Author

admin

Your Guide to Pre-wedding Photoshoot

written by admin

A pre-wedding photoshoot is not compulsory. Some couples skip on this, but you may want to consider having it for various purposes. One reason is that it’s a fantastic event to add to your memories, which you and your partner can look back to after several years. It’s also an excellent way for you to get used to and be more comfortable in front of the camera, so come your wedding day, you will be like a pro.

If you are hiring the same photographer for your wedding, it could serve as an opportunity for you to get to know each other, so that you will feel more comfortable working with the crew on your wedding day. The photographer will also learn about your personality and style, which he can use on your wedding day. Moreover, it’s another memorable moment you can share with your special one. If you decide to go for a pre-wedding photoshoot, here are some tips to ensure its success.

Choose the photographer

While camera phones and digital cameras are widely available today, it may not be a good idea to have a DIY pre-wedding shoot. It’s a special occasion, so you want only the best experience and result, which only a seasoned wedding photographer can provide. They have professional equipment and the skills to ensure that they get the best shots, and you are left with beautiful pictures to serve as sweet memories. You will find trustworthy photographers on wedding supplier sites like https://houseofpartyplanning.com/category/wedding-suppliers.

Select your location

The location of the shoot is vital because it has a massive impact on how the images come out. Sit down with your partner and photographer to discuss this detail. For instance, if you and your partner love the outdoors, you may want to do it somewhere that will make you feel close to nature, like a hill or meadow. If you love the waters, a beach is an ideal option. You may visit the location with your photographer to inspect the area and better plan for the shoot.

Prepare makeup and outfits

You want to look your best on the shoot, so prepare for the makeup and outfits, too. Choose an experienced makeup artist. Like the photographer, you may also have the same artist to do the makeup for your wedding. Do a trial makeup before the shoot to try different looks, and decide what to have on the actual photoshoot. Finally, don’t forget about the outfits. Not only should they be stylish, but they should also be comfortable so you can move freely during the shoot. Try them during the makeup trial to determine if the overall look works together.

Decide on a theme

Some couples follow the trend for their theme. There’s nothing wrong with it, but if you want to make the pre-wedding photoshoot more memorable and unique, choose a theme that has a special meaning to you and your partner. For instance, if you share a love for art or a movie, you may incorporate that into the theme.

Be sure to consider the tips above when planning for your pre-wedding photoshoot. Ideally, you should have it two to three months before the wedding.

December 8, 2021 0 comment

Wedding Fashion

Top 7 Fashion Tips for Winter Wedding Guests

written by admin

Winter is almost here, and it’s time for you to start thinking about how to dress in cold weather. If it’s cold outside, you know what that means: it’s time for a new coat. But how do you choose the right one? Different fashion experts have talked about their favourite coats from Canada Goose and other top brands. Whether you want classic trench-style designs or cozy knits with hoodies, you can find your perfect fit. You don’t have to be a fashionista or spend hours on Pinterest trying to find the perfect outfit; just follow these simple tips to get started!

1) Layer your clothes

The key to dressing comfortably during winter months is layering your clothes properly. Start with an outer layer that will keep you warm, then add another layer of clothing underneath. This way, if one piece gets wet from snow or rain, you can simply remove it without having to worry too much about ruining your entire ensemble. If you are going out into the elements, make sure to wear layers under your coat so that they won’t become soaked as well.

It’s important to wear layers of different fabrics so they keep each other warm while also allowing air flow through them. You should always start by wearing something light like t-shirts, sweaters, etc., as these are easy to take off and put back on again without having to worry about getting too hot or too cold

Besides, layered clothes can help trap warm air in between the layers and keep you warmer than if you choose to wear a single, thick piece of clothing. The point is, you should always layer up your clothing as opposed to wearing one item of clothing all day long.

2) Wear breathable materials

When choosing what type of material to use, make sure it allows airflow. Cotton is great because it breathes well and keeps you cool; however, cotton does not allow much movement which means you won’t get any exercise from walking around in it. Instead, choose synthetic fibers such as polyester, nylon, spandex, microfiber, and more. These types of clothes are more durable than cotton and provide better insulation.

3) Choose loose-fitting clothes

Loose-fitting garments tend to move less and thus offer greater freedom of motion. They also fit closer to the body, making them warmer overall. The downside is that they do look somewhat baggy and bulky at times. However, there are ways to balance out this problem. For example, you can add accessories to give yourself an illusion of formality. Also, try pairing tight-fitting pants with long sleeves.

4) Wear Warm Colors

When choosing what colors to wear this season, opt for warmer hues like red, orange, yellow, brown, etc. These colors reflect heat back up towards our bodies, keeping us feeling more comfortable when we step outside. On top of that, darker shades tend to absorb less light than lighter ones, which means you stay cooler longer.

5) Add extra warmth

In addition to layering, another way to stay comfortable during winter months is to add additional heat sources. A scarf wrapped around your neck provides added protection against wind chill and helps prevent chills from spreading throughout your entire body. Another option would be to carry a small hand warmer. These come in many shapes and sizes, including those made specifically for women.

6) Choose comfortable shoes

Winter footwear should always be chosen carefully because it has a huge impact on comfort levels. Make sure to choose shoes that fit correctly and allow enough room between your toes. Also, avoid wearing heels unless absolutely necessary – walking around all day in high-heeled boots isn’t very practical. Instead, go for flats or sneakers instead.

Boots and shoes are one of the most essential pieces of fashion during the cold weather. Make sure you invest in high-quality footwear that offers adequate support and comfort. Look for boots that feature waterproofing technology and insulating properties. Additionally, consider investing in insulated socks to protect your feet from the elements.

7) Keep your hands covered

Hands are often forgotten when most people think about keeping themselves warm. But, covering your hands with gloves or mittens prevents them from becoming exposed to the frigid temperature outside. Gloves are especially useful when working outdoors since they cover all five fingers and provide excellent grip. Mittens for hands are ideal for protecting hands from extreme cold.

Summary

Just keep everything simple. Don’t try to overdo things by adding multiple accessories to your look. Stick to basics such as scarves, hats, gloves, coats, and other essentials. Adding extra items only makes you feel uncomfortable and cluttered. This will ensure you look elegant while still staying warm.

September 28, 2021 0 comment

Relationships

The ultimate list of sex toys shops

written by admin

Online shopping for sex toys is not only easy, but it’s also extremely popular. There are so many discreet and empowering online sex toy stores, it’s easy to level up your self-care game. Or, if you already are, it’s easy to enhance your current level of fun. But what are the best sex toy shops you may be asking?

With today’s advanced technology, there is no need for sex toys to be loud or clunky. Sex toys are now sleek, stylish and discreet, making them an ideal addition to your bedroom play or your solo masturbatory adventures.

The truth is, from all the stuff we secretly search for on the Internet and visit online when no one is watching, we’re a really sexual and imaginative lot who love to experiment in the bedroom.

With the growing popularity of “kinky” and “dirty” toys, gadgets and gear, the demand for fun and adventurous play has never been greater. If you haven’t gotten yourself sex toys online, or you’re just not using the one you’ve got, now’s the time to get wild and start having some fun.

Buying sexy, fun products for yourself and your lover can be an extremely pleasurable experience. Whether you’re a nervous beginner or someone who doesn’t want to be shamed for a kink, finding the right online sex toy shops may seem too intimidating. But if you really want to satisfy your sexual desires, shopping for the best sex toys in a mainstream store won’t cut it. You need to branch out and explore the best online sex shops.

Just remember that you must always use silicone body-safe toys. They should always be made from food-grade silicone. Bargain vibes might be a false economy when it comes to your sexual health, so all the websites that we have listed below have a good range of body-safe toys.

It’s easy to get lost in the details when it comes to choosing a good sex toy at adult shops. However, in this article, we will be displaying the best online sex shops that offer the most amazing products and services. Each of these websites offers products for him, her and couples. Don’t worry about confidentiality and discretion, as all these websites assure you of maintaining privacy, both in shipping and during billing.

If you want the best selection of high-quality, stylish, effective and discreet sex toys, there’s no better place to order from than from many of the sex toy shops we feature in this article. Whether you’re looking for something for yourself, your lover, or someone else, there are many stylish, discreet and effective sex toy sites to order from. Thanks to the internet, you can shop for them from the comfort and convenience of your own home.

WT

Who They Are

A lingerie and sexual wellness company that is one of the best sex toy shops around. They offer great products to give you sexual liberation and self-confidence no matter your gender, sexuality, or relationship status.

An excellent source for sex toys, lingerie, fetish gear and accessories. Their huge selection and super-competitive prices make it impossible to find a bad deal anywhere on their site. They carry a wide variety of sex toys and lingerie to keep you happy and excited. Whether you just want to gently touch a special part of your lover’s body or you want to scratch that deep itch that’s been bothering you, they have all the products you need.

They aim to provide a fun, non-judgemental and safe place where people can explore their sexuality in a positive manner and without fear of being punished for their desires.

What they sell

They sell a huge range of sex toys online for your sexual pleasure, so have a look through their catalogue of vibrators, dildos, male sex toys, anal toys, remote control toys, love eggs & jiggle balls, adult toy sets, masturbator gift sets, & much more.

In the sale section, you’ll find cheap adult toys at a big discount. You can find the perfect vibrator, dildo or other adult toys at a price that won’t break the bank. They also stock high-end products in our luxury category. Their online retail is very fast and secure, and their discreet packaging and delivery ensure your purchases are shipped directly to you.

Why It’s Great

They are a sex toy shop that caters for beginners, advanced users and those who want to spice things up in their romances with sexy lingerie, toys and aphrodisiacs. They’re for people who’ve been married for years and want to spice things up, or who are newly in love and need some romantic surprises.

They are committed to all of our customers to deliver high-quality products and customer service, to make your experience a pleasant one at every opportunity.

At their adult shops, they strive to have a large selection of adult products, especially toys and lingerie. There is always something new and exciting to entice your imagination and give you a little “treat” for your erogenous zones. From barely touching or teasing to full-on stimulation, WT has got the customers covered.

Products That You’ll Love

Sex Toys for Women

WT is one the best possible place to buy sex toys for women. Whether you’re a beginner, an advanced user, or you want to try something truly unique and adventurous, they have what you’re looking for.

There are lots of effective and affordable sex toys just for you. Whether you want a vibrator, a rabbit vibrator, a butt plug, or something else entirely, they’ve got hundreds of enticing items that will make your next bedroom activity hotter than ever.

Sex Toys for Men

There are many types of sex toys, and they are appreciated for the pleasure and satisfaction they provide either in solo or partnered sex. Men have sex toys, too, and are equally appreciative of their benefits.

Sex toys for men include things like fleshlights, pocket pussies, vibrating cock rings, and prostate massagers. Whether you’re looking for a new gizmo to spice up your love life, or if you just want to give your relationship an extra boost, there are dozens of male sex toys that WT offers that will have your woman (and you) begging for more.

LH

Who They Are

LH is a well-known global sex toy shop. It has shipped all over the world, and it has a very large customer base that continues to grow. It was established in 2002 when a new era of buying sex toys began.

They are a great source for everything related to sex, and they’re always working hard to give their readers the tools they need to have a great and happy sex life. If you’re looking for a vibrator, a dildo, a fleshlight, a cock ring, or any other type of sex product, their huge selection is guaranteed to satisfy you.

There are over 287,000 customer reviews on the website to help customers to make the best buying decisions. They also offer extra rewards on every purchase you make. The website also offers you a chance to communicate in different languages including English, French, German, Dutch, Spanish etc.

What They Sell

LH have a great range of products that can make your intimate moments hotter! From the most intense clit vibrator, G-spot vibrators, bullet vibrators and dildos to the hottest lingerie, hot pants, gear and accessories they are your one-stop shop for sex toys that will help customers achieve mind-blowing orgasms! Customers have access to the most comprehensive range of sex toys available anywhere online. The perfect sex toy shop for all your wants and needs.

Why it’s Great

This is one of the very few stores that offer free delivery on all orders over £40, a 1-year guarantee on its sex toys, and 24/7 customer care support. It uses discreet packaging, and ships all orders in plain brown boxes.

LH has a super-fast delivery service and a very simple and easy-to-follow product return policy. They also have very helpful and informative buyers guides, which give you all the info you need to become a successful LH shopper.

Products That You’ll Love
LH Sex Toys

LH has been selling sex toys for over a decade and based on tens of thousands of customer reviews, their sex toys are one of the best-valued products on the market. Combine that with the highest quality, and customers can have incredibly pleasurable and satisfying sex for a long time at the lowest cost possible.

LH Lingerie

From beautiful satin babydolls to seductive lace bodystockings, they have something for every taste and style. LH Lingerie for Women offers sexy lingerie for all women, with many styles also available in a plus-size option.

Bond

Who They Are

Bond has an amazing selection of discreet pleasure products and they offer fast, free, discreet shipping too! Whether you’re looking for something new to try out or a treat to bring back your old favourites, Bond has got you covered. One of the best toy shops to choose from.

This is the best online sex toy stores destination for all things sex toys. Here, we have carefully selected a wide variety of the very best products from all over the world to make your sex toy shopping experience as pleasurable and as informative as possible. Whether you are looking for the “typical” types of adult toys (dildos, vibrators, etc.) or if you are more interested in the “extreme”, this is the place to shop.

What They Sell

Don’t be shy – give in to your wildest fantasies and let go! You won’t regret it. Here at Bond, they have a huge variety of different kinds of sex toys for men, women and couples. Whether you are looking for something naughty for yourself or to surprise your lover with a new kind of foreplay or you want to get really lost in pure ecstasy they’ve got you covered. With our wide variety of products, we are sure to have just the right kind of adult toy for you!

Erotica is the one store online that has really stood out for me over the years. They carry so many different brands and items of such high quality and variety, it’s hard to imagine anyone not being able to find something to pique their interest.

Why It’s Great

You can find a huge selection of sex toys at ridiculously low prices and check out their specials all the time. They have regularly scheduled sales on sex toys – both male and female – including vibrators, cock rings, butt plugs, anal beads and more. You can give a loved one the gift of total satisfaction with one (or more) of the amazing products available from Bond.

Products That You’ll Love

Bond Essential Spanking Paddle – 14 Inch

For Dominating Partners Who Want To Spice Up Their Lives! This is an absolutely essential tool for any Dom (or submissive) who is serious about exploring their kinky side! With this tool, you can give your sub an erotic, enjoyable experience without any bruises or marks.

The paddle is 14 inches long and has a flexible design which gives a harder, sharper spank. The wrist ties are there to give you a secure hold while allowing the paddle to flex and deliver a harder, more effective spanking.

Bond’s Bind And Grind Purple PVC Tape.

If you are in the mood for a bit of “rough” fun, Bond’s Bind and Grind Tape will certainly scratch that itch. It is a perfect choice for kinksters who are interested in experimenting with. It’s a self-clinging, non-slip vinyl tape that won’t leave marks and is latex-free. Wrap it around your submissive’s wrists or ankles and you’re off to the races!

It’s easy to apply and remove, won’t come off no matter how vigorously you struggle and leaves no marks behind – other than the ones you want!

AS

Who They Are

The leading sexual lifestyle brand in the world and is a pioneer and global authority in the adult industry. They have been at the forefront of the sexual revolution for 40 years. They are one of the best sex toy shops online.

They are the largest retailer of everything from fetish wear to high-tech masturbation devices to adult toys for couples, lingerie, fashion, fitness, sex education and products.

Their pioneering spirit is alive today, with a heavy focus on bringing the very best innovative marketing, design and technology, to their consumers.

What They Sell

Ultimate one-stop shop for all your sexy fun! From aphrodisiacs and foreplay enhancers to vibrators, dildos and other must-have items, this is the ultimate one-stop shop for all your sexy needs. And, with an endless array of vibrators, blindfolds, erotic oils, and other ‘sex toys, there’s no end to the ways you can have fun together!

There’s something for everyone. Their product variety, great prices, and the fact they have been around for so long means they have established a trustworthy reputation. You can always trust AS. Their products are sold in various retail outlets online and all over the world.

Why It’s Great

AS is a seriously hot name in great sex shops and they have some seriously hot deals all the time! Their new ranges always push the quality of adult toys in general with their different types of vibrators etc. and their website is always chock-full of high-quality, incredibly fun products at affordable prices!

Products That You’ll Love

Rampant Rabbit Vibrator – The Original Slim Rotating One

This vibrator has multiple functions which means it can be used in so many different ways! In the bedroom, use the metal beads and ears to bring her to climax while you perform oral sex on her; Use the metal beads and ears during foreplay as a way to heighten her arousal before you join her for intercourse; Or use the metal beads and ears to help her achieve a more intense orgasm. The possibilities are truly endless.

Nasty gal

Who They Are

Nasty Gal has the most erotic sex toys online. They’ve got dildos, vibrators, rabbit ears and remote-control bullets, all designed to make both of you smile.

Nasty Gal carries a huge assortment of kinky sex toys. Whether you’ve been together a long time or you’re just getting started, these toys will be a surefire way to keep your love life exciting.

If you want the most intense, raunchiest, sex toys around, these are the ones for you. These bad boys are created by some of the best designers in the world, so they’re going to look great on your nightstand, on your desk at work, or in that special hiding place you’ve discovered in your bedroom.

What They Sell

Nasty Gal has a large selection of adult products, including vibrators and dildos that are sure to please. From shapely dildos and rabbit vibrators to more exotic prints and metallic finishes, there’s something for every taste.

Because Nasty Gal believes sex is a two-way street, they’re also including a full kit for your partner, including a condom dispenser and lube.

Why It’s Great

If you are in a relationship where both of you are open-minded and want to explore something new, Nasty Gal offers a discreet option for billing. Your credit card details are 100% hidden from your partner, and they won’t even know that you have ordered something.

Nasty Gal offers discreet packaging, plus they offer a 30-day hassle-free returns policy for your adult toys and accessories. If you ever need to return an item, it’s easy and there are no questions asked.

Products That You’ll Love

Pleasure Egg Vibrator And Remote

Whether you’re looking for a functional, waterproof, rechargeable vibrator to use at home or on the go, or a super-charged battery operated vibrator that will have you cumming in record time, the Pleasure Egg and Remote could be the right sex toy for you. The Pleasure Egg is a tiny, powerful vibrator that’s easy to use with its simple push buttons. It’s also waterproof, has a silent mode and comes in a range of fun, vibrant colours. The price is unbeatable and it’s a great little vibe for beginners and more experienced users in one of the best toy shops around.

Rabbit And 7-Setting Vibrator Set

You may be looking for Nasty Gal’s rabbit and vibrator set, which is the best kit for an independent woman with a spicy personality. It comes with everything you need to please the different layers of your personality. This combo pack has all the items you need for a steamy night for one.

Our Final Thoughts

The best online sex toy stores for sex toys are those listed above. No matter what type of kinky/exotic/simple/complex / etc. toy you’re looking for, these top-rated sites will have it.

Whether it’s your honeymoon, your second date or just a night you’ve been waiting for, you’ll enjoy increased intimacy and passion when you explore new ways to satisfy your partner. Go for it! Dive right in and explore the world of pleasure with one (or all) of these awesome resources. There are many ways to enjoy yourself and please your partner. Just keep exploring. You won’t go wrong and you will add immense zest to your life.

Confident exploration of your options on the best sex toy shops online is the next step in experimenting with what you and your lover would love to have played within the bedroom. Go for it!

September 2, 2021 1 comment

Real Weddings

How I’m managing anxiety as a bride

written by admin

When you have an anxiety disorder, a whole day of everybody looking at you isn’t ideal. Marrying my ‘childhood sweetheart’ is, though – so determined to not let my panic-prone ways take over, I’ve spent a significant amount of time thinking about how I can manage my anxiety on my wedding day (and every worst-case scenario, obviously).

Oh, it’s all there: fainting, forgetting something, falling over – in my head it’s all happened.

These are the things that have helped, and my top strategies for managing anxiety as a bride.

Try to rationalise

If you’re reading this you’re probably familiar with the spiral: the domino effect that one thought has to cause five others, and how that leaves you thinking the worst. It’s really important to stop the spiral in its tracks.

When you have an anxious thought, ‘what if this happens?’, ask yourself what evidence you have to support that claim. What reason do I have to think this? Here you can dig into whether this particular concern is coming directly from a place of anxiety and is something that you have created (or has been created for you) internally or whether it is based on something else – then you can take action to help if needed.

Plan, plan, plan

I know, you’re planning lots anyway. But if you’re really concerned about forgetting something that you need on the day for example, effective planning is going to be your biggest help. Create lists for yourself with everything that you need a few months before the wedding so that you have a bit of time to add to it if things pop up, and share it with a Bridesmaid or other member(s) of your Bridal Party to see if there’s anything else they can think of. This way it’s likely that you’ll actually end up with more than you need and things you haven’t thought of (my Bridesmaids put snacks and safety pins on my radar). Ask somebody you trust to look after these items for you on the day.

Opinions are not facts

This is something that was very prominent throughout my own wedding planning process. People around you will have opinions on what you’re doing or not doing – even people you have great relationships with or wouldn’t expect to cause you stress – and it’s important to remember that nobody else’s opinion really has anything to do with your wedding at all if you really think about it.

Your parents or family members may feel strongly about particular things about your wedding day (where they sit, who attends, that kind of thing) but ultimately, are they going to enjoy your wedding day any less if those things don’t happen? I’m not suggesting that you tell them ‘no’ to every request they make but if it’s something you feel really strongly about, stick to your guns and remember that a difference in opinion is exactly that: two different views on a subject, and is no reflection of you or your taste.

Choose your battles

On that note, knowing when to make compromises around your wedding can be a real stressor. People are probably making requests and asking you about how they will get there, where they will stay, the fact that they don’t want to sit with whoever, or perhaps they really do think that you should wear a veil when you don’t really want one.

Note my focus on the word ‘they’ here?

Some people will make your day about them. It’s annoying and can be upsetting but it does and will (probably) happen.

The key here is to choose your battles to reduce stress. Your grandma really wants you to wear a veil, but you don’t want one? This isn’t something to back down on. Your father-in-law feels strongly about where he sits (or doesn’t sit, perhaps), ok, well this isn’t going to have much of an impact on anything or anyone else on the day so maybe it’s easier to give him what he wants. Ask yourself two things:

Is this something I feel really strongly about?
Is this something they feel really strongly about?

Using this as the basis of your decision making can make things a whole lot clearer for you and help you stick to your own wishes where needed.

Boundaries

Some friends or family members might not react brilliantly to you telling them ‘no’ – remember, they’re thinking about what the day means for them – and if there’s anything the wedding planning process will teach you, it’s how to remain strong in your wishes or opinions.

By all means, there will be times where people say, ‘have you thought about this?’, and you’ll be really grateful, but there will also probably be times where you’re pretty fed up of hearing about what others think about your wedding and the pressure can be a lot. In these moments it’s vital to implement your own boundaries and it can be as simple as ‘we haven’t decided on that yet’ (even if you have), ‘I will think about that, thanks’ to close off a conversation or a more direct ‘I don’t want to do that’.

Boundaries are one of the most important things in your anxiety toolkit.

Stick together

This is a big one! It’s so easy to be influenced or swayed by your families and it can be frustrating if this happens. Come up with your non-negotiables together: I’m certain that I don’t want to wear a veil, I definitely want this colour suit, I definitely do or don’t want to invite this person. Then if people try to get involved with these elements of the day you can stick together, back each other up and step in if things become difficult – particularly if it’s something that your in-laws are bringing up and you might not feel as comfortable to tell them ‘no’. Sticking together like this will help you both feel more able to push through the pressure, ease each other’s anxieties and provide a simple but powerful ‘I’ve got your back.’

Use a venue finder

The venue you choose (and more to the point, the team there) can be really helpful when it comes to reducing stress and anxiety in the lead up to your wedding.

We decided to take some of the stress out of the planning process by using an event planner that specialised in wedding venues in London so that we had help compiling a shortlist, asking the right questions and just somebody on hand who had every intention to make the day what we wanted and not what anybody else thought it should be.

Bridal self-care and ongoing stress management

Planning a wedding is stressful, there’s no doubt about that. There’s a lot to do, a lot of opinions coming your way and there may be a lot of people asking you questions. If you feel that the experience is becoming negative or that you’re not feeling much like a bride because of other people’s concern with themselves, it’s time to prioritise the self-care and bring back that pre-wedding excitement.

Get a facial
Plan and look for your bridal accessories (it can actually help to go alone!)
Get a manicure
Remind yourself why you’re doing this or what it’s about for you
Take a break from planning
Ask family members for a wedding chat break (it’s likely that it comes up every time you see them, right?)
Spend quality time with your partner
Plan something in the wedding that is just for the two of you (ours was a self-drive classic car, for example)

June 21, 2021 0 comment

Relationships

What impact has 2020 had on relationships in the UK?

written by admin

2020 had major implications on every part of our lives, from our careers to our health and our relationships.

A recent study by Relate found that 61% of respondents said the pandemic has made them realise relationships are the most important things in their lives. But, what impact has 2020 had on relationships in the UK?

Looking for love

In a world where options for dating have become extremely limited, dating app usage soared to new heights. YouGov found that a fifth of single Brits who were actively dating pre-lockdown turned to apps to continue their search.

Tinder users made three billion swipes worldwide on Sunday 29 March 2020 and this year it’s rival company Bumble that’s seen an increase in users – and share price.

And it appears, people’s views on the pandemic and lockdown are impacting those looking for love, with around four in 10 people cancelling dates with someone who didn’t want to take the Covid-19 vaccine or socially distance. Those numbers show that while Covid is high on everyone’s minds, there is still an unfaltering determination to not let the pandemic spell the end of their search to find love.

Baby boom

At the start of the pandemic, there was great speculation that it might lead to a baby boom. And whilst your Instagram feed might suggest many happy couples are sharing good news, there is in fact growing evidence from around the worlds that the pandemic has led to a baby bust. It looks like falling birth rates is yet another trend that the coronavirus crisis has accelerated, and it could bring significant economic ramifications.

Many people experienced furlough, job uncertainty, and rising cost of living prices which has led many to delay plans to have children.

The beginning of the end

Whilst divorce rates have been increasing for the last few decades, a year of being lockdown with the one you once loved led many to re-evaluate their life and love. Divorce solicitors saw an increase in enquiries in the subsequent 4-5 weeks following the lockdown announcements, signalling that being forced to spend more time together is testing many marriages to breaking point.

David Lister, Partner and Head of Family Law at Simpson Millar said:

“The last 12 months have been undeniably challenging, with many couples feeling the pressures of home working, childcare, home-schooling and in some instances a reduced income too.

“As such, it’s no surprise that such an intense period is leading to more separations and divorces, and as lockdown eases, we expect that more people will move forward with their plans to part ways.”

Whether your relationship has stood the test of time or you’re still looking for love, lockdown has taught us how important our relationships are, and how short life is.

April 20, 2021 0 comment

Ideas and Inspiration

Top Countdown Tips For A Summer Wedding

written by admin

With the Covid-19 vaccination fully force, many folks are going to be pushing ahead to tie the knot this summer. to assist get you ready, we’ve an important guide so you’ll soon be ticking all the boxes ready for your big day!

From looking and feeling your best, to negotiating the right venue, here are some wonderful suggestions to require the strain out of your special day:

Get Photo Ready

If you’re conscious that your smile isn’t picture-perfect, but you’re worried that you’ve left it too late, then help is at hand. You can have the smile you’ve always dreamt of with SmileDirectClub. You can start your smile journey by using the dentist-prescribed, easy to use, at-home impression kit that’s delivered straight to your door so you can get the smile you’ve always wanted in 4-6 months. Alternatively, you can visit one of their SmileShops that are still open with locations across the UK for free.

COVID-19 wedding contracts
Your venue and suppliers want you to have your dream wedding, however, it’s important to look ahead and plan for the best and prepare for the worst. Ensure that all your supplier contracts include a Covid-19 clause so that you don’t get charged extra in case you have to reschedule your wedding. Some contracts might specify that the postponement must happen within a certain timeframe, so double-check the terms and conditions. You also should pay extra attention to what’s refundable versus what’s not. For further guidelines about wedding cancellations and refunds, visit the government website.

Skills instead of gifts

With many Brits tightening their purse strings following the pandemic, there has never been a far better time to rest on your community for help, AKA family and friends. Why not invite their skills rather than gifts? If your friend may be a budding baker, could they create your wedding cake? Perhaps someone in your family loves crafts, so consider posing for help to make table decorations and place settings – and what about music and makeup? Creating a DIY wedding can look premium, bespoke and has sentimental value as your loved ones all took part in creating your special day!

Weekday wedding

With a smaller wedding looking likely, why not consider getting hitched on a weekday, with a smaller wedding you’ll be much more flexible. also as offering a wider choice of venue, a weekday wedding can also be a less expensive option, which is sweet news if you’re on a budget.

Beauty sleep

If worries about your day are keeping you awake in the dark, then it’s definitely time to relax. Every bride needs her sleep. Start by keeping a notepad and pen by your bed in order that you’ll write down anything wedding-related that pops into your head within the hour. Or for 7-9 hours of quality, stress-free sleep, why not give meditation a whirl. There are many apps out there to undertake, many of which are free like Headspace.

Get that just-married glow
Don’t wait until your day to shine, use subsequent six months to urge your skin in perfect condition. If you’re worried about stress-related breakouts but haven’t got the time for normal salon facials, then try ZIIP. A sensible device, which connects through an app to supply tailored treatments, ZIPP uses nano currents and microcurrents to zap bacteria and make your skin looking younger.

April 16, 2021 0 comment

DIY Tutorials

How to plan the perfect DIY wedding

written by admin

If you’re planning on getting hitched you’ll have discovered it’s not cheap to marry the one you love. In fact, the average wedding costs around £30,000 and the average annual salary in the UK for those in full-time work is only £5,000 more. If those figures make you baulk, you might want to think about planning a wedding in which you do the leg work to help reduce the costs – without compromising on your dream day.

Things you’ll need

If you intend to take care of planning your wedding, you’ll realise it takes a lot of work and organisation. Being organised from the off is imperative, so having a wedding folder full of all the information, contact details and costs will help keep you on track – and keep the stress levels in check.

The first step is making sure you give yourself plenty of time for your wedding planning. A longer timeline will help, so if possible aim for around a year. And of course, don’t forget to involve your significant other in the planning – it is their day too after all.

Your budget

Your wedding budget will be the driving factor for your wedding-related decisions. Work out exactly how much you have and make sure if you’re borrowing money that you have a robust plan in place to help with repayments. If any family members are contributing, ask them what they’re comfortable spending. If you’re footing the bill yourself, consider your finances carefully.

Once you’ve created your budget, you need to stick to it. You don’t want your big day marred with guilt about the amount of money you’ve spent.

Your priorities

It can be easy to get swept up in the latest wedding trends but you should sit down with your partner and determine what the three most important aspects of your wedding will be. This could be your dream venue or a specific date. Do you have a photographer in mind, or do you have your heart set on a live band?

Prioritise these key details and be willing to compromise on the rest. Not only will this help you stay within your budget, but it will help you focus your efforts on what really matters to you.

Things you can do

DIY wedding décor elements can be cost-effective and can add some incredible personal touches to your wedding day. Plenty of DIY projects can be done well in advance, including table favours, welcome bags, and of course the save the date cards and wedding invites.

For things like wedding day florals or food, professional help is best – unless you have friends and family who are professionals in their field and in lieu of a wedding gift they donate their time and expertise.

April 13, 2021 0 comment

Ideas and Inspiration

The Comprehensive Etiquette Guide for Wedding Guests

written by admin

The big day is approaching and you’ve been invited! But all of a sudden, your nerves are starting to take its toll on you and you don’t know what to do. After all, you’ve never been to a wedding before.

Does this sound like you? Then keep on reading as we’re about to give you a comprehensive list on what to do and what to avoid to give the best possible impression:

DO: Silence your phone

Obvious, right? And yet, too many guests slip their mind. And then it goes off at the worst possible moment and you’re forever labeled as “that guy”. Ouch! Don’t let this happen and either enable silent mode or turn it off completely.

DO: Prepare a speech

Ideally, you want to be in the know regarding whether you’ll be called to the mic stand to give a speech or not. But sometimes, you don’t. So it’s better to come prepared and have a speech ready. It doesn’t need to be polished down to the last word, but it doesn’t hurt to prepare a general outline of it and go over it a couple of times in your mind.

DON’T: Bring uninvited guests

Unless someone has received an invitation, don’t assume they’re invited. To make matters more complicated, asking the bride or groom whether someone can tag alone is perceived as rude, so don’t do it.

DO: Put some thought into the gift

The gift doesn’t need to be expensive, but do make sure it’s something appropriate and thoughtful. For instance, Omega Speedmaster as the ideal wedding present for punctual, classy, or career-oriented individuals. If you can deliver a punchy and witty message in the gift tag, you’re bound to be remembered for it.

DON’T: Use flash when taking photos

Taking photos is all fine and well, but do make sure to keep the flash feature disabled. The reason being is that the couple and other guests may find it annoying. Plus, it could disrupt the work of a professional photographer they’ve hired just for the occasion.

DON’T: Drink too much alcohol before the ceremony

There’s a long night ahead of everybody, so please try to stay composed during the first couple of hours. After the official ceremony is over, have at it!

DO: Let the couple know about any food allergies you might have

Are you a vegan? Do you only eat gluten-free foods? Then be sure to let the couple know a gracious amount of time before the wedding day. After all, these things require preparations.

DON’T: Get off the hinges about catching the bouquet

The whole concept of tossing the bouquet is supposed to be fun, so don’t make it competitive. Walking all over someone just to get the upper hand is the last thing you want to be doing.

Who will be the lucky one to catch it?

DO: Dress appropriately

Don’t be the guy who comes in wearing jeans even if it’s a casual event. Instead, err on the side of caution and wear something nice. Sprinkle some cologne on top and you’ll be good to go. And for the love of it all, don’t wear white unless you want to be mistaken for the bride.

DON’T: Criticize the food

If you absolutely have to, at least be courteous enough and not be too vocal about it. It’s better to pave your way with a white lie instead and compliment it even if you’ve had better.

Conclusion

That should pretty much cover it. Do keep in mind there could be other small little details that fall outside of the scope of this article due to them being culturally-specific, religious-based, or something similar. So do your homework before you take off, but apart from that, don’t worry too much!

January 7, 2021 0 comment

Planning

Which Professionals will You need for Your Wedding?

written by admin

If you have decided not to hire a wedding planner, then the task of finding all the professionals you will need, to make this event one that you will remember fondly for the rest of your life, rests on your shoulders. This is not a light responsibility, but if it is one you are willing to take on, here are the various individuals you will need to find and hire.

Best-case Scenario: Use Your Own Staff

Not everyone already has household staff working for them, but if you do, it is best to use them for your wedding as well. Your cook can find a few sous-chefs for that day, and your butler can be in charge of adding waiters and barmen, while taking on the responsibility of the unfolding of the day/evening. If you don’t know where to find household staff, click here.

A Florist

If you have seen pictures of weddings, you probably already know that flowers are a big part of what will make your memories of the event beautiful. Of course, flowers are central to this event, at the church, as well as in the location where the celebration will take place afterwards. But it is also crucial to know where and how to arrange them, so that when pictures are taken, they can be seen to add beauty to them. You need a florist who knows how to prepare weddings, if you want that part to be a success during the event but also for the future, when you will look back at the photos.

A DJ/Band

Music is also a crucial element of a wedding. If people don’t have fun, dancing to music they can relate to, the evening can rapidly turn into disaster. If you decide to hire a DJ, make sure he knows how to get the people dancing. Ask to be present at another wedding where he performs, so you can confirm his capacity to do so. If you choose a band, you should also go and watch them perform, before hiring them. The variety of the music they can play will be of outmost important, with a crowd varying greatly in terms of age.

Bartenders and Servers

It is not so easy to be qualified as a bartender or as a server. In fact, finding the right ones might be the most complicated task you’ll be facing. The best way to go is to find an agency that specializes in this field. However, you should still check which individuals they are suggesting, particularly for the bartender(s), as a good one can help keep the evening rolling in style.

Don’t forget the hairdresser!

November 19, 2020 0 comment

Ideas and Inspiration

Three Great Ideas for Your Wedding In 2021

written by admin

With the current climate, it’s difficult to predict when things will go “back to normal”. But what we can do is plan fantastic events for 2021! In this article, we’ve summarised three great entertainment ideas for your wedding either later this year or in 2020.

360 Photo Booth Hire

When events are eventually back in full swing, people are going to want to have FUN. And nothing is quite as much fun as the 360 Photo Booth (also known as the Slow Motion Booth). Up to 6 guests can stand on its’ circular platform, where they will be circled by a focused camera. This will then produce a slow motion video for your guests to enjoy!

These videos are available instantly, and are perfect for sharing on popular social media sites such as Facebook, Instagram and Snapchat. What’s more, unlike traditional photo booths – guests can still have a great time in this booth by themselves. If you want to maximise results, consider adding some dynamic props. Think dollar blasters or confetti guns – these produce some simply outstanding results.

Recommended Supplier: Booths By Lux

Webcasting / Live Streaming Services

There is no doubt that when things return to normal, events and people’s approach towards them is going to be slightly different – at least in the short term. Whilst we imagine most people will still go to events, some may be less willing to travel, and even those close by may be nervous about going to mass gatherings.

So why not take the pressure off by offering a live stream (aka webcast) of your special day. But we don’t just mean a facebook live video. These are extremely poor quality, can drop out very easily and are not at all suitable for a one-off event as important as your Wedding Day. What we’re talking about here is a professional streaming solution.

This could mean having one high-definition camera on the bride and groom during the reception, as well as microphones so that they can be heard. You may also wish to allow guests to be able to leave comments or send voice messages, which can be reproduced through the sound system, and visually on to a projector or series of TV screens.

You will need to make sure the venue has a fairly sturdy Wi-Fi connection for this to work, and that you aren’t sharing it with anyone else (for example hotel guests). What this means is having a dedicated line, and on your Wedding Day you only deserve the best!

Recommended Supplier: Grand Technical

Roaming Photo Booth Hire

Many events choose to have a Photographer as well a Photo Booth for their evening reception. Now whilst you definitely need a high-quality photographer for your Reception, why not consider having a Roaming Photo Booth for the Reception? Photographers are usually pretty tired by this point in the evening, and generally depart shortly after the first dance.

So this is where the aforementioned comes in as the perfect hybrid. The RPB is essentially a Photo Booth that can travel anywhere around the venue. This means you can have the same flexibility as a Photographer, but with the added fun element of a Photo Booth, and all the benefits it brings (think props, custom templates and instantly printed photos). What’s more, as it is super lightweight, the operator will be able to take photos of your guests anywhere in the room – whether it’s the Drinks Reception, at the bar, in the relaxation room or even on the dance floor!

Recommended Supplier: Marvel Booths

We hope this provides you with a few great ideas for your upcoming Wedding Reception. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us in the comments below.

May 6, 2020 0 comment

Newer Posts

Older Posts