We’ve teamed up with The Wedding Fairy, George Watts, to bring you an exclusive extract from his latest book The Budget-Busting DIY Wedding Guide! In the book, George teaches you how to plan the perfect day for less – here are some of his best ideas…
Centrepiece planning
Ditch the classic floral centrepieces and get creative! Opt for some sweet trees to take centre stage instead of flowers. These will look stunning on your table, taste amazing and are a great way to get your guests talking.
Classic candelabras also work well, especially when you combine them with a vintage wedding theme. To keep on top of your budget, check out local secondhand stores for candelabras and general vintage regalia that you can mix in with your theme.
A good rummage at local car boot sales and charity shops is always recommended – you never know what you might find. Printed black and white photos of you as a couple popped into vintage frames will work well as a centrepiece and get the conversation flowing.
Fantastic florals
If you are still keen on a bit of classic floral action, you could opt for an eye-catching display on the top table.
If you’re planning a monochrome wedding theme, simply gather some black and white vases and select the buds accordingly. I love the idea of pairing black vases with white roses and white vases with black tulips, so chic!
If you’re looking to save a bit of money, silk flowers have come on in leaps and bounds in terms of styling over the last few years and make a great option for prepping in advance – they work especially well as pew ends and table centres.
Sweet ideas
Candy stalls and sweetie tables are all the rage at big-day dos right now and they’re so easy to make yourself. Confectionery kings We Luv Sweets have a fabulous mix of American candies and classic English sugary treats for your guests to enjoy.
Grab yourself a red and white candy striped tablecloth, a few glass jars and you’re good to go. Parental supervision of children is highly advised!
Keeping the children entertained
Keep the little ones entertained during pre-dinner drinks with some traditional fete games! I love a bit of splat the rat, a classic coconut shy and don’t even get me started on a hook the duck competition! This is very easy to make yourself… a paddling pool, a few yellow ducks, canes, bang in some hooks, get a couple of fun prizes and you’re good to go!
These games work especially well in an English country garden themed celebration that’s hosted in a marquee with outside space that you can dress up. Too add some authenticity to your big day, little details, such as bunting and balloons really tie a theme together and are generally never a bad thing.
The Budget-Busting DIY Wedding Guide
If you want to read more, why not pick up a copy of George’s new book for yourself? It’s available via Amazon and iBookstore plus all other leading retailers.
Discover all the top tricks of the trade and quick-fire solutions to planning a perfect wedding with this ultimate do-it-yourself guide by The Wedding Fairy.
Yes this book is bursting with budget-busting ideas to ensure your big day is utterly spectacular – without having to break the bank! Discover over 125 original DIY solutions to make your big day simply sensational.
