Are you dreaming of a shabby-chic English wedding? We’ve got some brilliant budget-friendly ideas to help you get the day you want!
The bride’s outfit
If you’re thinking about a cute, country themed English wedding, here are a few dress examples to get you started.
First up, we love short wedding dresses here at Wedding Ideas. They’re perfect for more out-doorsy dos, because you don’t have to worry about having too much material to restrict you. Why not consider a tulle skirt, with a shift-style bodice? Perfect for dancing the night away!
Another firm favourite is lace. Lace dresses were made for an English wedding. You only need to think about our country’s rich history to know that lace has always been a part of our traditional dress (think Lady Mary in Downton Abbey).
Although fashion has moved on since then, and designers are giving lace a more modern twist, the material, production and high-end feel remain the same. If you want to combine high-society dressing with swoon-worthy romance make a lace dress ‘the one.’
The accessories
Things to remember: with a short dress your legs will be on show, so you will need to flaunt them with a fabulous pair of funky shoes!
Alternatively with lace; keep things demure. Pretty pearl bracelets and a pair of crystal-drop earrings will be all you need to complete the English wedding look. Very much less, is more.
The ceremony
Nothing says classic English wedding like having a traditional church ceremony followed by a rustic-reception in a stone-clad barn. Ask friends and family to get involved with songs or readings – to really emphasise the personal feel you’d like to achieve.
The flowers
Think about a colour scheme of country blues, pinks and purples. Stick to natural, wild flowers, with lots of grasses and fresh herbs for your bridal bouquet. If you’re looking to do-it-yourself, go to your local garden centre and buy pots of colourful daisies and other potted plants to use as table centres.
The decor
If you’re on a budget, it helps to pick a venue that’s in an already naturally stunning area, so you can make the most of the beautiful grounds and outside space. Think about hiring a marquee to hold your wedding breakfast. Dress it up with some classic English bunting that will look stunning against the white of the tent. In keeping with the rustic theme, have some scented candles on the tables, tie your napkins with raffia and use parcel tags for place names. The whole effect will be bright and vibrant, but still incredibly cost effective.
The entertainment
Finally you need to remember what we do best; and that’s have a good old-fashioned knees up! To really get the party started, think of hiring a local ceilidh band. Their lively mix of folk songs will definitely get everyone on the dance floor. Why not even learn a few country-dances with your hubby-to-be then show off your moves to your guests.
The cake
In keeping with the English wedding style, think of having a traditional wedding cake, but leave off the coloured icing to give it a more natural look. A three-tiered sponge cake decorated in fresh summer strawberries would look incredible.
