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Here is a selection of Q&A's from Your Kent Wedding magazine. If you would like your question answered by our experts, please email it to editor@yourkentwedding.com.
To view more Q&A's on a different topic, please select one from the list below.
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 Hot topic: Weather |
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| Our experts answer questions on your weather worries |
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Mood lighting
Q. I'm getting married in mid-winter so the weather will probably be dull and dreary, but I don't want this to show in the photographs. Do you think that bad conditions will effect the quality of the pictures? What tips do you have to ensure they still look good?
A. Tim Stubbings says: You can't always predict the weather but you can control how you respond to it. With a very clear wet and dry weather plan, it need not put a dampener on your pictures. Meeting your photographer at your venue will enable you to uncover options to keep you outside but shielded from the elements, identifying several places for portraits and groups. With careful lighting and positioning, and using open doors or large windows as backdrops, your snaps can look wonderful whatever the weather. Ask your photographer what experience they have of low natural light or subtle artificial light and don't worry if it's overcast. Cloudy skies create smooth, even lighting which is flattering for skin tones and close-ups.
The style of pictures will always be different when indoors or outdoors, but that need not be a negative thing. Build in some flexibility with your timings as a rain shower can be short-lived.
If you are prepared for it you can switch between your different weather plans without being disappointed and still be in control. |
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Seasonal blooms
Q. I am getting married in November and am expecting it to be chilly and wet. I want to have flowers that are both seasonal and hardy so they don't wilt in the rain. What do you suggest?
A. Karen Woolven says: Seasonal flowers in November include the gorgeous large-headed amaryllis and we will also start to see the first of the tulips coming into season. I would suggest mixing the blooms with lots of lovely foliages and berries which are very easy for your florist to incorporate into designs.
Roses, calla lilies and gerbera are all in season too and you certainly won't have any problems with these flowers during the colder months. You may want to avoid orchids which are more susceptible to damage in wet and cold weather. The centrepieces that you choose for your wedding shouldn't cause you any problems as they will be indoors and therefore away from potential bad weather. |
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A lighter option
Q. My wedding is planned for summer next year. I'm currently looking for a cake and most of them are either fruit or chocolate designs which seem so rich and heavy. Hopefully it will be nice weather so I was hoping for something lighter. What are the best options?
A. Shelley Ridge says: If you're looking for a lighter option, you could opt for a Madeira sponge with a jam and buttercream filling or perhaps a lemon sponge with lemon curd filling. Both of these flavours would make for a lovely light cake. You could also ask your caterer to serve the cake with fresh seasonal berries to lift the whole dish and give it more of a summertime feel. Alternatively, more and more couples are choosing less traditional cakes such as cheesecake to celebrate their nuptials. A cheesecake, especially a fruit flavoured one, can be a delightful option for you and your guests to enjoy on a warm summer afternoon. |
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Wash-out worry
Q. I've been looking into evening entertainment for my big day, and I quite like the idea of a firework display. However, with our wedding taking place in March I'm aware that rain could be on the cards. If this is the case, do you think it will ruin the display?
A. Toni Davey says: Fireworks are always a lovely way to end a wedding. Yes, it may rain in March but it's just as likely to rain in July and August so I wouldn't worry too much about the weather. I have worked with many firework companies who have still set off a show in rain or drizzle and had no problems at all.
High winds are more of an issue - especially if they are blowing towards the audience. This may mean a display has to be cancelled due to safety concerns. However, it is unlikely this will happen in March and if it does, you should be able to get your money back. |
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Let's go outside
Q. My fiancé and I are planning a winter wedding and have fallen in love with a beautiful countryside venue. However, despite the ceremony room being perfect, the venue only offers the option of a marquee reception. Winter weather can be a nightmare and the thought of being in a cold marquee all evening might be unappealing to our guests. Is there any way we could make it work?
A. Toni Davey says: A chilly marquee could be uncomfortable for your loved ones so I understand your concern. Your venue may use a marquee company to hire the tables and chairs for the weddings they hold and you should ask them if they can hire a couple of heaters for you as well. I have always found that if you have the heaters on for a short while before the guests enter the marquee, you will have a warm environment to eat in.
Turn the heaters off during dinner as they can be quite noisy and then turn them on again later if necessary. Marquees do get warm once the dancing starts so you may not need to do this but it's good to have the option.
Heaters can use a lot of electricity so you may need an additional generator or electrical supply but your venue will be able to advise you on this. |
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Contact our experts... |
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Karen Woolven, Flowers
www.kwfloraldesign.co.uk |
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Shelley Ridge, Cake designer
www.shelleyscakes.com |
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Tim Stubbings, Photographer
www.timstubbings.co.uk |
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Toni Davey, Wedding Planning
www.isisevents.co.uk |
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