Dotty Magazine Issue Three Mar 2014 | Page 47

Photo credits: bigeyephotography.co.uk EXPERT COLUMN: WEDDING PLANNER 3) Perfect props. There really is so much choice when it comes to hiring props. If you are going for the cute factor, then what about a ‘Here comes the bride’ sign for your flower girl? If you are looking for some quirky photos of yourselves to add to your wedding album, then the statement balloon or ‘Mr’ and ‘Mrs’ lettering for you and your hubby to pose with are some of the most popular ideas. I got a fabulous ‘Mr & Mrs Smith’ sign made especially for my own wedding and I have to say, it was one of my best investments. If you want to bring the quirkiness to your whole wedding party, you may want to think about hiring a photo booth; this will be sure to make your guests have a good giggle! 4) Think outside the box. You can pick and mix which bits of the wedding you want to have a little fun with. One of the easiest elements to adapt is the bridal bouquet. There has been a rise over the last couple of years in brooch and button bouquets. These not only look great, they make a wonderful keepsake. More recently, gorgeous ribbon bouquets have become popular in the US with ribbon streamers falling from the base of your flowers, again these looking stunning in photos. Another lovely idea is an alternative guest book whether you organise for a special canvas to be signed by your guests, set up a polaroid photo line in your reception room, or display a wishing tree, you can guarantee that both you and your guests will be left with some special memories. 5) Picture perfect. If you really want to base your wedding day on a quirky theme, it is a good idea to talk to your photographer about your ideas beforehand. Some photographers specialise in really fun, creative shots and will be able to give you tips on what works best on camera. Take a look at their portfolio and discuss your plans with them at a consultation to be sure you get the most out of your quirky wedding day photography. www.dottyvintageweddings.co.uk 47 About ‘Weddings by Sophie’ Sophie Smith is a wedding planner who provides bespoke wedding planning for couples in the Cotswolds and the South West. Sophie caters for couples with all budgets and can provide anything from a one off session, planning advice, styling and theme inspiration, on the day assistance, full planning and much more! Sophie has a soft spot for all things vintage, boho, romantic and quirky. You can follow Sophie on Twitter @sophielouwrites or drop an email at sophie@weddingsbysophie. com. For more information, visit the website at www.gloucestershireweddingplanner.co.uk Love Vintage. Love Weddings.