It can feel almost depressing to leaf through the wedding magazines and see the same styles for wedding dresses, venues, catering etc. trotted out to choose from. Theme of the year, colour of the moment, style of the century – which one to choose being your main decision.

Why not just break out and start from square one? What things are most important to YOU? They may be weird and wonderful, old fashioned, ultra modern, simple or sophisticated, quirky or bland – GREAT! Define your own priorities and follow your ideas, asking for help if and when you need it.

Why not just start from the basic premise – you and your fiancée just need to turn up in your jeans on a set day with one witness at a registry office! Work from there to define what would then make the day a bit more special given your budget and priorities.....

There are so many options for wedding dresses and bridesmaids dresses varying from a department store to a charity shop, make your own to a boutique. Spend time browsing, but don’t forget that if a dress has to be made for you it could take several months! If you’re not sure what you’d like, ask as many friends and family as possible for opinions – boutique owners are very experienced in what styles suit what body shapes, so it’s well worth an appointment for a consultation.

It’s easy to get a list of wedding venues in your area, but don’t forget that a marquee in the garden, your local pub or village hall are alternative options. Similarly cakes don’t have to be made for you – M&S do a beautiful standard one for you to decorate with flowers etc.!

If you’re going to hire a professional photographer it’s worth spending time talking through your ideas with several first, as they all have their own individual style. They should be able to show you a portfolio of their previous work and give you some past wedding couples to talk to about their experience.

It’s your day – enjoy it!

At thebestof Oxford we recommend The Bridelicious Boutique in Wallingford for an outstanding service in talking through your ideas for wedding dresses, bridesmaids dresses, mother of the bride outfits etc. Their dresses range from the conventional to boho chic.

For photography we would recommend that you chat to Jackie Cross of Jacqueline Cross Photography – a past winner of our Most Loved Business competition, which speaks for itself!

You can see customer reviews for both of these businesses on the above links.