Wedding Dresses and Planning
Even if you didn’t attend or watch the wedding day of Charles, Prince of Wales and Princess Diana on 29th July 1981, many people consider the wedding dress designed by the Emanuels as the most famous in wedding history. That dress became the wedding trend replicated time and time again, becoming an iconic style. It oozed the 1980s culture of excess in many ways, including the 25-foot train, the dress made from taffeta, over 10,000 pearls and antique Carrickmacross lace that I understand belonged to Queen Mary.
What an entrance that dress made, which was so big could barely fit into the carriage, causing the dress to crease.
Following the sad death of Diana, the dress’ ownership was bequeathed to her sons, Duke of Cambridge, William and Prince Harry, who have agreed to loan it to Kensington Palace recently to go on display.
Something old, something borrowed, something new, something blue
As with Diana, many brides want to follow this tradition. Like most old English rhymes, they were formed to ward off evil just like giving a bride a sixpence to put in her shoes.
For Diana this encompassed having:
- Something old –the actual lace gown
- Something borrowed – the Spencer’s family tiara
- Something new – 18 carat gold good luck charm
- Something blue – small bow sewn into waistband
Wedding Day Traditions
In recent times items relating to these rhymes are given as a token of good luck, from the wearing of blue as the colour choice for the bridesmaid to even hair colour! Something old gifted from an older relative such as a piece of their jewellery handed down, or an actual piece of material from their wedding dress to be then sewn into the new wedding dress.
Many bridal shops stock good luck charms or the online shop ‘Bridal Gift Box’ based on Isle of Wight have several
https://www.thebridalgiftbox.co.uk/
Some opt to have a ‘lucky chimney sweep’ at their wedding, which was a tradition 200 years ago after the King issued a Royal Decree that Chimney Sweeps were bringers of luck.
Today chimney sweeps are booked for a wedding to give the groom a handshake and the bride a kiss.
https://www.sootythesweep.com/
https://www.markfentonsweepservices.co.uk/
Wedding Day Oops moments!
For many brides there are oops moments. Diana reportedly had spilt perfume on her wedding dress causing a stain. According to 'Diana the Portrait' she hid the stain by tucking the front of her dress in avoiding attention to it on the day.
As a bride myself years ago, I woke on the morning of my wedding day to find my mother had in fact ironed and scorched a large brown iron mark onto the front of the skirt of my dress. What could I do, but strategically move the layers of white satin to cover the mark and get on enjoying my wedding day!
I am sure there are many examples of wardrobe malfunctions of brides throughout the years.
Thank goodness flower bouquets are not just for show!
Why Choose a Wedding Planner?
As a Wedding Planner I’m always there on hand with an emergency kit just in case of any oops moments, from needle and thread (for any rips to outfits) to bottles of water to stay hydrated, cereal bars to give some energy, chewing gum to give the freshest breath, pain killers, plasters for any blisters; in fact, my bag is like a ‘Mary Poppins’ style and prepared for any eventuality!
Of course, wedding days are the most important and hopefully happiest day of our lives, so using a wedding planner, either to work with you during the planning stages, or simply for on the day, can relieve much stress and anxiety. It's like having your own personal assistant, and by your side in case of any ‘oops moments’!
How do I know which Wedding Planner to use?
As you will expect its important to choose the right planner for you after all they will differ from personalities, styles and experience.
Whilst there isn’t a qualification in wedding planner, I have undertaken various training and offer this within my wedding celebrant and planning business.
Amanda-Louise Knight Ceremonies. I am affiliated with and trained at The Institute of Professional Celebrants. I have a wealth of experience as a wedding planner and celebrant and regularly work with clients wanting personalised luxury ceremonies in Somerset and across the UK. Contact me on hello@alkcelebrant.co.uk or 07879 220 046
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Amanda-Louise is the creative director of her UK award winning business, Amanda-Louise Knight Weddings Proposals & Events. She provides advice to modern couples who want unforgettable weddings that set the tone about their celebrations and love.
Amanda-Louise is a current celebrant, and has been involved in the events industry for over 30 years. Her love for logistics, she is wedding and marriage proposal planner in the South West of England. A dog lover herself, she is owner of Somerset Wedding Day Dog Chaperone Service ensuring furry babies are included or cared for by her team.
She is mentor to other celebrants and venue consultant to her corporate business clients dedicating her time to helping them grow their own businesses.
And it all starts with making a date with Amanda-Louise!
Blog Disclaimer - the article is opinion based by the author only, the content is for information purposes only, and as such is not guaranteed. Whilst its intended to be accurate there may be some unintentional errors, mistakes or omissions and therefore may be subject of updating. In accordance with any advice articles should the reader wish to rely on this information, they do so at their own risk. Any prices quoted are accurate at time of writing content.
