Sarah Haywood
There’s a fairytale element to every event Sarah waves her magic wand over, whether in the UK or abroad (www.sarahhaywood.com; 020–3411 3860)
Quintessentially Weddings
Calling on its team of multi-skilled expert planners around the globe, Quintessentially excels at staging exceptional events that go above and beyond the brief (www.quintessentiallyweddings.com; 020–7760 2310)
Jessie Thomson
Best for a fashion-forward approach and guest-centric focus, Jessie reminds couples to keep the meaning behind their big day at the forefront of their minds (www.jessiethomson.co.uk; 01242 570802)
Niemierko
Legendary planner Mark Niemierko is an institution. He builds—and sustains long after the wedding—a close relationship with his clients and recommends ‘avoiding Pinterest and peer pressure’ during the planning process (www.niemierko.com; 020–7580 5010)
Apollo Event Consultants
Founder Tim Hanbury creates archetypal country weddings with attention to the minute details. Previous clients include members of the Royal Family (www.apollo-ec.co.uk; 01428 658624)
By Bruce Russell
One for parties with flair, Bruce has 15 years of experience in luxury hospitality, including tenures at The Plaza in New York and The Savoy in London (www.bybrucerussell.com; 020–3078 9583)
Snapdragon London
Founder Julia Dowling runs a multi-disciplinary team with a reputation for planning large and complex weddings—one included constructing a glass extension to Blenheim Palace (www.snapdragonparties.com; 020–7416 6664)
Kasmira
Expert in everything from the engagement party to the recovery brunch, Kasmira’s portfolio of work includes gutting and re-fabricating the fuselage of a Boeing 747 and creating an ethereal woodland-glade wedding reception (www.kasimira.co.uk; 020–7581 8313)
Albion Parties
Creating bespoke events, tailor-made to every client, Albion uses only the best suppliers to guarantee a harmonious experience (www.albionparties.com; 020–7183 4852)
Bentley’s Entertainment
A Bentley’s wedding guest described the experience as ‘lavish and impeccably organised’. Founder and director Peregrine Armstrong-Jones is a master at moving guests from one space and experience to the next (www.bentleys.net; 020–7223 7900)
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The real name of a 'ghost' rainbow, the first ever omnishambles, and golf on the moon: Country Life Quiz of the Day 20 February 2025Some real brainteasers for you in our Quiz of the Day. Good luck!
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Tom Parker Bowles's favourite recipe: French onion soupThis dish is no mere Gallic broth, rather pure bonhomie in a bowl — a boozy, beefy, allium-scented masterpiece that cries out for the chill depths of winter
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The rise of the intimate weddingMany couples who tied the knot under Covid-19 restrictions have spoken glowingly about the experience of more intimate ceremonies, which look set to stay.
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Wedding dos and don'ts: Nine tips to hold the perfect wedding receptionHamish Shephard, founder of Bridebrook and owner of wedding venue Hedsor House, shares his expert tips how to ensure your wedding reception goes with a bang.
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Curious Questions: Why do brides throw their bouquets? And wear white? And wear something old, new, borrowed and blue?Weddings are full of all manner of weird and wonderful traditions and superstitions – Annunciata Elwes gets to the bottom of some of the most famous.
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The Utterly Inessential Wedding Shopping List: From beautiful bouquets to romantic getawaysAs the excitement of last night begins to fade into memory, we hold dear in our hearts those who are about to embark on months and months of careful planning, menu tasting and reckless spending. Alexandra Fraser presents to you everything you (may or may not) need to get through the wedding planning season and your special day.
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10 things you need to think about if you're planning a wedding at homeGeorgie Evans, Web & Marketing Manager at The Wedding Present Co., shares her tips on having your wedding at home and what advice she gives to others looking to do the very same.
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The five golden rules of wearing a hat to a weddingIf you've a wedding or two (or three) coming up this year, Emma Hughes steps forward with advice for an essential of a lady's wardrobe: the hat.
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'Permission to marry your daughter, sir?' – Why you still need to ask for her father's blessing to get marriedAsking the father's permission to marry his daughter is hopelessly outdated yet remains an absolute essential part of the rituals of marriage, says Rupert Uloth.
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Choosing perfect wedding presents: A guide for brides, grooms and guestsGetting just the right thing for the happy couple can be a minefield for guests – how do you choose something they'll actually want, without resorting to cold, hard cash? Flora Watkins offers her advice.
