Are you the kind of girl who likes to do things her own way?

You don't mind a bit of traditional - but you'd like to shake things up a little. Add a few surprises. Make your wedding day a little quirky.

I've had a look through some real weddings and some suggestions made by brides and created the following list of 20 ways to add that special quirky.

See what you think and if you've any to add, please let me know! All suggestions welcome.

20 Ways To Make Your Wedding Day A Little Bit Quirky

1. On each guest setting, write a note on how they know the bride and groom. Eg "Met the groom at school aged 7 and have been friends ever since." Or "Live next door to the bride and groom." A great ice breaker for the tables and a sure conversation starter.You could also do the above as a wedding badge - but keep it shorter. Eg - "This is the bride's auntie Rachel".  "This is the groom's Boss!"

2. As a wedding favor, get a little mini Lego figure made of each guest. You can do this via MiniFigMe.com. And even if you don't do it for the adults, it's a great idea for kids wedding favors!

 

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3. Wear colored wedding shoes

 

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4. Mis-match your bridesmaids necklines. Let them choose what suits them and they'll be happy. You'll be happy. And you'll get some great photographs if everyone is smiley!

5. Give the groom and his groomsmen mismatched buttonholes too.

6. If you'd rather have a buffet and you're having a country-style wedding then what about having different styles of food served festival style in different gazebos?

7. Have a break in the dancing and hold a Mr & Mrs Quiz for the bride and groom. Guaranteed to get your guests laughing!

 

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8. Have a wedding photograph taken that's a pastiche of a famous movie poster image

9. Send out confetti with your wedding invitations so the guests can bring it along with them

10. Hand out DJ cards on the wedding tables and put a letterbox by the DJ so he knows what everybody would like played

 

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11.Surprise your other half with a groom's cake as well as your joint wedding cake

12. Copy the bouquet your grandmother held at her wedding and take a then and now image

13. Get married at 6pm and have an evening party. The law has recently changed in the UK so you can do this and it'll actually help your budget as you'll be giving your guests one meal rather than two (or an evening meal and afternoon tea).

 

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14. Serve a signature cocktail to your guests when they arrive.

15. Create a hashtag for your wedding day and give it to your guests so they can use it to Instagram pics, on Facebook, Snapchat or wherever. Then you'll be able to find everything. #KateandWilliamweddingday

16. Have a short video made up of your time together and use instead of a speech

17. Have a break in the dancing and play some kids games for 20 minutes so the youngsters can join in. I'm thinking games like musical chairs, musical bumps, musical statues or even pass the parcel ... all the stuff you played at parties when you were a kid.

(Breathtaking Dessy bridesmaids in our Dessy Collection dress style 2918)

My best friend always looks well-dressed and stylish. She hasn't got a big clothes budget either - she's just clever in the way she puts her outfits together. For example, she'll buy a chain store dress but swap the belt for something different or change the buttons. And so she's instantly created a look that nobody else will have - a look that's her own.

The same applies when dressing your bridesmaids.

I got to thinking about the way she accessorises and realised that the same applies with wedding accessories, especially when you're dressing your bridesmaids.

Wedding Sashes by Dessy

You could buy a dress off the peg and then embellish it with a sash.  Maybe in a different colour, to contrast the whole effect. Think about the wedding accessories that will make a difference.

A georgette stole could also look very elegant - as a cover up for the religious ceremony and then to give the outfit a whole new look at the reception. (The stoles above from Dessy.)

Avoiding matchy-matchy for bridesmaids is very on trend right now. You can dress your maids in different shades, in rainbow colors or in variations on a shade (for example every color pink from the palest rose to the deepest magenta).

They'll love you for that because it means that every girl will be able to dress in a color that suits her complexion and flatters her figure. Some girls look fantastic in pastels - others look 'washed-out' and will be happier in a stronger color. 

Dessy also does a tempting selection of glittery shoe clips to dress up plain ballet flats. There are mini handbags too. 



The key to personalising your wedding and making it look original (and not off the peg) is to use accessories to alter an outfit. No two brides will do this in the same way. A good way to start is by looking at Pinterest and starting up your own board with accessory ideas.

Photo Credit: Laura Babb

When you get to a wedding reception, isn't checking out the seating plan board one of the first thing you do?

If you're single, it's exciting to see who you've been sat next to. And if you're a couple, it's good to see if you will be catching up with friends.

Seating is a focal point at your wedding reception and will be a gathering point for your friends at the start of the celebrations. How you choose to present your seating is entirely up to you and should be in keeping with the theme of your day.

I'm always amazed at the creativity of wedding seating plans - so here are 10 ideas for you to be thinking about for your big day.

 

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1. Black and white calligraphy wedding table seating plan. Never goes out of style really.

 

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2. Keeping it pretty and simple, with flowers and a pink wedding theme.

 

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3. Handwritten onto an antique mirror always looks good.

 

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4. Make yourself with Ferrero Rocher chocolates! A fun way to start off the festivities!

 

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5. Use a photograph you love of the two of you together and have it printed over.

 

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6. Nice idea if you have plenty of guests flying in from out of town.

 

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8. Maybe if you're having a tea party at your wedding reception?

 

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9. If you are keen bibliophiles!

 

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10. An easy one to DIY. Pick up old frames at any junk shop. Print out your table names and place them inside.

We'd love you to share your wedding table seating ideas and plans with us!

Image via Krista Mason Photography

No pressure - but your wedding day photographs are one aspect you really need to get right on your big day. There's no second chances there.

First off, you need to decide on the style of wedding photography you want. Do you prefer a traditional set up with traditional poses or are you going for a more reportage kind of a style? It's really up to you - just remember that these photographs are going to be a longstanding reminder of the day you tied the knot and you want to be sure you're going to be happy with them.


Are you a traditionalist? Photography by Jose Villa 

 

A post shared by Krista Mason (@kristamasonphotography) on Oct 23, 2014 at 1:50pm PDTOr do you prefer reportage style?

 

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Before you book a photographer have a good look at their portfolio of work so that you can be sure you like their style. Ask to see testimonials from other weddings and engagement shoots.

 

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See how you can work your venue into the background of your images

It's also a good idea to walk around your venue looking for photo opportunities - and also give you and the photographer the chance to get to know one another. You should also give your photographer a list of must-have shots so that nothing gets forgotten (and so you don't spend any more time than you need to away from your guests). Here's our list of 30 photographs we think you'll treasure forever - and if you've any to add please leave us a comment.

20 Must Have Wedding Shots

1. Close up of bride's dress on hanger and/or bride's shoes
2. Bride's mother and attendants helping bride with finishing touches (veil, shoes)
3. Bride with mother and attendants
4. Groom with his best men
5. Groom at altar/ceremony doorway waiting for bride
6. Bride in car with father (or whoever is giving her away)
7. Bride and bridesmaids walking down the aisle
8. Groom's face when first sees bride
9. A shot of the marriage ceremony
10. Couple walking down aisle as newly weds
11. Bride and groom walking out of ceremony being greeted by guests with confetti/rice
12. Bride and groom's first kiss together
13. Bride and groom's hands with rings
14. Exterior of reception venue with guests arriving
15. Bride and groom arriving in car at reception
16. Bride and bridesmaid's bouquets
17. Bride and groom with their attendants
18. Bride and groom with their parents/grandparents
19. Interior of reception venue with tables ready
20. Seating plan
21. Table place settings 
22. Receiving line (if you're having one)
23. Guests' faces during bridegroom's speech
24. Top table during speeches
25. Bride and groom enjoying a quiet moment together as newlyweds
26. Young bridesmaids and pageboys during reception
27. Cake cutting
28. Bride and groom's first dance together
29. Guests dancing and enjoying themselves
30. Bride and groom leaving in car for honeymoon

Anything you think we've missed? 

Designers such as Rosalind Miller, Helen Mansey of Bellisimo Cakes and Ceri Olofsen of Olofsen Design are some true culinary artists to look out for. Next season's wedding cakes appear to be moving away from traditional styles. The most popular wedding cake fashions at the moment are incorporating an increasing use of color, lace, metallics and height.

 Textures, embellishments and geometric patterns are all playing a part - along with this new watercolour technique.

Metallics are increasingly popular (and Dessy has designed a range of metallic bridesmaid frocks that you should certainly check out if you like this kind of a look). Think gold, silver, platinum and rose gold for a delicate look.

Brides who love lace will be delighted by a new product - edible lace - which can be used by cake designers to match the lace on the bride's wedding dress.

Beaded wedding cakes are also having a bit of a moment. The beads can be all one colour or form a sort of ombre effect. Either way, we like what we are seeing!

 

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Whimsical cakes

 

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In our view, cupcakes, shabby chic and vintage are a bit over. They've been around for a while now so it really is time for a change.

This is your moment. Your grand entrance. You're walking down the aisle towards your future partner and you need the right wedding music to accompany you. Something to create the perfect moment.

Making your music choices

So what are you going to choose? A timeless, classical piece or something a little more contemporary? Here are some wedding music ideas to inspire you. Just click on the link to play and start dreaming!

Vivaldi - Glorida. Very uplifting. This is something to consider if you're a bit of a traditionalist but also want the classical wow factor as you make that long walk. You're going to have a bit of a moment if you walk to this one - and if you're getting married in a large church with a long veil, then this music might must be a must.

The Bridal March from Lohengrin by Wagner. The 'Here Comes The Bride' piece. It's a classic and everyone will recognise it. You will certainly feel like a princess walking to this one!

What a Wonderful World by Louis Armstrong. Lovely, slow paced. And so romantic. Have those hankies ready.

I Got You Babe by Sonny & Cher. Perfect for walking back down the aisle together as man and wife. A sunny, uplifting song that everybody knows.

I Can't Help Falling in Love by Elvis Presley. Timeless and perfect. Elvis sings it with a voice like velvet.

Unforgettable by Nat King Cole. Another romantic classic.

Ode to Joy. Beethoven. Classical again, this one will never date.

Vivaldi - The Four Seasons. Just beautiful.

Purcell - Trumpet Tune. Dazzling.

In My Life - The Beatles. As you walk either up or back down the aisle. Perfection.

Hope this wedding music inspires your walk down the aisle on your big day.

Oh, and here's how Kate Middleton - now the Duchess of Cambridge - made her walk.

(Image via Sofia Invitations)

Metallics are fast becoming a trend at chic weddings these days. One way of embracing the metallic look is by giving your wedding day a golden theme.

Gold is classic, rich and goes beautifully with white and cream. Or you can mix it up with bright shades like hot pink, turquoise or emerald.

Use it as a key color throughout. Start by calligraphing your envelopes with gold ink - or maybe send your save the dates and invitations out in golden envelopes.

(Gold wedding invitation and cake topper by Sofia Invitations)

 

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Gray and gold shades work stylishly together here.

 

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This is one luxe looking wedding! We're reminded of the Palace of Versailles in France!

Weaving the gold theme through your wedding day

(Bridesmaids dresses by Dessy, from left to right: Studio Design Collection Style 4509, Dessy Bridesmaid Dress Style 3002)

We think your bridesmaids would love these metallic gold dresses from Dessy. They're slinky, sophisticated and flattering and come in three shades (we've chosen the rose gold here).

Alternatively, give your bridesmaids golden accessories - like the luxurious Dessy chiffon stole. On their feet they could wear gold strappy sandals (as could you, the bride). Another good thing about metallic shoes is that they go with every colour and you'll be able to wear them after your wedding if you want to.

Sprinkling the magic of gold dust

On your tables you can place runners of golden cloth or ask your caterer to place golden chargers at each place setting. Print your table plan in gold lettering - and the place settings.

 

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Your wedding cake could be sprinkled with gold, have golden flowers or a metallic gold sash. These cakes below are by the talented Rosalind Miller.

As for your flowers, you could tie your wedding bouquet with some metallic gold ribbon ...

Really a gold wedding theme can be as glitzy or as low key as you want to make it.

You know, some of us just don't suit having long hair. Perhaps you've tried it and never felt it was quite 'you'.

You might have a long face that's better suited to short hair. Or small and petite features that show off a pixie crop beautifully.But now you're getting married you're wondering if you should grow your hair longer again. Because you want to wear a tiara - and how will that work? How will you attach your veil?

Don't worry. We've been looking around and we've found some great inspiration for short wedding hair and some beautiful role models.

Inspirational wedding hairstyles for short hair

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Sweep your hair back and attach a diamante band to it. Elegant, classy and yes, you can still wear diamonds in your hair. Check out the diamante hairbands and slides on offer at Dessy.

You don't have to wear a veil if you don't want to. Instead look around for a chic little statement hat - we think the brides above absolutely nailed it. The detail on their heads creates a perfect contrast to the simple cream wedding dresses. (Images from left to right Paper Antler, Cappy Hotchkiss).

And if you do have short hair, you can always ask your hairdresser to give you the impression of more volume by having a well placed hair extension placed at the nape of your neck - which can be covered by your veil or hair ornament. (Bridal hair accessories by Dessy.)

If you're having a destination wedding somewhere hot, short hair is in fact very practical. You can tuck a floral accessory behind one ear and stay cool in the heat! (Images from left to right Our Labor of Love, Turner Creative Photography).

Tips for short wedding hairstyles

• Talk to your hairdresser. If you're getting married in a year or so, you have time to grow some of your hair to have a different type of short hairstyle. That will affect how you wear a tiara, diamante hair accessory and the type of veil you have. Take their advice and get a look book together of bridal hair you like.
• Talk to the sales people in the bridal shop you use. They will know what sort of headpiece will suit the frock you're planning to wear and how it can fit with your hairstyle.
• Think about hairpieces and hair extensions for your wedding day to give you a different look. Discuss with your hairdresser.
• Not everyone wants to wear a veil anyway, it may not be your style at all
• Don't have a dramatic hairstyle change just before your wedding day or change the colour. Firstly your partner wants to marry somebody they can identify! And secondly, you may not be happy with the change and it may be too late to change the colour/grow it.

(Images from left to right Kido Design, Pinterest).

(Image via Kingdom Photography)

Bright, vibrant, full of sunshine and HAPPY! How else would you describe a sunflower?

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Every flower has a meaning and sunflowers have come to symbolise adoration, loyalty and longevity - so what better bloom to pick for your summer wedding day?

Another advantage of sunflowers is that they are relatively inexpensive and you don't need many to make a fabulous display.

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They're the sort of flowers that are happy to look beautiful on their own or when placed alongside other blooms.

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A sunflower motif works well on your wedding invitations, seating plans and of course you could put a packet of sunflower seeds by every place setting as a memorable favor.

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Using sunflowers as a color theme

If you're having a summer wedding day then consider putting your bridesmaids in sunflower yellows.

Bright and sunny bridesmaids are just what we need to perk up this winter week. Alfred Sung style D660 in Maize Photo via @smpweddings

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Or you can also use the sunflowers with other hues to create quite a different feel to your day. Take a look below at a few of the real wedding color combinations.

Blue and yellow always works together well - so maybe that's something to consider for your bridesmaids' dresses.



I love this bride's choice of delphinium blue and white flowers mixed with her sunflowers, with the bridesmaids in pretty royal blue. Many thanks to Boho Weddings for this great shot.

And then for a TOTALLY different look - sunflowers mixed with coral pink or red! Both of which combinations are absolutely stunning. Immediately below is an inspirational look from Rustic Wedding Chic and below that is a riot of color from Jennefer Wilson, via Pinterest.

Remember the sleepovers you had as a little girl?

When all your friends came over and you watched a movie and slept in sleeping bags.

Well, there's no reason why you shouldn't reinvent the idea as an adult for a bachelorette party with a difference. Just imagine the gossip and conversation.

Get everyone to come over (and bring a sleeping bag), you can cook up some delicious food, serve a little wine and then stay up all night chatting in one room, tucked into sleeping bags.

Of course, you're going to want to play some bachelorette games along the way and so we've devised a Mr & Mrs Quiz with questions for your girls to ask the bride to be - which I think will result in even more amusement.

Here are 20 questions that are guaranteed to get a bachelorette evening sleepover going

1. If your other half could be anyone famous then who would they be?
2. What's the most embarassing thing your fiance has ever done?
3. Where would you both like to visit most in the world?
4. What's the thing you're most likely to argue about?
5. What's your other half's best physical feature?
6. What does he think is his best physical feature?
7. What's his special name for you?
8. Which of the following has your fiance done? Streaked, bungee jumped, abseiled, skinny dipped?
9. Where was your fiance on New Year's Eve 1999?
10. If another man flirted with you would he be a) Jealous b) Pleased c) Amused d) Not bothered
11. What's his favourite thing for you to wear?
12. What's your fiance's most annoying habit?
13. What was his first present to you?
14. What's his favourite ever book?
15. What's the first thing your fiance does when he gets home from work?
16. Who was his first crush?
17. How many times has your fiance been a best man?
18. What's his favourite food?
19. How old was he when he had his first kiss?
20. How old was he when he got his driver's license?
    
    
    After reading this list you might think of a few questions of your own!