Your Wedding Day: A Celebration To Cherish Forever

There are so many things to write to the happy couple at different stages of their journey, from engagement to the wedding day itself. If you're sending an engagement card, it's a good idea to keep things fairly brief and focus on letting them know how happy and excited you are for them. When it comes to the wedding card, it's your opportunity to get sentimental and put words to feelings. The card should reflect what the couple means to you. It's also a chance to share a piece of meaningful wisdom or a quote. You can include a favourite photo, a fond memory, or a personal wish.

A romantic night in: Get dressed up, cook a fancy meal, pop some champagne, put on some music, and dance

Planning a romantic night in to celebrate your wedding? Here are some ideas to make it special:

Get Dressed Up

Even if you're staying in, it can be fun to dress up and make a night of it. Put on something that makes you feel confident and stylish. It could be a fancy dress or a sharp suit, or even something more comfortable like a silk robe or a nice pair of pyjamas. The idea is to feel good and create a special atmosphere.

Cook a Fancy Meal

Instead of going out, create a restaurant-quality meal at home. This can be a fun activity to do together and a chance to try something new. How about a tasty treat like truffle mac and cheese, or a classic like steak and fries? If you want to keep things simple, a grilled cheese sandwich and tomato soup can be just as romantic. Or, if you're feeling ambitious, try making pasta or pizza from scratch. Don't forget to include some indulgent ingredients, like truffle oil or fresh herbs, to elevate your dish.

Pop Some Champagne

What's a celebration without some bubbles? Pop open a bottle of champagne or your favourite sparkling wine to toast your love. If you're looking for something non-alcoholic, there are also some great non-alcoholic sparkling options available. Cheers to the happy couple!

Put on Some Music

Music can set the mood and create a romantic atmosphere. Put together a playlist of your favourite songs or discover new ones together. Slow dances, fast dances, or anything in between—it's your night to celebrate. If you're looking for some wedding-themed songs, you can include classics like "Can't Help Falling in Love" or "You Make Me Feel So Young."

Dance the Night Away

Now that you have your music, it's time to hit the dance floor (or your living room). Dancing is a fun way to let loose, connect, and create lasting memories. It doesn't matter if you're a pro or have two left feet—just enjoy the moment and each other's company. Remember, it's all about celebrating your love and creating a night to remember.

Your wedding is a special occasion, and a romantic night in can be the perfect way to celebrate. Whether you're dressing up, cooking a fancy meal, or dancing the night away, make it an evening to cherish and create lasting memories together. Congratulations and cheers to a lifetime of love and happiness!

A DIY spa date: Take a bubble bath, do face masks, make spa water, and give each other massages

If you're excited about an upcoming wedding, why not take some time to relax and celebrate with your partner with a DIY spa date? Here's a step-by-step guide to creating a romantic and relaxing spa experience at home.

Set the Mood

Dim the lights and light some scented candles to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. You can also play soft, soothing music in the background to enhance the spa-like ambiance. Don't forget to prepare a cozy space with plush towels and robes to make your experience even more luxurious.

Bubble Bath

Draw a warm bubble bath for two. Add some basic spa essentials like Epsom salts, essential oils, or bath bombs to take your bath to the next level. You can even sprinkle in some flower petals for an extra romantic touch. Relax and unwind in the tub, exchanging massages using scented oils to alleviate stress and muscle tension.

Face Masks

Prepare some DIY face masks using kitchen ingredients for a fun and pampering experience. A simple and effective mask can be made by mashing an avocado and mixing it with cocoa powder and honey. Apply the masks to each other's faces and wash them off with warm water after about 10 minutes. Your skin will feel refreshed and revitalized!

Spa Water

Create your own spa-inspired infused water by adding slices of citrus fruits like lemons, grapefruits, and oranges. This will not only make your water look and taste more appealing, but it will also add a tangy and refreshing twist. You can also include herbs like rosemary or mint for an extra touch of flavor.

Massages

Before giving each other massages, it's a good idea to watch a few videos or read up on proper massage techniques. Ask your partner to lie on their back with a pillow or towel for support and comfort. Use massage oil or lotion and focus on areas like the shoulders, neck, and back, which tend to hold more tension. Taking turns caring for each other in this way will not only soothe the body but also foster a deeper emotional connection.

So, there you have it! A DIY spa date is a perfect way to celebrate and unwind before the big day. Don't forget to take lots of pictures and cherish these special moments with your loved one. Congratulations and best wishes for your wedding!

A special dinner: Add romantic touches to dinner, like candles, music, rose petals, and a good bottle of wine

A wedding is a wonderful occasion to celebrate the union of two people in love. It is a time to create special memories with family and friends, and there are many ways to make the day even more magical and romantic.

One way to add a touch of romance to the wedding celebrations is by organising a special dinner with elegant and thoughtful touches. Here are some ideas to make it a memorable occasion:

Candles

Soft lighting and the warm glow of candles instantly create a romantic atmosphere. Whether it's tall candlesticks, tea lights, or floating candles, the options are endless. For a creative twist, consider spelling out a message with tea lights surrounded by rose petals.

Music

Music can set the tone and create a romantic ambiance. Soft, harmonious music playing in the background can enhance the atmosphere and make the evening even more special.

Rose Petals

Rose petals are a classic way to add a touch of romance. They can be scattered on the dinner table, used to create a romantic pathway, or even floated on the surface of a luxurious bubble bath for two. For a fun surprise, they can be placed around a sleeping partner to create a romantic morning surprise.

Wine

A good bottle of wine can elevate the evening and pair perfectly with a home-cooked meal. It adds a touch of luxury and indulgence to the celebrations.

Other Special Touches

• Personalised Messages: Writing romantic messages in rose petals is a unique way to express your love and avoid getting tongue-tied.
• Dinner Set-Up: A romantic dinner set for two, complete with elegant champagne flutes, candlesticks, and matching candles, can create an intimate setting.
• Location: Whether it's a private dinner in a garden, on a balcony, or by a pool, choosing a special location can enhance the romance.
• Gifts: Including romantic gifts, such as jewellery or chocolates, hidden among rose petals in a drawer is a delightful surprise.
• Food Choices: Aphrodisiac foods like oysters, artichokes, and avocados can spark love, while chocolate-dipped strawberries are a classic romantic treat.

By incorporating these romantic touches, the special dinner will be an unforgettable part of the wedding celebrations, creating lasting memories for the happy couple and their loved ones.

A second honeymoon: Go on a trip, it doesn't have to be big or expensive

A second honeymoon doesn't have to be a grand affair. You can still have a wonderful time by going on a trip that doesn't have to be big or expensive. Here are some ideas for low-key, intimate, and affordable trips for your second honeymoon:

Italy

The Italian Lakes make for a sublime and sophisticated honeymoon with minimal travel stress. You can experience natural beauty, finely-honed hospitality, incredible hotels, and restaurants. Lake Como and Lake Maggiore are excellent choices, offering a range of activities and sights to explore.

Corsica

The French island of Corsica is known for its traditional Mediterranean charm, superb food, and white sandy beaches. You can find romantic boltholes and adult-only villas with private pools through Corsican Places, a company specializing in this region.

Greece

When all you want is to relax and enjoy beautiful surroundings, Greece is an excellent choice. You can find pretty boutique hotels on various Greek islands, such as Demeter Cave House in Santorini and Osom Resort in Mykonos, offering views of the Med and authentic experiences.

Anguilla

Anguilla is a tranquil Caribbean island where you can enjoy each other's company in a five-star hotel, explore nature reserves, and indulge in the buzzing culinary scene. It's a great option if you're looking for a mix of relaxation and cultural immersion.

Costa Rica

Costa Rica tops the list for adventure honeymoons, offering a stunning combination of lush national parks, incredible wildlife, volcanic peaks, and picturesque lakes. You can find eco-lodges and boutique hotels, and even finish your trip with some R&R on a Pacific beach.

Paris, France

Sometimes, the obvious choices are overlooked. Paris is a classic honeymoon destination for a reason. You can save on travel costs and splurge on luxurious accommodations, lavish dinners, and top cultural experiences. It's the perfect blend of romance, indulgence, and exploration.

Cape Verde Islands

If you're looking for an island-hopping honeymoon without the hefty price tag, consider the Cape Verde Islands off the coast of West Africa. Your money will go a lot further here, and it's a direct six-hour flight from the UK with no significant time difference.

These destinations offer a mix of relaxation, cultural immersion, and natural beauty, providing a perfect blend for a second honeymoon that is both intimate and affordable.

A celebration of marriage: If you're eloping, consider throwing a big party later on to celebrate your marriage with loved ones

Elopements are becoming increasingly popular, but some couples worry about not including family and friends on their special day. A post-elopement party is a great way to celebrate your marriage with loved ones and can be whatever you want it to be. It can be as simple or as complex as you like, ranging from a casual backyard BBQ to a private room in a fancy restaurant.

Timing and Location

There is no right or wrong time to host a post-elopement party; it can be the same day as your elopement, a month later, or even a year later. Choose a date that works best for you and your partner.

For the location, consider a national park campsite, a restaurant, a local bar, a backyard, or an Airbnb. If you want to keep costs down, avoid the "reception package" route and opt for a more unique venue.

Invitations and Announcements

When it comes to invitations, be clear that the celebration is for after the elopement. Use phrases like "We got hitched! Now it's time to party!" or "It's an after-the-wedding celebration." You can also include a small message about where and when you eloped.

It's a good idea to send out elopement announcements before the party invitations to avoid any confusion or hurt feelings. This way, your guests will find out about your elopement directly from you and won't feel excluded.

Food and Entertainment

Food and drinks are an essential part of any celebration. You can keep it simple with a potluck-style party or a BBQ, or hire catering or a private chef if your budget allows.

For entertainment, consider games, music, and other activities. You can also incorporate wedding traditions like a first dance, family dances, or even a bouquet toss. If you have a photographer or videographer, you can showcase a clip of your elopement ceremony or display your photos on a projector.

Attire and Gifts

You have the freedom to wear whatever you want to your post-elopement party. You can even wear your wedding attire again and surprise your guests!

Regarding gifts, it's best to not expect any. However, if you do want to provide your guests with an option, include a note on your invites saying, "Gifts are not necessary. However, if you do feel so inclined, here's how [include registry or cash donation information].

Ceremony

If you eloped because your loved ones couldn't attend and you want to include them, you can even have a second ceremony at the post-elopement party. This gives them a chance to participate in traditions and readings and makes them feel included in your special day.

Other Unique Ideas

• Rent a boat or catamaran for a party on the water.
• Include your furry friends in the celebration by choosing a pet-friendly venue.
• Hire a food truck to keep the event casual and fun.
• Plan a beach party or a picnic at a park pavilion.
• Go glamping or rent cabins in a favourite state/national park for you and your guests.
• Ride around with your guests in a party limo.
• Show your elopement photos and videos on a projector.

Remember, there are no rules when it comes to a post-elopement party. Do whatever feels most special and enjoyable for you and your partner, considering factors like weather, travel, food and drink preferences, and costs.

Frequently asked questions