for revealing too much skin, we think anything fitted to show off all your best assets is a winner.

Here are some styles we think a Scorpio will love…

SAGITTARIUS: November 22 – December 21

Sagittarius is represented by the archer, which perfectly fits your headstrong nature and desire to always be self-improving. You dive into new activities and are very ambitious, so wedding planning is right up your street! Your day is sure to be the event of the year on everyone’s calendar. Just be sure not to get ahead of yourself financially and be aware of your budget if you have a specific limit.

Your Dream Wedding

If we’re being honest, we think you’d totally suit an elopement – just you, your significant other and closest friends and family. But if you are set on a bigger celebration, then we recommend a glamorous and elegant hotel wedding, with stylish interiors, showstopping rooms and a serene spa for a relaxing weekender with your loved ones.

RELATED TO: 10 Perfect Spa Venues To Celebrate Your Wedding In Style

Here are some venues we think a Sagittarius will love…

Your Dream Dress

We know how much Sagittarius loves colour so we think a bold and bright dress might be your dream gown. Or if you’re a more subtle Sag, then why not opt for a light blush or slightly coloured patterned dress that represents your modern and quirky taste.

Here are some styles we think a Sagittarius will love…

CAPRICORN: December 22 – January 19

Represented by the strong and level-headed goat, Capricorns are always working on becoming the best version of themselves. You’re very practical and determined so you trust only yourself to plan your big day. You’re very practical so sticking to your budget and financial organisation can come easy to you during wedding planning. Just be careful not to put too much pressure on yourself and let your partner and loved one help you where they can.

Your Dream Wedding

A Capricorn usually can be quite old school and traditional, so we’re thinking a venue with lots of historic elements and class such as a grand castle wedding! Imagine walking down the aisle in a large and character-filled stone castle with scenic views and fabulous photo opportunities – you can even add your own chic and contemporary twist with rustic centre pieces and colourful décor.

RELATED TO: 17 Fairytale Castle Venues in Ireland

Here are some venues we think a Capricorn will love…

Your Dream Dress

As enthusiastic and optimistic as Capricorns are, you usually aren’t one to take risks. We think stay away from any bold colours and patterns and go for a more sophisticated and simple style with a mature edge. You’re probably not a lover of the princess gown, so an elegant a-line dress or even sleek suit would match your taste perfectly.

Here are some styles we think a Capricorn would love…

AQUARIUS: January 20 – February 18

As an Aquarius, you’re an air sign but are also represented by the water bearer who is seen as a world healer. So, it’s no wonder you have such a big heart and are so nurturing and caring towards others.  You’ll want to create the ultimate guest experience and have lots of fun ideas for an unconventional and contemporary day. Try not to get too stressed with making sure the day is fun-filled – as long as you and your boo are there, it’s sure to be a party!

Your Dream Wedding

You care deeply about creating a magical and unforgettable day and you’re always thinking outside the box. That’s why we think you’re suited to a fabulous forest or lakeside wedding decked with fairy lights, rustic décor and colourful florals which is sure to wow your guests and create the perfect Instagrammable setting!

RELATED TO: WJ’s Top Outdoor Wedding Venues In Ireland

Here are some venues we think an Aquarius will love…

Your Dream Dress

You’re a trendsetter, not a follower, and you’re not scared to take the road less travelled by. That’s why we think a bold coloured dress or statement sleeves are the perfect choice for you – top this off with a leather jacket or cute faux cover up to add a stylish finishing touch.

Here are some styles we think an Aquarius will love…

PICSES: February 19 – March 20

Last, but by no means least on the zodiac list is our water sign, Pisces. Pisceans have a reputation for being highly creative, imaginative and spiritual. You may have a tendency to have your head in the clouds when it comes to having lots of ideas, so if you have a specific budget, be wary of this. You’re very in tune with your emotions, so your day is set to be a heart-filled, romantic and whimsical event.

Your Dream Wedding

Pisceans are old souls who wear their heart on their sleeve, so we’re thinking somewhere low-key with lots of personal touches for your dream wedding location. You’re big on sentiment so it would be ideal to say ‘I do’ in the same spot as your parents or grandparents. But if you’re feeling something new, a dreamy country house or vintage castle themed wedding suits you to a T.

RELATED TO: 14 Most Romantic Country House Venues in Ireland

Here are some venues we think a Pisces will love…

Your Dream Dress

Embrace your inner hopeless romantic with a jaw-dropping princess dress or bohemian style gown which will have you feeling like a Disney princess as you walk down the aisle – think floaty, feminine and fabulous with delicate details and lots of layers.

Here are some styles we think a Pisces will love…

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The post Which Wedding You Should Have Based On Your Star Sign appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Dress shops have officially opened their doors again, so it’s time to grab your best girls and start the hunt for your dream dress!

We know wedding dress shopping can be a little daunting for any bride-to-be, especially with so many different styles and designs swarming the internet, it’s difficult to know where to start.

The first place you need to go (now the pandemic allows) is a reliable bridal boutique such as our Supplier of the Week, McElhinney’s of Ballybofey – with five-star customer service and a wide range of shapes, sizes and styles, this is definitely a store to put on you to-visit list!

Finding ‘the one’ at McElhinney’s

With a variety of luxury designers to choose from such as Justin Alexander, Ronald Joyce, Victoria Jane, Pronovias and Dando London, to name a few, McElhinney’s has a dress for every bride-to-be.

We spoke to McElhinney’s manager, Lorraine McGrattan, who talked us through their dress shopping experience and revealed some exciting news.  

“In the showroom we would have around 250 styles to choose from, with lots of different sizes,” she says.  “We are in the process of trying to build up our sizes and we will have a new curvy collection coming this summer.

“We also have an exciting new designer coming in a few months, but I don’t want to give away the surprise just yet, so keep your eyes peeled!”

RELATED TO: Supplier Of The Week: Sean Jefferies Photography

With retail being open again, brides can finally get excited about dress shopping and McElhinney’s are here to bring you expert advice with luxury five-star service.

“I think brides have really missed the dress shopping experience,” Lorraine says. “They just couldn’t wait to get in and try on dresses. There’s been so many girls trying to shop online and it’s just not the same, so they’re really excited to be back and we’re excited to have them!

“We have quite a large showroom to hold all of our dresses with four private dressing rooms for the bride and bridal party,” Lorraine says. “We give them a consultation on arrival and they get a little glass of prosecco, then we go down to the showroom and that’s where they get to have fun and pick out dresses!

“We always receive such good feedback from our brides and try to be as attentive as we can to their needs. For us, it’s not just about selling the dress, but it’s about helping them find the right dress for them and making sure they’re 100% happy above everything else.”

RELATED TO: In Praise Of The Plus Size Gown

McElhinney’s operates by appointment only – to find out more and book your dream dress shopping experience, view details HERE

If you haven’t already, sign up to our newsletter HERE to stay up-to-date on all things news, style and wedding inspo

The post Supplier of the Week: McElhinney’s of Ballybofey appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Thanks to the constantly changing Covid regs, many couples are choosing a smaller wedding over a typically oversized do.

But as many A-listers know, there are real perks to having a smaller wedding, from having only your closest family and friends with you to the creative freedom that goes into the planning.

RELATED TO: Backyard weddings are about to be super popular

 According to Soaphub, these five A-List weddings were relatively low-key – and could help give you ideas.

 Emily Ratajkowski and Sebastian Bear-McClard  

The couple married in a private ceremony, at a New York City courthouse in 2018, keeping it under wraps until afterwards. 

Emily Ratajkowski told Vanity Fair’s podcast: “I can’t even imagine what having a 300-person wedding is like, because it still felt kind of hectic to plan ours.” 

We still don’t know how many people were at the private ceremony, but we do know that the model and actress ignored wedding tradition and opted for a mustard yellow trouser suit and black hat for her wedding.

RELATED TO: Steal their style: Celebrity-inspired wedding dresses

 Since the beginning of May, searches for “alternative wedding dress” have seen an 8300% uplift in searches, and going for a non-traditional approach with your wedding outside is great for a smaller wedding. 

Wear something that you feel comfortable and happy in. Don’t worry about following traditions; it’s your day and no one else’s. 

Sarah Jessica Parker and Matthew Broderick 

Sex and The City star Sarah Jessica Parker and Matthew Broderick kept their wedding secret from everyone – including their actual wedding guests. 

The 100 guests thought they were attending a party, before realising they were watching a wedding unfold. The Sex and the City star said she was simply too embarrassed to get married in white, and opted for a black gown.

For those who hate fuss, a surprise wedding would be perfect as the wedding becomes more of a casual affair. If you want to avoid the typical hectic morning, with lots of your family and friends fussing over you, simply don’t tell them they’ll be going to your wedding!

Beyonce and Jay-Z  

They’re Hollywood’s premier power couple, with a combined net worth of well over $1 billion, so you might think Beyonce and Jay-Z’s wedding would be on the lavish side. 

But the pair opted for a more private ceremony which took place in Jay-Z’s penthouse apartment, with only 40 close friends and family as witnesses.

One of the biggest joys of a smaller wedding is not having to worry about fitting hundreds of guests under one roof. Getting married at home is becoming increasingly popular, as not only is it a more meaningful location, but you can save lots of money on hiring a venue space.

Rachel Weisz and Daniel Craig 

A notoriously private couple, Rachel Weisz and Daniel Craig tied the knot in summer 2011, with only four witnesses including their two children. 

In this age of oversharing on social media, many couples prefer to keep a low profile, and the saying “if it’s not on Instagram, did it even happen” simply does not apply to them. 

An intimate wedding with just close family and friends is ideal couples who don’t like their lives shared. 

Keep your guest list exclusive and make sure only your closest family and friends make the cut. Only invite people who you genuinely want to celebrate your special day, and try not to invite guests out of politeness.

Princess Beatrice and Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi  

Having had to scrap their original plan of marrying at St James’ Palace in May 2020, due to the pandemic, Beatrice and Edoardo married in a private and intimate ceremony in Windsor. An intimate Royal wedding seems a world away from the Royal weddings we’re used to – the Duke and Duchess of Cambridges’ wedding, back in 2012, brought in 1,900 people to the service alone.)

Beatrice chose to wear a vintage gown, which belonged to her grandmother, Queen Elizabeth and paired the 60s gown with a diamond fringe tiara, the same tiara her grandmother wore when marrying Prince Philip in 1947.

 Incorporating family heirlooms is good for ticking off your “something old” and is also a lovely way to honour your family’s history. 

Like Beatrice, wearing a dress or piece of jewellery worn by a relative is a nice way to honour them, and help them feel as though they’re really part of the ceremony.

Wearing vintage is a good way to work towards a sustainable wedding. Visiting a tailor to alter the clothes to fit you properly, will help reduce costs and waste compared to buying new. 

Intimate venues for small but perfect weddings

Corick House Hotel

With its policy of One Wedding Per Day you will be the centre of attention at this beautiful Co Tyrone venue, with its splendid mahogany staircase, period style library and Victorian walled garden.

Ghan House, Carlingford

Nestled in two acres of walled gardens, this listed building is a short walk form mediaeval Carlingford and welcomes its guests with authentic Georgian ambience – a really special place to tie the knot with friends and family present.

Belleek Castle, Co Mayo

Belleek Castle is the ideal romantic venue for your wedding day, catering to large weddings but also very small weddings in the charming and warm Library Restaurant. Set in 200 acres of woodland the castle dates back to the early 1400s. 

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The post Small weddings: how to wed like a celeb appeared first on Wedding Journal.

This season has been more than a little schizophrenic when it comes to bridal colours. 

On the one hand you have big and bold, with hot pinks, tangerines and classic blues.

But we’re also seeing a gorgeously shifting, mesmerising palette of subtle hues that might not have been on the menu in previous years – tones of grey merging into sea greens and melting stormy blues.

And as the seasons have changed and we’ve all had time to reflect on our tones of choice, one coolly chic hue is emerging as a frontrunner.

Sage is coming to the forefront as a subtle reposte to all those garish try-hard colours of the past – and tying in beautifully with those homespun boho decor styles and DIY aesthetic.

RELATED TO: Four undone hairstyles for an effortless bridal look

What’s wonderful about sage is that it’s so hard to pin down – almost pastel, almost khaki, almost blue, almost grey.

It lifted our spirits in the weddings of winter 2020 and brings a breath of fresh air and new life into the revived pairings of spring.

Sage green is as natural as they come, and as relaxed as it gets. It doesn’t vie for attention or scream high glamour, and you’ll never go wrong pairing it with taupe and wooden decor.

Chiffon floor length bridesmaid dress, Sorella Vita 8746, available from MMC Bridal Agency

Sweet spaghetti straps bring a delicious delicious flirty touch to this romantic  chiffon bridesmaid dress, with its ruched V-neck bodice and lightweight skirt.

Classic satin bridesmaid dress, Sorella Vita 8918, available from LA Bridal House in Carrickfergus

Sophisticated satin has never looked as Hollywood as this gorgeous style. A high wide necklace forms a classic silhouette before cinching in at the waist, creating a glamorous hourglass shape.

Cap sleeve lux chiffon dress, Dessy JP1021, available from La Bella Sposa, Dublin

This glorious full length cap sleeve lux chiffon dress nods to full on glamour with its cut-out sheer back. Delicate sleeves make the dress perfect for cool weather or covering up the shoulders – just because.

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Still looking for your perfect bridesmaid dresses? Check out all of our bridal suppliers HERE

The post Why We Love Sage Bridesmaid Dresses appeared first on Wedding Journal.

When it comes to deciding what to wear for your daughter, or son’s spring or summer wedding, there are few prints better than floral ones. 

In fact, the floral print trend has become so on trend, that dark florals in heavier fabrics are proving a popular choice for autumn and winter weddings too.

READ MORE: 12 Of The Best Spring Wedding Dress

Pretty, and a classic print choice at this time of year, florals work on a variety of different silhouettes, but for spring and summer work best in breezy fabrics and lighter pastel shades or brighter colour ways. 

Bloomin’ Gorgeous

For mothers of the bride and groom, a floral dress is not only beautifully flattering, but allows you to effortlessly co-ordinate your look with the rest of the bridal party and the overall colour theme of the wedding without looking to matchy-matchy.

READ MORE: Why Your Bridesmaids Shouldn’t Wear Pink

If you’re typically not someone who wears prints, look for a floral pattern that’s subtle and small. This way you won’t feel like you’re wearing a statement dress, but rather just adding an interesting detail to mother-of-the-bride or groom dress.

Do bear in mind when wearing florals that you don’t really need to add other jewellery or accessories as the print means that there is a lot going on before you add more detailing.

Featured Image: Monsoon

There are lots of occasion wear boutiques offering florals and lots more for mothers of the bride and groom in our Directory

The post Summer Florals For Stylish Mothers appeared first on Wedding Journal.

While pink isn’t going anywhere, there are so many more colours to consider to dress your best girls in for your wedding and which will perfectly complement your dress and overall wedding theme.

Love Lavender

Not a million miles away from those soft, pretty blush hues, this soft shade of lavender tone is perfect for a bride looking for a soft and romantic colour palette. It also works well if you wish to create a mis-matched entourage and it will mix well with stronger shades of lilac and purple.

Feelin’ Blue

From dark shades of navy, to sweetpea and a pretty soft pastel, blue is certainly gaining momentum. Blue lends itself to the mix and match trend, plus lends itself to winter or summer styling.

Go Green

From fresh mint to dramatic emerald, green is gaining momentum with many bridesmaid brands adding this colour way to their collections moving into 2020. We imagine living on the Emerald Isle, that green will be a popular choice for many of you as well!

Yes It’s Yellow

Yellow can be a daunting colour choice for many, but again there is a shade to suit everyone from the darker saffron tones shown below to fresh, delicate lemon. Also yellow doesn’t have to be just for summer, mustard shades would look great for an autumnal wedding too.

Silver Sparkle

Perhaps you’d rather opt for a metallic shade? Gold is certainly not off the radar, but keep tings fresh with silver. Silver pairs well with a white wedding dress and flowers could be kept softer too. For example, shades of lilac would pair well with silver.

White Out

Gone are the day when it’s only the bride who wears white! Chic and timeless, white dresses will suit everything from the classic wedding to a bohemian celebration. Clean, timeless and surprisingly versatile, the key to finding the right white bridesmaids dresses is to choose styles that will complement, and not outshine, your own wedding dress.

Featured Image Credit: Dessy

The post Why Your Bridesmaids Shouldn’t Wear Pink appeared first on Wedding Journal.

But what exactly is your wedding style, I hear you desperately cry. This encompasses everything visual, which similarly translates into the ambiance of the event. From the reception venue, the flowers, the décor and lighting, down to your wedding wardrobe.

Nailing down your wedding style will help refine your focus and filter through the wedding noise. Once you’ve determined the look you’re going for, you can zone in on the details and plans that fit. Which is refreshing when there are so many decisions to be made.

Where Do You Start?

The beginning of the process is the dreaming phase, so don’t worry about what’s trending or sticking to your budget, this is a chance to fully explore what’s out there and available. Picture your dream wedding. What do you see? 

• Is it a large family affair or smaller and more intimate?
• Will it all take place close to home or would you prefer a destination wedding?
• Will it be formal or more casual?
• Would you prefer an indoor reception or outdoor venue?
• What time of year would you like to exchange vows (Spring, Summer, Autumn or Winter)
• Modern, classic, romantic, vintage, rustic or all-out glam?

Choosing a collective colour scheme can unify all your wedding elements, from your stationary to your bridesmaid dresses. Check out this handy colour wheel to determine which shades you’re drawn to most.

We’ve listed the 5 most popular wedding styles so you can get a sense of what speaks to you.

Classic Fairytale

Classic weddings have a timeless look that, well, stands the test of time. In other words, your grandchildren won’t laugh at your dated wedding photos. Our top tip to accomplish this style, is to say ‘no’ to the latest wedding trends. Keep things chic!

Bohemian Vibes

This style of wedding takes a more relaxed and carefree approach. With quirky and creative elements, resulting in a combination of romantic eras and influences. It’s more soft, earthy and inspired by nature.

Luxe Glamour

Are you a total glam queen? Feast your eyes on these some of these stunningly decadent features!

Rustic Outdoor 

Rustic refers to anything that’s a bit rough around the edges and a bit more organic. Anything that’s more casual, natural, and outdoorsy will work perfectly. There should be a juxtaposition between distressed elements, like an old wooden barn, next to refined elements, such as elegant white floral center-pieces.

Modern and Minimal

Modern, contemporary, cutting-edge…all words to describe a chic wedding with clean lines and minimalist décor. The venue itself could be the visual focus, so other décor elements like flowers and linens can be kept clean and simple.

What’s Next?

After all your research, try and come up with a short list based on your gut reaction, then ask your partner to do the same. Once you have all your answers, simply compare and see what’s most popular. The best weddings are the ones that reflect both of your personalities and unique couple style.

Now it’s time to contact your suppliers to source everything for you. This is why analysing your budget first is always key, remember to let each vendor know how much you are willing to spend, as this can eliminate some of the shopping stress and options. If you haven’t yet looked into what you can afford, check out our ultimate 12 week wedding planning guide, Week 1 discusses budget planning, simply click here.

Finally…have fun with it all, compromise when necessary and enjoy your special day!

The post WEEK 2: Discover Your Wedding Style! appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Romance, luxury, decadence… these are all words we associate with the day of love. While Valentine’s Day has received backlash in recent years for becoming too commercialised, its roots are still based on the primal desire of two people who appreciate one another and share a little affection.

In other words, its the perfect day for a wedding.

If you want to tie the knot on Valentine’s Day, then here’s some beautiful inspiration to set the mood.

Blush Brides

Avoid the Gothic red wedding dress and instead opt for subtle blush toned gowns or dramatic red accessories.

Can we all just take a second to crush over these Manolo Blanik heels, who cares about the price tag or how much they might cripple our feet, they’re worth it all!

Berry Bridesmaids

Don your maids in shades of red or pink for a romantic, sultry look.

If you don’t want to go as bold as red, try a burgundy or blush pink tone instead. The thigh split and v-neck line gives the look that extra touch of sophistication and glamour.

Suited and Booted

Grooms can experiment as well with this theme, don’t forget it’s there day too.

Burgundy is a sexy alternative for suits, rather than the typical bold red associated with Valentine’s.

A more delicate approach for grooms would be adding a pop of colour to their look with their tie, waistcoat or handkerchief.

Decadent Décor

This is your chance to be as creative, over the top and fabulous and you want! You can bring rich berry and pink tones through with your flowers, centrepieces, tablescape and feature areas.

Transform your venue into your own with some gorgeous, creative decor projects.

Sweet Treats

Nothing screams Valentine’s more than Red Velvet, it’s all about your sweet tooth.

Candy Carts are crazy popular at the moment, so why not theme your selection of treats around Valentines, from Love Hearts to Chocolate Strawberries.

Take a Sip

Let’s be honest- after the ceremony, your guests are heading straight for the bar so be sure to theme it appropriately as well.

Edible flowers, berries, straws and pink liquids all help to set the mood. And doesn’t this cotton candy cocktail look divine!

For more fun and creative wedding inspo, why not check out our splashes of colour themed wedding.

The post Love Is In The Air appeared first on Wedding Journal.

‘There are lots of things to think about when choosing your hair accessories but it should be a fun and exciting experience,’ advises Deborah McCann from Deborah K Design.

Whether you decide to purchase your headpiece from the selection that are on display in the bridal boutique where you purchase your dress, online or decide to purchase a bespoke handmade design, remember your accessories are just as important as the dress your choose.

Danielle, £205, Deborah K Design

Designed Just For You

Having your headpiece designed for you can be the easiest option. You get to bring your ideas to life and have a headpiece created that is totally unique.‘I listen to your ideas and carefully consider various details using my experience and expertise to advise you of what will suit you, your chosen hairstyle and your gown,’ explains Deborah, who will guide you through the process and design a headpiece that is just perfect for you and the overall look you are trying to achieve. 

‘Consider the shade of your dress and any detailing on it. Even if your dress has lots of detailing it doesn’t mean that you can’t pair it with an equally embellished, but complementary headpiece,’ adds Deborah.

‘If there is one day to sparkle its your wedding day!’ Deborah McCann

 

Veil or No Veil? 

So, can you wear a headpiece if you’re wearing a veil? According to Deborah, the answer is usually a yes. ‘Headpieces can enhance and complete your look and my headpieces are so versatile they can be worn with either a classic or unstructured veil.

Kathryn, £195, Deborah K Design

‘If you are wearing an overly detailed lace trim veil be careful not to go for a very detailed headpiece at the front or side. Keep it a little more simple if wearing to the front or opt for a more dramatic headpiece at the back.

‘Remember once you take your veil off after the photographs or the meal your headpiece will be seen to its full beauty,’ adds Deborah.

Consider Your Hair

Having an idea of how you will be wearing your hair will help when choosing your headpiece. Consider where you would like your headpiece to sit and this will help to decide how your headpiece is attached. 

Take My Breath Away hairpins, £119, Olivia Headpieces

Not Sure if a Headpiece is for You?

‘Why not opt for a few diamanté, pearl or flower hairpins,’ recommends Deborah. ‘These can be stunning and versatile, and will complement most hairstyles and veils.’

For further ideas on Bridal Accessories click here

Featured Image Credit: Jesus Peiro

The post How To Find The Perfect Bridal Headpiece appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Spring in Northern Ireland and Ireland often means battling changeable weather in an unpredictable season: some days you could be basking in glorious sun, and others you could find you’re bracing against wind, rain and sometimes even snow! (Yes, we had snow in APRIL this year!) However, despite this we think spring is one of the prettiest months to get married- Think pastel tones, soft florals and fresh decor – pure bridal bliss.

Drawing on the latest spring bridal catwalk trends, here are the perfect wedding dresses for spring brides…

3D Floral Details

Gorgeous, feminine and utterly romantic floral bridal gowns are a pretty way for girly, chic brides to make a statement on their wedding day.  Although it’s more common to be carrying flowers in the form of bouquet or decorating your venue with them, this season it’s all about how you’re wearing them! This season’s gowns offer a number of ways for brides to embrace florals, whether intricate lace embroidery or pretty three-dimensional appliqué designs there are styles to suit any theme or venue and adds a youthful, fun and fresh vibe to your big day.

Subtle Colour

Pastel tones have been hot on the catwalks for the past few years for daring brides-to-be looking to do something a little bit different on their big day! Style wise, spring is the season to have fun with your wedding dress, and pink is (unofficially) the colour of the moment, so why not embrace this trend and opt for some feminine blush tones – the perfect season for blush! Other colour options include incorporating coloured flowers or opting for a chic little blue number a la Jenny Packham in her latest collection.

Chic Cover-Ups

A soft jacket, cape or cover-up is a smart choice for a rainy April wedding! This Halfpenny London design is a stylish option for brides. For a spring wedding in NI/ROI, the best plan for unpredictable weather is to opt for a dress that offers a medium level of coverage and warmth: think wrap styles, full length skirts with a slit and feminine cap sleeves.

Bows

When we think of spring weddings we conjure ideas of pretty decor, accessories and dresses, and one detail that is hot for spring 2019 brides is bows! Bows are big (literally) in the wedding world right now and many of the world’s leading designers opted to include bows on their dresses. The bigger and bolder they are- the better! They can be worn to the front, side or on the back of your wedding dress – as long as they can be seen and admired you’ll have nailed this trend for spring!

Unstructured Dresses

 Oh-so-chic and effortlessly cool, if you are a boho bride who wants to stand out from the crowd whilst showing your guests you’re the ultimate fashionista then this is the trend for you! Best suited to smaller busted brides, unstructured, floaty and ethereal designs are the perfect look for a trendy spring wedding. Pair with loose wild flowers, and pastel tones to complete the look.

For more inspiration, help and advice on bridal fashion in Belfast, check out our recommended suppliers on our directory HERE.

The post The Perfect Wedding Dresses for Spring Brides appeared first on Wedding Journal.