Planning a wedding can be a rollercoaster ride of emotion. That’s why The Artful Diner decided to take all the stress out of it for you by compiling a seven-step guide for how to plan the perfect day (and make it hassle-free, so you’ll have more time to actually enjoy it!).

1. How to… plan it properly

Remember the 1990s classic flick Father of the Bride, and the extravagant wedding planner Franck (Martin Short)? Well, your wedding planner doesn’t need to be as extravagant as Franck, but having them on board to help plan your affair will ensure the day runs smoothly. According to wedding planner Rachel Evans from fully licensed wedding venue Avenue, it’s essential to create a function schedule that considers absolutely everything.

2. How to… dress your bridesmaids

When it comes to choosing the dresses that best suit the style of your wedding and, of course, your bridesmaids, there’s a lot to consider. For example, will the dresses be floor-length and dreamy or structured and classy? Will you opt for bright colours or neutral tones? “The most important thing is that your bridesmaids love their dresses and feel comfortable in them,” says Sinclair Sellars, from bridesmaid dressmaker Maids to Measure.

3. How to… decide on your drinks

Who doesn’t love to let their hair down at a wedding and enjoy a few drinks? If you’re planning a spring or summer wedding, Stefan Hodges, Avenue’s bar manager, suggests serving a rum punch. “From a practical point of view it’s relatively easy to make and caters to all tastes,” he explains. “I’d combine a couple of different rums with fresh, seasonal fruit, such as strawberries and raspberries. Add some liqueur and fresh juices and it tastes great!”

4. How to…  plan a menu like no other

To ensure your wedding is remembered for years to come, the food must be outstanding. Kimmo Makkonen, head chef at Avenue, believes the perfect wedding day menu would begin with a selection of lovely canapés, for example wild mushroom tartlets. The main course would involve beef, such as a Tournedos Rossini with truffled potatoes and Madeira sauce. A palate cleanser of celery sorbet with walnut foam would follow. And for dessert? “I always picture the perfect wedding in the summer, so I would want strawberries and cream to go with my cake,” says Kimmo.

5. How to… choose your bridal lingerie

Obviously, a key ingredient to feeling fabulous on your special day is choosing lingerie that makes you feel beautiful all over. Comfort is another vital factor! Caroline Noble, from luxury lingerie brand Rigby & Peller, says you also need to pick lingerie that won't show through under your dress, for example a lacy or embroidered set.

6. How to… pick your music

Music is an essential part of any wedding; it will set the mood for the majority of your special day. In first choosing what music you play, consider what evokes the best memories for you as a couple. Secondly, listen to music that has been recommended to you. Lucy Jones, from the Barber String Quartet, says: “People often hear a piece we’ve recommended and, in their mind, instantly connect it to their wedding.” The Artful Diner loves the idea of featuring a string quartet at your wedding: it’s versatile, beautifully romantic and fits the ambience of a wedding perfectly. 

7. How to… accessorise

If you’re opting for a hugely formal event and have always wanted to don a tiara, your wedding day may be the chance to do so. Silvia Kobi, from antique jeweller Richard Ogden, recommends pairing a tiara with slightly smaller drop earrings and a small pendant necklace to frame your face better. Alternatively, try a beautiful ornate crescent headdress from award-winning milliner Rachel Trevor-Morgan.

Further information:

For more ideas and inspiration on planning your wedding, head along to the Mayfair Wedding Showcase at Avenue on Sunday 25 March. There will be complimentary champagne and a goodie bag for every bride. It’s open from 11am until 4pm. Book early to secure your place.