35th Wedding Anniversary Gifts: 50 Anniversary Gift Ideas

If you’re about to celebrate your 35th wedding anniversary, you must be over the moon. To spend 35 years with the love of your life is an amazing achievement which not all couples get to celebrate, so you’re super lucky. Plus, it’s a testament to the work and commitment you’ve put into your marriage over the years, and you totally deserve to celebrate in style.

As part of how you mark your 35th anniversary, you might be excited to give your other half a gift. It’s been 10 years since you celebrated your silver wedding anniversary, when you may have given your partner the traditional gift at the time, which was (as the name suggests) silver. But, did you know that your 35th anniversary also has a name and theme in a similar way?

Your 35th anniversary is also known as your coral anniversary, so coral naturally plays a super important role in the gifts. But, there’s also a modern gift you might want to consider, as well as a traditional flower and gemstone. That means, if you want to give your partner a gift jam-packed with meaning, which couples have been giving to each other for over a century, you have plenty to choose from.

In this article, we’re going to take a look at all the different 35th anniversary gift-giving traditions and let you know all about what they mean. We’ll also give you 50 gift suggestions to give you a head start on ideas for what you might want to give the love of your life in honour of the occasion.

For more details on the anniversary gift-giving traditions from 1 year through to 90, read our complete year-by-year wedding anniversary gift guide.

What are traditional and modern gifts for a 35th wedding anniversary?

The traditional and modern 35th wedding anniversary gifts

The traditional 35th anniversary gift goes back to the Victorian era, while the modern gift dates back to the early 20th century. There’s no right or wrong answer about what type of gift to give – only what’s right for you. Each of the themes is filled with symbolism and meaning, which can take a gift and elevate it to the next level and let your partner know just how much you love them.

Traditional 35th anniversary gift – Coral

The traditional gift to give when celebrating 35 years of marriage is coral. Coral is a gemstone usually found in the Mediterranean and Pacific. It symbolises long life and success, so perfect when marking 35 amazing years. Coral gemstones are actually the same as the coral you find in the ocean, but have been polished to give them that typical shiny, gemstone-like appearance.

Coral is also, of course, a gorgeous orange-pink colour, so there are a lot of different ways you can interpret and have fun with the theme.

Modern 35th anniversary gift – Jade

The modern 35th wedding anniversary gift is jade. Jade is another type of gemstone, which usually comes in various shades of green. Many believe jade has fantastic healing benefits, and it’s often used for meditation.

When it comes to your anniversary, jade also symbolises love, wisdom and the future, so it has loads of great positive meaning on top of looking fabulous.

35th anniversary gemstone – Emerald

The traditional 35th anniversary gemstone is emerald, an absolutely jaw-dropping gemstone. It’s usually a vivid green, but can occasionally have a touch of blue in it as well. Emeralds are a precious gemstone, which means they’re both highly desirable and occasionally rather expensive, but you can still find emerald jewellery that doesn’t break the bank.

Emerald symbolises loyalty, peace and security, and is a wonderful addition to jewellery and accessories.

35th anniversary flower – Coral rose

The traditional 35th wedding anniversary flower is coral rose. Roses were previously the traditional flower associated with your 15th anniversary and 24th anniversary, but for the first time, it’s a specific colour. This links the rose to the traditional theme, and coral roses really are beautiful. They represent excitement and desire, which is spot on when celebrating 35 years together.

How do you choose a gift for a 35th wedding anniversary?

Choosing the right gift to give your partner to mark 35 years together can be a difficult decision. With four themes to choose from (which, of course, you don’t even have to stick to) it can be tricky knowing which one to go for. Here are four things to think about before you start your search for the ideal gift:

  • Have you agreed to stick to one of the themes? While there is a lot of choice, three of the themes are gemstones. That means you might struggle to find something more out there, especially if your other half isn’t really into jewellery.
  • Do you have a budget in mind? Coral and jade can be relatively affordable, while emerald is expensive, so what you go for depends on your budget.
  • Do you want to give your partner a personalised gift? Jewellery set with coral, jade and emerald isn’t often customisable, which may sway your decision if you’re keen to give something personalised.
  • Has your partner already asked for something? If so, you might have trouble fitting it into one of the traditional or modern themes.

Is a couple you love about to celebrate 35 years of marriage? It might be your parents, someone in your family or some friends. Whoever it is, if you’re looking for a gift to give them to mark the occasion, you may be wondering whether it’s appropriate for you to give them a gift linked to one of these themes. The answer is a resounding yes! They’ll no doubt love whatever you decide to give them and they’ll appreciate the extra thought that’s gone into your gift, too.

50 ideas for a 35th wedding anniversary gift

35 years is a hugely enviable milestone to reach, and you might be searching for what sort of gift you can give your partner so they know just how much you love them. Well, if you’d like to give them a traditional or modern gift but you’re not quite sure where to start, here are 50 ideas to give you a little inspiration.

10 traditional gifts for a 35th wedding anniversary

The traditional gift to give your partner when you’re celebrating your 35th anniversary is coral. This is a great theme because it gives you loads of different options, from jewellery to something linked to the ocean to attractive peachy-pink shades. Here are 10 gift ideas centred around this versatile theme.

1. A silver coral necklace

Coral is absolutely gorgeous and makes up one of the natural wonders of this world. Its beauty is brilliantly captured in this silver coral necklace, which is unique, eye-catching and just as beautiful as the real thing.

2. A rose gold and coral watch

For a watch that’s stylish, smart and dependable, with a strap linked closely to the traditional theme, you might want to choose a rose gold and coral watch. It’s sleek and modern and perfect no matter your partner’s style.

3. A coral and silver heart locket

The ultimate symbol of love for your 35th anniversary is this coral and silver heart locket, which is bold and gorgeous. When it opens up, there’s room for two photographs so your partner can always keep their memories close to their heart.

4. A coral healing stone bracelet

Many believe coral has mystical healing abilities, and this coral healing stone bracelet is small and dainty and looks great. Even if your partner isn’t particularly spiritual, it’s still a great gift perfectly fitting with the theme.

5. A coral enamel and silver frame

Print out your favourite photograph and frame it in this coral enamel and silver frame, a super unique frame that helps your memories really pop.

6. Coral bookends

If your partner is something of a bookworm and needs a way to keep their books in order, you can’t go wrong with this pair of coral bookends. They make for a great addition to any bookshelf.

7. A coral sculpture

Give your partner a gift that makes a real statement with a coral sculpture. It’s a striking piece of modern art that has great meaning behind it and would be a brilliant addition to a cabinet or shelf.

8. A coral wooden coaster set

For a lovely gift that you can always use and remember your 35th anniversary by, this coral wooden coaster set comes with coasters and placemats that have been protected with oil and wax to make sure they last years and years.

9. A red coral rose quartz lotus symbol orgone pyramid

Give your partner a gift to banish bad feelings and lift their mood. This red coral rose quartz lotus symbol orgone pyramid is said to protect from bad spirits and calm the soul. It also has a striking look and is an amazing conversation starter.

10. A coral ornament

For a gift your partner can display an admire, you might want to consider giving them a coral ornament. A great addition to a desk or sideboard.

10 modern gifts for a 35th wedding anniversary

If you’re looking to give your partner a gift associated with the modern 35th wedding anniversary theme, you’ll want to consider something made from jade. Jade is also a gemstone and has great links to spirituality, so there are plenty of things for you to consider. Here are 10 suggestions for gifts containing jade.

1. A pair of jade cufflinks

The deep greens of jade work really well with polished brass, so this pair of jade cufflinks is ideal if your partner regularly wears a suit. Plus, the jade has flashes of emerald shades, making it a great double-hitter for your 35th anniversary.

2. A jade bangle

Jade bangles are a symbol of good luck and have historically been worn by royalty. These jade bangles are natural and untreated, so if you have the budget they’re an absolutely sensational gift to mark 35 years.

3. A jade pendant

Jade really is an eye-catching gemstone, and it’s often that the bigger and bolder they are, the more beautiful they are too, like with a jade pendant. This one is absolutely gorgeous and comes in loads of different styles and designs.

4. A jade silk tie

Jade isn’t just a stunning gemstone, but a hugely attractive colour, which lends itself well to clothing and accessories. This jade silk tie is smart with its intricate design, and would suit a range of occasions.

5. A jade tree of life

To help fill your home with positive vibes, you could give your partner a jade tree of life. Jade is often used in Feng Shui to encourage purity – plus it looks great!

6. Jade lovebirds

For a gift that’s sweet, on theme and utterly romantic, look no further than this pair of jade lovebirds. There’s oodles of meaning behind them and they’re hand-carved and mounted on a base. Plus, their small size means they make for a lovely minimalistic addition to a shelf.

7. Antique Chinese jade

China is known for having large jade deposits, and the Chinese have made some stunning jade pieces throughout history. That means, there’s a good amount of antique Chinese jade out there, which is often small, intricate and beautiful.

8. A jade hamper

“The Jade” is a luxury hamper filled with 13 gorgeous food items, including seven Great Taste gold medal winners. From sweets and biscuits, to chutneys and olives, treat your partner’s tastebuds with the ultimate jade anniversary hamper.

9. Two peas in a pod engraved jade necklace

Because jade is green, it makes for the perfect gemstone to use in a two peas in a pod engraved necklace, which you can also customise with a personal engraving.

10. A jade skincare set

If you think your partner deserves to be pampered on your anniversary, you can’t go wrong with a jade skincare set. It includes a massage roller, a candle, eye masks, a silk cloth and more.

5 affordable gifts for a 35th wedding anniversary

Your anniversary is a great time for you and your partner to spoil each other. But, what if you don’t have the budget? Or, what if your other half isn’t into gemstones and you don’t want to spend a lot of money on something they might not like? Well, there are budget-friendly alternatives, so you can still take part in the fun and give them a gift linked to the theme. Check them out below.

1. A pair of coral pearl earrings

This pair of coral pearl earrings is 18-carat gold plated and features coral-coloured Swarovski glass pearls. They make for a brilliant low-cost, on-theme gift for your 35th anniversary.

2. A coral keyring

Featuring the image of coral topped with glass cabochon, this silver-plated coral keyring is a great token gift your partner can take with them anywhere.

3. A jade gua sha massage tool

For a quick treat for your partner’s skin, this jade gua sha massage tool is unique and a must-have during those at-home facial routines.

4. A jade worry stone

A jade worry stone is small enough to hold in your hand to help relax you and ease anxiety. It’s also very affordable, so it’s the perfect token gift. 

5. An emerald crystal tumbled stone

Not all emeralds are expensive, like this emerald crystal tumbled stone. It promotes friendship, peace and harmony, and is incredibly affordable.

5 DIY gifts for a 35th wedding anniversary

When celebrating their anniversary, a lot of couples love the added gesture of making their partner a gift. It shows even more love, thoughtfulness and dedication, and can also be a lot of fun. The only trouble is, your 35th anniversary is all about the gemstones, which you might think would be tricky to DIY without jewellery-making experience. Well, believe it or not, all you need are some raw gemstones, some wire and a few basic tools to make something super unique. Here are five ideas for DIY 35th wedding anniversary gifts.

1. A DIY wire ring

Rings are small and intricate, but with a little bit of patience, it’s totally possible to make a DIY wire ring that looks fantastic. Check out a video tutorial to see if it’s something you might like to have a go at.

2. DIY wire earrings

Create your partner some earrings featuring the stone of your choice, which will definitely turn a few heads. Plus, you only need a few basic tools to try it out. Watch a video tutorial for everything you need to make a pair for your partner.

3. A DIY wire-wrapped stone pendant

This one is a little more fiddly and requires one or two additional tools, but a DIY wire-wrapped stone pendant is a great gift to make. Watch a video tutorial to see if you’re brave enough to try it yourself.

4. A DIY wire bangle

If your partner loves jewellery that’s big and adventurous, they’re likely to love a DIY wire bangle. It only requires some simple tools, but patience is important as it can be fiddly. Have a watch of this video tutorial for all the steps.

5. Grow your own giant coral flower

Fill your garden or a few pots with coral flowers to symbolise how you feel about your partner. There’s no better way than by growing some Benary’s giant coral flowers, which flower in midsummer when planted in the spring.

5 experience or activity gifts for a 35th wedding anniversary

Your anniversary is all about the two of you, so why not use it as an excuse (as if you even need one!) to spend time doing something new, fun and exciting? Believe it or not, there are also ways to tie an experience into one of the four 35th wedding anniversary themes, so here are five ideas for you to consider.

1. A trip to Australia to see the Great Barrier Reef

We’re starting big with the first idea, and if you have the time and budget, there’s no better place to go that’s associated with coral than the Great Barrier Reef. It’s a breathtaking coral reef which really needs to be seen to be believed.

2. An emerald experience voucher

If you’d like to do something with your other half but aren’t quite sure what, give them an Emerald Experience Voucher and let them choose what you do. It could be anything from a luxurious short break to an amazing animal experience.

3. A trip to the Natural History Museum

Take a trip to London and visit the Natural History Museum, where you can learn all about coral reefs and these incredible ecosystems. Then, while you’re in the capital, why not grab dinner and catch a show while you’re at it?

4. An Emerald Cruise

Emerald gemstones are stunning, but do you know what’s even more stunning? An Emerald Cruise that allows you to see incredible locations around the world. A real treat if you a have the budget for it.

5. A trip to the Sea Life London Aquarium

While London isn’t quite as exotic as the Great Barrier Reef, there are still ways to experience coral in the capital. A trip to Sea Life London Aquarium lets you check out Coral Kingdom and see some incredible species up close.

10 35th anniversary jewellery gifts that contain emerald

The traditional 35th anniversary gemstone (even though the traditional and modern gifts were also gemstones!) is emerald. Emerald is one of the four precious gemstones (along with diamond, sapphire and ruby), and is an intoxicating shade of green that looks incredible in all types of jewellery and accessories. Here are 10 suggestions for what you might want to look out for:

  1. Earrings
  2. A ring
  3. A necklace
  4. A bracelet
  5. A broach
  6. A locket
  7. A watch
  8. An anklet
  9. A hairpin
  10. Cufflinks

Emeralds can be rather pricey, but because they’re so popular you can usually go to your local jewellers and find a large selection of emerald pieces. At Bridebook, we also work with a huge range of wedding jewellers, so make sure you check them out to find something your partner will love.

5 floral-inspired gifts for a 35th wedding anniversary

If you’d love to give your partner a gift linked to one of the themes but aren’t keen on giving them something with coral, jade or emerald, you could give them the traditional 35th anniversary flower, which is coral rose. Coral is a lovely pastel shade in roses, but still has that big romantic meaning. Here are five ideas for coral rose-related gifts you might want to consider.

1. A bouquet of coral roses

How could we start this list and not include a bouquet of coral roses first? Choose your ideal size and arrangement and watch your partner’s face when you treat them to this ultimate romantic gesture.

2. A coral rose bush

Roses conveniently thrive in UK gardens, so a coral rose bush is a gift that keeps on giving by flowering again year after year.

3. Coral rose earrings

There are no cuter earrings to give your partner to wear whenever you head out on those light summer nights than a pair of coral rose earrings.

4. A coral rose resin ornament

To give your partner a flower that’s guaranteed to never wilt and always look fresh, a coral rose resin ornament is a gift they can hold onto forever.

5. A coral rose pendant

Treat your partner to a coral rose pendant, a lovely piece they can wear to any occasion. It’s available in silver, gold, rose gold and white gold, so they should love it whatever their preference and style. 

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30th Wedding Anniversary Gifts: 50 Anniversary Gift Ideas

Celebrating 30 years of marriage is something many couples dream about on the day they stand in front of their loved ones to exchange their vows. Yet, three decades later, you and your partner are about to do exactly that, which is an enviable milestone to reach. It means you and your other half have persevered through thick and thin to make it to your 30th wedding anniversary.

Your last major milestone was your 25th anniversary, otherwise known as your silver wedding anniversary. This was a time when you may have chosen to give your partner a gift made from silver, which is a tradition many couples have stuck to for over 100 years. But, did you know that your 30th anniversary also has a name linked closely to the traditional wedding anniversary gift?

Your 30th anniversary is also known as your pearl anniversary, though there are also other themes linked to the milestone. So, if your partner isn’t into pearls, you can still give them a gift filled with important symbolism and meaning.

In this article, we’re going to explore all the traditional and modern gifts associated with your 30th wedding anniversary, including the traditional gemstone and flower. We’ll let you know all about what each gift means so you can decide whether or not it’s something you want to give your partner to mark 30 years together. We’ll also give you 50 gift ideas to offer you a helping hand on your hunt for the perfect present.

For more information about all the anniversary gift-giving traditions from 1 year to 90, read our complete year-by-year wedding anniversary gift guide.

What are traditional and modern gifts for a 30th wedding anniversary?

The traditional and modern 30th wedding anniversary gifts

Your 30th anniversary is an amazing milestone to reach, and one which not every couple will have the honour of celebrating in their lifetime. Just like with your 25th anniversary and all the other anniversaries which came before, there are traditional and modern gifts, as well as a traditional gemstone and flower, which can elevate a gift with symbolic and historical meaning.

Traditional 30th anniversary gift – Pearl

The traditional gift for celebrating 30 years of marriage is pearl, a wonderful iridescent natural stone produced by freshwater oysters (though there are beautiful vegan alternatives available too). Pearls represent wisdom, love and purity, making them a super thoughtful gift for such a milestone. They can also be fairly affordable and versatile, opening you up to a wide range of ideas.

Pearls have previously been themes also associated with your 3rd anniversary and 12th anniversary. So, if you didn’t give your partner a gift linked to the theme then, maybe now’s your chance.

Modern 30th anniversary gift – Diamond

The modern 30th anniversary gift is diamond. Diamonds are a hugely popular precious gemstone and symbolise beauty, strength and durability, making them a brilliant and foolproof way to get in your partner’s good books.

Diamond has previously featured as a previous anniversary theme when you celebrated your 10th year of marriage. It will also feature again in the future, including in another 30 years when you celebrate your 60th anniversary. But, if you have the budget, why wait that long?

30th anniversary gemstone – Pearl

The traditional gemstone when celebrating your 30th wedding anniversary is pearl. After all, it’s known as your pearl anniversary for good reason! Because it does feature so heavily in the list of themes, it does mean there are fewer types of gifts to choose from, but pearls are stunning. Plus, there are still plenty of options to consider, and you’re not limited to just jewellery either.

30th anniversary flower – Lily

The traditional flower to give your partner on your 30th wedding anniversary is the lily. Lilies represent purity and rebirth, so make for a poignant choice. That said, it’s important to remember that lilies are toxic to cats and dogs, so if you have pets at home it’s worth thinking of an alternative.

How do you choose a gift for a 30th wedding anniversary?

There are three different themes to choose from when it comes to your 30th anniversary. As it’s known as your pearl anniversary, you may be keen to give your partner something associated with pearls, or you may have other ideas. Here are a few points to consider when deciding what to give your partner to mark 30 years:

  • Is it important that you stick to one of the themes? These rules aren’t set in stone, but you and your partner might love giving each other an anniversary-theme-related gift.
  • What is your set budget? Pearls are generally more affordable than diamonds, but it can depend on what your budget allows for.
  • Are you interested in giving a personalised gift? Personalised gifts are an anniversary staple, but the 30th anniversary themes can be tricky to customise.
  • Has your partner asked for a specific gift? If so, you might be limited as to what sort of gift you want to give them.

Is a couple close to you about to celebrate their 30th wedding anniversary, like friends, parents or someone else in your life? You might be on the hunt for a gift to spoil them and let them know how much they mean to you, but you might also wonder whether you can give them something linked to one of the themes. Well, these rules (not that they’re even real rules at all) are for everyone, not just the couple themselves. If you’ve got something in mind that you know a couple celebrating their anniversary would love, then go for it. They’ll no doubt love whatever it is you want to give, and if it’s linked to one of the themes, they’ll appreciate the extra thought and meaning behind it too.

50 ideas for a 30th wedding anniversary gift

It’s been five years since your last traditional and modern anniversary gifts with your silver wedding anniversary, so you might be excited to have fun now that you’re about to celebrate 30 years. Here are 50 ideas to help you choose the ideal way to spoil your partner on your 30th anniversary.

10 traditional gifts for a 30th wedding anniversary

The traditional gift to give when celebrating your 30th anniversary is pearl, a beautiful stone produced by freshwater pearls. Of course, pearls are wonderful additions to jewellery, but they also lend themselves brilliantly to a huge variety of gifts beyond that. So, here are 10 gifts featuring pearls that you might consider giving to your partner.

And don’t forget that there are also vegan pearls available if you and your partner prefer non-animal-based products.

1. An eye-catching pearl vase

Filled with the incredible iridescent colours of pearls, this eye-catching pearl vase is a brilliant on-theme gift that is just as beautiful whether it has flowers in it or not.

2. A Precious Pearl Little Mermaid figurine

If your partner is a big fan of the classic 90s Disney movie, The Little Mermaid, then they’ll love this Precious Pearl Little Mermaid figurine. Featuring Ariel holding a pearl (and Sebastian, of course), it’s a subtle but lovely way to honour the theme and give your other half something they can display.

3. Royal blue mother of pearl rectangle mirror

For a gift that sticks close to the theme but is also beautiful and functional, this royal blue mother of pearl rectangle mirror is absolutely wonderful.

4. Pearl decorative nesting bowls

For a gift that’s low-cost and sure to get a lot of use, these pearl decorative nesting bowls are very sweet and can feature a personalised message.

5. A mother of pearl pen

The iridescent look of pearl really is hypnotic, and lends itself perfectly to a mother of pearl pen. It’s a great luxurious gift, and with plenty of designs available, you’ll no doubt find something that suits your partner’s tastes. 

6. A mother of pearl bowl

The perfect centrepiece, this mother of pearl bowl is eye-catching, one-of-a-kind and memorable. Every bowl is unique, so you know you’re giving your partner a gift like no other.

7. A pearl shell lamp

For something with retro vibes that’s great for creating a cosy atmosphere, this pearl shell lamp is a fun little way to give a gift linked to the theme.

8. A pearl cutlery set

Make every mealtime classy with a pearl cutlery set. Sets like these aren’t as popular as they once were, and we’re not sure why – they look brilliant, and it’s about time they made a comeback!

9. An antique pearl

Pearls have been used in jewellery, homeware, tableware and more for centuries, and every piece is as stunning as the last. Why not give your partner a piece of history with an antique pearl, which could be set in anything from a magnifying glass to a table box?

10. A pearl silver wire tree

Make a big statement on your pearl anniversary by giving your partner a pearl silver wire tree. It’s small, delicate and beautiful, and makes for a lovely item to display on a shelf or in a cabinet to forever pay tribute to your 30th year of marriage.

10 modern gifts for a 30th wedding anniversary

The modern gift when celebrating your 30th wedding anniversary is diamond. It’s no secret that diamonds are a gift associated with luxury, and they always make for an amazing gift. Yes, they’re expensive and don’t suit every budget, but if they do, then they’re usually a wonderful choice.

1. A diamond necklace

For a gift that screams class and sophistication, the ultimate diamond gift has to be a diamond necklace. Okay, so maybe a necklace from Tiffany is the height of opulence, but you can otherwise find more affordable choices from local and high-street jewellers too.

2. Diamond cufflinks

The great thing about diamond cufflinks is that they’re available in so many different styles. So, whether your partner likes cufflinks that are big and bold or sleek and subtle, you’re bound to find something they love.

3. A pearl, blue topaz and diamond pendant

Combine the traditional and modern themes to give a gift that has double the amount of 30th anniversary meaning. This pearl, blue topaz and diamond pendant is classy and unique, and despite featuring three hugely desirable stones, isn’t crazy expensive either.

4. Diamond earrings

A classic diamond gift has to be diamond earrings. And the thing is, diamond earrings come in loads of different styles, such as hoops, dangles or studs, and are often accommodating to a wide range of budgets.

5. A diamond ring

You may have given your partner a diamond ring in the past, such as when the two of you got engaged or when you reached your 10th anniversary. But, both occasions were so long ago, so now might be a great excuse to give them a new diamond ring.

6. A diamond bracelet

Your partner will feel like royalty with a diamond bracelet. Bracelets are available in a selection of styles and can be dainty or heavy. You can also choose from different precious metals, so you shouldn’t find it difficult to choose something that goes with your partner’s other jewellery.

7. Diamond and mother of pearl cufflinks

Another way to combine the traditional and modern themes is with a pair of diamond and mother of pearl cufflinks. Stylish, sleek and with double the anniversary meaning.

8. A Pandora Winnie the Pooh diamond charm

The perfect 30th anniversary gift for any Disney fan, this Pandora Winnie the Pooh diamond charm is chock full of character (and hunny) and makes for a special addition to their charm bracelet.

9. A diamond watch

Truly spoil your other half with a diamond watch. It’s the ultimate symbol of elegance and luxury, and is a stunning accessory to wear on special occasions.

10. A pearl and diamond ring

The beauty and boldness of pearls really do partner well with the shine and sparkle of diamonds. That’s why this pearl and diamond ring is a showstopper, with twice the amount of 30th anniversary meaning.

5 affordable gifts for a 30th wedding anniversary

While you would no doubt love to spoil your love on your 30th anniversary, diamonds and pearls are two themes that aren’t exactly cheap. Even the more affordable items tend to be rather expensive, which can be frustrating if you have a smaller budget. But, if you’re keen to give a gift filled with symbolism and meaning, but don’t want to spend too much, there are creative ways to do so. Here are five ideas for affordable gifts when celebrating 30 years together.

1. A pearl anniversary card

A fantastic way to honour the traditional theme, keep spending down AND give your partner a card is with a pearl anniversary card. It’s fun, cute, cheap and thoughtful – you’d be on to a real winner with this one.

2. A glass diamond paperweight

If your partner spends a lot of time sifting through papers at their desk, then they’ll probably get a lot of use out of this glass diamond paperweight

3. A dainty faux pearl necklace

Faux pearls are a lot more budget-friendly than freshwater pearls, and this dainty faux pearl necklace is great if you’d like to give your partner some jewellery but you don’t want to spend too much money.

4. Sterling silver pearl earrings

Not all freshwater pearls have to be pricey, like these sterling silver pearl earrings, which look great and are incredibly affordable considering what they are. If your partner loves stud earrings, this is a great bargain.

5. Happy anniversary pearls in a matchbox

For an adorable token gift your partner can always hold on to, this happy anniversary in a matchbox is a sweet and thoughtful way to mark your 30th milestone. It features two cute freshwater pearls presented in a matchbox with a ‘pearl-fect’ wedding anniversary message.

5 DIY gifts for a 30th wedding anniversary

A lot of couples love the romance involved with making their own anniversary gifts. It’s a sweet and thoughtful way to acknowledge the milestone, not to mention fun and exciting. The only thing is, when it comes to your 30th anniversary, making a gift linked to one of the themes can be tough – where would you even start making something with pearls or diamonds?

Well, that’s where we come in. With a little bit of creativity, it’s totally possible. So, here are five ideas for DIY gifts you can try for your 30th anniversary.

1. DIY pearl earrings

With a couple of pearls, some beads and some simple tools, it’s surprisingly easy to make DIY pearl earrings that are unique and full of charm. Watch a video tutorial to see what you need to give it a go.

2. A DIY pearl necklace 

It’s also not too difficult to make a pearl necklace at home, and it doesn’t require any special tools or kit. Just make sure you pick up some pearls that already have holes through the centre. Here’s a video tutorial to run you through the steps.

3. A DIY pearl bead ring

Believe it or not, you can also make a DIY pearl bead ring at home, and you don’t need to be an expert silversmith to do it. It’s a little more fiddly than other DIY pearl ideas, but still totally doable – see what you think with this video tutorial.

4. A DIY pearl beaded bag

If your partner likes accessories that are unique, then they might love a DIY pearl beaded bag. It’s likely to be totally unlike anything else they have! Check out a simple video tutorial and see for yourself.

5. A DIY diamond painting

Pick up a DIY diamond painting kit and create a brilliantly vivid piece of art that will add sparkle and personality to any room.

5 experience or activity gifts for a 30th wedding anniversary

Instead of giving your partner a physical gift for your anniversary, you could take the opportunity to head out into the world and do something new, fun, exciting or interesting. Your anniversary is all about the two of you, so an experience or activity is a brilliant way to spend time together. So, here are five ideas for experiences you can do when celebrating 30 years of marriage. 

1. A diamond experience day

Take a trip to South Wales and take part in a diamond experience day, where you and your partner can create your own piece of diamond jewellery under the direction of an expert goldsmith. You can also choose what you make, including a ring, bangle or cufflinks.

2. Pearl Jam tickets

Do you love rocking out? Well, there’s no better way to tie that into your 30th anniversary than by giving your partner Pearl Jam tickets! Okay, it only loosely ties into the theme of pearls, but we think it totally counts.

3. Girl with a Pearl Earring movie night

Get a takeaway in, open a bottle of fizz and get snuggly on the sofa to watch Girl with a Pearl Earring. Catch it on your favourite streaming platform or pick it up on DVD or Blu Ray.

4. A visit to Isle of Wight Pearl

Hop on a ferry to the Isle of Wight to visit Isle of Wight Pearl, where you can pick a pearl, take part in a design workshop and enjoy a bite to eat in the Pearl Cafe.

5. A diamond driving experience

If your partner’s a thrill-seeker, treat them to a diamond driving experience so they can get behind the wheel of a supercar and burn some rubber.

10 30th anniversary jewellery gifts that contain pearl

Pearl isn’t only the traditional 30th anniversary gift, but also the traditional gemstone to give when celebrating this amazing milestone. Pearls make a real statement and are often associated with beauty and elegance, which makes them the perfect addition to jewellery and accessories. They also look great alongside other stones, and work with both silver and gold. That means there’s loads of choice available if you love the thought of giving your partner jewellery. Here are 10 suggestions for jewellery that contains pearls:

  1. Earrings
  2. A ring
  3. A necklace
  4. A bracelet
  5. A broach
  6. A locket
  7. A watch
  8. An anklet
  9. A hairpin
  10. Cufflinks

Pearls are very common, so they’re often not the most expensive of gemstones. That makes them a lot more budget-friendly than other stones, and you’re also likely to find a huge selection at local and high-street jewellers. That means you shouldn’t have too much drama finding the perfect item of pearl jewellery for your partner. At Bridebook, we’ve partnered with a massive range of jewellers, so make sure you check them out and browse the pearl jewellery they have to offer.

5 floral-inspired gifts for a 30th wedding anniversary

If you’d like to give a beautiful floral gift on your pearl wedding anniversary, the traditional flower when celebrating 30 years is the lily. Lilies are big, gorgeous flowers that come in lots of different colours and are often the inspiration for designs and other gifts. So, here are five ideas for gifts linked to lilies which you can consider for your 30th anniversary.

1. A bouquet of lilies

Of course we had to include a bouquet of lilies as the first addition to our list. Lilies are beautiful flowers that smell incredible and fill a vase to bursting point. The only thing to be mindful of is that they’re toxic to cats and dogs, so might not be suitable if you have a four-legged friend at home.

2. A lily-scented candle

Lilies have a really distinct floral scent, which is sweet and inviting. That’s why a lily-scented candle is a great gift to help create a romantic atmosphere on the night of your anniversary, especially if you’re having a cosy candlelit dinner. 

3. A Swarovski lily

Swarovski is a brand synonymous with luxury, and a Swarovski lily is a perfect gift that looks fantastic and can sit on a shelf or sideboard as a constant reminder of your 30th anniversary.

4. Water lily flower stud earrings

Give your partner a glorious set of water lily flower stud earrings, which are small and delicate and made from 9kt gold.

5. A lily of the valley engraved vase

A lily of the valley engraved vase is a stunning gift to give, with intricate etchings that are subtle and beautiful. It’s something your partner can always use whenever they have flowers, so they’re always reminded of your big milestone.

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25th Wedding Anniversary Gifts: 50 Anniversary Gift Ideas

You’re about to celebrate your 25th wedding anniversary… wow! What a fantastic achievement, and one that not very many couples have the fortune of celebrating. It shows just how much love and commitment the two of you share to have made it to a quarter of a century of marriage. It’s an incredible milestone that deserves to be shouted about from every rooftop in your neighbourhood!

Your 25th wedding anniversary is also known as your silver wedding anniversary, because it relates to the traditional gifts couples that have been giving each other for more than 100 years. Just like every anniversary up to this point, there are traditional and modern gifts, as well as a traditional gemstone and flower. But, when you’re celebrating 25 years of marriage, there isn’t as much differentiation between them as at other milestones.

That’s because your 25th anniversary really is a big one. And if you can and want to, taking part in the gift-giving traditions associated with it can be a nice way to mark the occasion. It’s called your silver anniversary for good reason, after all. And that’s not to say you have to give your partner something silver – you’re obviously free to give them any kind of gift you like!

In this article, we’re going to let you know all about the traditions surrounding 25th anniversary gifts and the meaning behind this historical choice. We’ll also give you 50 ideas for gifts if you want to give your partner a meaningful gift but you’re not quite sure where to start.

For more information about the various anniversary gift-giving traditions from 1 year to 90, read our complete year-by-year wedding anniversary gift guide.

What are traditional and modern gifts for a 25th wedding anniversary?

Your 25th anniversary is a biggie, and is otherwise known as your silver anniversary. For that reason, silver features quite prominently when it comes to the different traditional and modern gifts. Here are the gifts you might want to consider when sticking to the 25th anniversary themes.

Traditional 25th anniversary gift – Silver

The traditional 25th anniversary gift is silver, which is why it’s also known as your silver wedding anniversary. Silver represents beauty, strength and durability, which makes it a perfect choice for this fantastic milestone. The great thing about silver is that it’s a hugely versatile precious metal, and isn’t just limited for use in jewellery. So, even though there are fewer themes for your 25th anniversary, it still allows you to have plenty of gifts to choose from.

Modern 25th anniversary gift – Silver

When the modern anniversary gifts were created in the 1930s by the American National Retail Jeweler Association, they realised that there was no point in creating something new for 25 years. By that point, your 25th anniversary was already well and truly cemented as being the silver anniversary. So, the modern gift for your 25th anniversary is also silver.

25th anniversary gemstone – Silver

While not actually a gemstone (it’s a precious metal, like gold) the traditional 25th anniversary gemstone is also – you guessed it – silver. This means there isn’t as much choice when it comes to gift themes for your 25th anniversary, but the special meaning is one that is known the world over.

25th anniversary flower – Iris

If you’re looking to give your partner something traditional but not silver, you can choose to give them the traditional 25th anniversary flower, which is the lovely iris. Irises usually come in shades of purple or blue, but you can also find them in yellow, brown, black, orange, pink and white. Irises represent courage, hope and wisdom, which are all beautiful gestures for a 25th anniversary gift.

How do you choose a gift for a 25th wedding anniversary?

With silver having such a close association with your 25th anniversary, you may have already decided what you’re going to get as a gift for your other half. Silver is a lovely gift to give during an extra special milestone that has fabulous historical meaning. But, when it comes to narrowing it down, you might not be so sure. Here are a few things to bear in mind when deciding on what to give your partner to mark 25 years together:

  • Are you set on sticking to the silver theme? If so, you may want to get something traditionally silver, like jewellery, or are you open to having a bit more fun with the theme?
  • Have you got a set budget? While silver isn’t as expensive as gold or platinum, it’s still not always cheap, especially when it comes to sterling silver and jewellery.
  • Are you hoping to give a gift that’s personalised? Many silver gifts can be personalised in some way, but often not the more expensive silver items.
  • Has your partner asked for something? If so, how does that fit into the silver theme and is there enough flexibility?

Is an amazing couple in your life about to celebrate 25 years of marriage? It might be friends, your parents or someone close. To help them celebrate, you might be interested in giving them a gift linked close to the traditional theme, but wonder if you can do that or if it’s exclusive to the couple themselves. Thankfully, these rules aren’t set in stone, so you’re more than welcome to join in on the fun and give them something made from silver. They’re bound to love whatever you give them, but a silver gift shows just how much thought and love you put into your generous gift!

50 ideas for a 25th wedding anniversary gift

For such a big milestone in your marriage, you’ve probably had a lot of thought about what to give your other half to celebrate spending 25 years together. Or, maybe you’re a little bit stuck, knowing you want to give them something but unsure about the theme. So, to give you a helping hand, here are 50 ideas for a 25th anniversary gift so you can make it extra special.

20 traditional and modern gifts for a 25th wedding anniversary

The traditional and modern gift for celebrating 25 years of marriage is silver, a hugely popular choice for couples all over the world. If you like the thought of giving a silver gift but want to think outside the box, here are 20 ideas to get you started.

1. A fine silver wine glass set

If you plan on sharing a bottle of wine with your other half on the evening of your anniversary (or the afternoon – you’re celebrating, after all), you can do so in style. This fine silver wine glass set features a silver bird design and each glass is as delicate as it is stylish.

2. An engraved silver carriage clock

Carriage clocks aren’t quite as in fashion as they once were, but for something as momentous as your silver anniversary they’re worth making a comeback for. And with an engraved silver carriage clock, it can be customised to feature a personalised message to your other half.

3. A silver leaf twist vase

For something fantastically on theme and practical, you might choose to give your partner a silver leaf twist vase, which can also include a personalised message. A great gift your other half can use again and again.

4. An engraved silver-plated trinket box

For something small, sweet, personalised and relatively inexpensive, this engraved silver-plated trinket box is a thoughtful gift that gives your love somewhere to store their bits and bobs.

5. Sterling silver wren cufflinks

There really isn’t a cuter accessory to give your suit-wearing partner than a pair of sterling silver wren cufflinks. Each pair is full of character and carefully handmade with intricate detail. 

6. A sterling silver Pandora charm

If your other half has a Pandora bracelet, you can tie their love for their jewellery into your gift, by treating them to a sterling silver Pandora charm. That way, it fits with their existing jewellery and is something they can always wear to remember your big milestone.

7. A silver photo frame

Your wedding might have been 25 years ago, but we bet you still look back on it with a huge smile on your face. You could print out your favourite wedding snap and have it framed in a silver photo frame, which your partner can then display on a desk or shelf, or hang on the wall.

8. An engraved silver pen

Gifts don’t come quite as luxurious as an engraved silver pen, a stunningly distinguished gift that your partner can hold on to and use forever.

9. A silver watch

Gold watches are often the go-to, but a silver watch can be just as fantastic. If your partner loves their watches, it’s a great choice for your 25th anniversary. You should also have no trouble finding them a watch that suits their tastes.

10. A sterling silver magnifying paperweight

Paperweights are super useful for keeping things organised on your desk, and if your partner spends time shuffling through paperwork, then a sterling silver magnifying paperweight may be just the gift for them. It can also be engraved to make it extra personal.

11. An engraved silver hip flask

If your partner enjoys a little tipple, then they’ll no doubt love an engraved silver hip flask. A stunning and highly personal gift they can always hold on to.

12. An antique silver letter opener

For something unique, antique and not too expensive, treat your partner to an antique silver letter opener, so they can feel just a little bit classy every time the mail comes… so long as they’re not delivering bills, that is.

13. A silver bookmark

Silver is a brilliant precious metal with loads of different uses, and perhaps one of the more unexpected uses is a silver bookmark. A great gift for the bookworm in your life, which can also be personalised for an extra bit of thoughtfulness.

14. Sterling silver penguin ornaments

Any animal lover is bound to fall in love with these sterling silver penguin ornaments, which are full of personality and are more than happy to sit on a shelf without the need for arctic conditions!

15. Silver wall art

Add life, shine and sparkle to a room with a piece of silver wall art. There are also plenty of different designs available, so you shouldn’t have to look too long to find something that suits your partner’s style and taste.

16. A sterling silver tabby cat keyring

The purr-fect 25th anniversary present for any cat lover, this sterling silver tabby cat keyring is highly detailed, highly thoughtful and highly adorable.

17. A silver elephant bottle opener

If you might share a beer or two on your anniversary, you can crack them open with a silver elephant bottle opener, which is sleek and modern with great contemporary detail.

18. A sterling silver dish

For a real touch of extravagance, you could go for this sterling silver dish, which can also be personalised for that extra touch of excellence.

19. A sterling silver hedgehog sculpture

Hedgehogs are absolutely adorable, and one of the symbols of British wildlife. Pay homage to this cute little critter with a sterling silver hedgehog sculpture, which would be a lovely addition to any shelf or display cabinet.

20. A silver lighter

If your partner has a need for one, there’s no way they won’t love a silver lighter, a real luxury item that has tons of class.

5 affordable gifts for a 25th wedding anniversary

While your silver anniversary is an incredible milestone and you no doubt want to give your partner the world, many silver gifts can be pretty expensive, which means they might not suit your budget. But, don’t be disheartened! There are still options available which still let you give your partner a gift in keeping with the theme but without having to spend crazy money. Here are five suggestions for beautiful token 25th anniversary gifts.

1. Mr and Mrs silver-plated keyring set

For a gift the two of you can always keep close by wherever you go, this Mr and Mrs silver-plated keyring set is a cute and thoughtful gift that keeps you both connected even when you’re apart.

2. A silver anniversary card

Combine a gift card with the traditional theme with a silver anniversary card. It makes sure you still pay homage to the theme so that you’re then free to give your partner something else if you wish to as well.

3. A commemorative silver anniversary coin

The ultimate token gift… literally! A commemorative silver anniversary coin is a lovely little keepsake your partner can always hold on to.

4. Silver anniversary keepsake jar

For something sweet, small and unique, a silver anniversary keepsake jar is a little reminder your partner can always keep close by to remind them of your special anniversary.

5. A silver love ornament

All you need is love, so the famous song goes. So, for your 25th anniversary, give your other half exactly that, with a silver love ornament!

5 DIY gifts for a 25th wedding anniversary

A popular way for couples to show each other their love and appreciation on their anniversaries is by making each other a gift. But, with silver being the main theme of your 25th anniversary, how can you tie into making something unless you just so happen to be a silversmithing expert? Well, all it takes is a bit of creativity (and some silver wire). So, here are some ideas to get you started.

1. DIY silver wire flowers

With some silver wire and basic tools, it’s surprisingly simple to make DIY silver wire flowers. And once you’ve made a few, you suddenly have the most unique bouquet of all time to give your partner on the big day! Check out a video tutorial and follow the steps to get started.

2. A DIY silver wire sculpture

Fancy having a go at something a bit more complicated than a flower? A silver wire sculpture might be just what you’re after. There are plenty of video tutorials out there, like this DIY silver wire guide, which shows you how to make a stag.

3. A DIY silver wire cube

For a real one-of-a-kind trinket box, you could have a go at making a DIY silver wire cube. It sounds complex, but with a bit of patience, you’ll definitely be able to make your own. Check out a video tutorial for everything you need.

4. DIY silver wire cat bookmark

Is your partner a cat-loving bookworm? If so, a super simple DIY silver wire cat bookmark might just be the ideal gift to make. And, of course, there’s a video tutorial that shows you the ropes. Or, wire.

5. DIY fine silver jewellery

If making something from silver wire isn’t something that tickles your fancy, maybe some DIY fine silver jewellery is. And it’s not as complicated as you might imagine if you pick up a fine silver jewellery-making kit. A fun and fulfilling way to make something super special and unique.

5 experience or activity gifts for a 25th wedding anniversary

Your anniversary is a brilliant excuse (not that you need one) to spend time with the love of your life having fun and experiencing new things. There are also ways you can tie that into the traditional silver theme, so you can still give your partner something to do with silver. Here are five suggestions for experiences you can do when celebrating 25 amazing years of marriage.

1. A silver Lion King theatre experience

Silver is in the name, so it totally counts! Why not take a trip to London and catch a show with this silver Lion King theatre experience? The perfect date night.

2. A silver photoshoot voucher

Now that the two of you are celebrating 25 years of marriage, what better time to have a photoshoot than right now? Especially if your last photoshoot together was the day you got married. A silver photoshoot voucher gives you everything you need to capture more lasting memories.

3. A silver jewellery-making workshop

Making silver jewellery really is an art form that takes years of learning, practice and experience to master. But, it’s also a lot of fun to try out, and a silver jewellery-making workshop is something the two of you can do together.

4. A silver safari park tour

Enjoy a guided tour of Longleat and get up close and personal with many of the park’s beautiful species with a silver safari park tour. It’s a surefire way to have a wild time on your anniversary!

5. A Silverstone experience

Does your other half love watching the F1 and dream of driving in the Grand Prix? Well, you can give them the next best thing with a supercar experience, which absolutely counts because it’s at Silverstone!

10 25th anniversary jewellery ideas

Because there isn’t a traditional 25th anniversary gemstone, and instead it leans more into the silver theme, this opens you up to almost every type of jewellery you can think of. Silver isn’t the most precious metal out there, but it still works wonderfully well, and silver jewellery can be incredible. As it’s fairly neutral, it also pairs well with almost every type of gemstone. Here are 10 suggestions for silver jewellery you could consider giving your partner to mark 25 years:

  1. Earrings
  2. A ring
  3. A necklace
  4. A bracelet
  5. A broach
  6. A locket
  7. A watch
  8. An anklet
  9. A hairpin
  10. Cufflinks

Silver is hugely popular, so it’s unlikely you’ll walk into a jeweller and not find a brilliant range of silver jewellery to choose from. And because it’s not as expensive as gold or platinum, it’s often far kinder to all kinds of budget. Here at Bridebook, we also work with a huge range of jewellers, who each have amazing collections of silver jewellery, so you shouldn’t have to spend too long looking until you find something your partner would adore.

5 floral-inspired gifts for a 25th wedding anniversary

If you’d like to give your partner a traditional gift but they’re just not that into silver, you’re in luck, because you could give them the traditional 25th wedding anniversary flower instead, which is iris. Irises are usually purple, but can also come in all different colours, with open blooms that end with narrow petals. Their bold and striking look lends itself well to plenty of different gift options. So, here are five to inspire you get some ideas spinning.

1. A bouquet of irises

Of course, we just have to start our suggestions off with a bouquet of irises. You might choose the most common colour of iris, which is purple, but if that doesn’t suit your partner’s tastes, there are loads of other colours to choose from too.

2. A silver iris pendant dangle charm

Treat your partner to this fabulous little silver iris pendant dangle charm, a wonderful and meaningful addition to any charm bracelet.

3. Silver iris earrings

Combine both traditional gifts with this lovely pair of silver iris earrings. Some would say it’s the ultimate 25th anniversary gift – imagine the brownie points!

4. Glass iris in a vase

Small, delicate and beautiful – if this sounds like your other half, then they should love a glass iris in a vase, a brilliant work of craftsmanship, which can always stand proud as a reminder of your 25th anniversary.

5. Hand-painted iris and daffodil vase

With their iconic look, irises don’t just suit being in a vase, but on one too. This hand-painted iris and daffodil vase has amazing summer vibes and is a great excuse to keep buying new flowers.

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24th Wedding Anniversary Gifts: 50 Anniversary Gift Ideas

24 years is such an amazing milestone in your marriage and a testament to the incredible work you’ve put into your relationship. And we bet that, after spending almost a quarter of a century together, you’re more in love today than ever before. In just one year, the two of you will get to celebrate your silver wedding anniversary, an extra special milestone you’ll only get to celebrate once.

But, while you may have one eye cast on the future, it’s also important that you don’t forget about your upcoming 24th anniversary. Just like with your silver anniversary, there are traditional and modern gifts, as well as a traditional flower and gemstone, so you can make your 24th just as special as your 25th.

The traditional and modern gifts carry important meanings that help you let your partner know exactly how you feel. Many couples like to give these gifts to mark their anniversaries as they can be far more unique than typical anniversary favourites like chocolates and roses… not that there’s anything wrong with those, of course! You don’t need to stick to these gifts, but it’s a lovely way to do something a bit different.

In this article, we’re going to run through all the traditional and modern 24th anniversary gifts, so you know how to choose the best gift for your anniversary. We’ll also give you 50 ideas to give you some inspiration if you like the thought of sticking to one of the themes but you’re not quite sure where to start. It’s the perfect way to make your 24th anniversary one you’ll never forget.

To find out more about all the different anniversary gift-giving traditions, read our complete year-by-year wedding anniversary gift guide.

What are traditional and modern gifts for a 24th wedding anniversary?

The traditional and modern 24th wedding anniversary gifts

There are four different traditional and modern gifts associated with your 24th wedding anniversary, meaning you have loads of choices if you’re not quite sure how to treat your other half. These gifts have been given by couples to each other for more than 100 years, and are chock full of symbolism and meaning. With so many options available, you’re bound to be able to find something they’ll love.

Traditional 24th anniversary gift – Opal

The traditional 24th anniversary gift is opal, a beautiful gemstone that comes in a huge range of iridescent colours. Opal represents hope, love and trust, which makes it an absolutely wonderful sentiment for marking 24 years of marriage.

Opal is lovely when set in jewellery and accessories, and because of the different colours, it’s easy to find something that suits your partner’s tastes. It also means that, if you’re keen to give your partner jewellery, you have twice as much choice as other anniversaries, because there’s a traditional gemstone along with opal. 

Modern 24th anniversary gift – Musical instrument

The modern 24th anniversary gift is something rather unexpected, but fabulous nonetheless: a musical instrument. This is because music represents the passion and emotion the two of your share, which makes it a unique and exciting theme. Even if your partner has never expressed interest in learning an instrument, there are still plenty of ways you can have fun with it.

24th anniversary gemstone – Tanzanite

If you’d like to give your partner the traditional gemstone for your 24th anniversary, you might want to choose something that contains tanzanite. Tanzanite is a beautiful purplish stone and is said to be even rarer than diamond. That can make it expensive, but you can still find some tanzanite jewellery with a reasonable price tag.

Tanzanite symbolises clarity and tranquillity, which you no doubt feel plenty of after spending 24 happy years with the love of your life.

24th anniversary flower – Lavender

For something more floral, you might want to give your partner the traditional 24th anniversary flower, which is lavender. Lavender is often found in gardens up and down the UK and is easily recognisable thanks to its sweet floral scent. It represents love and healing, so something inspired by lavender makes for a great choice when marking 24 years.

How do you choose a gift for a 24th wedding anniversary?

With so many choices available, it can be tough knowing what’s perfect when choosing a 24th anniversary gift with which to spoil your other half. Two of the gifts are gemstones, one is a common garden flower and one is the rather out-there musical instrument. So, while there might be a lot of choices, they’re not necessarily something you’d typically choose for your other half. Here are a few things to consider when deciding what sort of gift to give:

  • Are you set on sticking to the traditional and modern anniversary themes? If so, then you’ll need to have a long, hard think about how you can align one or more of the themes to the sort of thing your partner enjoys.
  • Have you agreed on a budget? Gemstones and musical instruments can often be pricey, so try to choose something that means you don’t go over budget.
  • Are you interested in giving a personalised gift? If personalisation is important to you, the 24th anniversary gift themes might be a little tricky to personalise.
  • Has your partner asked for something in particular? If they have, it might be a challenge to make sure what they’ve asked for aligns with the anniversary themes.

Is a special couple in your life about to celebrate 24 years of marriage? If they are, you might be thinking about whether or not you can join in with the traditional and modern gift-giving themes – well, the answer is yes! These themes aren’t exclusive to the couple, so if you have the perfect gift in mind you should absolutely join in. Not only will they no doubt love your gift, but they’ll also appreciate the extra effort and thought that went into the meaning behind it.

50 ideas for a 24th wedding anniversary gift

It can be a challenge knowing exactly what to give your partner to mark your 24th anniversary, especially as you may already have a few ideas up your sleeve for your silver wedding anniversary next year. Well, if you’re keen to stick to one of the themes but need a few ideas, don’t worry – we’ve got you covered. Below, we’ve got 50 gift selections across all types of budgets and themes, so you can give your other half a gift packed with love and meaning.

10 traditional gifts for a 24th wedding anniversary

If you’d like to give your partner the traditional 24th wedding anniversary gift, you’ll want to give them something that contains opal. Opal is a wonderfully exotic-looking gemstone, which both makes for a fabulous addition to all kinds of jewellery or accessories and often accommodates a wide range of budgets. Here are 10 ideas to get you started on your hunt for the most opulent opal gift.

1. A pair of opal earrings

Thanks to the range of colours it comes in, opal makes for a brilliant gemstone to include in earrings. So, a pair of opal earrings is definitely a great choice, as there’s bound to be something that suits your other half’s preferences. They’re also not too expensive, so are great for smaller budgets.

2. An opal Pandora charm

If your other half has a Pandora charm bracelet, a charm is always going to be a go-to choice of gift for special occasions. But, for an addition to their bracelet that has extra special meaning, an opal Pandora charm is as stunning as it is thoughtful.

3. A pair of opal cufflinks

Does your partner occasionally wear suits and hasn’t had a new set of cufflinks in a while? Then you can’t go wrong with a pair of opal cufflinks, which have an alluring sparkle that helps them really stand out.

4. An opal watch

For a watch that dazzles every time your partner checks the time, an opal watch makes for a unique and eye-catching choice. There are several designs available and it can be worn every day or saved for special occasions.

5. A framed opal heart

For a sweet and thoughtful gesture that can be hung on the wall for all to see, a framed opal heart is the perfect way to tell your other half how you feel on your special day.

6. An opal pendant

Make sure your partner turns some heads with a beautiful opal pendant. This stunning stone is like looking into a portal into another world and can be worn with all kinds of outfits to draw everything together.

7. An opal bracelet

With shimmering opals that look like they could have been plucked from the depths of the ocean, this opal bracelet is absolutely stunning and is sure to go down very well on your anniversary.

8. A beautiful opal ring

Opal isn’t one of the most commonly used stones in rings, but it really should be. This beautiful opal ring is filled with positivity and you can choose from a silver, gold or rose gold band.

9. An opal pen

The pen to top all other pens… this opal pen is absolutely wonderful with a one-of-a-kind design that really makes it stand out. The ultimate in luxury.

10. An opal necklace 

Treat your other half to a shimmering iridescent opal necklace, with a polished silver frame that means it can be worn with all different outfits and style choices.

10 modern gifts for a 24th wedding anniversary

The modern gift for celebrating 24 years is a musical instrument. This is possibly one of the most unique gift themes you’ll have encountered in your marriage so far, which can seem a little unusual – especially if your partner doesn’t have a musical bone in their body. But, with a little creativity, it can be a brilliant gift that they’ll love, whether they can play a tune on it or not. Here are 10 suggestions so you can make beautiful music together on your anniversary.

1. An acoustic guitar

Okay, so our first suggestion just has to be an acoustic guitar, one of the most popular musical instruments out there. This is perfect if your partner has always threatened to learn the guitar but never quite got around to it. You could also send them a few links to some online video tutorials to help them get started.

2. Personalised piano bar runner and coaster set

Does your other half enjoy the odd drink at home? Or maybe you even have a home bar so the two of you can spend time entertaining family and friends? If so, then this personalised piano bar runner and coaster set could just be the ideal anniversary gift.

3. Guitar wall art

If your partner loves guitars, then this guitar wall art is stylish and cool, and looks great whether hung on the wall inside the home or outside.

4. A musical violin mug

There’s nothing quite like a novelty mug, and they don’t get much more perfect than this musical violin mug. There are musical notes all over the surface, but where it really stands out is the handle – which is a brilliantly sculpted violin!

5. Electric guitar necklace and earring set

Does your partner play the electric guitar, or have a lot of love for the rock bands of yesteryear? If that’s the case, then this electric guitar necklace and earring set could just be the best anniversary gift they could get this year.

6. A LEGO grand piano

What could be better than spending time with your partner on your anniversary? Well, you could spend time building a LEGO grand piano, which would then make for a great piece to display. LEGO is no longer exclusive to kids!

7. Personalised musician figurine

For something unique and cheesy but 100% on theme, you could give your other half a personalised musician figurine, which features them as a cartoon version of themselves rocking out with a guitar.

8. An antique musical instrument

Does your partner love the thought of owning a musical instrument but not really the thought of playing it? An antique musical instrument might just be what they’re after and can work as a brilliant display piece in your home.

9. Glass of wine music

Add a musical touch to your partner’s evening glass of wine with a glass of wine music glass. There’s a full octave of musical notes in every glass – from D to C as your partner sips. A lovely way to add a touch of fun when sharing a drink.

10. An opal guitar pick

If your partner plays the guitar, we have the perfect gift for you: an opal guitar pick. This gift combines two of the 24th anniversary gift themes, which gives it double the symbolism and meaning. 

5 affordable gifts for a 24th wedding anniversary

With your silver wedding anniversary next year, you might not be too keen on the idea of spending a lot of money this year. But, at the same time, you’ll more than likely want to let your partner know how special they are and how much they mean to you. The great news is, you can give your partner an on-theme token gift while making sure you keep your spending low. That way, your gift can have all of the meaning while saving you a bit of cash. It’s a win-win!

1. An Opal Fruits-themed anniversary card

If you plan on giving your partner a card, you could combine it with a creative use of the traditional theme and give them an Opal Fruits-themed anniversary card. Okay, sure, they’re called Starburst now, but it totally counts.

2. A pair of opal stud earrings

Not all opals have to be pricey, so you can still give your partner some cute jewellery on your anniversary. Like with this pair of opal stud earrings, which is available in a selection of different sizes and colours. 

3. An opal sleeping cat

For the cat lover in your life, this opal sleeping cat is cute, iridescent and definitely fits the 24th anniversary theme. It’s also pretty affordable, making it a lovely token gift.

4. A custom guitar pick

Whether your partner plays the guitar or not, this custom guitar pick is a thoughtful little keepsake that they’ll definitely want to hold onto forever.

5. Personalised guitar wall art

Combine your partner’s favourite things to create this fabulous piece of personalised guitar wall art. It can be customised in loads of different ways, so it can fit with any taste or decor.

5 DIY gifts for a 24th wedding anniversary

Many couples choose to make each other gifts for their anniversary, whether it’s a meal, a date box or a love letter. But, there are also ways to make DIY gifts that are specifically tied to the 24th anniversary themes, to make them even more considerate. Here are five suggestions below to give you some ideas.

1. A DIY music box 

With a DIY music box, you can create unique 15-note masterpieces to feed into it and have them delicately played back. You could either recreate your partner’s favourite piece of music, or create your own music that tells them how much you adore them. It’s sweet and thoughtful.

2. A DIY ukulele

With a DIY ukulele kit, you can put together a fantastic little ukulele, which you’re then free to decorate in any way you see fit.

3. A DIY model piano

To create something truly unique, this DIY model piano kit gives you everything you need to build an adorable little model that looks great on a desk or shelf.

4. A DIY opal dreamcatcher

If you pick up some incredible raw opal, you can create a DIY opal dreamcatcher to make sure your partner always has sweet dreams. With a video tutorial, you can give this one a go yourself without the need for expensive equipment.

5. DIY raw opal jewellery

With some simple jewellery-making tools, some wire and a raw opal, you can make the most incredible DIY raw opal jewellery, to give your partner something truly unique to wear. There are plenty of wire wrapping video tutorials available to help get you started.

5 experience or activity gifts for a 24th wedding anniversary

One of the best gifts you can give on your anniversary is something which lets you and your other half spend time together. This might be going out for dinner or a romantic walk, or you could tie it into one of the 24th anniversary themes. Here are five suggestions for ways you can have a truly memorable anniversary.

1. A musical instrument-making course

There’s no better way to spend time doing something new than by taking part in a musical instrument-making course. In fact, it’s such an unexpected gift, we bet you didn’t even realise it was a thing! 

2. A trip to see the London Symphony Orchestra

When musical instruments come together, they’re capable of making something incredible. Spend time with your partner listening to the London Symphony Orchestra, who regularly put on performances across the UK.

3. Musical instrument lessons

For every partner who has always wished they’d given piano or guitar lessons a go, now is the perfect opportunity! Musical instrument lessons are even something the two of you could do together. Just search your local areas for tutors and reach out to see if they’d be happy to give you private lessons.

4. An opal cutting and setting workshop

Opals really are stunning, and they’re the perfect addition to countless types of jewellery. An opal cutting and setting workshop lets you design your very own piece of opal jewellery, so your partner can have a unique piece to call their own which has been made by their own fair hands.

5. A lavender wellbeing experience

The scent and aura of lavender do wonders for creating a calming and soothing atmosphere. So, indulge in a spot of rest and relaxation on your anniversary with a lavender wellbeing experience, to help melt away your partner’s tensions and stress.

10 24th anniversary gifts that contain tanzanite

The traditional 24th anniversary gemstone is tanzanite, a brilliantly violet-shaded gemstone that is super luxurious. Because tanzanite can be exceptionally rare, some jewellery and accessories set with it can be pricey, while others can be more affordable. Here are 10 suggestions for gifts containing the stunning tanzanite:

  1. Earrings
  2. A ring
  3. A necklace
  4. A bracelet
  5. A broach
  6. A locket
  7. A watch
  8. An anklet
  9. A hairpin
  10. Cufflinks

Because of how beautiful and sought-after it is, tanzanite is often not too difficult to find at jewellers. Both high street chains and independent retailers will usually have a nice selection of tanzanite pieces, which may well suit your budget. At Bridebook, we also work closely with a wide range of jewellers, many of whom have amazing tanzanite jewellery. It’s worth browsing what they offer to see if they have anything your partner would love. 

5 floral-inspired gifts for a 24th wedding anniversary

For something with a relaxing scent, the traditional flower for marking 24 years of marriage is lavender. Lavender is a common addition to gardens across the UK, but can also add beautiful purple notes and hints of floral loveliness to bouquets. If your partner would love to receive something linked to lavender, here are five ideas you might want to consider. 

1. A dried lavender and acroclinium bunch

Dried lavender looks and smells stunning, and will live a heck of a long time – in fact, it’ll last way beyond even your 25th wedding anniversary. A dried lavender and acroclinium bunch is a lovely little long-lasting gift.

2. A lavender aromatherapy set

Lavender is fantastic for promoting rest and relaxation, so to really spoil your partner, a lavender aromatherapy set will help them switch off, unwind and forget all their troubles for a while.

3. An engraved lavender vase

Lavender looks great in a vase, but it also looks great on a vase. An engraved lavender vase is the perfect gift, which your partner can bring out every time they get flowers. And you get extra brownie points if you give them this vase with a floral arrangement already in it, ideally one which stars lavender,

4. A lavender candle

Create an atmosphere on your anniversary night that’s part relaxing and part romantic with a heavenly lavender botanical candle

5. A silver lavender pendant

Lavender may smell amazing, but it also looks amazing. It has an iconic look, which translates brilliantly to jewellery, like with this silver lavender pendant. A great choice if your partner loves unique jewellery.

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Exclusive Wedding Venue Special Offers 2024

Planning your dream wedding involves not only finding the perfect venue, but also securing the best deals. Wedding venue special offers provide a super opportunity to book your dream venue at a discounted rate, giving you more flexibility with your budget. From exclusive Bridebook offers to seasonal discounts and last-minute availability deals, these offers can help you make significant savings without compromising on quality. 

Below, we’ve compiled a list of upcoming wedding venue special offers for 2024, which we recommend you check out before they’re gone! You can also filter for special offers directly in Bridebook, when you’re in venue search.

Westfield Farm Weddings

Photo © Westfield Farm Weddings| See their Bridebook profile

Winter Late Availability: December 2024, January 2025, February 2025. All weekends available except for Christmas and New Year’s weeks.

Westfield Farm Weddings is a licensed venue situated in the beautiful North Yorkshire countryside, with a beautiful garden gazebo, charming ceremony room and landscaped gardens adjoining 10 acres of parkland.

If indoors is more your thing, we have a beautiful courtyard room which can seat up to 60 guests. Or, if you are dreaming of a larger reception, we can host 120 people seated in our 3 tipis and up to 150 for evening receptions.

Belleek Castle

Photo © Belleek Castle | See their Bridebook profile

2025 Special Offer: Late Availability Dates

  • October: 3rd, 4th, 17th or 18th
  • November: 28th or 29th
  • December: 5th, 6th, 12th, 13th, 19th or 20th

Plus a complimentary ceremony room!

Request a brochure and more information here

The Timble Inn

Photo © The Timble Inn | See their Bridebook profile

Until the end of 2025, our Cottage Private Dining Room is available to hire for your wedding breakfast for just £150.

Please note, this room has a maximum capacity of 14 guests.

Mabie House

Photo © Mabie House | See their Bridebook profile

Late Availability Early 2025

If you book one of the below dates for your special day, enjoy a complimentary glass of prosecco (soft drink alternative available) for each of your guests for the toast during the wedding breakfast.

Let’s raise a toast to your love and the beautiful journey ahead. Cheers!

  • January: 11th, 18th or 25th
  • February: 1st or 8th
  • May: 3rd, 10th or 17th

Urban Wedding Collection

Winter weddings at Urban Wedding Collection

Say ‘I Do’ to a sparkling start! Book your 2025 January wedding with us and enjoy a complimentary champagne upgrade!

Begin your forever with an extra touch of elegance! Book your dream wedding at one of our venues for January 2025, and we’ll treat you and your guests to a complimentary champagne upgrade — because your special day deserves to sparkle just a little brighter.

Venues part of Urban Wedding Collection include the following: 

Paradise By Way Of Kensal Green

Photo © Paradise By Way Of Kensal Green | See their Bridebook profile

Paradise is a trendy urban venue in London, equipped with everything you need for a stylish and chic city wedding.

Harrild and Sons

Photo © Harrild and Sons | See their Bridebook profile

Situated on Farringdon Road, in the heart of London, Harrild and Sons is a versatile wedding reception space blending history and modern features.

Singer Tavern

Photo © Singer Tavern | See their Bridebook profile

Located in the city of London, Singer Tavern is the perfect urban wedding venue for couples celebrating their momentous occasion in East Central London.

Copdock Hall

Photo © Images by Anna | See Copdock Hall’s Bridebook profile

For a limited time, we’re offering incredible savings on our remaining Friday and Saturday dates in 2025 at Copdock Hall.

Choose your offer: save up to £1,000 off venue hire OR up to £2,100 worth of luxurious upgrades, including gourmet food and drink upgrades.

Terms and conditions apply.

Walcott Hall

Photo © Walcott Hall | See their Bridebook profile

Last-Minute Wednesday Wedding Special  – Just £4,500!

Dreaming of a stunning wedding venue at an unbeatable price? Walcot Hall is offering an exclusive Bridebook special for last-minute Wednesday weddings.

Secure your wedding day for just £4,500 and enjoy the elegance and charm of our historic venue.

This offer is limited and won’t last long! Get in touch today to book a viewing – we’d love to help make your dream wedding a reality at a fraction of the cost.

Saturday Wedding Special at Walcot Hall – Just £5,000!

Looking for the perfect venue for your 2025 wedding? Walcot Hall is offering a Bridebook special for select Saturday dates at an incredible price of £5,000!

This is your chance to celebrate in style at our stunning venue, without breaking the bank. Dates are limited, so don’t miss out on this amazing offer!

Contact us today to arrange a viewing or secure your date. Let us help you create the wedding of your dreams at Walcot today!

Delamere Manor

Photo © Delamere Manor | See their Bridebook profile

20% off venue hire for weddings taking place within the next 12 months!

Midweek offer: Just £11,995 based on 60 day guests and 60 evening guests
(Exceptions: not including May, June, July, August or Bank Holidays)

Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday:

  • Exclusive use of Delamere Manor & 100 acres of beautiful grounds
  • Access to our on-site bridal preparation suite from 8am on the morning of your wedding day 
  • Civil ceremony set up with a choice of both indoor and outdoor locations
  • Free flowing canapés for one hour
  • Premium drinks package including bubbles for reception drinks & wine with the wedding breakfast

High House Weddings

Photo © High House Weddings | See their Bridebook profile

We’re delighted to be offering couples planning their wedding for 2025 a fantastic special offer when you book High House before the end of October 2024:

  • £1,500 off venue hire: save on your venue hire for our few remaining Friday and Saturday dates.
  • Luxurious upgrades: Be treated to some luxurious extras worth over £2,100, including fabulous food and drink upgrades!

Wolfscastle Country Hotel

Photo © Wolfscastle Country Hotel | See their Bridebook profile

Our midweek venue hire is available from Sundays to Thursdays!

Only £600 for venue hire, which includes usage of the Garden Room, Sealyham Suite and the gardens.

Call now to book your midweek wedding for 2025 on 01437741225.

Offer expires on 30/12/2025.

Real Wedding Stories: Cynical Single to Engagement Party Pro

If I’m being completely honest, I never dreamed of getting married.

I was never the little girl who planned every detail of her big day or who walked around with a pillowcase on their head. In fact, it was quite the opposite. I had very serious conversations with ex-boyfriends where I told them, “You have to be ok with me never wanting to get married. It’s just who I am”. I thought weddings were a waste of money, a loss of independence, and, quite frankly, a loss of identity. 

But, that didn’t deter the all-knowing, ever present nay-sayers in my life. They loved telling me how it would all change when I met ‘the one’, that I’d soon see the error of my ways, and that ‘they were just like me at my age’. 

Naturally I knew better. I knew I would never change my mind, and that I would happily live my life as Miss Independent and never be defeated by a bad man or an American stick insect. I was happy being Miss Jones forever. 

Then I met Tom, and he was everything you read about in books. He’s kind, sweet, clever, funny, and undoubtedly the very best half of me. I can’t imagine my life without Tom in it, so when he asked me to marry him in the same place we had our first date, there was only one answer. 

Wedding planning has been a dream I never want to wake up from. I keep telling friends I don’t want it to end, in spite of the end being our actual wedding day! I’m truly trying to make the most of this time, soaking up every aspect, and letting my “too much” gene run riot. 

This brings us happily to how I planned our engagement party. It was surprisingly easier than I thought, and probably took around two months of intermittent planning around my busy full-time job as an HR professional and part-time job as a rabbit parent. Let’s jump into the steps I took, all my considerations, and, of course, the cost!

Step 1: The venue

Location: Our house

Cost: Free

I wanted to keep our engagement party as budget-friendly as possible, considering we now have a wedding to pay for! I reached out to a few locations who were asking upwards for £2,000 just to rent their venue, not inclusive of food or drinks. This didn’t feel reasonable or feasible to us for what was meant to be quite an informal affair. 

Luckily, we (and that’s a royal we, to clarify, because I didn’t do anything) have just finished renovating our first home. We have a lovely open plan kitchen/dining room with big bright windows which lead out onto our patio. It’s the perfect spot for hosting, and we were so excited to be able to show off our new house to our family and friends. Plus, it’s free (if we forget about the mortgage!).

Step 2: The decor

We used: Ginger Ray Party Supplies

Cost: Around £120

I wanted a pinky, rose-goldy, girly theme for the engagement party (sorry Tom!). I explored a few different options for party supplies, but I liked the style of Ginger Ray’s products and appreciated that their website was sorted according to party type, theme, and colour scheme. This made it easy to navigate all the rose-gold and pink options, and helped me envision what the big day would look like.

I opted for 2x pink balloon arch kits (on sale for £10 each), an ‘Engaged’ balloon banner, a pre-inflated pack of helium balloons in the shape of champagne bottles and stars, “Mr & Mrs” Confetti and a variety of paper cups, plates, and napkins. Overall it came to £120, which I split with my partner.

Considering I have no experience, I’m pretty pleased with how things turned out. I built the balloon arch myself, using glue dots to stick the balloons to the wall. The ‘Engaged’ balloon banner was easy to work with, and I was able to scatter the confetti around haphazardly. I built the balloon arch the night before and it still looked perfect the next day.

Step 3: The food

We booked: Millie’s Grazing

Cost: £20 per head

Guests should always leave a party well-fed and well-watered, so I was passionate that I wanted good food and lots of it. We worked with Millie’s Grazing, a grazing table company covering the North West and North Wales. Jas (not Millie!) was a pleasure to work with, setting up over the course of 1.5-2 hours and chatting with me and Tom the whole time. Jas and I chatted in the weeks leading up to the party about dietary requirements, preferences, and what kind of space she would need for the most effective display. 

We set up the table in the main party room so guests could see it as soon as they walked in. We catered for 40 people with a guest list of around 50, and there was plenty of food for everybody. Many even went back for a second plate! Everyone commented on how delicious the food was, and the display was an absolute show-stopper. I can’t recommend Jas enough. In fact, we liked her so much that we’re using her for the evening buffet of our wedding!

Side note: As much as we loved it, this was undoubtedly the biggest expense of our engagement party. If you aren’t planning to have a caterer, your engagement party will be much more reasonably priced. 

Step 4: The sweets

We had: Single tiered cake and iced biscuits

Cost: Around £50

It’s difficult for me to say exactly how much this section costs, as I made the cake and iced the biscuits myself. As an avid baker, I had a lot of the ingredients and equipment already, meaning the upfront cost of these treats was relatively low. However, I estimate it would cost around £50 to buy all the equipment and ingredients needed from new.

I’m not willing to pay for anything I can do myself, so when I was quoted £80 for a cake and £160 for 80 iced biscuits, I thought to myself, “Not a chance”. I baked the cake myself on a Thursday, did a crumb coat on the Friday, and iced the cake Saturday morning before the guests arrived. It was a 3-layered victoria sponge, sandwiched with strawberry jam and covered in Betty Crocker’s vanilla buttercream. I reserved a tub of buttercream to mix with pink food colouring, and piped small rosettes along the outside edge of the cake and where the cake meets the silver cake board. I also iced our names on top, and stored it in the fridge until it was ready to serve. I don’t have a photo of the cake because it was quickly devoured before I got the chance to take it!

The biscuits were a hack I saw from TikTok. I bought 60 M&S butter biscuits and searched ‘M&S personalised Icing Cutter’ on Etsy. I was able to buy a personalised icing cutter with our initials and the date we got engaged on for around £8. I paid a little extra for fast shipping. Once it arrived, I cut out little discs of fondant icing, stamped them with the Etsy stamp, and attached them to the biscuits with a thin layer of strawberry jam. I dusted them with some edible gold lustre I purchased on Amazon, and voilà! Everyone commented on how professional they looked, and I think I may now have an accidental side-hustle as a biscuit maker for my friend’s events!

Step 5: The drinks

We had: Prosecco, beer, and soft drinks

Cost: Around £120

You can’t go wrong with prosecco, beer, and soft drinks. It really does offer something for everyone and keeps things simple. I sent Tom on a mission to Aldi the morning of the party to buy 10 bottles of prosecco, some boxes of bottled beer, and fizzy drinks like Fanta & Coke (or whatever the Aldi equivalent is). I’d estimate we paid around £120 for all the drinks, and they were nice to have, but a lot of guests (especially the younger ones) weren’t expecting to be given free drinks. I’d say 80% of guests showed up with what they intended to drink, so if you’re on a budget, you can probably skip this step. 

Step 6: The fit

Tom wore: White t-shirt, open button-up shirt, shorts, and white trainers

Cost: Nothing, as they were already in his wardrobe

Medi wore: Vinted Meshki dress, white bow heels, pearl headband

Cost: £60 for the dress, £12.99 for the headband, shoes were a gift

Now we move on to the all-important outfit! I cannot recommend Vinted enough as a means for finding second-hand wedding gear. Looking at Meshki’s website, my dress should have been £120 new, but I was able to snag it for just under £60 including postage. I bought my dress from a lovely lady who wore it in the evening of her wedding and no longer had a need for it. I also plan to wear this dress on the evening of my wedding, and then I might sell it on again à la Sisterhood of The Travelling Meshki Dress.

The shoes were a (very generous) gift from my partner. They were my dream wedding shoes and I couldn’t be more grateful for them. I plan to wear them on my hen parties, the evening of our wedding, and any bridal activities that demand heels. 

My hairband was a simple pearl headband I found on ASOS. I just googled ‘Pearl headband’ and scrolled until I found one I liked. I’ve worn it a few times since so it’s definitely a versatile piece. 

Tom’s outfit was the definition of smart casual crossed with boujee garden party. He didn’t buy a new outfit for the party, so don’t feel like you need to!

Step 7: The invites

What we did: Texted people

Cost: Free!

Ok, ok. I know it’s not the most aesthetic, but it really was the quickest and easiest way to get the message across. We’d already created our wedding guest list (thanks to Bridebook’s handy wedding guest list tool!), so we already had an idea of who we’d invite to our engagement party. We simply let them know the date, time, rough dress code, and let them know how excited we were to celebrate with them. 

Step 8: The music

What we did: Speaker & Spotify

Cost: Free!

Cheap and cheerful, we moved the speaker from our television into the party room and connected our phone via Bluetooth. We played a generic ‘Summer Songs’ playlist to get the party started, and as the night progressed, we switched to a mix of dance songs and 90s bangers. The best part was that everyone could add their favourite songs to the queue, making it a more fun and personalised experience. 

And there you have it! That was our engagement party. We spent around £1,000 to bring it all together, but you could reduce the cost massively by making your own food or choosing  more low-key decor. The key takeaway here is that it’s entirely possible to create a beautiful and memorable event on a budget, with a little bit of creativity and resourcefulness.

Now the engagement part is over, we’ve moved on to wedding planning. Wish us luck!

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Happy Planning!

Upcoming Wedding Venue Open Days 2024

Planning your dream wedding involves finding the perfect venue, and there’s no better way to get a true feel for a place than by attending an open day or evening. Wedding venue open days offer a unique opportunity to explore the venue, envision your special day, and meet the staff who will help bring your vision to life. You might also get a chance to meet the venue’s recommended suppliers, and even sample canapés and a glass of bubbly!

Below, we’ve compiled a list of upcoming wedding venue open days in 2024, complete with the dates and details, to help you find the perfect setting for your celebration. Mark your calendars and get ready to be inspired!

October

 

The Swan at Lavenham Hotel and Spa

Date and time: 6th October 2024. 11am – 3pm

Photo © The Swan at Lavenham Hotel and Spa | See their Bridebook profile

Take in the elegance and undeniable magic of our 15th Century wedding venue and experience The Swan at Lavenham first hand at our next Wedding Open Day.

Join our dedicated wedding team and some of our recommended wedding suppliers, who will be on hand to talk through your plans, ideas and answer any questions you may have ahead of planning your special day.

Gather invaluable inspiration, savour delicious canapés and enjoy a complimentary glass of fizz.

Each of our three private rooms will be available to view, with The McCallum dressed for a wedding breakfast and The Woolhall dressed for a ceremony.

We also have a selection of bedrooms to view so you can get a feel for what your guests can expect when staying with us after your special day.

Entry is free and includes a complimentary goodie bag for every couple.

There’s no obligation to register, but if you would like to let us know that you’re thinking about attending, you can register your interest here.

Hever Castle & Gardens

Date and time: 6th October 2024. 12pm – 3pm

Photo © Hever Castle & Gardens | See their Bridebook profile

Hever Castle, located in the charming Kent countryside and only 40 minutes from central London, is lowering the drawbridge for a Wedding Showcase on Sunday 6th October. View the three contrasting venues the Hever Castle estate offers: the Italian Garden, the Tudor-inspired Astor Wing and the 14th Century Castle.

Celebrate your wedding plans with the wedding team over a glass of bubbles and a bite to eat. Find out more about this event here.

Entry by registration only by emailing weddings@hevercastle.co.uk.

Stratton House Hotel & Spa

Date and time: 6th October 2024, 10am – 2pm

Photo © Stratton House Hotel & Spa | See their Bridebook profile

Come along from 10am-2pm to enjoy the beautiful grounds and all that Stratton House has to offer. Free entry, plus goodie bag on arrival if you pre-register. 

At the Stratton wedding fayre, we’ve brought everything together in one place:

  • View our wedding and reception venues, including the garden and Stratton Suite
  • Check out our Bridal Suite, featuring a spectacular free-standing copper bath
  • Find out about all the different catering options available
  • Chat to our recommended suppliers, including DJ, photographer and candy kart

Find out more and pre-register here!

Headfort Arms Hotel

Date and time: 6th October 2024, 1pm – 5pm

Photo © Headfort Arms Hotel | See their Bridebook profile

Wedding industry expert and fashionista Sara Kennedy, founder of the ‘Irish Wedding Blog,’ will host our highly anticipated Autumn Wedding Show in Kells on Sunday, October 6th. In addition to an open house tour, the event will showcase top local and regional suppliers. Don’t miss the expert panel discussions, all hosted by Sara Kennedy, in a relaxed ‘couch chat’ format

Don’t miss out on this exciting event! Plus, take advantage of our special offer on the day — pay your deposit at the wedding show and enjoy a complimentary day-two finger food celebration for up to 80 people in the Kelltic Bar!

Celebrating over 50 years in business, the Duff family have been looking each couple’s special day for generations. It is the assurance of that personal touch and consistency of prime Irish cooking that has made so many families choose the Headfort for the most important day of a lifetime.

For any further details or to make an appointment for the wedding show, please email us directly: info@headfortarms.ie

Stockton House

Date and time: 13th October 2024, 11pm – 3pm

Photo © Stockton House | See their Bridebook profile

You are invited to join us at our Wedding Showcase for an exclusive viewing of Stockton House. Pre-booking is essential!

Find our more here!

The Sessions House

Date and time: 19th October 2024, 11am – 3pm 

Photo © The Sessions House | See their Bridebook profile

Join us at The Sessions House Wedding Open Day! Step into a world of elegance and romance at our enchanting venue and meet our hand-picked suppliers.

What to expect on the day:

  • Stunning venue: Explore The Sessions House in all its wedding glory! Picture yourself saying “I do” in our beautifully adorned ceremony space, surrounded by history and charm.

  • Wedding-ready setup: Get inspired by our meticulously styled reception area, complete with floral arrangements, table settings and twinkling lights. Imagine dancing the night away in our grand courtroom.

  • Meet our hand-picked suppliers: Discover the best in the business! From photographers to florists, our carefully selected vendors will be on hand to chat about your dream wedding.

  • Friendly atmosphere: Our team can’t wait to welcome you. Ask questions, share your vision and let us help you create memories that last a lifetime.

Get your tickets here!

Deer Park Weddings

Date and time: 19th October 2024, 12pm – 5pm 

Photo © Deer Park Weddings | See their Bridebook profile

Join us for a wedding day at this unique, exclusive-use Cotswold countryside venue, surrounded by outstanding beauty, free-roaming deer and vineyards.

Either book a time slot on the phone, or simply show up and walk around on the day. It’s the perfect chance to get a feel for this picturesque venue yourself. 

For more information and to book your slot, either call 01386750267, or email office@deerparkhall.co.uk.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Harrison’s Hall

Date and time: 20th October 2024, 12pm – 4pm   

Photo © Harrison’s Hall | See their Bridebook profile

Join us here at Harrison’s Hall on October 20th, 2024, for our Wedding Showcase, presented by Weddings Chester! With a free goody bag, bridal show and glass of fizz on arrival. The perfect chance to meet our recommended suppliers too. 

To book, please email: hello@weddingschester.co.uk

Bradbourne House

Date and time: 20th October 2024, 11am – 3pm

Photo © Bradbourne House | See their Bridebook profile

Come along to view our fantastic venue whilst having the opportunity to meet a variety of wedding suppliers ready to help plan your special day.

We recommend pre-registering for quick entry on the day and to be kept updated with new shows added and special promotions.

What to expect on the day:

  • Free entry
  • Chance to enter a honeymoon competition
  • Goody bag 
  • Free copy of Your Kent Wedding magazine
  • Variety of wedding exhibitors

Get your tickets here!

Manor Hill House

Date and time: 20th October 2025, 12pm – 4pm

Photo © Manor Hill House | See their Bridebook profile

Imagine your big day coming to life as you explore our countryside venue!

We will have a hand-picked selection of fantastic recommended suppliers, who will bring inspiration and their expertise to show. This is a great opportunity to meet suppliers before booking them, and get to know them.

Our talented chef, Phil, will be providing a selection of tasty food to enjoy during your visit. Bring your family and friends, enjoy a drink, ask all those ‘big day’ questions and let us help you plan the wedding of your dreams.

We hope to see you there!

Booking is essential so RSVP now and start your journey to “I do”. RSVP to info@manorhillhouse.co.uk, or via this link.

Manor Hill House, Swan Lane, Upton Warren, Bromsgrove, B61 9HE

Wolfscastle Country Hotel

Date and time: 20th October 2024, 11am – 3pm 

Photo © Wolfscastle Country Hotel | See their Bridebook profile

We personally invite you to Wolfscastle’s Autumn Wedding Showcase!

Enjoy a tour of our beautiful wedding facilities and meet our selected local suppliers. Our wedding coordinators will be on hand to meet and greet!

Find our more here!

Harmans Cross Village Hall

Date and time: 27th October 2024, 1pm – 4pm

Photo © Harmans Cross Village Hall | See their Bridebook profile

Don’t miss the chance to view the hall, ask questions and meet some of our lovely local wedding suppliers in the Purbeck and Dorset area!

November

De Vere Cheshire Cranage Estate

Date and time: 3rd November 2024, 12pm – 5pm

Photo © De Vere Cheshire Cranage Estate | See their Bridebook profile

Join us at our first wedding show at the beautiful Cranage Estate, in collaboration with Jodrell Bank. Here’s what you can expect on the day:

  • Ceremony under the stars: Say your vows at the Jodrell Bank Space Dome.
  • Reception at Cranage Estate: Celebrate at a stunning Grade II listed house in the Cheshire countryside.
  • Venue tours: Jodrell Bank showrounds available from 10:30am (please pre-book your slot).
  • Wedding suppliers: Meet up to 60 vendors offering special deals and discounts.
  • Catwalk & entertainment: Catwalk shows at 1:30pm and 3:3 pm, plus amazing live music all day.
  • Fireworks finale: Enjoy a fireworks display at 4:30 pm.
  • Magazine offer: Get the latest Bouquet & Bells / The Magazine at a special rate.
  • Goody bags: The first 100 couples receive exclusive offers and discounts.
  • Family-friendly: Wheelchair/pushchair accessible, and children are welcome.

Find our more here!

Wedding Venue Styles Explained

With so much variety nowadays, finding the perfect venue type for your wedding means that you can be spoilt for choice. Between classic wedding venues, modern wedding venues – or even if you’re considering an outdoor celebration, just to name a few – each of them has their own appeal. So, choosing the perfect wedding venue type for your big day plays a huge factor in your planning and preparation. In this article, we’re going to help make your decision-making a little bit easier, by summarising each venue type and outlining a selection of our best venues to help you whittle down your options.

The Classic Wedding Venue

Photo © The Old Hall Ely | See their Bridebook profile

Let’s begin with the old-age “classic” wedding venue. Think timeless elegance with grand chandeliers, marble floors, and ornate architecture. Often surrounded by lush gardens, classic venues offer a picturesque setting for ceremonies, complemented by spacious ballrooms for receptions. They’re defined more so by their features than their setting. So, this could range from hotels and country clubs through to churches and cathedrals. Here are some of Bridebook’s most sought-after classic wedding venues for you to consider:

The Intimate Wedding Venue

Photo © The Prince Albert | See their Bridebook profile

In today’s society, weddings can often become overcrowded and less intimate, with increasing numbers and added stress, leading many couples to opt for an intimate wedding venue that caters for elopements and smaller ceremonies. An intimate wedding venue offers cosy, personalised spaces with charming decor, private gardens, and elegant, smaller rooms. It creates a warm, romantic atmosphere, ensuring a close-knit, memorable celebration for a select group of guests. Here are a select few of Bridebook’s best venues for an intimate wedding.

The Alternative Wedding Venue

Photo © The Biscuit Factory | See their Bridebook profile

For couples who dare to be different and want their wedding to stand out, an alternative wedding venue offers the perfect backdrop. These venues often feature unconventional settings like art galleries, theatres, or industrial spaces, allowing for a creative and personalised celebration that breaks away from tradition.

The Romantic Wedding Venue

Photo © South Farm | See their Bridebook profile

What’s a wedding venue without romance? Maybe you want your setting to truly scream “love” – and who wouldn’t? Picture your day set within the likes of enchanting gardens, intimate settings, or breathtaking views. Perfect for sunset or twilight ceremonies, a romantic venue offers a cosy, candle-lit reception with floral accents, creating a magical atmosphere ideal for celebrating love.

Venues with Lovely Grounds

Photo © Hedsor House | See their Bridebook profile

If picturesque scenery and beautiful landscapes are at the top of your list, a venue with lovely grounds is a perfect choice. These venues often boast stunning gardens, manicured lawns, and scenic views that provide a breathtaking backdrop for your wedding photos and outdoor ceremonies.

The Unusual Wedding Venue

Photo © Cutty Sark | See their Bridebook profile

Maybe you want your wedding day to be held in a venue that offers something unique – differing from the traditional norms? Bridebook has you covered. These venues provide distinctive backdrops, creative spaces, and memorable experiences, often blending natural beauty with architectural charm, ensuring a one-of-a-kind celebration that reflects your individuality and style as a couple.

The Budget Wedding Venue

Photo © Newton Hall | See their Bridebook profile

When you hear the word “budget”, you may think you need to make cutbacks on some of the most important things, including your wedding venue. But, at Bridebook, you can still have your dream wedding, seeking out a venue that you love all whilst keeping costs down. A budget wedding venue offers charm and affordability, from community halls to pretty local parks and quaint gardens. These venues let you celebrate your special day without breaking the bank.

Venues with Outdoor Spaces

Photo © The Gardens | See their Bridebook profile

An outdoor wedding venue, especially in the UK, needs to offer some cover – just in case! Whilst we can all hope that our wedding day is going to be sunshine, not showers, it’s a crucial point that needs to be considered. That said, you simply can’t beat an outdoor wedding. With natural beauty, open-air settings, and scenic landscapes, it’s no wonder they’re a firm favourite. Often with lush gardens, waterfront views, or rustic vineyards, you get the perfect backdrop for ceremonies and receptions. Here are some of our top outdoor wedding venues.

The Luxury Wedding Venue

Photo © Rise Hall | See their Bridebook profile

If you’re seeking a truly lavish celebration, you may be considering a luxury wedding venue. Offering opulent decor, exquisite architecture, and premium services – only the very best for newlyweds-to-be – your luxury wedding venue awaits. Often featuring grand ballrooms, immaculate gardens and gourmet dining, each provides an unforgettable setting for weddings. Here Bridebook, we have some of the most luxurious wedding venues you can find.

The Rustic Wedding Venue

Photo © Abbey Farm Weddings | See their Bridebook profile

A rustic wedding venue provides a truly romantic setting for your big day. Abundant with natural flowers, overhead beams and a cosy yet stylish atmosphere, the rustic look is one of the most popular wedding venue styles. Typically a charming barn or farmhouse, surrounded by natural landscapes with wildflowers, this particular wedding venue type is perfect for a beautiful laid-back celebration. Here at Bridebook, we have countless rustic gems to explore.

Venues with Water Views

Photo © Inn On The Lake | See their Bridebook profile

A wedding venue with water views can add a touch of serenity and elegance to your big day. Whether it’s a beachfront location, a lakeside retreat, or a riverside venue, the calming presence of water can enhance the romantic atmosphere and provide a stunning backdrop for your ceremony and reception.

The Modern Wedding Venue

Photo © The Corinthian Club | See their Bridebook profile

For the contemporary couples, a modern wedding venue with up-to-date technology, jazzy lighting, comfortable facilities, and sleek airy spaces, is just the ticket. A modern venue can be almost anywhere – it’s more about how the space is used and how modern design has been incorporated into the venue.

The Unique Wedding Venue

Photo © Ghillie Dhu | See their Bridebook profile

For those seeking a wedding venue that’s truly one-of-a-kind, a unique wedding venue can offer an extraordinary experience. These venues often feature distinct characteristics, such as unusual architecture, themed settings, or unexpected locations, ensuring that your wedding day is unlike any other.

The City Wedding Venue

Photo © Shangri-La Hotel, At The Shard, London | See their Bridebook profile

For couples who thrive on the energy and excitement of urban life, a city wedding venue can offer a chic and sophisticated setting. These venues are often located in the heart of bustling cities, providing easy access to transportation, hotels, and a vibrant atmosphere for your celebration.

Blank Canvas Wedding Venues

Photo © The Glass House at Staining Lodge | See their Bridebook profile

A blank canvas is just that – a blank canvas which you can do exactly what you like with. This style of venue offers the ultimate flexibility for creative couples who want to design every aspect of their big day themselves. These venues typically offer a neutral and versatile space that can be transformed to match any wedding theme or style, allowing for complete personalisation.

Venues with Scenic Views

Photo © The Ashes Barns and Country House | See their Bridebook profile

For a wedding backdrop that takes your breath away, a venue with scenic views is ideal. These venues are often situated in picturesque locations, such as mountains, vineyards, or countryside estates, offering stunning vistas that will make your wedding day unforgettable.

The Historic Wedding Venue

Photo © Roman Baths and Pump Room | See their Bridebook profile

Ranging from towering castles and opulent libraries through to iconic museums and Tudor houses, a historic wedding venue is characterised by its age, architectural significance, cultural heritage, and storied past. Each offering is own unique style; from period decor to grand interiors and a timeless ambiance.

Asian Specialist Wedding Venues

Photo © Froyle Park | See their Bridebook profile

Asian wedding venues are designed to cater to the specific needs and traditions of Asian weddings, offering ample space for large guest lists and cultural ceremonies. These venues often feature luxurious interiors, beautiful gardens, and a range of services to ensure a seamless and memorable celebration.

The Casual Wedding Venue

Photo © The Ferry House | See their Bridebook profile

If a more laid-back affair is what you’re after, you’ll probably want to consider a casual wedding venue – where minimalist chic is at the forefront of your day. This is a simple-yet-effective no frills venue, offering natural beauty, simple decor, and an intimate vibe, where the focus can be kept on the happy couple. This could be a pub, restaurant, or a registry office – making a more relaxed day for the couple to bask in their newlywed status.

The Formal Wedding Venue

Photo © Bradbourne House | See their Bridebook profile

For those couples who envision a wedding with an air of sophistication and elegance, a formal wedding venue provides the perfect setting. These venues often feature grand ballrooms, stately homes, or exclusive clubs, offering a refined atmosphere for your ceremony and reception.

The Cool Wedding Venue

Photo © The Hackney | See their Bridebook profile

If you’re a couple who values style and contemporary vibes, a cool wedding venue is the way to go. These venues are often trendy, with modern designs, unique features, and a chic ambiance that sets the stage for a fashionable and unforgettable wedding celebration.

Find your dream venue on Bridebook

When it comes to choosing your wedding venue, it’s about far more than just the four walls in which you decide to share your nuptials. It’s a representation of your personalities and, often, a representation of your relationship – the story of where you’ve been together and the journey you’re about to embark on together as a married couple. So, wherever you decide to share your special day, make sure to find somewhere that feels just right for you and your partner. 

Don’t forget to check out all the fabulous wedding venues we have right here on Bridebook, and filter for the wedding venue types and styles you like most. 

Discover your dream wedding venue now!

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Happy Planning!

How to Plan a Beach Wedding

Are you dreaming of a serene coastal wedding, surrounded by the gentle sound of lapping waves and the sand between your toes? You’re in the right place. In case you couldn’t tell, we love weddings, and beach weddings are among our favourites! The natural beauty of the seaside creates an idyllic backdrop for your special day, whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a grand celebration.

From choosing the perfect beach wedding venue to adding those personal touches that make your day uniquely yours, we’ve got you covered. We’ll guide you through every step of the process, ensuring your beach wedding is as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Ready to start planning your dream beach wedding? Let’s dive (pun not intended) in and create a seaside celebration that you and your guests will cherish forever. Here’s how to make your coastal wedding dreams a reality.

What is a beach wedding?

Photo © Acronym Photography | See their Bridebook profile

A beach wedding is a wedding ceremony or reception held on the sandy shores of your favourite beach. Beach weddings are beautiful, low-key, and perfect for couples who want a relaxed atmosphere on their big day. 

The great thing about beach weddings is they’re brilliantly versatile. They can be as casual as a barefoot ceremony, with just a few close friends and family, or as elaborate as a decorated event with all the trimmings.

Can I get legally married on a beach?

Photo © Khalile Siddiqui Photography Photography | See their Bridebook profile

Yes, you can get legally married on a beach, provided that the beach is part of a legally licensed wedding venue. But, if you’d like to get married in a more rural location, or you aren’t sure whether your venue is licensed, you could always get legally married before the ceremony, then have a blessing on the beach before moving on to a celebration at another location. This way, you can enjoy the scenic beauty of the beach for your ceremony without worrying about the legalities.

How popular are beach weddings?

Photo © Mark Shaw Photography | See their Bridebook profile

Beach and destination weddings are extremely popular among today’s couples. According to Bridebook’s 2024 Engagement Report, a whopping 32% of couples are planning their wedding outside the UK. Italy and Greece are the most popular destinations, with 24% of those couples looking to get married in Italy, and another 20% looking to get hitched in Greece. Spain and Cyprus are also high on the list, with France, Vegas, and Mexico making honourable mentions. 

Although some of these destination weddings may be taking place in historic chateaus, beautiful villas, or charming local chapels, many of these couples will be opting for relaxed beach weddings on golden sands. 

How to plan the perfect beach wedding

Photo © Laurie B Film and Photography | See their Bridebook profile

Ready to start planning your dream beach wedding? Here are some tips to help you create a perfect seaside celebration.

Step 1: Sign up to Bridebook

First things first — you need to sign up to Bridebook. 

Bridebook is your one-stop-shop for all things wedding planning. From the handy guest list planner to preferential rates on vendors, our easy-to-use app has everything you need to plan your dream wedding. Sign up for your free account today and start exploring all the tools and resources available to make your beach wedding planning a breeze!

Step 2: Set a budget

Although it isn’t as glamorous as shopping for a dress or designing your invitations, setting a budget is a key part of wedding planning. Your budget will determine every aspect of your wedding, from the venue to the flowers to the food. We know it’s tempting not to keep track of spending, but small purchases add up quickly, and it’s important to keep an eye on your budget to avoid any surprises.

Bridebook’s built-in budget planning tool is perfect for helping you keep on track with spending. This handy tool will break your overall budget down into common spending categories like the venue, catering, cake, dress, rings and more, before asking you to record what you’ve actually spent and letting you know where you’re up to on your budget. You can also customise every aspect of your budget. For example, if you’re getting your cake for free because your friend is making it, or if you’re using family heirlooms for your wedding bands.  It’s easy to plan exactly what you’re going to spend and your current outgoings with Bridebook. 

Step 3: Set a date

The next step is to pick your date. Beach weddings are best planned in the late spring or early summer. This will give you the best chance of enjoying the beautiful weather without it being too warm. 

Be sure to check the local weather if you’re planning a destination wedding. Make sure your chosen date aligns with the best weather forecasts for that country. For example, countries like the Maldives or the Caribbean have rainy seasons, whichyou’ll want to avoid. Choosing a date during the off-peak season can also be a good idea, as it might be less crowded and potentially more affordable.

Picking your date means you have something to work towards and can start making concrete plans. With a set date, you can begin booking your venue, sending out save-the-dates, and coordinating with vendors. Having a timeline for your preparations will keep everything on track and ensure your big day is just perfect.

Step 4: Consider going abroad

If you haven’t already started looking at destination weddings, now’s the time to consider where you might want to say “I do.” Destination weddings can be incredibly special, offering you and your guests a mini-holiday as part of the celebration and giving you the perfect opportunity to plan a mini-moon. 

Popular destinations for beach weddings include Greece, Italy, and Spain. However, you can get married in any country with a coastline. Plus, you can usually get more for your money abroad, meaning you can have a truly spectacular wedding without breaking the bank.

For more inspiration, check out our dedicated post on top destination wedding locations.

Step 5: Think about the logistics

While planning a beach or destination wedding is exciting, it’s important to consider the logistics to ensure everything goes smoothly. For example, remote locations may not be accessible to guests who use wheelchairs or are on crutches. Equally, a destination wedding may not be accessible to grandparents or older family members. 

You also need to think about the cost aspect. Although you can get more for your money abroad in terms of the celebration, some guests may not be able to afford the plane ticket or cost of accommodation.

If your heart is set on going abroad, consider throwing a smaller, post-wedding celebration when you come home for all the guests who couldn’t make your big day. This ensures everyone feels included in your big day, regardless of their ability to travel. 

Step 6: Start your planning

Once you’ve ticked off the major decisions, it’s time to dive into the fun details. Check out these creative beach-themed wedding ideas to get your creative juices flowing:

Beach wedding catering

Beach wedding catering should make the most of the local flavours of wherever you’re getting married. For example, if you’re getting married on a UK beach, consider using local mussels, local fish, leeks, or other root vegetables as part of your meal. Equally, if you’re getting married in Italy, consider using fresh pasta, local cheeses, olives, and tomatoes to create a delicious, authentic menu. Incorporating local flavours not only makes your meal memorable but also supports the local economy!

Beach wedding colours

When it comes to your wedding colour scheme, white, light pastel tones, light earth tones, and pale blues or seafoam green are all great options for a beautiful beach wedding. These colours blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings and add a touch of elegance to your seaside celebration. Think of incorporating these shades into your decorations, flowers, bridesmaid dresses, and even your wedding cake, for a harmonious look.

Beach wedding attire

Think light, floaty fabrics, flat shoes, and casual, yet elegant styles. Flowy dresses, linen suits, and sandals or even barefoot options are perfect for a beach setting. Make sure to let your guests know the dress code so they can dress comfortably for the sand and sun.

Beach wedding decorations

Try to incorporate the natural beauty of the coastline into your beach wedding decor. Think driftwood, seaglass, seashells, and even small potted plants or succulents. You can also use lanterns, fairy lights, and candles to create a magical ambiance as the sun sets. Personalised touches like engraved seashells or beach-themed place cards can add a unique flair.

Beach wedding favours

Although wedding favours aren’t always expected, offering beach-themed wedding favours can be a nice touch to show your appreciation to your guests. Consider giving out small bottles of sand from the beach where you’re getting married, personalised flip-flops, or beach towels. Eco-friendly options like reusable tote bags, bamboo utensils, or handmade soaps can also make thoughtful and practical favours.

Beach wedding invites

Lean into the coastal aesthetic with your invitations by using beach-themed designs. Think about incorporating elements like seashells, starfish, and waves in your invites. You can use textured paper to mimic the feel of sand or opt for pastel colours that reflect the serene beach atmosphere. Adding a touch of whimsy with a message in a bottle or a nautical map can make your invitations truly memorable.

Beach wedding cake

Beachy wedding cakes are all about incorporating elements of the sea and shore. Think about cakes adorned with edible seashells, starfish, and coral. You could opt for a simple yet elegant cake with a watercolour finish in shades of blue and green, mimicking the ocean waves. A naked cake with fresh tropical fruits and flowers can also add a delightful and natural touch.

Step 7: Have a foolproof backup plan

No matter how confident you are that your wedding will be filled with sunshine, it’s crucial to have a backup plan. The UK has famously unpredictable weather, and you can’t count on destination weddings being perfectly sunny either. Renting a tent or canopy can provide shelter from unexpected rain or intense sun. Additionally, having an indoor venue nearby as a contingency can ensure that your celebration goes off without a hitch, come rain or shine.

Step 8: Sit back and relax!

The final step is to sit back and relax. You’ve done it! The hard part is out of the way and now you have your lovely wedding day to look forward to. Take time to yourself, try to switch off from wedding planning, and maybe schedule a few beach walks? You’ve earned it!

Plan your dream beach wedding with Bridebook

Photo © Mark Noall | See their Bridebook profile

Beach weddings are a beautiful but low-key way to celebrate your love. It’s easy to keep them chilled and laid-back, or dress them up to be a truly fabulous affair. Whatever your preference, you’ll want to have  Bridebook on your side.

Bridebook is your free, all-in-one wedding planning tool. With Bridebook, you can effortlessly organise every aspect of your wedding, from managing your guest list to finding the perfect beach wedding venues.  Sign up today and start planning your dream beach wedding with ease!

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Happy Planning!

The Most Expensive Wedding of All Time! – Discover All the Facts and Figures Behind the $664 Million Ambani Wedding Extravaganza

The wedding celebrations of Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant are underway. First was the $160 million three-day 1,200-guest pre-wedding party in March, starring none other than Rihanna. Then came the $120 million 800-guest cruise of the Mediterranean starring Katy Perry and Backstreet Boys. And this week is the big bash itself.

1 million weddings a year are planned on Bridebook.com, the world’s leading wedding planning app. We’re breaking down what to expect and how much it will all cost.

The Ambani total wedding cost will be $664 million (and that doesn’t include the $1bn venue)! That’s more than 15 times the cost of Harry and Meghan’s $43 million Royal Wedding, and 31,000 times the global average cost of a wedding!

The final wedding event this week is estimated to cost $384m alone. Add that to the $160m spent on the first pre-wedding party in March and the $120m cruise and the total wedding will cost more than half a billion dollars!

5,000 guests 

Over 5,000 of the world’s most rich and famous will be descending on Mumbai. Our number crunchers have calculated that it will have the highest wealth per square foot of any event this century.

The most expensive venue in the world: a $1bn wedding venue

Estimated cost: free (but cost $1bn to build!)

The groom’s father owns not only the most expensive house in India, but also the most expensive venue. Built by Mukesh Ambani, the wedding venue is Jio World Convention Centre, which cost a staggering $1bn! Measuring 18.5 acres, it is 10x the size of the Empire State Building.  Of the 250,000 wedding venues in the world on Bridebook.com, Jio World is the most expensive wedding venue in the world. 

$1,800,000 on luxury toilets

Estimated cost: $1.8m

1,000 designer toilets will be scattered throughout the venue, providing guests with a restroom experience fit for royalty – after all, luxury guests need luxury toilets! At $1,800 per toilet, that’s a princely sum of $1,800,000 dedicated solely to restroom opulence! 

$10 million for crystal chandeliers

Estimated cost: $10m

Illuminating the opulent venue, 1,000 crystal chandeliers will cast a dazzling glow, creating an atmosphere of luxury and elegance. At $10,000 per chandelier, that’s at least $10m on lighting!

The world’s greatest music line-up of all time

Estimated cost: $100m-$140m

Glastonbury, Coachella, eat your hearts out. Justin Bieber already performed in Mumbai for a third pre-party this week at a cost of $10m. With musical sensations Rihanna, Katy Perry, Backstreet Boys, and Andrea Bocelli having already performed at the pre-wedding celebrations for a combined cost of $38-60m, only one question remains: who is headlining the wedding itself?

Adele currently looks almost certain, though Beyoncé and Taylor Swift are also widely rumoured to be joining her on stage. The cost of all three would top $64-80m.

With a total Ambani bill of $140m for their wedding bands, this would be 25,000 times the average cost of a wedding band! 

The ultimate celebratory procession

We can expect a Baraat like no other on the day of the wedding. The procession of dancing wedding guests will be like none seen before. Many bands playing a variety of tunes will be delighting guests, while performers dressed in fantastical costumes such as mythical beasts, birds or even serpents will accompany them.

Catering & cuisine

Estimated cost: $80m-$160m

Expect the world’s finest chefs, finest produce and finest wines over the three days of celebrations. The couple offered their 1,000 guests 2,500 meal options at the March pre-wedding celebration alone. But that was nothing compared to the main event, where no expense is being spared and 37,500+ meal options are being cooked up by an army of 500 chefs over three days.

30,000 bottles of the finest vintage Champagne

Estimated cost: $27m-$84m

Across the three pre-wedding events and the main event itself, over 30,000 bottles of the world’s finest vintage champagnes will be served. This is believed to cause a global shortage. At $900-2,800 per bottle, the total bill for this champagne alone could reach $84m.  

A three-day traffic jam

Mumbai police have already warned that there will be a constant traffic jam from 12th to 15th July around most of Mumbai, as the thousands of suppliers, guests and security make their way to the venue.

An 18-page dress code with 25,000 wardrobe transformations

Estimated cost: $80m-$100m+

Envision the fashion frenzy as each of the 5,000 guests undergoes a staggering 5 outfit changes, totalling a mind-boggling 25,000 wardrobe transformations! From couture creations to bespoke ensembles, it will be a fashion extravaganza of epic proportions! Guests are expected to spend more than $100m on their outfits.

The dress

Estimated cost: $7m-$20m

The bride, Radhika, will likely wear one of the most expensive wedding dresses of all time. With multiple changes across multiple events, expect a procession of jaw-dropping looks and a likely price tag of $10m to achieve them.

Jewellery

Estimated cost: $35m-$90m

Jewellery is very important and symbolic in Indian weddings. From heirlooms to gifts to high fashion, a treasure trove of jewellery will be on show across the wedding events. Jewellery is often loaned for weddings, but, at this wedding, we would expect much to be gifted or bought new.

20 million flowers & 500 florists

Estimated cost: $20m-40m+

To decorate the immense 18.5 acre venue, expect over 20 million flowers to fill the venue and a team of over 500 florists.  

The most expensive wedding invitations of all time

Estimated cost: $21.5m-$42.5m

Each wedding invitation cost $8,600 to make! Intricate golden chests were delivered to lucky guests filled with gifts and the invitation itself. With 5,000 guests, hopefully they saved a bit by sharing one between couples! 

World-class security

Estimated cost: $40m-$80m

10,000 police, 5000 surveillance cameras and a fleet of drones

With one of the most high-profile wedding guest lists of all time, security will be paramount. Get ready for security that rivals a Hollywood blockbuster! With an army of security personnel, high-tech surveillance cameras and a fleet of patrolling drones, the Ambani wedding will pull out all the stops to ensure a safe and secure event. If it’s any indication, the Indian special forces themselves performed at the pre-wedding party in March! 

Over 1,000,000 wedding photos captured by a team of 150 award-winning photographers and videographers

Estimated cost: $3.5m-$10m

A team of 50 videographers and 100 photographers will be ready to capture every angle and immortalise every moment. No detail will be left undocumented. With each photographer taking 10,000 snaps each over the 3 days, that’s at least a million wedding snaps in total. 

There are even strong rumours of a world-famous director being responsible for editing a full wedding video…

The most Instagram likes of any private event in history

The guests at the wedding have a combined 10 billion Instagram followers! After posts from the pre-wedding celebrations alone received billions of likes, this is set to be the most liked private event of all time.

60,000 jobs created and a GDP boost!

The huge event has created over 60,000 jobs around India and the world in preparation for the wedding. The entrepreneurial family’s business employs over 400,000 employees in India so expect celebrations across the country.  

Plan your perfect wedding on Bridebook

If you’re planning your own wedding, but don’t quite have half a billion dollars to spend (!), then check out the ultimate wedding budget breakdown on Bridebook, and take a look at the average cost of a wedding here.

For further information, interviews and images, please contact the press team at press@bridebook.co.uk. Happy planning!

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Happy Planning!

Venue Showcase: The Idyllic Curradine Barns

Immerse yourself in the picture-perfect elegance of Curradine Barns, a serene and secluded 19th-century venue nestled in Shrawley, in the heart of the Worcestershire countryside. This enchanting setting is exclusively yours from midday to midnight, providing the ideal backdrop for a magical celebration. In this exclusive feature, we chat with the venue’s expert General Manager, Laura Moseley, to get the lowdown on what makes this venue so dreamy. 

Highlights of the venue

See Curradine Barns’ Bridebook profile

Laura explains the venue’s standout features: “Who wouldn’t love to have a barn they can call their own for a day? Curradine Barns is perfectly nestled in the beautiful surroundings of Shrawley, yet still within good proximity of Worcester city centre. The venue is steeped in history, and the modern additions to Curradine give a real sense of old meets new, while the versatility of the venue allows us to host both intimate and larger events. Curradine’s standout features also include our beautiful grounds – every corner of the venue is adorned in colour and foliage, which make for the perfect backdrop for photographs.”

Explore the venue’s spaces

See Curradine Barns’ Bridebook profile

Wedding Preparation Room

Relax and prepare in luxury in this venue’s spacious Wedding Preparation Room, where you can enjoy the tranquil view of rolling fields and watch as your guests arrive, setting a fabulous stage for your special day.

Granary Barn

Beautifully restored, the Granary Barn offers the perfect setting for both your ceremony and evening party. With its wrought-iron chandelier, fairy lights on oak beams and exposed brickwork, the Granary Barn exudes a warm, cosy charm. The enchanting Garden Gazebo awaits for outdoor ceremonies. 

Barley Barn

Following your vows, join your loved ones in the bright and inviting Barley Barn. Exuding historic charm and modern elegance, this space combines wooden beams with a stunning glass extension. Decorated in a delicate, neutral palette, it’s a versatile canvas ready to be transformed to suit your style. Up to 150 guests can enjoy a delectable wedding breakfast prepared by the in-house catering team. As the evening unfolds, the Curradine Cantina will serve vibrant street food and wood-fired pizzas in the charming Courtyard.

Midsummer Cottage

As the day draws to an end, retreat to the luxurious Midsummer Cottage, a newly re-imagined honeymoon suite. With its spacious interior, cosy decor and private secret garden, it’s the perfect romantic hideaway. Meanwhile, up to 24 of your guests can stay overnight in the Farmhouse’s ten inviting bedrooms, where a delicious breakfast in the Farmhouse Kitchen awaits to cap off your celebration.

Memorable moments at Curradine Barns

See Curradine Barns’ Bridebook profile

Laura came into the wedding world after applying for a post-uni summer job as a waitress at one of Curradine Barn’s sister venues: “I fell in love with every aspect of being a part of someone’s special day: food, drink, decor, outfits and seeing couples surrounded by their nearest and dearest.”

“As this was my first involvement with the hospitality industry, I went away and joined a team at an independent, family-run hotel and gained the foundations of my hospitality experience from here. I then rejoined the business in 2018 as an Events Manager, and have continued to grow in my career.”

“What I love most about my job is building a relationship with our couples and seeing their journey through to the very end.”

Laura shares her most memorable moment at Curradine to date: “It was a couple who loved flowers, and their florists created a complete explosion of flowers across the venue – absolutely stunning. There was also a brass band that welcomed guests into the courtyard from the church which was ace!” 

Expert advice from The Pear Tree

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Laura’s top tip for couples planning their wedding is wonderfully simple but often overlooked: “My expert advice is to find the joys in all the planning as well as on the day. There will be things that happen which are out of your control – it’s inevitable – but this should not take over the bigger picture of being surrounded by those who love you and marrying your soulmate.” We couldn’t have said it better ourselves here at Bridebook! Your wedding journey runs from the planning to the big day itself, and you should absolutely enjoy every moment!”

Secure your booking today

See Curradine Barns’ Bridebook profile

Curradine Barns seamlessly blends historic rural charm with modern comforts, offering a idyllic setting for your wedding. With its beautiful spaces and serene countryside atmosphere, it’s the perfect backdrop to your big day. Enquire today to arrange a viewing and start your journey to happily ever after!

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Happy Planning!

Venue Showcase: Explore The Pear Tree

Imbued with 400 years of history, The Pear Tree will captivate you with its romantic interiors and purpose-built Orangery, offering a seamless blend of old and new in a charming Wiltshire village, nestled close to the Cotswolds. Discover what makes this venue so enchanting and hear directly from the venue’s expert Sales Manager, John Walsh, in this exclusive showcase. 

Highlights of the venue

See The Pear Tree’s Bridebook profile

John struggles to identify just one standout feature: “There are so many stand-out features at The Pear Tree. Let’s start with the amazing location on the edge of a picturesque village surrounded by beautiful countryside. It has amazing architecture (some parts of the house are over 400 years old!). The Orangery dining room is flooded with natural light and looks directly onto beautiful gardens and a vineyard. The food is exquisite, the service is 5 star and it even has 17 bedrooms for your guests to stay. It really is the perfect setting for a wedding.”

The venue’s culinary excellence is of particular note. John comments that the standards of service and food quality is the highest he has experienced in his long career in the wedding industry: “Our Head Chef and his team recently won an award for his cuisine, which was much deserved.”

 

Explore the venue’s spaces

See The Pear Tree’s Bridebook profile

Cascade dressing room

Begin your special day in Cascade, a sanctuary of calm and tranquillity ahead of the day’s celebrations. This luxurious dressing room, where the wedding day butterflies start, is designed to exude opulence and calm.

Blossom ceremony room

Exchange your vows in the Blossom ceremony room, a bright and whimsical space adorned with flowers and flickering candles. Beneath a vaulted canopy of drapes and sumptuous chandeliers, this setting is ideal for weddings of all sizes, accommodating up to 150 guests.

Terrace

Newly wed, capture a photograph at the top of the open-air staircase before embracing your confetti moment as you descend to the gardens and unique vineyards. With views of a church spire, woodland and expansive fields, the Terrace offers a picturesque backdrop throughout the year.

Orangery 

Continue your celebration through The Pear Tree’s enchanting array of spaces to the contemporary Orangery. With floor-to-ceiling windows framing garden views, enjoy a gourmet wedding breakfast in stylish surroundings.

Barlett bar and lounge

Finally, move the festivities to the chic Bartlett Bar and Lounge to dance the night away. Just steps away on the Terrace, the outdoor kitchen will come to life, serving a delectable evening menu to delight your guests.

Moonglow honeymoon suite

As the night draws to a close and the sky fills with stars, retreat to Moonglow, your honeymoon suite, while your guests retire to their elegant bedrooms.

Memorable moments at The Pear Tree

See The Pear Tree’s Bridebook profile

John started in the wedding industry many years ago as a DJ: “Over the years I went into event managing and sales. I love this industry because it’s so exiting! We get to throw a party almost every day – what other job lets you do that!”

John also shares his most memorable wedding at The Pear Tree, which is the perfect example of how personalised and bespoke your own celebration at this venue could be. “My most memorable wedding was one I managed when I first started in the business over 30 years ago. It was a Star Trek themed wedding and everyone was dressed up as crew or aliens. The tables were named from different episodes and they served dishes from the Klingon empire. Me being a big sci fi fan, I absolutely loved it. You could say, it was out of this world.” 

Expert advice from The Pear Tree

See The Pear Tree’s Bridebook profile

John has three pieces of expert advice for couples planning their wedding:

  1. “I think the best time for a ceremony is 1pm. This gives you enough time to get ready and your guests won’t be too hungry when they sit down to eat.”
  2. “Menu choices can be tricky when putting a wedding together. The golden rule is to choose food that you and your partner love.”
  3. “Sometimes couples don’t enjoy the food as much as they could because they are so worried about speeches after the meal. If you don’t like public speaking, or worse, are worrying about what someone else is going to say, have the speeches before the meal.”

These are super tips which you might not have even considered before!

Secure your booking today

See The Pear Tree’s Bridebook profile

Overall, The Pear Tree offers the perfect blend of timeless charm and modern elegance. With its fabulously versatile spaces and enchanting atmosphere, it’s the ideal venue to celebrate your love story. So what are you waiting for? Enquire today to secure your booking, and make the most of this wonderful venue. 

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Happy Planning!

Venue Showcase: Discover Crumplebury

Tucked away in the picturesque countryside where Herefordshire meets Worcestershire, Crumplebury is an exclusive-use venue which seamlessly blends contemporary architecture with breathtaking vistas. In this exclusive feature, we speak to Casey Thomasson, the venue’s Welcome Team Executive, on what makes Crumplebury the perfect venue for your big day. 

Highlights of the venue

See Crumplebury’s Bridebook profile
Casey Thomasson summarises Crumplebury’s standout features: “With our unique blend of modern elegance and natural beauty, we offer an exclusive-use wedding venue that sits in the heart of a 1,500-acre estate. Crumplebury is an experience from the moment you arrive with our farm animals around to greet you on arrival (or to lie on the drive and forbid you from leaving!) Our aim is for all our couples to feel like an extension of our Crumplebury family.”
 

Explore the venue’s spaces

See Crumplebury’s Bridebook profile

The Gallery 

Begin your journey at Crumplebury with a memorable ceremony in The Gallery. Exchange vows in front of floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing panoramic views of the 1,500-acre estate and rolling countryside.

The Drinking Trough 

After the ceremony, your guests can mingle and toast you  in The Drinking Trough, a charming space designed for drinks receptions. Enjoy signature cocktails, local ales and ciders while overlooking the home farm.

The Great Barn

Move to The Great Barn for a sumptuous wedding breakfast. Crumplebury prides itself on culinary excellence, which the team ranks among its standout features. Enjoy seasonal menus crafted from locally sourced ingredients and bespoke dining experiences tailored to each couple’s preferences.

The Sunken Terrace

Continue the festivities on The Sunken Terrace, where your guests can enjoy evening drinks and a BBQ or pizza feast under the stars. Dance the night away and celebrate with up to 150 friends and family members.

The Oakley and Longfield Cottage

As the celebrations wind down, retreat to The Oakley, the romantic on-site honeymoon suite. Additional onsite accommodations, including Longfield Cottage, can host your closest guests for the evening, allowing everyone to come together for a lovely breakfast the next morning.

The venue’s seasonal beauty 

See Crumplebury’s Bridebook profile

Crumplebury creates magical moments against the backdrop of the ever-changing seasons. Whether it’s the vibrant colours of spring, golden hues of summer, fiery tones of autumn, or the serene beauty of winter, Crumplebury offers couples a stunning natural setting for their wedding celebrations.

Meet the venue’s Welcome Team Executive

See Crumplebury’s Bridebook profile

Casey shares her experiences working in the wedding industry, and what she loves most about her role as Welcome Team Executive at Crumplebury:

“It’s an industry that’s completely centred on love, which was what pulled me towards choosing this path for my career. Within the wedding world comes a myriad of different roles and responsibilities, however, when couples come to visit me, it is usually during the first step of their process and perhaps the most important – choosing their dream venue!”

“My role means I get to witness couples imagining themselves getting married, which is one of the most romantic and meaningful steps in their journey. Imagining all their family, friends and loved ones sitting in the ceremony chairs about to witness one of the most special days of their lives is a privilege and is what puts the inspiration behind everything that I do.”

“You can’t beat the real life experience this career provides and it gives me the opportunity to be creative and bring some form of magic to our couples.”

Casey also shares her best expert advice for couples planning their wedding: “Venues love to get creative, and the sky’s the limit when it comes to creating your perfect day! So, my top tip for couples beginning their planning journey would be to lead with what you love and what is important to you. Following trends is great when looking for inspiration, but ultimately your day should reflect you and your partner and what you hold dear.”

Secure your booking today

See Crumplebury’s Bridebook profile

Whether you’re local or traveling from afar, Crumplebury beckons as a destination venue for couples seeking an extraordinary and unforgettable wedding experience like no other. Enquire today to secure your booking!

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Happy Planning!

Venue Showcase: Glewstone Court Country House

Nestled in the heart of the Herefordshire countryside, Glewstone Court Country House offers an enchanting setting for your wedding, seamlessly blending timeless elegance with rustic charm. This Grade II listed Georgian manor, surrounded by two acres of meticulously manicured grounds, provides a picturesque backdrop for your celebration, no matter the season. In this exclusive feature, we chat to Joel Lambert-Muzio, Glewstone Court’s expert Head of Sales, to discover exactly what makes this venue so special. 

Highlights of the venue

Photo © Glewstone Court Country House | See their Bridebook profile

Family-run ethos

Choosing Glewstone Court, as Joel explains, “means joining a family that is passionate about making your special day unforgettable, offering personalised touches and immaculate attention to detail that only a family-owned business can provide. We have planned weddings for numerous international weddings taking place at Glewstone Court, including couples from New York over to Australia! This shows the high level of attention to detail and the impeccable communication we have to ensure these overseas weddings are executed perfectly.”

Exclusive use 

Glewstone Court offers the exclusivity that ensures that your wedding day is uniquely yours. The entire manor and its grounds are available for private hire, providing an intimate and personal setting for your celebration. Whether you are planning an intimate wedding ceremony, or a large wedding reception or want a marquee on the lawns, Glewstone Court can accommodate your vision.

Joel emphasises that the venue’s exclusivity is one of its standout features: “The exclusive use of the venue means couples can enjoy the beauty and history of the manor in complete privacy. The picturesque grounds, complete with a 500-year-old Cedar of Lebanon overlooking the apple orchards at the bottom of our lawn, provide a stunning backdrop for both indoor and outdoor ceremonies. Our bespoke services include mouthwatering menus featuring locally sourced produce and everything is customisable, so you can tweak anything to your taste. We also have drinks packages, all tailored to your unique vision.”

A luxurious honeymoon suite

Photo © Glewstone Court Country House | See their Bridebook profile

“One of our standout features is the luxurious Gainsborough Honeymoon Suite, with its grand size and floods of natural light. It is the perfect place to get ready in luxurious style before making your way down to say your I dos.”

Multi-day celebrations

For couples wishing to extend their celebration, Glewstone Court offers multi-day venue hire. This option allows for a relaxed pre-wedding gathering, where guests can truly enjoy the beautiful surroundings and connect before the big day. Plus, the estate’s talented chef can prepare a delightful family-style dinner, which enhances the sense of intimacy and joy among your closest friends and family.

A dream venue in every season

Photo © Glewstone Court Country House | See their Bridebook profile

Spring & Summer: Glewstone Court truly shines in the warmer months. Couples can exchange vows under the sprawling branches of the estate’s 500-year-old Cedar of Lebanon or celebrate with a champagne reception in the charming Mediterranean-inspired courtyard. The verdant lawns and blooming gardens offer a tranquil and picturesque environment for your special day.

Autumn & Winter: As the seasons change, Glewstone Court transforms into an enchanting, cosy retreat. Imagine a wedding surrounded by the warm glow of candlelight and the comforting crackle of log fires. The manor’s luxurious interiors, adorned with seasonal decorations, create a magical and intimate atmosphere perfect for autumn and winter weddings.

Inclusivity and values

Photo © Glewstone Court Country House | See their Bridebook profile

Glewstone Court is a top wedding venue embracing LGBTQ+ inclusivity: “We are proud to honour love in all its beautiful forms. We believe every love story deserves a stunning setting. Our exclusive country house offers the perfect backdrop for your special day, surrounded by picturesque gardens and luxurious elegance. Love is love, and we can’t wait to be part of your journey.”

Awards and nominations

Photo © Glewstone Court Country House | See their Bridebook profile

Glewstone Court is also proud to have won a number of awards, including:

  • Finalist for SME of the Year – British Business Awards
  • Red Star Award AA Inspectors’ Choice in Britain & Ireland
  • Two AA Rosette for Culinary Excellence
  • Good Hotel Award Winners 2021
  • TripAdvisor Top Rated Certificate of Excellence 2021
  • Best of Bridebook Platinum Award for 2023 & 2024
  • Other Numerous 3rd party platform awards

Meet Joel Lambert-Muzio 

Photo © Glewstone Court Country House | See their Bridebook profile

Joel has a unique journey into the wedding industry. With a BA Honours Degree in Performing Arts, Joel initially pursued a career in hospitality, which naturally led him into the enchanting world of weddings. It was his own engagement and wedding planning that cemented his passion for this industry specifically. 

Joel continues: “I began my professional journey in a sales and marketing company, starting from the bottom and working my way up to Head of Sales. This role involved managing sales and marketing for multiple venues, including Glewstone Court. Over my three and a half years working with Glewstone Court, both as part of the external company and now directly, I developed a deep connection with the venue. Glewstone Court was always my favourite client; I fell in love with the venue, family and ethos of Glewstone Court immediately.

“What I love most about working in the wedding industry is the blend of personal connections and professional challenges. I cherish the relationships I’ve built with my colleagues and the thrill of meeting couples as they search for their dream venue. It’s incredibly fulfilling to contribute to such a significant day in people’s lives, and I am grateful to be a part of their journey at Glewstone Court.”

Joel’s expert wedding advice

Photo © Glewstone Court Country House | See their Bridebook profile
Joel shares his top tips for couples planning their wedding: “The best expert advice I can give to any couple planning their wedding day is to remember that this is your wedding day and to have exactly what makes you happy. Don’t spend time worrying about what your guests want, they will love absolutely everything you choose and will just be happy they are there to celebrate with you. If they won’t be, ask yourself if they should make the guest list!”
 
“During the wedding day itself, I have two tips for couples to think about. Firstly, remember that you are not hosts on your wedding day, you are the guests of honour and everyone is all here for you. Secondly, try to set up a code word with either your wedding coordinator or your photographer that means “GET ME OUT OF HERE” for those moments when you might feel overwhelmed, and have an excuse to go somewhere. This way, you can slip away somewhere quiet for two minutes with your new husband/wife and have a breather, high-five yourselves for the amazing day you are having and then go back out there and celebrate!”
 

Most memorable moments at Glewstone Court

Joel shares one of his most memorable wedding moments at Glewstone Court: “Just recently, we had a wedding with a secret planned. Once all of the guests had departed or gone upstairs to rest their dancing feet after a long day of celebrations and an event full of dancing in the evening, the bride and groom stayed up for just a bit longer, to have a secret moment together and reenact their first dance on their own, just the two of them, in candlelight with the lights off. They finished off with a glass of their favourite champagne to celebrate before heading off to bed. What a beautiful moment they shared together.”

Secure your booking today   

Photo © Glewstone Court Country House | See their Bridebook profile

In short, Glewstone Court Country House offers couples the perfect blend of historical charm, natural beauty, modern luxury and bespoke, personalised service, making it an ideal choice if you’re looking to create lifelong memories. With its breathtaking scenery and unparalleled family-run ethos, Glewstone Court ensures that every wedding is a unique and joyous celebration. So what are you waiting for? Get in touch and secure your booking today!

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Happy Planning!

50 Best Rustic Wedding Ideas

We can’t blame you for wanting to plan a rustic themed wedding. Rustic is, after all, the most popular wedding theme of 2024! It’s down to earth, casual, and embrace the perfectly imperfect beauty of nature. But, with so many decorations, cake types, venues, and even attire that can constitute a rustic wedding theme, it can feel a little overwhelming to know what to pick.

Don’t worry — we’re here to help. We’ve collated our 50 favourite ideas for creating a rustic wedding theme. From cakes to decorations to dream venues, keep reading to learn everything you need to know about rustic wedding decor. 

What is a rustic wedding?

Photo © Eden Barn | See their Bridebook profile

A rustic wedding is a wedding inspired by the simplicity and beauty of nature. Think lots of rugged textures, natural colours, and DIY friendly crafts. 

A rustic wedding is all about bringing a touch of the great outdoors into your special day. Whether you opt for an understated elegance with delicate wildflowers and subtle earth tones or go all out with vintage farm tables, hay bales, and burlap accents, a rustic wedding means embracing the perfect imperfection of nature. 

50 best rustic wedding ideas

Photo © Tythe Launton | See their Bridebook profile

Let’s take a look at the 50 best ideas for throwing a laid-back, rustic wedding. We’ve broken our suggestions up into 5 categories: venue, attire, entertainment, cake, wedding favours, and decor.

This way, you can easily mix and match the elements to create the rustic wedding of your dreams. Whether you’re going for a full-blown, boho dream, or just want to add a touch of natural whimsy to your big day, there’s something for everyone in this comprehensive list. 

Rustic wedding venue ideas

Photo © The Barn At Dovers | See their Bridebook profile

1) A barn

An old or converted barn is a classic choice for a rustic wedding venue. They’re usually fairly easy to find, are surrounded by beautiful landscapes, and  easy to dress up and customise to match your personal style. Whether you prefer fairy lights, hanging banners, reams of flowers, or antique lanterns, the possibilities are endless.

But, be mindful of the limitations of this type of wedding venue. Barns were never (originally) intended to be wedding venues, so they’ll likely be lacking in important amenities like running water, electricity, and the all important toilets! Be sure to discuss these aspects with your venue manager before you take the plunge. 

2) A forest clearing

Planning a forest wedding can be a truly enchanting experience, and planning your wedding in a forest clearing can bring a unique sense of magic and whimsy to your big day. Imagine getting married in your very own hundred acre wood, or a beautiful scene from a Midsummer Night’s dream. 

Decorate with twinkling fairy lights, colourful lanterns, wildflowers, natural wood arches, and more to enhance the natural beauty of the surroundings.

3) Your back garden

If you have a big enough space, consider throwing your wedding reception in your back garden. You’ll need a marquee to stave off any bad weather, but imagine how relaxed and personal your wedding will feel in a space that holds so many memories. 

You can set up cosy seating areas with mismatched chairs and vintage furniture, string up some fairy lights, and create a DIY bar with your favourite drinks. Plus, having your wedding at home allows you to save on venue costs and splurge on other aspects of your day!

4) A farm

The great news for any farmer’s sons or daughters is that farm weddings are very in vogue! Luckily, farms are also available for rent, so there’s no need to pull the plug on your dream farm wedding if your family are city dwellers. 

Farms are a great blank canvas for whatever kind of rustic wedding you’re trying to create. Whether you’d like your guests to bask in the beauty of rolling fields, or simply enjoy the charm of a cosy barn, the possibilities are endless. You could even have a petting zoo as your cocktail hour entertainment. Your guests will have a whale of a time with  miniature goats, sheep, horses, puppies, rabbits or even guinea pigs! 

5) A vineyard

Vineyards are another great option for a rustic wedding venue, offering a romantic and picturesque setting with rolling grapevines and abundant hills.

Vineyards are a beautiful setting in themselves. But, to enhance the rustic charm, consider adding touches like hand-painted wooden signs, wine cork place card holders, and grapevine wreaths.

Equally, you can’t miss out on the opportunity to offer a fun and interactive wine tasting experience as part of your entertainment.

6) A campsite

If you love camping holidays, met on an outdoor excursion, or just want a wedding that’s a bit different, consider having your celebration at a campsite. Campsites are usually hooked up with a range of handy amenities, and they may be able to offer rental of different tents, yurts, and bars for a comfortable and unique wedding experience. 

Throwing a campsite wedding is the perfect opportunity to lean into the rugged but playful charm of camping holidays. Think s’mores stations, lantern-lit pathways, and cosy bonfires where guests can gather and share stories. No need to worry about hotel rooms — have your guests camp overnight in glamping tents, campervans, or yurts. Complete with plush bedding and fairy lights to make your guests feel pampered.

7) Festival grounds

If you love the idea of a campsite themed wedding, but want to add a touch of festival flair, consider holding your wedding at festival grounds. Imagine creating your own mini music festival for your special day! Decorate with colourful bunting, boho-chic tents, and vibrant flower crowns for your guests. You can set up multiple stages for live bands or DJs, have food trucks serving delicious treats, and even include fun activities like face painting or a Ferris wheel.

Create cosy chill-out zones with hammocks, bean bags, and fairy lights where guests can relax and enjoy the atmosphere. Incorporate elements like art installations, interactive games, and a bonfire for evening gatherings. 

Pro tip: Give your event an authentic festival name! Consider using your new, shared name or a fun mashup of your names to create something truly unique. For example, ‘Smith-Fest 2024’ or ‘Johnstone-bury’

8) A botanical garden

The beauty of getting married at a botanical garden is that you’re surrounded by lush greenery and vibrant blooms, meaning you can repurpose some of your floral budget towards other expenses. It’s a beautiful, picturesque, and natural place to celebrate your love. 

You can enhance the garden’s beauty with simple decorations like fairy lights, mason or jam jar candles, and wooden signs. Opt for natural and organic elements that complement the garden’s charm, like burlap table runners, potted plant centrepieces, and floral wreaths. You could also offer tours of the garden as part of the entertainment, or set up a sweet afternoon tea station for guests to graze while you’re taking photos. 

9) An old chapel

Old chapels will always be a popular option for wedding ceremonies. But, if you find somewhere especially beautiful, consider holding both your ceremony and reception there. It’s a great way to fully immerse your guests in the historic and romantic ambiance of your big day.

Lean into the semi-gothic decor by using long, banquet-style tables adorned with lace runners, antique candelabras, and fresh flowers. The acoustics in chapels are usually amazing, so consider having a live choir or classical musicians to enhance the experience.

10) An orchard

Orchards are another great option for a rustic outdoor wedding. The beauty of nature will speak for itself, and you can decorate with rustic elements like wooden crates, burlap table runners, and mason jar candles. You can set up long banquet tables under the trees, adorned with simple floral arrangements and vintage tableware. String fairy lights and lanterns through the branches to create a magical, twinkling atmosphere as the sun sets.

For a truly memorable experience, consider incorporating the orchard’s produce into your wedding menu. Serve fresh fruit platters, homemade pies, and cider where possible. You could even have a fun, interactive cider-making station for guests to enjoy.

Rustic wedding dress ideas

Photo © Riverlands Wedding Barns | See their Bridebook profile

For brides

11) Lace wedding dress

Brides can’t go wrong with a floaty, lace-layered wedding dress. Opt for a champagne or pink-toned dress for a subtle twist on the classic white. Pair it with a floral crown made of wildflowers to embrace the natural beauty of the setting. Complete the look with dainty, vintage-inspired jewellery and a pair of charming cowgirl boots for that perfect blend of elegance and rustic charm.

12) Floral crowns

Flower crowns are the perfect whimsical, rustic addition to any wedding attire. You can either have a fresh flower crown made by your florist or craft one yourself using artificial flowers for a longer-lasting keepsake. Pair the floral crown with loose, flowing hair or a romantic updo to enhance the bohemian feel. This delicate accessory adds a touch of enchantment and ties in beautifully with the natural surroundings.

13) Tea-length dress

Tea length dresses are a sweet and playful option for a rustic wedding. Falling between the knee and ankle, these dresses offer a vintage charm and are perfect for showing off a great pair of shoes, like those cowgirl boots or cute ballet flats. A tea-length dress with layers of tulle and lace can create a fun, twirl-worthy look that’s perfect for dancing the night away.

14) Lace suit

If you aren’t a dress kind of person or simply prefer something a bit different, a lace suit can be a stunning and unique choice. Opt for a tailored lace blazer and matching trousers in a soft ivory or pastel shade. Pair it with a delicate camisole underneath and complete the look with some elegant, understated jewellery. This ensemble not only offers comfort but also brings a modern twist to rustic wedding attire.

For grooms

15) Tweed suit

A tweed suit offers a timeless, rugged look that fits right in with a rustic wedding theme. Choose earthy tones like brown or olive green, and consider adding a floral tie or a bow tie for a touch of whimsy. Don’t forget the brown leather shoes or boots to pull the whole look together. For an extra dash of personality, roll up the sleeves and skip the jacket for the reception.

16) Suspenders and bow tie

Suspenders and bow ties can add a fun and quirky touch to your attire. Pair them with dress shirts and chinos in coordinating colours. Brown leather shoes or boots will keep the look cohesive. Consider adding personalised boutonnieres made of greenery and small flowers for a special touch.

For guests

17) Earth-toned suits

Earth-toned suits include shades like tan, olive, and brown, offering a warm and natural look that fits perfectly with a rustic theme. Pair these suits with crisp white shirts and matching ties or bow ties. Add a touch of personality with patterned pocket squares or boutonnieres made of wildflowers and greenery. Brown leather shoes or boots complete the ensemble, ensuring guests look sharp yet in tune with the natural surroundings.

18) Floral dresses

Guests can embrace the rustic theme by wearing floral dresses in soft, earthy tones. Flowy maxi dresses or midi skirts paired with lace tops work wonderfully. Add a light cardigan or shawl for cooler evenings, and complete the look with comfortable sandals or cowgirl boots. A small clutch and simple jewellery will finish off the outfit nicely.

19) Cowgirl boots

Cowgirl or cowboy boots are a fantastic addition to any rustic wedding outfit. They add a touch of country charm and are the ideal, practical choice for an outdoor wedding. Pair them with dresses, skirts, or even dress pants for a stylish yet comfortable look. 

20) Layering

If you’re really stuck on what to wear, you can’t go wrong with layering. Layering different textures and pieces not only adds depth to your outfit, but also ensures you stay comfortable throughout the day and night. Think about combining a lightweight cardigan over a lace dress or pairing a flannel shirt with a vest and suspenders. Adding a denim or leather jacket can also bring a bit of edge and versatility, allowing you to adapt your look as the weather changes.

Accessorise with statement jewellery, like a chunky bracelet or a beaded necklace, to add a personal touch. Scarves and shawls in natural fabrics can also be great additions, providing warmth and style as the evening cools down.

Rustic wedding entertainment ideas

Photo © South Farm | See their Bridebook profile

21) Barn dance

Embrace your inner cowboy or cowgirl by hosting a lively barn dance. Hire a live country band and have a caller lead your guests through fun line dances and square dances. This interactive and energetic activity will get everyone up on their feet and enjoying the country spirit. Just remember to pop it, lock it, and polka dot it!

22) Axe throwing

Trust us — you’ll need a professional team to organise this entertainment for you. When done safely, axe throwing can be a thrilling and fun activity that adds an adventurous twist to your wedding day. Your guests will love testing their skills and cheering each other on. It’s a unique way to bring a bit of excitement and competition to your celebration.

23) Petting zoo

Bring in a mini petting zoo with friendly farm animals like goats, sheep, and rabbits for guests to enjoy. This adorable addition will be especially popular with kids and animal lovers, offering a sweet and memorable addition to any wedding reception. Who wouldn’t want to cuddle a little lamb or a fluffy bunny on your wedding day? If you chose this entertainment, we guarantee people will talk about your wedding for years to come. 

24) Giant board games

You can’t go wrong with giant, wooden board games. Think Connect 4, Hoopla, Bat and Ball, or even giant Jenga. These oversized games are perfect for breaking the ice and adding a playful element to your wedding. They’ll keep guests of all ages entertained and create plenty of laughter and friendly competition. Plus, you can leave them outside during the food to double as evening entertainment!

25) Karaoke

Turn a corner of your venue into a funky karaoke lounge. Set up with microphones, a projector screen, and even some Strictly Come Dancing style voting cards. Provide a wide selection of songs and let everyone showcase their vocal talents for a fun and entertaining evening. You might even discover some hidden talent among your friends and family!

26) S’mores station

Create a campfire area where guests can roast marshmallows and make s’mores. This classic campfire treat adds a nostalgic touch and is perfect for a cosy, relaxed evening. Set up a small s’mores station nearby with sweet additions so guests can customise their s’mores. Think salted caramel, crushed candy canes, peanut butter, or even slices of fresh fruit. 

Provide an assortment of different chocolates like milk, dark, and white, as well as digestive biscuits, graham crackers (if you can get hold of them), and other fun alternatives like chocolate chip cookies. Delicious!

27) Farm-themed photo booth

Wedding photo booths are a classic choice for wedding entertainment. Set up a photo booth with rustic-themed props like cowboy hats, vintage frames, and burlap banners. Guests can take fun and quirky photos to remember your special day, and you’ll have a collection of candid moments to cherish. 

Pro tip: Have guests use the pictures from your photobooth in your wedding guest book! It’s a fun twist on a classic guest book idea.

28) Horse riding

Horse riding is the perfect way to add a touch of adventure to your wedding reception. You’ll need a small paddock area, some horse riding teachers, and, of course, some horses. For those who are new to riding, the instructors can offer guided rides or short lessons, ensuring everyone feels comfortable and safe. To make it even more special, consider decorating the horses with flower garlands or rustic-themed accessories that match your wedding decor.

If anyone is too nervous to try riding, they can always take some photos with the ponies or feed them a handful of carrots in exchange for a cuddle!

29) Nature walks

Guided nature walks work best in venues with a bit of history. Think vineyards, botanical gardens, or scenic estates. Arrange for knowledgeable guides to lead your guests through the beautiful surroundings, sharing interesting facts and stories about the area. This is a wonderful way for guests to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of your venue while learning something new.

30) Flower arranging

If you’d prefer a creative and hands-on activity, set up a flower arranging station. Provide a variety of fresh, seasonal blooms, and let guests create their own beautiful bouquets or floral crowns. This not only adds a fun, interactive element to your wedding but also gives your guests a lovely keepsake to take home.

Rustic wedding cake ideas

Photo © Quantock Lakes | See their Bridebook profile

31) Naked cake

Naked cakes are cakes that don’t have any icing on top or on the sides. This means they showcase their beautiful tiers and allows you to really taste whatever is sandwiching the cakes together. Decorate with fresh flowers, berries, and maybe a dusting of powdered sugar for a simple, elegant look that feels right at home in a rustic setting.

32) Semi-naked cake

A semi-naked cake is similar to a naked cake, except it may have a thin layer of buttercream on the sides and on-top. Almost like a crumb-coat, it adds a subtle layer of sweetness to the cake while still allowing the natural beauty of the layers to peek through.

33) Fruit-topped cake

A fruit-topped cake is cake of any flavour and icing style, topped with fresh, seasonal fruits like figs, berries, and grapes. This not only adds vibrant colours, but also gives your guests a burst of natural sweetness. It’s a simple yet stunning way to make your cake look beautiful and taste delicious.

34) Muffin tower

If you aren’t a fan of sliced cake, consider serving lots of mini muffins instead of one large cake. The beauty of offering lots of small cakes is that you can offer a variety of flavours to suit everyone’s tastes. Arrange them on a tiered stand for a charming display. You can decorate each muffin with rustic elements like edible flowers, fresh berries, or a dusting of powdered sugar. 

Pro tip: You can still have one large cake so you can go through the transition of cutting the cake. Set your large cake at the top of the tier and arrange the muffins around the large cake in a cascading style. Find an XL cake tower for a truly show-stopping display. 

35) Pie tower

Similarly to muffins, if you aren’t a fan of traditional wedding cakes, pies can be a fun and unusual alternative. Offer a variety of flavours like apple, cherry, peach, and lemon meringue, and arrange them on a tiered stand for a delightful display. Alternatively, go savoury — offer pork pies, cheese and onions pies, or dabble in a sausage roll. Each guest can enjoy a slice of their favourite pie, adding a cosy, homestyle, and potentially savoury touch to your wedding dessert table.

36) Cheese board selection

Cheese boards are a great way to incorporate your love of savoury foods into your wedding reception. Set up an elaborate cheese board with a range of cheeses, crackers, jams, chutneys, fresh fruits, and celery. You could also add some honey, olive oil, and rustic bread for an extra touch of indulgence.

37) Carrot cake

You can’t go wrong with a delicious, moist carrot cake. It’s a classic choice for a rustic wedding with its warm, homey feel. Decorate with nuts, edible flowers, or even cute carrot decorations for a fun and tasty treat that everyone will love.

38) Edible flower cake

Edible flower cakes can be any flavour base cake with any flavour icing. But, they are decorated with beautiful, edible flowers that add a touch of nature and elegance. These flowers can be pressed into the icing or scattered on top, creating a stunning, garden-like effect that fits perfectly with a rustic theme.

39) Herb-decorated cake

Use fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and lavender to decorate your cake. These fragrant and earthy additions provide a unique touch and enhance the rustic charm of your wedding. Plus, they’ll make the whole area around the cake smell moreish and delicious. 

40) Drip cake

A drip cake is usually a naked or semi-naked cake with a rim of chocolate ganache, melted chocolate, salted caramel, or some other thick, sweet pudding dripped down the sides in a haphazard style. This creates a visually stunning and mouth-watering look that’s both elegant and playful. You can top it off with edible flowers, fresh fruits, or even macarons to add a colourful and fun element. Drip cakes are perfect for adding a touch of whimsy to your rustic wedding, making each slice a delicious work of art.

Rustic wedding decor ideas

Photo © Elms Barn | See their Bridebook profile

41) Cornucopia centrepieces

Nothing says rustic like a real-life, mini cornucopia! Find some medium-sized, woven baskets and fill them with bread, fresh vegetables, fruit, dipping oils, and more for an authentic look. The beauty of this decor is that guests can graze on it before their meals are served, making it both functional and decorative. 

42) Eucalyptus leaves

Eucalyptus leaves embody all the principles of a rustic wedding. They’re a beautiful sage green, are fresh, natural, and easy to DIY. Plus, they can be used in a range of different ways throughout your wedding decor. Try draping over tables, wrapping them around your bouquet, or using them as accents in your centrepieces. You can even scatter eucalyptus leaves down the aisle for a fresh, fragrant walkway!

43) Vintage lanterns

Vintage lanterns are a beautiful and eclectic way to decorate your rustic wedding venue. You can find a range of vintage lanterns at antique shops, vintage shops, and charity shops. Fill them with candles or fairy lights to create a warm, cosy glow. Place them on tables, hang them from trees, or line pathways with them for a magical effect.

44) Burlap table runners

Burlap table runners are a staple of rustic wedding decor. They’re perfect on both long or round tables, and add an earthy, textured element to your decor. Pair them with lace or doilies for a touch of vintage charm, and top with simple centrepieces like mason jars filled with wildflowers or candles to complete the look.

45) Wooden discs & mason jars

You can’t go wrong with wooden discs and mason jars. They’re a classic and foolproof option for rustic wedding table decor because they bring a natural, down-to-earth vibe to your tables. Place the wooden discs as bases for your centrepieces and top them with mason jars filled with wildflowers, candles, or fairy lights. Wrap the jars in burlap or twine to complete the look.

46) Barrel tables

If you’re struggling to find outdoor furniture, consider making some tables out of old wine or whiskey barrels. These are much easier to get hold of as they’re often sold second hand as junk. They’re the perfect height for sitting or standing, and you can even make quick chairs out of them by adding a wooden board on top. Decorate with a simple tablecloth or leave them bare for an authentic rustic look. 

47) Wildflower bouquets

Collect a bunch of local wildflowers and arrange them haphazardly in a jam or mason jar. You only need a few for an authentic, rustic look, and you can spruce up the jars with ribbon, twine, or burlap. Try to use flowers that are seasonal to your wedding month. This way, you’ll be reminded of your special day every time you see them. 

48) Homemade favours

Try making your own homemade wedding favours to give you guests on your special day. Depending on what you have available, this could be homemade honey, homemade jam, little fortune tellers, shortbread, or even handcrafted soaps. Personalise each favour with a label or tag that includes your names and wedding date, and package them in rustic materials like burlap or greaseproof paper. 

49) Vintage books

Collect a range of vintage books from second-hand shops or antique shops. Look for books with beautiful, ornate covers, or consider using cloth, leather or hard-bound books. Stack them on your tables as charming centrepieces, or use them to add some extra height and flair to your decor displays. 

To give them an even more rustic feel, tie them together with twine or colourful ribbons. You could even mix in a few sprigs of lavender or small flowers for a delightful, whimsical touch. These vintage books will not only look beautiful, but  also spark curiosity and conversation among your guests. Try including a few of your favourites for a personal touch!

50) Pinecones and fauna

Pinecones and fauna are a simple and cost-effective way to decorate your wedding venue in  a rustic style. Scatter pine cones along tables or use them as part of your centrepieces. You can also fill glass jars or wooden bowls with pinecones for a natural, earthy look. For a touch of colour, consider mixing in some seasonal foliage or dried flowers.

Pro tip: Pinecones make great place card holders, too. Simply cut a small slit in the top and slide in a name card. It’s a charming and practical detail that fits perfectly with a rustic theme.

Plan your perfect rustic wedding with Bridebook

Photo © The Glass House at Staining Lodge | See their Bridebook profile

The beauty of rustic weddings is their focus on DIY decor and the undone beauty of nature. Don’t be afraid to leave your burlap frayed, your cake uniced, or wear a sweet tea length gown with wellies. A rustic wedding is all about you and letting your personal style shine through.

That said, the customisability of a rustic wedding can make planning a little overwhelming. With so many options to choose from, it can be tricky to know which one is right. Luckily, Bridebook is here to help!

With Bridebook, planning your dream rustic wedding couldn’t be easier. Our app offers everything you need, from finding the perfect venue to connecting with talented vendors who share your vision. Use our tools to stay organised, manage your budget, and track your guest list effortlessly. It’s your new wedding BFF!

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Happy Planning!