1. Start Working On Your Wedding Budget As Soon As Possible 

While it may be tempting to plan your wedding on a pay-as-you-go whim, by doing so you run the risk of depleting your funds before you’ve secured all of the wedding suppliers you want and need to achieve you wedding day goals.

2. Manage Your Wedding Budget In A Spreadsheet 

With more than 15 years experience managing multi-million pound budgets, I’d always recommend you start planning any budget with a good spreadsheet! However, I know my eagerness to get number crunching will not be shared by all. So, to get yourself off to a good start, I recommend you contact me to request our easy to use Excel wedding budget template, Designed with couples in mind, it’s the best way to keep all of your information together in an easy-to-scan format. Plus, I’ve pre-populated expenditure headings and formulas (with COVID-19 in mind) to help you apportion your budget with ease and make your money go further. 

3. Don’t Be Embarrassed To Ask For Help Setting Your Wedding Budget 

If the thought of talking figures or using an Excel spreadsheet is worrying you, don’t put it off! You could always join one of our wedding budget workshops or arrange a one-to-one wedding planning power hour with me. Just remember, I’m always at the end of the phone if you need a helping hand. 

4. Decide If You’ll Use Your Savings To Set Your Wedding Budget

My husband and I found using savings to pay for our wedding would be the most affordable option. As a result, we were able to avoid paying interest and fees associated with borrowing money. Don’t worry if you don’t already have money set aside or if your existing savings are earmarked for something else. You can always open-up a new savings account that’s exclusively dedicated to your wedding. The sooner you can start saving the more you can set aside. Plus this will allow you more time to research venues and services. 

Don’t feel pressured into adopting the 50:50: rule. Instead work out the amount you can both comfortably afford to save each month without compromising your quality of life. It’s a good idea to set yourselves a deadline too, otherwise you could be saving for too long and risk loosing wedding planning momentum. I’d recommend you cap your savings target at 24 months, 36 months max!

5. Decide If It’s Worth Using A Bank Loan To Bump-up Your Wedding Budget 

If you can’t save enough to cover the full cost of your wedding day, taking out a personal loan could be your best alternative. Although this is not the cheapest option, it will allow you time to repay your wedding tab in fixed monthly instalments over a set number of years. That way, you’ll be able to apportion your budget accordingly, and know exactly what’s owed, thus reducing the risk of overcommitting yourselves.  

6. Consider Using A Credit Card As An Extra Layer Of Security

My wedding costs are still very fresh to mind. Given the many varied costs associated with planning a wedding in the UK, there can be some advantages to using a credit card. Many UK credit cards offer purchase protection, so you may be able to get your money back if something goes wrong. Depending on the card, this could include protection in the event of defaults or cancellations. If you’re considering using your credit card towards some of your wedding costs, you need to decide whether you’ll repay the spending immediately or over a longer period of time.

7. Think Carefully Before Accepting Contributions From Family And Friends 

Traditionally, the family of the bride would pay for the entire wedding, but times have changed. The majority of my clients usually cover some or all of their wedding expenses. If you are a couple already living together when you marry, your friends & family may present you with cash gifts in lieu of more traditional gifts, that could also help pay for your big day. Be sure to plug these figures into our excel budgeting template if that’s the case for you.

If your relatives are insistent on contributing a lump sum to your wedding day, try to have an open and honest conversation about their expectations. Where many relatives are happy to consider their contribution as a gift and let you spend it as you wish. Some relatives may automatically assume that they have a stake in your big day! Just remember, regardless of the amount, your relatives will deem  their contribution as an investment – and it’s likely they’ll want to see a return.

8. Allocate Your Wedding Budget 

Before you begin allocating your budget, I recommend you ring-fence 15% as a contingency, 20% if planning during COVID-19. 

All you have to do now is allocate your budget. Easier said then done right? By far this will be one of the more challenging tasks on your wedding planning to do list. You could always use our wedding planning budget template and go it alone. Chances are you’ve never planned an event on this scale before, so not sure how much things costs. This is when our wedding planning budget template or wedding planning power hours could come in handy, as a laidback luxury wedding planner, I know exactly how to apportion your wedding budget to make your money go further and deliver the wedding your hoping for.

Boutique soirée, simple but stylish, grand and lavish… whatever you’re dreaming of, we’ll make it come true.

I do hope you’ve enjoyed reading my blog. Please do feel free to connect with me on anyone of our social media channels. YouTube Facebook LinkedIn Twitter Instagram Pinterest

Written by Marsha Mollineau, East London Wedding Planner & Founder of Mollineau Weddings & Events

The post Planning Your Wedding Budget – Set Your Wedding Budget Successfully appeared first on Mollineau Weddings & Events.

Don’t Announce Your Engagement On Social Media Too Soon

If you were fortunate enough to have someone around to snap a photo of the big moment, hold off sharing on social media for now. There will be plenty of opportunities to share. You are no way obliged to share your news straight away. To avoid drama, give your engagement announcement a little bit of thought before you share a cute ‘ I sad yes’ selfie on Instagram. 

Do Tell Your Family Your Engagement News First

As a laid back luxury wedding planner, I’m in favour of the traditional engagement announcement etiquette – with a modern twist! I think it’s a really nice touch if both sets of parents are the first to be informed. If you possibly can, do so in person: face-to-face or remotely. If your parents don’t yet know each other, I suggest you make plans for them to meet. Perhaps, loosen them up with a glass of Champagne followed by a celebratory meal. 

Don’t Discuss Wedding Planning During Your Engagement Announcement To Family

If the topic of wedding guest lists or financial contributions pops up in conversation – avoid it like the plague. Instead, respond by explaining that you’re focusing the next few weeks on announcing your engagement to friends & family. And welcome the opportunity to discuss wedding planning once things have sunk in. 

If there are any children involved from prior relationships (or ex-spouses) think about how they’d feel if they heard the news from someone other than yourselves. Put yourself in their shoes and consider telling them sooner rather than later.

Do Announce Your Engagement To Your Inner Circle AKA ‘Your Besties!’

Now that you’re done with all the formalities, you’ll probably want to announce your engagement from the rooftops!. So if you can, round up your inner circle as soon as you possibly can. Pop the bubbly and share your good news. Use the time to share a sneak peak of your proposal pics (on your phone only), as your friends may accidentally leak your photos.

If you can’t meet in person, arrange a virtual catch-up or call them to announce your engagement. From here the celebration will build momentum very quickly, so get your news out to the most important people ASAP to avoid hurt feelings! Don’ feel pressured into to choosing your bridal party at this stage – there’s plenty time for that. 

Don’t Miss Anyone Off Your List

Before you announce your engagement on social media, tell your siblings, other close family members and anyone else who may not be au fait with social media. People get really funny about engagements, so I’d recommend doing a quick check through your phone contacts list to ensure you haven’t missed anyone else who will be easily offended if they’re left out! 

Do Announce Your Engagement On Social Media

Ok, now it’s time to share the #shesaidyes hashtag! Be ready for your phone to ring, social media ‘likes’ to clock up and engagement gifts to start pouring in! Perhaps you’ll be lucky enough to receive one of our Wedding Planning ‘Power Hours Gift Cards. Be sure to keep track of your engagement cards & gifts with our handy gift list tracker which includes a handy ‘thank you’ card wording advice. 

Wishing you all the best with your wedding planning journey!

Marsha Mollineau-Griffiths | Laid-back Luxury Wedding Planner

The post Wedding Etiquette & Advice – How To Announce Your Engagement In Style appeared first on Mollineau Weddings & Events.

I’m bursting with excitement!

The last few months I’ve had to pinch myself to see if I was dreaming. It’s not every day you are approached with an opportunity to list your wedding & event planning business in British Vogue’s Christmas special, not to mention; British Vogue’s Editor-in-Chief, Edward Enninful third anniversary issue.

As wedding planners confidentiality is key, however keeping this quiet for several months has not been easy! 

Imagine my delight when I received my print copy and realised that my listing was included in the same edition as royalty: His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales and the Queen B herself – Beyoncé 

This simply is a dream come true for me. 

A big congratulations to all 28 wedding professionals worldwide that were handpicked to list their businesses in in ‘Eat, Drink and be Married’ advertising feature.  

Mrs Marsha Mollineau-Griffiths 

Laid-back Luxury Wedding Planner 

The post Featured In British Vogue (December 2020) appeared first on Mollineau Weddings & Events.

Unfortunately, the uncertainty is ongoing and probably will be for the foreseeable future. Whether you’re re-planning your big day, had to postpone or taking your first steps to planning a wedding during COVID-19, my heart goes out to you. 

Small Intimate Wedding Venues in London

Forgive me if I’m wrong, but I can only assume that you are reading my blog because you had your heart set on a big wedding with a huge party. And, the thought of a small wedding ceremony, followed by dinner with friends and family isn’t your idea of a wedding at all! Compromising your original plans is all to overwhelming to say the least. 

It’s been many months since the pandemic changed the way we live and work, and nothing feels more important than staying connected to our friends and family. As a laid back luxury London wedding planner, I’ve handpicked a selection of intimate wedding venues in London, that are sure to steal your heart and have you tie the knot sooner rather than later. From Michelin-starred restaurants located in the sophisticated City of London to grand hotels in Mayfair. You’re sure to fall in love with at least one of these venue spaces and warm to the idea of a intimate ceremony followed by dinner with close friends and family. 

6 Intimate Wedding Venues In London You Shouldn’t Overlook

So, whether you’re planning a grand showstopper reception with a high number of guest (when it’s safe to do so), or a sophisticated intimate celebration with close friends and family. In no particular order as they are all so fabulous, I present to you…a handful of luxury intimate wedding venues in London for your consideration. 

South Place Hotel

South Place Hotel excludes both elegance and style. I first visited South Place Hotel in Spring 2020. And, immediately fell in love with the contemporary variety of luxurious, stunning and unique social spaces. For example, you could choose to celebrate your micro-wedding against the romantic backdrop of London’s sweeping city views. Chill-out at the incredible outdoor terrace or you could treat you and your guests to a world-class dinning experience on the stunning rooftop terrace at their Michelin-starred restaurant Angler. Finished off with an overnight stay in one of their luxury hotel rooms. Put simply, South Place hotel brings everything together under one roof.

RSA House 

I also fell in love with RSA House during summer 2020! This beautiful standout city venue is full of Georgian architecture and modern facilities. The art-lined Great Room is one of my favourite rooms here. It may come as a surprise to you,  but the Great Room at RSA House isn’t just for huge wedding parties. The Great Room is full of rich history and is a must see. The clever lighting instantly makes this space into something more intimate. The lofty high-ceilings paired with the stunning dome’s skylight will have you dining under the stars in style. RSA House definitely has the wow factor.

10-11 Carlton House Terrace 

I had the pleasure of visiting this spectacular Grade I listed Georgian Townhouse, summer 2020. This beautiful Central London venue offers private hire of 10 different rooms, each with their own character and charm. For an intimate wedding in London, I’d highly recommend the Music Room, the Lee Library or a personal favourite of mine the Cornwall Room. They are the perfect match for civil or religious ceremonies, non-religious wedding blessings & elegant private dining functions.

The Landmark

One of London’s most sought-after private dining rooms: The Tower Suite at The Landmark. This unique private dining room offers classic style and elegance. The sky really is the limit here! The stunning glass roof offers a fantastic view over the stunning winter garden. The private dinning room creates the perfect ambience for an intimate wedding celebration in West London. Plus, you could always stay the night – the executive corner suite is a family favourite of ours.

The Biltmore Mayfair

Located in London’s prestigious Grosvenor Square, The Biltmore Mayfair will not disappoint the modern day independent bride. It’s both modern and sophisticated. Surrounded by gardens and greenery the hotel offers a seamless balance of distinguishing character and unrivalled service for the modern busy bride who needs to keep both her loved-ones and business associates in mind when planning her big day. 

You can unwind with mum at the Tea Lounge and enjoy one of London’s finest afternoon teas. Let your hair down with your bridal squad at the sophisticated Pine Bar.  Enjoy a world-class meal with your business associates at one of the capital’s most sought-after restaurants: the Betterment. Or simply enjoy sweet delicacies and a moment to yourself in the Writer’s Corner (I’d recommend the Dorset spice apple cake). 

So whether you’re thinking micro wedding or exuberant party, pre-wedding or post-wedding celebrations you’ll be spoilt for choice at the Biltmore Mayfair. They have it all: expansive ballrooms, exquisite intimate private dinning rooms, an all year round terrace and more.

Clissold House 

As a Hackney based wedding planner, my blog wouldn’t be complete without the mention of Clissold House. This grade II listed venue provides a stunning setting for an intimate wedding in North London. The large ornate windows flood the space with ample natural light and boasts exceptional views across Clissold park.

You’ll be spoilt for choice here. The house offers two main rooms on the first floor with an outdoor terrace. The Drawing Room, Dining Room and adjoining Hallway are perfect for the most stylish of weddings. The original features such as the iconic spiral staircase ensure breathtaking photo opportunities for you and your guest. A fantastic choice for an intimate celebration in North London. 

What Did You Think About The Intimate Wedding Venues I Mentioned Today?

So that’s it. A small selection of intimate wedding venues for your consideration. In summary, we first had: South Place Hotel. Second, RSA House. Third, 10-11 Carlton House Terrace. Fourth, The Lamdmark, fifth Clissold House and last but not least, The Biltmore Mayfair.

Let’s Connect?

I really hope you enjoyed reading my blog. Please feel free to contact me, if you’re fed-up of waiting to tie the knot and have changed your mind about having a big wedding. I can help you plan an intimate wedding in London, safely reuniting your closest friends and family.

Please do follow our Instagram account, if you found our recommendations helpful. Alternatively, you can send me a direct message. I’d love to hear all about your wedding planning journey.

I’m Still Not Sure If A Small Intimate Wedding Is For Me!

If you feel the intimate wedding venues i’ve shared today are not quite what you’re looking for, don’t hesitate to contact me.  I’m always keen to utilise my little black book of wedding venues for my couples. In other words, I’ll handpick the best small intimate wedding venues in London for you, and have you saying yes to the venue in no time.

Marsha Mollineau-Griffiths

Laid back luxury wedding planner in London.

The post Micro Weddings – 6 Intimate Wedding Venues In London appeared first on Mollineau Weddings & Events.