Sophia Shafiee, Author at Bridebook

35 Unique Wedding Guest Book Alternatives

Wedding guest books are a traditional and beautiful way to capture your guests’ thoughts, feelings, and advice on your special day. But you’re here because you don’t want a guest book like everyone else’s. You’re here because you want something creative, unique, and different. Let’s not beat around the bush — join us as we explore 35 unique wedding guest book ideas and break down exactly how you can make these funky and fresh keepsakes a reality on your big day!

And if you’re not sure what kind of message to write in a wedding guest book, be sure to check out our dedicated post.

What is a wedding guest book?

A traditional wedding guest book is a bound book with blank pages which wedding guests can fill with signatures, well-wishes, and advice during the wedding reception. It’s kept as a keepsake by the newlyweds and serves as a happy reminder of everyone who attended their wedding.

A unique wedding guest book is anything but traditional. You can mix it up with photos, doodles, and interactive elements. If you’re quirky, different, or a fan of the unusual, a unique wedding guest book alternative could be right up your street.

35 wedding guest book alternatives

If you’re looking for classic but creative alternative guest books for weddings, check out this list of 35 fun ideas!

Paper-based guest book ideas

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These types of guest books blend the classic aspect of book-signing with a creative twist.

1) Thumbprint tree guest book

A thumbprint tree guest book is a creative and unique way to remember who attended your wedding. Instead of guests simply signing their names, they use ink pads to leave their thumbprints on the tree branches. Each thumbprint represents a leaf on the tree, and guests can then use pens to sign their names next to their prints.

Consider using two ink pads in complementary colours or colours that match your wedding decor.

2) Message in a bottle guest book

Message in a bottle guest books invite guests to write their names, special memories, and advice on pre-cut cards before storing them in a glass bottle. Guests should then cork the bottle to prevent any peeking on the big day itself. The happy couple can then uncork each bottle after the wedding and enjoy the well-wishes.

Although this is a beautiful wedding guest book alternative, storing these bottles may take up a lot of space in your cupboard. Consider displaying the messages in a scrapbook after the wedding to prevent clutter.

We also recommend that you source glass bottles from charity shops, pubs, recycled wine bottles, and more. This will help keep the cost down and ensure your collection of bottles is varied and eclectic, adding to the whimsy of your display.

3) Recipe card guest book

This wedding guest book alternative asks guests to share their favourite recipes with the happy couple. You can then combine the recipe cards into a personalised cookbook to help nourish married life.

Each guest is provided with a blank recipe card upon which they can write out the instructions for their favourite meals, puddings, and snacks. If you’re going to use this style of wedding guest book, we recommend letting your guests know beforehand. Few are likely to know the recipes for their favourite dish off the top of their heads, and you might end up with a lot of recipes for ‘Spag bol’ or ‘Tuna pasta’!

4) Postcard guest book

A postcard guest book is a beautiful way to incorporate your special memories and photographs into your big day. Simply collect your favourite digital photos of you and your partner, make them into postcards, and ask guests to sign the back of the postcard. They can also add a special memory, a piece of advice, or some well-wishes. This is great for couples who love travelling or who are holding a destination wedding.

Make sure you have enough postcards for each guest in attendance, and consider providing a pretty display or postbox where guests can drop their completed cards.

5) Advice cards guest book

You’re embarking on one of the biggest journeys of your life, and the advice of your friends, family, and other guests will be invaluable. Create advice cards which guests can fill out with their pearls of wisdom, words of encouragement, and heartfelt guidance. These cards can range from lighthearted tips for a happy marriage to more profound reflections on love and commitment.

Set up a designated table at your venue with a stack of advice cards, pens, and fun stickers. You should also have a decorative box where guests can deposit their cards.

Once the wedding day is all said and done, you can sit down with your new spouse and re-live the magic by reading everyone’s sage advice.

6) Wishing tree guest book

A wishing tree is similar to an advice card guest book, where guests write their wishes for your married life on pre-made wishing cards. These cards will need a space for guests’ names, their messages, and a piece of string so you can tie the card to your tree. You can then tie them to either a real or synthetic tree and present it as a beautiful centerpiece at your wedding reception.

This will also make for a beautiful conversation piece in your home and serve as a constant reminder of your special day.

7) Message bunting or garland

Lean into a tea party or garden party theme with wedding guest book bunting. Have your guests sign a paper or fabric triangle and attach them to a string, creating a decorative bunting. These triangles can be pre-cut in various sizes and colours to match your wedding theme or colour scheme.

Throughout the event, the bunting will gradually fill up with heartfelt messages from your guests, creating a beautiful and interactive display that adds to the ambiance of your whimsical wedding.

Creative guest books ideas

Photo © Wedding Illustrator | See their Bridebook profile

Creative wedding guest book alternatives are perfect for arty couples who want to add a personal touch to their wedding day. These 7 creative guest book alternatives may require a little forward planning, but they’ll be a special and memorable part of your day.

8) Vinyl record guest book

If you’re big music buffs, having your guests sign a copy of your favourite vinyl or a portable vinyl case is a unique and meaningful guest book alternative. Guests can leave their signatures and well-wishes directly on the record’s surface, turning it into a lovely memento of your special day that you can display in your home.

9) Guest book bench

Having your guests carve their name into a bench for your garden is a unique and nostalgic take on a traditional guest book. Choose a bench made of robust wood, and you’ll have a one-of-a-kind piece of furniture that is both a functional addition to your garden and holds special significance from your big day.

If you’re not confident in your guests’ ability to carve their names legibly, consider hiring a professional carpenter to pre-engrave the bench with spaces where guests can inscribe their names or leave messages. This ensures a uniform and polished look while still allowing for personalisation from your guests.

10) Message board

A message board is a fun way to display your guests’ well-wishes while adding an interactive element to your wedding reception. Instead of a traditional guest book, put out some brightly coloured markers and invite your guests to write their messages on a giant poster board. If you like colourful and chaotic, this is the wedding guest book alternative for you.

Pro tip: Put your wedding guest book in a prominent place during your wedding reception. For example, near the entrance, the gift table, or the bar. This will prompt guests to sign your book and ensure it isn’t overlooked during the celebration.

11) Wishing well guest book

First things first: you’ll need a wishing well for a wishing well guest book. This can be a (clean) bin made to look like a well, a pretty container, or even a large, covered bowl for smaller receptions. Provide guests with small cards or pieces of paper where they can write down their wishes for you as a couple.

Encourage guests to drop their wishes into the well throughout the reception. Watching the well fill up with special messages from your loved ones adds a touch of magic to your celebration and creates a visual representation of the support surrounding you on your special day.

After the wedding, you can gather all the wishes from the well and keep them in a special keepsake box or album.

12) Scrapbook station

If your guests are especially crafty or enjoy expressing their creativity, a scrapbook station can be the perfect addition to your wedding reception. Set up a designated area with a variety of scrapbooking supplies like photos, glue, pens, glitter, washi tape, and more.

Encourage guests to unleash their inner artist by creating personalised scrapbook pages for the newlyweds. They can include well-wishes, drawings, or even small photos taken during the wedding festivities.

This interactive activity provides guests with a fun and engaging way to participate in your special day, and results in a unique and heartfelt keepsake for you and your partner to treasure for years to come. Just make sure no one closes the book before the glue is dry! What a disaster.

13) Jenga guest book

Buy a wooden Jenga set with giant blocks and ask your guests to write their names and well-wishes on each side of the blocks in permanent marker. Your guests can then play this timeless game during cocktail hour, and you can be reminded of everyone’s love and well-wishes every time you play together as a couple.

14) Wine label guest book

This is a at option for those who enjoy a tipple. Ask your guests to bring their favourite bottle of wine to the wedding reception, and then ask guests to write their congratulations directly onto the labels using metallic or permanent markers. This guest book alternative will require a little more planning, but it’s a great option for nearly-weds who don’t plan on asking for wedding gifts.

Photo guest book ideas

Photo © Smartpicsuk photo booth | See their Bridebook profile

A picture is worth a thousand words, so a photo album must be the greatest guest book of all, right? Try these fun alternatives if you’re looking to shake up a regular photo guest book.

15) Polaroid guest book

Polaroid guest books are an instant and fun way to capture those who attended your wedding. Simply set up an area with a few Polaroid or other instant cameras, some fun props, pens, and a photo album, and have guests snap pictures of themselves in the moment. Place the instantly developed pictures into the album and ask guests to write a few words of congratulations or well-wishes next to their photo.

16) Photo booth

Photo booths are another great and instant way to capture your guest’s likenesses while adding a touch of entertainment to your wedding reception. For a DIY approach, set up a designated area with a backdrop, props, and a digital camera. Encourage guests to step inside and strike a pose, creating fun and memorable snaps which they can pop into your photo album as a token of the special day.

Alternatively, you can hire photo booths that will send you a link or QR code to any photos taken in the booth on your wedding day. Guests can also follow this link to download their photos as keepsakes of the big day.

17) Doodle or sketch guest book

You can hire incredibly talented artists to create sketches, doodles, or drawings of your guests in their wedding attire on your special day. The drawings can be more lifelike or cartoony depending on the style of the artist, and either way will add a unique and personal touch to your wedding festivities. Guests will be super excited to have their portraits created on the spot, and to receive a one-of-a-kind keepsake by which to remember your wedding day.

The artist should have the tools and means to create a duplicate of each drawing, meaning guests can take one home, while you can store a copy in your own album as a memento from your special day.

18) Selfie station guest book

This is similar to a photobooth, but the selfie-station nature makes it even more interactive and personal. Set up a designated area with a backdrop, props, and a selfie stick or two. Encourage guests to snap their own selfies or group photos throughout the reception, capturing candid moments and silly poses.

Consider adding a cohesive prop to add some uniformity to this chaotic guestbook. For example, ask guests to wear the same pair of sunglasses, use the same sign, or wear the same themed accessory in all the photos to tie the album together.

19) Photobook app

You can download photobook apps where guests can follow a link or scan a QR code to upload their personal pictures from the wedding. This is a candid and stress-free way to create a guest book. Plus, it’s nice to see your big day through the eyes of your friends and guests.

These apps will usually allow you to print a physical copy of your guest book for a small charge so you can have a tangible keepsake to cherish for years to come.

20) Mugshot wall

This is a tongue-in-cheek way to add some humour and entertainment to your wedding reception. Set up a designated area with a backdrop that resembles a police lineup, complete with height markers and numbers.

Encourage guests to strike a pose and have their “mugshots” taken by a photographer or with a selfie station. Guests can get creative with props such as fake handcuffs, police hats, or “Wanted” signs. After the photos are taken, display them on a wall or bulletin board for all to see. Guests can have a laugh as they browse the lineup of silly and playful mugshots.

To turn it into a guestbook, provide markers or chalk so guests can write a brief message next to their photo, adding a personal touch to their “arrest record.”

21) Giant polaroid frame

This was a popular photo style a few years ago, and it’s still a charming addition to any wedding celebration. Set up a large polaroid frame prop, either made of lightweight wood or cardboard, in a prominent area of your venue. You can also encourage guests to pass it around the dance floor for a fun twist on traditional guest book photos.

Encourage guests to step inside the frame and strike a pose, capturing candid and memorable moments with their friends and loved ones. Snap a photo with an instant camera, pop it in a photo album, and encourage guests to sign their name and some words of wisdom for a fun guest book wedding alternative!

Collectible guest books

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Collectible guest books involve either customising or creating collectible items to help remember your big day. Collectible guest books are a great option for maximalists or anyone who wants a tangible reminder of the big day.

22) Wishing stone guest book

Wishing stones are large, smooth pebbles upon which guests can write their blessings using permanent markers or paint pens. These stones can then be displayed in your home or garden as a unique and meaningful keepsake from your wedding day.

Be sure to put a bowl near the wishing stone so guests can easily differentiate between decorated and non-decorated stones.

23) Customised ornaments

If you’re having a winter or festive wedding, you could ask guests to create a customised ornament or decorative bauble as their guest book entry. Provide plain ornaments along with an assortment of decorating materials such as paint, glitter, ribbons, and pens.

Guests can let loose their creativity by personalising their ornaments with their names, congratulations, or even a special message for the newlyweds. Whether they opt for elegant designs, beautiful words, or quirky illustrations, each ornament will be a unique reflection of the guest who created it.

After the wedding, you can hang these custom ornaments on a special tree or display them in your home during the festive season.

24) Miniature canvas paintings

Ever heard of a paint and sip? Paint and sip events are popular gatherings where participants enjoy painting while sipping on beverages. For your wedding, you can adapt this concept by providing miniature canvas paintings as a guest book alternative.

Set up a painting station at your reception venue with small canvases, paintbrushes, and a variety of paint colours. Encourage guests to unleash their inner artists by creating miniature masterpieces which reflect their personalities or convey their well-wishes for the newlyweds. You could ask them to recreate their favourite part of the day, paint a portrait of themselves, or to even just paint a simple heart for those who aren’t too creative.

As guests complete their paintings, they can sign their names or write messages on the back of the canvases. This adds a personal touch to each artwork and transforms them into unique and meaningful keepsakes. You can then display these canvases on a shelf in your home.

25) Customised playing cards

If you’d like to keep your wedding guest book low-key, consider asking guests to sign a pack of playing cards for a fun and practical twist on the traditional guest book. Simply provide a deck of playing cards and a permanent marker, and encourage guests to sign their names, write messages, or doodle on the cards.

Guests can take their time to personalise their chosen card, whether it’s the Ace of Hearts or the Queen of Spades, adding a touch of whimsy and personality to their contributions.

Once all the cards are signed, you can gather them together and keep them in a special box or pouch as a memento of your wedding day.

26) Customised guitar picks

If you’re musically inclined, consider asking guests to sign guitar picks as an alternative to a traditional wedding guest book. Guests can personalise their guitar picks with their names, thoughts on love, or even drawings that reflect their personalities or your wedding theme.

Don’t use the guitar picks to actually play an instrument. Instead, collect them in a dedicated photo album or shadow box display. This will mean you can keep them safe and enjoy them for years to come.

27) Time capsule

If you’re having a back garden wedding, you could consider creating a time capsule of the big day with all your guests. Ask everyone to write a piece of advice or a happy memory from the day on a piece of card, enclose it in a time capsule, and then bury it in the ground.

Agree to open it again in a specific amount of time. For example, 5, 10, or 15 years. You’ll need to own the land or have permission to bury the time capsule at your wedding reception, which is why we only recommend this for back garden weddings.

Opening the time capsule after a designated period of time will allow you to reflect on how your lives have changed and grown since your wedding day. It’s a beautiful opportunity to reconnect with your loved ones and reminisce about the love and joy that surrounded you on that momentous occasion.

28) Customised ceramic tiles

If you’re redecorating, or a fan of home decor, consider having customised ceramic tiles as a unique and decorative guest book alternative. Provide plain ceramic tiles along with paint markers or pens in various colours.

During the wedding reception, invite guests to decorate their own ceramic tile with their names, well-wishes, or drawings that reflect their personalities or your wedding theme. Whether they’re budding artists or simply enjoy expressing themselves creatively, guests will appreciate the opportunity to contribute to this personalised guest book.

Once the tiles are decorated, allow them to dry completely before sealing them with a clear coat to preserve the designs.

Interactive guest books ideas

Photo © The Telephone Guestbook | See their Bridebook profile

Interactive guest books are an alternative to traditional guest books in that they encourage guests to play and engage with them. Check out the following interactive guest book ideas.

29) Audio guest book

Now this will be a real talking point for your wedding! An audio guest book offers a twist on the traditional guest book, allowing guests to record their own personalised audio messages or well-wishes for the newlyweds.

Consider setting up a recording station where guests can leave their heartfelt messages, anecdotes, or words of advice. This unique guest book idea captures the authentic voices and emotions of your loved ones on the big day, providing a fabulous and interactive keepsake to revisit for years to come.

30) Jigsaw puzzle guest book

You can buy blank or custom-made jigsaw puzzles online. Consider using a photo from your engagement shoot or a couple’s selfie to create a personalised jigsaw puzzle guest book. Encourage guests to write a message on the back of the jigsaw pieces to add a personal touch to your jigsaw puzzle.

Make sure that the pieces are quite big so people can write freely, and that there are enough pieces for everyone to leave a message!

31) Typewriter guest book

If you can find a vintage typewriter, consider setting it up at your wedding so guests can write a sweet message or offer sincere wedding advice in a classic way. This is a beautiful, unique, and nostalgic way to engage your guests and capture their sentiments. Try hunting around resale sites, antique shops, or asking around trusted friends. You might be surprised who has an old typewriter just gathering dust!

After the wedding, you can collect the typed messages and compile them into a guest book or keepsake album.

32) Chessboard guest book

If you’re a fan of chess, try asking guests to write a message within the individual chess board squares. This unconventional guest book idea combines your love for chess with the sentiments of your guests, creating a one-of-a-kind keepsake that reflects your personality and interests as a couple. If you pick an especially beautiful board, you can keep it out as a home decoration or display it in a shadow box as a unique piece of art.

You’ll need either a glass paint pen or a permanent marker to ensure the messages don’t rub off. Consider glazing the board with resin or clear epoxy to protect the messages.

33) Personalised board games

If you and your partner share a love of board games, consider asking guests to customise a blank board game for you.

The technicalities of this will depend on your favourite types of board game. However, if it’s a game like Monopoly, you can ask guests to name the properties, customise chance cards, and even create unique playing pieces that represent different aspects of your relationship or interests.

For example, guests could name the properties after where you met, got engaged, or plan to honeymoon. They could customise the chance cards with inside jokes, personal anecdotes, or words of wisdom. Additionally, they could design player tokens to resemble symbols that hold significance to you as a couple, such as your favourite animals, hobbies, or shared passions.

34) Wedding bingo

Wedding bingo is a fun and slightly cheeky game where guests are provided with bingo cards featuring various wedding-related scenarios, traditions, or events. Throughout the wedding reception, guests mark off the squares on their bingo cards as they observe or participate in these activities. Make one of the squares ‘write a message on the back of this card’ for an automatic point and a fun way to collect guest book messages!

The scenarios included on the bingo cards can range from spotting the bride and groom kissing, catching the bouquet, or witnessing a dance floor mishap. Guests can play individually or in teams, competing to be the first to complete a row or fill their entire bingo card.

Whoever fills their bingo card first should win a prize like a bottle of champagne, but you can also have prizes for whoever fills a line first or achieves a certain pattern on their card, like a heart. Collect all the cards at the end of the night and organise them into a photo album for a unique and fun guest book idea.

35) Date night jar

Ask guests to fill in an advice card with their name and a date night idea for your new life as newlyweds. You can then put all the cards into a jar or postbox to enjoy in the future. This thoughtful and practical guest book alternative encourages guests to share their wisdom and creativity while providing the couple with a treasure trove of date night ideas for their married life.

The bottom line on wedding guest book ideas

Although a classic wedding guestbook is charming and beautiful, infusing your personality, hobbies, and personal love story into your big day makes it all the more special. However, with so much to think about running up to the wedding day, it’s easy to overlook more creative or unique wedding guest book ideas.

So, take a moment to step back from the hustle and bustle of wedding planning and consider how you can make your guest book truly reflective of you as a couple. There’s nothing wrong with using a classic wedding book or a more low-key idea. However, if you’re looking for something unique or creative, try any of these 35 guest book alternatives for a wedding. Whether you fancy creating a beautiful keepsake or having a more candid reflection of your big day, there’s something for everything in this comprehensive list.

Happy Planning!

7th Wedding Anniversary Gifts: 50 Anniversary Gift Ideas

You’ve reached seven years of heaven married to the love of your life. That’s incredibly exciting and is definitely something that deserves to be celebrated.

When the time comes to think about picking up a gift for your other half, you’ll naturally wonder what the perfect present might look like. But, did you know there are traditional and modern gifts that couples have been giving each other for more than 100 years? So, if you want to take part in these traditions, you can give your partner one of these gifts which are absolutely packed with thoughtfulness and meaning.

In this guide, we’re going to explore the ins and outs of 7th wedding anniversary gift-giving traditions, including the traditional and modern gifts, as well as the traditional gemstone and flower. That way, you can give your partner an incredible gift that has loads of historical meaning. And we’ve got 50 suggestions below to help get you started.

To find out more about what all the different anniversary gifts are from 1 to 90 years, read our complete year-by-year wedding anniversary gift guide.

What are traditional and modern gifts for a 7th wedding anniversary?

The traditional and modern 7th wedding anniversary gifts

For more than a century, many couples have chosen to give their love a 7th anniversary gift that has loads of meaning behind it. It’s a great way to show your partner how much you care and also gives you some ideas if you’re not quite sure what to get.

Traditional 7th anniversary gift – Wool or copper

There are two traditional 7th anniversary gifts: wool and copper. Wool is warm and comfortable, and copper is durable and strong – and you no doubt feel all of these in abundance after seven years of marriage.

Modern 7th anniversary gift – Stationery or desk set

The modern anniversary for seven years of marriage is stationery or a desk set. Initially, this might not sound particularly romantic, but it actually represents the work you’ve put into your marriage after all these years – so it’s actually pretty loving and poignant.

7th anniversary gemstone – Onyx

The 7th anniversary gemstone is onyx, an incredibly striking stone that is black and shiny (though can sometimes include white). It can sometimes be pricey, but equally, it can often be fairly reasonable, so can be a great choice of anniversary gift. It also works well when set in different types of gold or silver jewellery.

7th anniversary flower – Freesia

The 7th anniversary flower is the freesia, a beautiful multi-coloured flower that can be a wonderful addition to a bouquet or work perfectly as the star of the show. Freesias symbolise friendship and trust, which is spot-on when celebrating seven years of love.

How do you choose a gift for a 7th wedding anniversary?

A 7th wedding anniversary isn’t exactly one of the most widely celebrated anniversaries out there, sitting right in between the 5th anniversary and 10th anniversary. However, it may be important that you still mark seven whole years – because it is incredible. But how do you choose the right gift? Here are four things to bear in mind:

Are you and your partner sticking to the rules? If buying each other a traditional or modern anniversary gift is important to you and your other half, you’ll probably want to do what you can to buy something related to the theme.
Do you know your budget? Wool can be pretty expensive, but copper and stationery mean you can buy an on-theme gift for a smaller budget.
Do you want to give a personalised gift? Wool can be tricky to personalise, but copper and stationery offer loads of options for personalisation.
What does your partner love? The traditional and modern options for a 7th anniversary gift are all pretty different, so can you align them with something you think your partner would love?

If a couple you love is about to celebrate seven years together, you might also wonder if it’s appropriate for you to join in on the traditions and buy them something related to wool, copper or stationery. Thankfully, the answer is: of course! These ‘rules’ aren’t exclusive to the couple, and the special meaning behind them will help elevate your gift into something truly memorable.

50 ideas for a 7th wedding anniversary gift

If your 7th wedding anniversary gift is on the horizon and you’d like to give your partner a gift filled with thought and meaning, you might be a little stumped. How can wool, copper and stationery work as a gift for the love of your life? Well, believe it or not, with a little creativity, you can give them something truly memorable. So, here are 50 7th anniversary gift ideas so you can surprise your partner on the big day.

10 traditional gifts for a 7th wedding anniversary

There are two traditional gifts when it comes to celebrating your 7th anniversary: wool or copper. So, you have twice as many options for choosing a gift your partner might love. But if you’re not quite sure where to start looking, here are 10 ideas.

1. A comfortable wool blanket

There’s nothing quite as romantic as getting all warm and snuggly with your other half beneath a comfortable blanket. And you can’t get much more comfortable than a wool blanket from The British Blanket Company so the two of ewe can get cuddly on your big day.

2. A cosy jumper

Imagine a warm and cosy blanket draped over your body – now imagine that comfort wrapped right around you all the time. High-quality Norwegian wool jumpers are guaranteed to keep your toasty and warm during those cold and dark winter months.

3. A wool sheep with a heart balloon

For something cute, cuddly and 100% on theme, a Sheply Sheep with Heart Balloon ticks all the right boxes. It’s adorable and sweet, and can be proudly displayed somewhere so your partner will always be reminded of your 7th magical anniversary.

4. A wool teddy bear

Knitted teddy bears are the epitome of cute, and if they’re handmade like the teddies at The Knitted Bear Company then they’re also extra special and loaded with character. A brilliant little gift that your partner is bound to love.

5. A wool craft kit

Has your partner always talked about learning to knit or crochet but never got around to giving it a go? A wool craft kit gives them everything they need to start learning this incredibly popular hobby.

6. A personalised copper bracelet

Copper might not be the most obvious choice when it comes to jewellery, but in the right hands, it can be a fantastic item your partner will want to wear all the time. For example, a personalised copper cuff bracelet not only looks gorgeous, but it’s also thought that copper bracelets help prevent stress and ward off negative energy, so it could be useful if your partner is having a tough time.

7. A striking copper vase

If you’ve thought about giving your partner flowers to mark your anniversary, why not accompany them with a super meaningful burnished copper vase? It’s equal parts rustic and beautiful and works with almost any type of flower.

8. Copper coin cufflinks

We bet you didn’t realise that copper coin cufflinks even existed before today, but not only do they exist, they’re also a great idea for an anniversary gift. They’re smart and stylish and perfect for all occasions.

9. A personalised copper keyring

For a brilliantly personal token 7th anniversary gift, a personalised copper keyring is something your partner can always keep by their side so they never forget about your special day.

10. A personalised framed copper heart

One way to give your partner a one-of-a-kind gift is with a personalised framed copper heart, which you can also personalise to include your names and the date of your wedding. That way, you can hang it up at home and have a sweet and meaningful reminder of your wedding.

10 modern gifts for a 7th wedding anniversary

If you’re not sure your partner would love a gift related to wool or copper, you could go for something related to the modern 7th anniversary gift: stationery or a desk set. If this sounds like something your partner might appreciate, here are 10 ideas you might want to consider.

1. A notebook and quill set

Writing using a quill and ink is something of a lost art these days, but if your partner’s a keen writer or enjoys speaking to a penpal, an old-fashioned notebook and quill set is a unique gift they can crack out whenever they fancy being a little bit… fancy!

2. A really nice set of pens

There’s nothing quite like a nice set of pens. Yes, a Bic biro does the job, but when it comes to a high-quality pen it’s like comparing fish fingers to lobster thermidore. Check out Pen Heaven to browse their amazing range of pen sets.

3. A personalised mouse mat

If your partner regularly works at a computer and has a habit of scraping their mouse across the desk, why not revisit the lost art that is the mouse mat? It definitely qualifies as part of a desk set, and you can even give your partner a personalised mouse mat that features a photograph – why not use your favourite wedding photo?

4. A personalised planner

Are you constantly having to remind your other half about what’s happening at the weekend? Or are they always asking what date it is? If this sounds familiar, a personalised desk planner would be ideal for them.

5. A nice and neat gift set

Organisation can be challenging, even for the best of us. Things can get lost, misplaced, forgotten… with a nice and neat gift set, your partner can keep on top of all their tasks and chores and make sure nothing is ever overlooked again.

6. A vintage stationery box

If your other half loves everything old school, then a vintage stationery gift box will tick so many of their boxes. From the retro labels and stickers to the rubber that looks like it’s been stabbed a few too many times by a pencil, they’re all in there.

7. A personalised pen pot

What’s a better way for your other half to organise all their stationery than with a pot in which to keep everything neat? Well, how about a personalised wooden pen pot that can be highly customised to include your partner’s name and a design you know they’d love?

8. A smart desk organiser

To make any desk tidy and classy, a smart desk organiser could be just what your partner needs. It includes loads of different compartments, drawers and slots so everything can be kept neat and in its very own place.

9. A fancy notebook

Almost everyone loves a notebook, but it can be hard to find one nice enough to be fitting as an anniversary gift. However, the notebooks at Katie Leamon are high in quality and big in style, and there are so many designs that you shouldn’t have trouble finding one your partner will love to use.

10. An engraved pen

We’ve already featured a pen set on this list, but how about an engraved pen? They’re smart and affordable, and you can customise them with any message you like, whether it’s your partner’s name, your anniversary date, or simply the words ‘HAPPY ANNIVERSARY’.

5 affordable gifts for a 7th wedding anniversary

You might be super keen to give your partner an anniversary gift filled with meaning, but the pair of you might not want to spend too much money on a token gift related to wool, copper or stationery. If that’s the case, you can still get them a hugely meaningful gift but not break the bank. Here are five ideas for brilliant token gifts for your 7th wedding anniversary.

1. A jar of anniversary wool

We’ve already covered how wool symbolises the warmth and comfort felt after seven years of marriage, so why beat around the bush (sheep?) – you could just get your other half a tiny ball of wool in a jar which is personalised to include the date you got married. It’s small, thoughtful and something your partner can hold on to forever.

2. A cute copper elephant ring holder

If your partner regularly takes off their wedding ring for one reason or another, and they don’t have somewhere safe to keep it, it can be the cause of mild (and even severe) panic as you both run around looking for it. Never experience that feeling again with a cute copper elephant ring holder. Super useful and affordable!

3. A personalised copper token

The ultimate token copper anniversary gift is a… personalised copper token! You can add your initials and the date you got married, for the perfect little keepsake to mark seven years together.

4. A woolly hedgehug

Guaranteed to make your partner squee! a woolly hedgehug is absolutely adorable and lets your partner know exactly how you feel about them. It’s also exactly the sort of token gift that’s likely to get you in your partner’s good books.

5. A wool anniversary card

If you’re thinking about getting your other half an anniversary gift, chances are you’re probably also thinking about getting them a card. Well, why not combine the two and give them a card featuring a crocheted wool heart? It’s the perfect way to give them something fitting the 7th anniversary theme and the perfect card for the occasion all in one.

5 DIY gifts for a 7th wedding anniversary

Nothing says I love you quite like a gift you’ve made yourself – and this counts double on your wedding anniversary. You might think that making something out of wool or copper is tricky – especially if you don’t have any experience working with either of them before. But, there are plenty of resources and tutorials available online that mean you can definitely make something full of charm and personality. Yes, even out of copper! Here are five ideas for brilliant DIY gifts.

1. DIY wool flowers

If you have some wool, a needle and a finger, you can create some simple and effective wool flowers with literally zero experience. And once you have a few, you could glue them to some green wire and give them a DIY wool flower bouquet. There are DIY wool flower bouquet tutorial videos available on YouTube to help get you started.

2. DIY wool coasters

Something nice, easy and effective to make out of wool is a set of wool drinks coasters. You can make one or two, or a whole set! Just choose your partner’s favourite colours and get to work with the help of a DIY wool coaster tutorial.

3. A crocheted scarf

Crocheting is a great hobby, and you can make some amazing things with just a ball of wool and a crochet hook. It can look confusing, but with a good tutorial or guide you can pick up crochet relatively quickly, and a scarf is a simple place to start. Thankfully, there are loads of crocheted scarf tutorials available online.

4. A DIY twisted copper ring

With some copper wire, which you can pick up for next to nothing from craft shops, you can make your partner a lovely twisted copper ring in just five minutes. It might take a little trial and error, but if you follow a tutorial video you should master it in no time.

5. A DIY copper coin keyring

If you have an old keyring and a 1p or 2p coin, you can make your partner a copper coin keyring that’s packed with effort and meaning. It requires a couple of specific tools, but it shouldn’t take you too long if you follow online instructions.

5 experience or activity gifts for a 7th wedding anniversary

For something a little different, you could spend your 7th anniversary sharing a new experience with your other half. But what exactly could you do that ties into themes related to wool and copper? Actually, you might be surprised, as there are a few unique experiences the two of you can do that will make your anniversary one neither of you will forget in a hurry! Here are five ideas for a truly memorable 7th anniversary experience.

1. A sheep shearing experience

Has your partner ever fancied themselves a bit of a farmer (or maybe just loves Stardew Valley)? If so, you could spend your anniversary getting stuck into a sheep shearing experience to really get hands-on with how wool is sourced. It’s a fun and involved way to do something new on your anniversary.

2. A knitting course

Knitting is no longer for the older generation; it’s fast becoming a pastime for the young ‘uns, too. You and your partner could start a new hobby together and learn how to knit under the guidance of a professional. Find a knitting course near you and make something woolly on your big day.

3. A rug-making experience

While knitting is a popular hobby, something a little more off the beaten track is spinning weaving and rug making! So, pull the wool over your partner’s eyes and surprise them with something truly unique. There are a few different spinning and weaving courses available across the UK.

4. A copper bowl-making workshop

Copper bowls are wonderfully eye-catching statement pieces to have on display at home. But what could make one even more special? How about one you and your partner make at a copper bowl-making workshop?

5. A coppersmithing course

If you like the thought of making something out of copper with your partner but would like to make something else like jewellery or a sculpture, a coppersmithing course offers just that. There’s a range of experiences available so you shouldn’t have much trouble finding something your partner will enjoy making.

10 7th anniversary gifts that contain onyx

The traditional 7th anniversary gemstone is onyx, an incredible black (and sometimes white-flecked) stone that has an air of magic and mystery. As it’s such a deep colour, it looks striking set in a wide range of jewellery that could be either gold or silver. That means you usually don’t have to look too far to find onyx jewellery your partner will love. Here are 10 ideas for jewellery that contain onyx.

A necklace
A bracelet
Earrings
Cufflinks
A ring
A broach
A locket
An anklet
A nose stud
Belly button ring

Onyx isn’t exactly the most commonly used stone in jewellery, but most high street chains will have at least a few pieces for you to consider. At Bridebook, we’ve partnered with loads of amazing jewellers who specialise in wedding-related jewellery, so check them out to find the perfect piece

5 floral-inspired gifts for a 7th wedding anniversary

Flowers are an anniversary classic, but to give your floral gift an even more special meaning, you could choose something linked to the traditional 7th anniversary flower, freesia. Freesias are colourful and dainty, and look great in a vase or as part of a floral design. If you’d like to give your partner something related to freesias or other on-theme flowers, here are five bright ideas.

1. A bouquet of freesias

Freesias are a super versatile flower that can complement others in a bouquet, but work easily as a dedicated bouquet. A bouquet of freesias can be eye-catching and absolutely beautiful.

2. A freesia pendant

So that your partner can always wear a reminder of your 7th anniversary, a freesia pendant necklace is big, bold and pretty. It might not be to everyone’s taste, but you can pick up a more subtle freesia necklace from Kew Gardens’ online shop if that would suit your partner better.

3. Wool roses

As beautiful as flowers are, they eventually wilt and have to be thrown away. The exception to this, however, is wool flowers! They might not be freesias, but wool roses are fantastically creative and fit the traditional anniversary theme to a tee, so they’re still thoughtful and meaningful.

4. A pear and freesia candle

Freesias have a fruity, almost strawberry-like, scent, and when coupled with pear, they make quite the… pair! That’s why a pear and freesia candle smells so sweet and delicious, plus helps create a romantic anniversary-night atmosphere.

5. A stained glass freesia

Did you know there’s only one way to make a freesia even more stunning? That’s right, a freesia made out of stained glass! A stained glass freesia can stand tall and proud on a shelf and cast incredible yellow light across the room.

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Wedding Guest Hairstyle Ideas & Etiquette

Your hair is your crowning glory, and you want it to look its best on special days like weddings. But, what do you do when your ends are split, flyaways won’t tame, and your usual go-to hairstyle feels tired and uninspired? Don’t worry — we’re here to help save your style and have your Cinderella moment.

Styling your hair for a wedding can be daunting, especially if you aren’t the most confident with hairspray and styling tools. However, some of the most beautiful styles are the simplest. So, whether you’re looking for a sophisticated updo with minimal fuss or chic and romantic waves that exude timeless charm, you’re in the right place. This post will walk you through 45 ideas for hairstyles for wedding guests, including what to do with long, short, and curly hair.

What is a wedding guest hairstyle?

A wedding guest hairstyle is a formal or semi-formal hairstyle that guests can create to attend a wedding ceremony. There’s no difference between a normal formal hairstyle and a formal hairstyle for a wedding. However, a wedding guest’s hairstyle often takes into account the specific ambiance and theme of the wedding, as well as the attire chosen by the guests.

Hairstyles for a wedding as a guest

If you’re looking for some inspiration for wedding guest hairstyles, look no further. Keep reading for a how-to on 45 easy-to-achieve styles.

Formal weddings

Photo © EJ Hair and Makeup | See their Bridebook profile

Formal weddings usually demand the most sophisticated or elaborate hairstyles of all wedding themes. However, there are ways you can simplify the hairdo:

For long hair

Long, formal hairstyles for a wedding as a guest include:

Romantic waves. Use a hair curler, hot rollers, or a hair waver with a deep barrel to help you achieve romantic waves. Tame your flyaways with a little hair oil and keep it in place with a light hairspray.
Elegant updo. Pull your long hair back into an elegant updo. You’ll need some decorative hair clips or grips to hold it in place, and some hairspray to tame flyaways. Try pulling a few face-framing strands out of the updo to soften your face. Updos are especially pretty if you have a Bardot-style top or off-the-shoulder dress.
Half-up half-down. Gather the top section of your hair into a twist, braid, or bun, leaving the rest of your hair down in loose waves or curls. This style is great for highlighting hair length or thickness. Try curling the bottom half of your hair or adding a flick to the ends for extra glamour.

For short hair

Short, formal hairstyles for a wedding as a guest include:

A textured pixie. This style embraces your hair’s natural texture and is easy to manage throughout the day. Add volume and dimension by adding hairspray at the roots and tousling the hair with texturising spray or wax. Consider adding a side-swept fringe or face-framing strands to highlight your natural beauty.
Side swept waves. Use a deep-barrel waver or curler to add some texture to your hair. Be sure to curl your hair away from your face, then gently brush through the curls with your fingers to loosen them. Sweep your hair to the side or over your ear, and finish with a spritz of hairspray to hold the style in place.
Sleek bob. Slick your hair down with hair gel or paste for an editorial look. This style is best for above-ear haircuts. Any longer than this, and you run the risk of your hair looking greasy.

For curly hair

Curly, formal hairstyles for a wedding as a guest include:

A curly crown. Braid a section of hair on each side of your head, then cross them over at the back and secure with kirby grips or a bobble. Leave the rest of your curls loose, or style them into soft waves for a whimsical finish. Use your favourite curly hair products to ensure your waves look their best.
A curly pony. Gather your curls into a high or low ponytail and secure with a decorative bobble. Pull out some curls to frame your face for a soft and romantic look, and use a curl-refreshing spray to revive any droopy curls throughout the day.
Defined curls with hair accessories. Follow your usual curly hair routine to make your curls look their best, then add a fun accessory like hair clips, a fascinator, or a hairband to elevate your style. Try using products like mousse, curl cream, and even hair gel, depending on your hair’s texture. This will define your curls and keep their volume throughout the day.

City weddings

Photo © Siew Gratton | See their Bridebook profile

City weddings are all the rage now, and for good reason! They offer a unique blend of urban charm and modern sophistication. When it comes to hairstyles for city weddings, you want something chic, polished, and effortlessly stylish. Here are some trendy options to consider:

For long hair

Long hairstyles for wedding guests include:

Sleek low bun. Smooth your hair back into a sleek ponytail, then twist it into a neat bun at the nape of your neck. Slick your parting down with hair gel or hairspray for a slicked-back look. Use kirby grips to secure any loose strands, and finish with hairspray for a polished look.
A high ponytail. Brush your hair up and backwards into a high ponytail. Secure with a bobble, and use a fine-toothed comb to smooth any bumps on your crown or nape. Use texture spray on the pony to add volume and hairspray for extra shine.
Tousled with a statement accessory. Use heated rollers or a deep-barrel waver to add texture to your hair. Use wax or hairspray or tousle your hair for an undone style, then add a statement accessory like a fascinator, hair grips, or headband in a bright colour.

For short hair

Short hairstyles for wedding guests include:

Textured mohawk braid. Create a French braid along the centre of your head, starting from the forehead and working towards the nape of your neck. Leave the sides of your short hair loose, or add some texture with texturising spray for added dimension. This edgy yet stylish hairstyle is perfect for city weddings and is sure to make a lasting impression.
Asymmetric bob. If you’re feeling bold, try cutting your short hair into an asymmetric bob à la 2007 Rhianna. It will add instant flair and personality to your outfit. However, it’s more permanent than these other suggestions, so make sure you’re confident before taking the plunge.
Sleek crop. Slick your short hair down and behind your ears for a classy, editorial look. The shorter the hair, the chicer this looks, so don’t be afraid to go bold. Use gel or hairspray for a high shine effect, or wax or pomade for a matt style.

For curly hair

Curly hairstyles for wedding guests include:

Twisted half-up half-down. It can be difficult to get curly hair to lay flat, so leaning into the ‘undone’ style is a great way to disguise the chaos. Try creating two twists on the side of your head by wrapping two pieces of hair around one another. Pull these around the back of your head until they meet, and secure with a decorative hair clip or bobble. Let the rest of your curls fall loose and style as needed. Pull a few face-framing sections out of the twists for a romantic style.
Curly side ponytail. A side pony is a great way to tame your hair while embracing your natural texture. Pull all your hair onto one side of your head and secure it in a low ponytail just below your ear. Try using a decorative or bejewelled bobble for extra glamour.
Curly French twist. A French twist is a timeless and elegant hairstyle. However, they’re not always the easiest style to achieve. Be sure to put in lots of practice before the big day if you’d like to wear this style. Sweep your curls to one side of your head and twist them upwards, securing them with kirby grips to create a classic French twist. Leave a few curls loose around your face to soften the look and frame your face. If you’re already a pro at creating a French twist, you can leave a few curls out on the top to highlight your beautiful hair texture.

Boho weddings

Photo © FACE LDN | See their Bridebook profile

Boho weddings are known for their relaxed, free-spirited atmosphere, so any hairstyles you choose as a wedding guest should reflect this style.

For long hair

Half-up half-down with a top knot. Adding a top knot to this classic style adds a touch of whimsy which is perfect for a boho wedding. Part around the crown of your head and brush upwards. A great tip is to create two faux partings in line with the arches of your eyebrows. Twirl the hair gathered into a top knot and secure with either kirby grips or a bobble, depending on the thickness of your hair. Allow the rest of your hair to flow freely.
Side-swept fishtail braid. Fishtail braids can be tricky to achieve, but once you’ve nailed them they’re a beautiful yet relaxed hairstyle for any wedding. Sweep your hair to one side and start braiding a fishtail braid, incorporating small sections of hair into the middle of the braid as you go. Secure the end with a bobble and gently pull on the sides of the braid to loosen it and add volume. Finish with a few spritzes of hairspray to hold the style in place.
Waterfall braid. Waterfall braids are, again, quite an advanced style. However, once mastered, everyone will be asking for your hairstyle tips! Begin by taking a small section of hair near your temple and dividing it into three strands like a regular braid. Cross the top strand over the middle, then the bottom strand over the middle. On the next cross, drop the top strand and pick up a new section of hair from above the dropped strand to replace it. Continue braiding in this manner, dropping and picking up new sections of hair from above the braid as you go. Secure the end of the braid with a small bobble or a kirby grip, depending on your hair thickness. YouTube is your friend with this one — check out some inspiring and handy tutorials to grasp the exact technique.

For short hair

A textured pixie. A textured pixie works well for a boho wedding. Embrace your natural texture and scrunch your hair with sea salt spray or texturising powder for an effortless finish. You can even add hair accessories like floral clips to emphasise the laid-back feel.
A headband or scarf. Choose a headband or scarf with a bold and colourful pattern or floral design to complement the boho aesthetic of the wedding. Place the headband or tie the scarf around your head, leaving your short hair loose and tousled for a casual and carefree look. This will instantly elevate your hairstyle and add a touch of bohemian charm to your overall look.
Twisted low pony. This one will depend on the length of your short hair. However, a twisted pony is a great way to keep your hair off your face while maintaining a boho style. Gather your hair into a low ponytail at the nape of your neck and secure it with a bobble. Then, twist the ponytail loosely and wrap it around the base to create a low twisted bun. Secure the bun with kirby grips and leave a few strands loose for a soft and effortless look.

For curly hair

A boho bun. Gather all of your curls into a loose bun at the nape of your neck and secure it with kirby grips. Leave a few curls loose around your face and at the nape of your neck for a relaxed look.
Curly updo. This timeless hairstyle is perfect for curly hair at a boho wedding. Twist small sections of your curls and pin them at the back of your head, creating a loose and tousled updo. Leave a few curls loose around your face and at the nape of your neck for a romantic vibe. You can also add floral hair pins or accessories to enhance the style.
Keep it natural. Boho style is all about embracing your natural beauty and being carefree. What could be more carefree than wearing your natural texture? Follow your usual curly hair routine to help your curls look their best and rock the boho vibes.

Rustic weddings

Photo © Beauty Infinity | See their Bridebook profile

Rustic weddings are characterised by their simplicity and natural elements, so you should focus on reflecting this energy in your hairstyles.

For long hair

Flower crown with loose waves. Create soft, natural-looking waves using a curler or large barrel round brush. Once your waves are set, place a flower crown on top of your head, positioning it slightly over your forehead for a bohemian touch. The colours in your flower crown should complement your outfit.
Volumised curls. Create bouncy curls throughout your hair using a curler or hot rollers. Be sure the barrel of the rollers is wide for more volume. Spray a little hairspray or texturising powder at your roots to increase volume. This is best done on second-day or slightly dirty hair, and will give your hair more texture and longevity.
Rope braid. Rope braids are significantly easier to achieve than a waterfall or fishtail braid. Pull your hair to one side and separate it into two sections. Twist these sections around themselves, and then around one another to create a rope braid. Twisting the hair around itself first prevents the rope braid from unravelling throughout the day. Secure with a thin bobble.

For short hair

Vintage-inspired pin curls. Create small pin curls throughout your short hair using a curling iron or hot rollers, then secure them with kirby grips or small hair clips. Once their hair has completely cooled, you should remove the pins. Your curls should stay in place depending on the length of your hair. If you like the way your hair looks with pins, use decorative kirby grips like pearl or diamante pins along the sides of your curls for a touch of old Hollywood elegance.
Soft waves. Soft waves are the perfect style if you’re going for a romantic or feminine vibe. You can use a curler or waver, but it’s much easier to create soft waves on short hair using a thin straightener. Pull the hair tight between the plates and turn the straightener from side to side to create a loose wave. Set with a little hairspray for longevity.
Fringe French braid. This one will take a little practice, but you can French braid your longer layers and fringe into a pretty style. Secure behind the ear with a decorative clip, and you’re good to go. It’s easier to French braid slightly dirty hair, so try using some dry shampoo if your hair is freshly washed.

For curly hair

Natural curls with twine details. This style is perfect if you’re a natural curlyhead. Complete your usual curly hair routine to make your curls bouncy and hydrated, then add small rope braids sporadically throughout your hair. Secure them with a small bobble and beads for a laid-back look.
Loose curls with a braided headband. Take two sections of hair from above your temples and braid them. The braid should face upwards and away from your face to prevent any bumps in your style. The braid should be about an inch in thickness, so take more or less hair depending on your hair density. Wrap your braids over the top of your head until they reach the opposite side of your head and secure with kirby grips. Allow the rest of your hair to flow free and loose.
A side braid with flowers. Sweep your curly hair to one side. Create a three-strand braid and secure it with a thin bobble. Decorate your braids with fresh flowers of your choosing. Daisies or small sprigs of babies’ breath look especially beautiful at a wedding.

Destination weddings

Photo © PowderBlueArtistry | See their Bridebook profile

Destination weddings are weddings that happen abroad. While beaches and coastlines are popular choices for destination weddings, they’re not the only options available. Destination weddings can take place in a variety of breathtaking settings, including picturesque vineyards, historic castles, or lush gardens. Be sure to match your hairstyle to the location for a cohesive look.

For long hair

Beachy waves. Create loose, beachy waves throughout your hair using a curler or a deep-barrel waver or iron. Accessorise with accents from the destination. For example, small seashell clips or hairpins for a beach, flowers for a woodland wedding, or leaves for a vineyard.
Messy bun with twists. Begin by gathering your hair into a high ponytail and loosely twisting it into a bun, securing it with kirby grips. Leave a few strands loose around the face to soften the look and add texture. Incorporate small twisted sections of hair into the bun for added dimension and visual interest.
Braided high ponytail. A high ponytail is a great way to keep your hair off your face and keep yourself cool, and incorporating a braid adds interest to the style. Start by dividing a straight section from the front of your hairline to the crown. French braid this section and secure it with a clip or small bobble. Brush the rest of your hair into a high ponytail and secure with a thicker bobble. Add a little hairspray to tame flyaways and some texture spray to your pony for a volumised look.

For short hair

Hair jewellery. Hair jewellery adds a glamorous touch for castle weddings or a whimsical touch to woodland weddings. You can incorporate hair jewellery into any style, so consider using any of the above hairstyles and adding accessories as you see fit.
Curly bob. Curly bobs are great for vineyard or beach weddings. Use a curler with a slim barrel to achieve a pretty, curly look. Finish with hairspray for longevity and add a sparkly hairband or flowers depending on the location.
Textured lob. It’s easy to achieve volume and texture with a lob (long bob), as this hairstyle isn’t weighed down by excess length. Add texture and movement to your lob by tousling it with sea salt or texturising spray. Alternatively, you can create loose waves with a hair curler or waver, then spritz with hairspray for a lived-in look.

For curly hair

Curly Dutch braid updo. Begin by creating a Dutch braid along one side of your head, incorporating sections of curly hair as you braid. Continue braiding until you reach the nape of your neck, then secure the braid with kirby grips or a bobble. Gather the remaining curly hair into a low bun and secure with kirby grips. Leave some curls loose around your face for a soft look and add some pretty accessories or hair jewellery for a finishing touch.
Double low buns. Split your hair down the middle and secure into two low bunches. Twist your hair around themselves until you create two low double buns. Secure with a bobble and then add some pretty ribbons for a feminine touch.
Braided updo. Begin by creating multiple small braids throughout your curly hair, varying the size and placement for a textured and whimsical look. Gather the braids into a loose bun or updo at the back of your head, securing them with kirby grips or a bobble. Allow some curls to cascade down your back for an elegant and glamorous look.

The bottom line on hairstyles for wedding guests

Remember, though your hairstyle is important when you’re a wedding guest, it’s not the be-all and end-all. The best hairstyles for wedding guests are the ones that make you feel beautiful and authentic. Follow the dress code, keep a mini hairspray in your bag, and you’ll fit right in with the vibe of the big day.

In the end, it’s not just about the hairstyle you wear, but also the confidence and happiness you bring to the celebration. Don’t be afraid to add a touch of personal flair to your hairdo, whether it’s a delicate hair accessory, flaunting your natural texture, or sneaking a subtle braid into your updo. If you’re feeling nervous or aren’t especially skilled when it comes to hairstyles, remember that the most beautiful accessory you can wear is your genuine smile!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I wear a hat as a wedding guest?

You can wear a hat as a wedding guest so long as the dress code allows it. However, you’ll likely need to remove your hat any time you enter a building, meaning you’ll still need to style your hair underneath. So don’t think you can hide a bad hair day with the use of a tactful hat!

Can I wear my hair down as a wedding guest?

Wearing your hair down is a beautiful and timeless choice for wedding guest hairstyles — especially if you have long or thick hair. Consider beachy waves, romantic curls, or even a half-up half-down.

Can I wear hair accessories as a wedding guest?

Accessories are to hair as herbs and spices are to a tasty meal — they should be used in moderation. Less is more when it comes to hair clips, headbands, or fascinators. Opt for one statement piece or a few subtle accents to complement your hairstyle without overpowering it. Remember, balance is key to achieving a polished and elegant appearance.

Can I do my own hair as a wedding guest?

Doing your own hair is a great way to save money and ensure that your hairstyle perfectly reflects your personal style. With a little bit of practise and the right products, you can achieve a look that’s both stunning and uniquely you.

Happy Planning!

Supplier Showcase: Make Musical Memories with Future Media

In this spotlight, meet Mark Voisey, the friendly, professional and fun-loving owner and director of Future Media. With a passion for creating unforgettable musical memories, Mark leads a premier entertainment company that provides fantastic DJs and entertainment for weddings, corporate events and the nightlife industry across the South West of England (including Devon, Somerset and surrounding counties). If you’re an engaged couple looking to create the perfect musical backdrop for your wedding, then look no further. Read on to discover how Future Media brings the party to every celebration.

Highlights of the supplier

Photo © Future Media | See their Bridebook profile

Future Media understands that no two weddings are alike. Whether you’re hosting an intimate gathering or a grand celebration with hundreds of guests, they’ve got customisable packages to suit every style, taste and budget. They offer first-class DJs, Saxophonists and Acoustic Acts, as well as all the sound and lighting you could want to make your day as memorable as possible. From the spectacular to the intimate, there’s something for everyone.

What sets Future Media apart is their dedication to professionalism and their passion for their craft. Owner and director Mark Voisey sums up Future Media’s stand-out features as stemming from the people behind the business: “We really LOVE our job! We are fun, want to be there (and are honoured to be there), whilst remaining professional at all times. This is our full-time job, too… It’s not something we just do at the weekends.”

Future Media are also proud award winners, most notably:

Bridebook Wedding Awards Finalist (awarded a certificate of excellence)
Entered into The Wedding Industry Awards TWIA 2021
Regional Finalist TWIA 2018

This fabulous supplier isn’t just award-winning, but also LGBTQIA+ friendly, and identifies as a Sustainability Hero.

The ultimate music experience

Picture this: your first dance under shimmering lights, surrounded by loved ones, as your chosen song fills the air. Beyond the typical set, their Platinum Wedding Package ensures that every moment of your reception is infused with elegance and energy – it’s a class act to give your wedding the party it deserves!

From meal to midnight

With a Meal-to-Midnight service, the party begins from the get-go. Bringing in a song of your choice as you enter the room for your wedding breakfast will really set the tone for the night and make for a celebration like no other.

Unleash the wow factor

For couples seeking to elevate their celebration to even loftier heights, the dazzling Diamond Wedding Package promises to deliver the ultimate wow factor.

A uniquely personal touch

Owner and director Mark Voisey is beyond passionate about serving the wedding industry: “I love that you get to be a part of someone’s big day and throw a massive party for them! You see people at their absolute best and so happy… It’s really something!” He also shares his best expert advice for couples planning their wedding: “Don’t underestimate the impact of the evening entertainment on your big day. Of course we’re going to be biased, but great entertainment in the evening can either make or break your day… It’s that important!

With over a decade of experience and more than 50 weddings under their belt, Future Media are committed to making your big day truly special and try to distance themselves from the typical cheesy ‘wedding DJ’. They mix, enjoy themselves, and take into account the variety of age groups at a wedding by catering for all instead of sticking to a single generic playlist.

Secure your booking today

Elevate your wedding celebration with Future Media, where every beat tells your unique love story. Get in touch with Mark Voisey, and let their team of passionate professionals turn your work their magic. They promise to create unforgettable musical memories that will last a lifetime! For more information, view their profile and enquire today to make your wedding dreams reality.

Happy Planning!

How Many Guests Should I Invite to My Wedding?

The size of your guest list will dictate every part of your big day, from the venue and vendors, to even the overall atmosphere. Plus, the more guests you invite, the bigger your budget needs to be. As a result, it’s natural to question how many people you genuinely need at your wedding.

While it’s understandable to want to share your special day with as many loved ones as possible, it’s essential to weigh the costs associated with accommodating a larger guest list against your overall wedding vision. Take the time to prioritise your must-have guests and consider alternative ways to celebrate with those who may not be able to attend the main event.

If you’re struggling with how many people you should invite, keep reading! This helpful guide will highlight what’s considered to be a small, medium, or big wedding, as well as typical headcounts for a variety of ceremonies.

What is a wedding guest list?

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A wedding guest list is a list of all the people you plan to invite to your wedding. It isn’t necessarily a list of all the people who will come to your wedding. That will depend on whether they RSVP. Some couples plan for this and over-invite by around 10-15%. However, this runs the risk of everyone wanting to come, and your big day ends up bigger than you’d ever imagined!

Planning your wedding guest list is likely to go through several phases. This includes drafting, cutting, re-drafting, and re-cutting. If you’re struggling with getting started, check out our post on how to write a wedding guest list, including some handy tips on who needs to be there and who you can leave off!

How many guests should I invite for a small wedding?

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There’s no hard definition of what constitutes a small wedding. But, generally speaking, a small wedding is one where the guest list is fewer than 50 people.

If you’re thinking about having a small wedding, there are several benefits:

It’s more intimate. You’ll actually be able to spend 1-on-1 time with everyone you’ve invited, making your special day even more meaningful and memorable. An intimate celebration can also be a lot less pressure than a large extravaganza.
It’s more cost-effective. A smaller guest list means you can book a smaller venue, pay less for catering, and purchase fewer invitations. This means you can spend more money on the things that really matter to you, like flowers, the cake, your dress, or a higher-quality suit. In fact, couples who host 50 guests or less spend 42% less on their weddings than the national UK average.
It’s less formal. Small weddings tend to be less formal and more relaxed than larger weddings. Couples may opt for casual attire, simplified ceremony formats, and informal dining arrangements to better reflect their personal style and preferences.

On the other hand, there are some drawbacks:

Tough decisions. Unless you’re from a small family, you might have to make some pretty difficult decisions to get your guest list below 50. This might include not inviting friends, colleagues, or even some extended family members. Be sure to communicate this tactfully with your partner to prevent guest list arguments.
Vendor limits. Some vendors and wedding venues have a minimum headcount, and having a smaller wedding may not reach these limits. Be sure to check whether your dream venue has minimum guest requirements before finalising your guest list with them!

How many guests should I invite for a mid-size wedding?

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A medium-sized wedding is generally considered to be between 50 and 100 guests. It’s the size that many couples opt for, as you get the best of both.

The benefits of a medium-sized wedding include:

Balanced atmosphere. A medium-sized wedding offers a balance between intimacy and energy. With a moderate number of guests, there’s still a sense of closeness and connection while also providing enough people to create a lively and celebratory atmosphere.
Diverse guest list. A bigger guest list means more space to invite friends, extended family, and neighbours or colleagues. This allows for a mix of social circles and relationships, fostering a sense of community and inclusivity.
Better vibes. More people means more party. Guests will bounce off one another’s energy for a vibrant celebration.

Naturally, there are some disadvantages, too:

Guest list management. Increasing your guest list also means you need to consider complex family dynamics and navigate friendship fall-outs. This can prove challenging when it comes to seating arrangements.
Higher cost considerations. More guests will mean increased catering, venue, and wedding invitation costs. Be sure to budget accordingly for a larger guest list!

How many guests should I invite for a large wedding?

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A big wedding is considered to be anything over 100 guests. Large weddings give you the opportunity to invite everyone you love to celebrate your fairy tale day.

The benefits of a big wedding include:

A great atmosphere. Most people are in a great mood at a wedding, and that energy will spur you on through your big day. The vibe at a big wedding is like nothing else, and is guaranteed to make for the party of a lifetime!
A chance to meet one another. A big wedding is the perfect opportunity for families and friends to come together and celebrate love. They’re all one big family now, after all, so it’s time they got to know each other.
A memorable experience. A big wedding will leave an especially lasting impression on both you and your guests. The scale and grandeur of the event are sure to become talking-points, and create unforgettable memories.

Aside from the increased cost of a large wedding, drawbacks include:

Attention spread more thinly. With more guests to greet and interact with, you may find it challenging to spend quality time with each individual guest. This can result in guests feeling less personally connected to the day.
Noise and crowd control. While more guests contribute to a lively atmosphere, they can also lead to increased noise levels and potential overcrowding, especially in smaller venues. You may need to implement strategies to manage noise levels and ensure the comfort of all your guests.

How does the headcount affect the cost of a wedding?

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We’ve already touched on this above, but the number of guests you invite can significantly influence wedding spending. The more guests you invite, the more your wedding will cost. This rise is mainly due to catering costs. More guests naturally means more mouths to feed. Here are the average costs you can expect to pay depending on the size of your wedding. For more information on average UK wedding costs in general, check our our dedicated article.

50 or fewer guests – £12,006
51-100 guests – £20,340
101-150 guests – £25,175
151 or more guests – £37,431

How many guests are typical for…

An elopement

Couples don’t typically invite guests to an elopement.

In fact, the point of an elopement is to be spontaneous, romantic, and private, so guests aren’t usually necessary or even desired. However, you may wish to invite one or two guests to act as witnesses or share in the celebration afterward.

Some couples also like to organise a party after they return from their elopement. This party is the opportunity to celebrate your marriage with family and friends who couldn’t come to the elopement itself. You can invite as many people as you’d like to this party.

A registry office wedding

For a registry office wedding to be legally-binding, you need to have at least two people present to act as your witnesses. They can be friends, family, or anyone with a significant role in your life. They must also be over 16 and understand English to qualify as witnesses.

A Church/religious wedding

The size of a church wedding will be dictated by the size of the church, at least for the ceremony itself. Larger churches may accommodate hundreds of guests, while smaller churches may have more limited seating available.

Indian wedding

Indian weddings tend to be large, elaborate affairs that involve extensive guest lists and multiple days of celebrations. It’s not uncommon for Indian weddings to have hundreds or even thousands of guests in attendance.

Family and community are central to Indian culture, so weddings often serve as opportunities to bring together relatives, friends, and acquaintances from near and far to celebrate the happy couple.

Destination wedding

Destination weddings tend to have fewer guests due to the increased cost of flying abroad. This smaller guest count allows for a more relaxed and personal atmosphere, where couples can spend quality time with each guest and create unforgettable memories in a beautiful and exotic setting.

The bottom line on wedding guest count

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There’s really no perfect wedding size. The most important thing is that the people who truly matter to you are there and that your guest list fits within your budget. So, whether you’re planning a larger-than-life Indian wedding, a low-key intimate gathering, or a romantic elopement, focus on surrounding yourself with the love and support of those who mean the most to you.

If you’re struggling to visualise your guest list and aren’t sure where to begin, or have already sent out your invites but aren’t sure how to manage it all, try Bridebook’s free Guest List tool. Sign up today to make your wedding guest management a breeze and plan the celebration of your dreams!

Frequently Asked Questions

How many people are usually invited to a wedding?

The typical wedding has between 50 and 100 guests. However, this depends on the size of your venue, your budget, and the type of wedding you’re throwing. For example, the average Indian wedding will have a lot more guests than the average registry office ceremony.

What is a good number of guests for a wedding?

A good number is whatever number suits your budget and priorities. Try to avoid the temptation to inflate your guest list for the sake of meeting an arbitrary number. As long as your list has everyone you love on it and fits in your budget, it’s a good number.

Is a 100 person wedding small?

A wedding of over 100 people is typically considered to be a big wedding rather than a small one. However, it may be considered small in certain cultures where weddings are more of a social event, for example, Indian weddings.

Happy Planning!

The Ultimate Wedding Planning Day Out: The National Wedding Show

Calling all engaged couples planning their dream wedding! Get ready for the ultimate wedding planning day out at The National Wedding Show, the largest and longest running wedding show in the UK. With its unparalleled array of features and attractions, this event promises to be an unforgettable experience for anyone embarking on the journey towards their big day.

What is The National Wedding Show?

For over 25 years, The National Wedding Show has been the go-to destination for couples embarking on their wedding planning journey. With thousands of visitors attending each season, this renowned event continues to set the standard for wedding shows across the UK. This spring, the show returns to the NEC in Birmingham (1st-3rd March) and the ExCeL in London (23rd-24th March), promising an unrivalled day out for engaged couples.

Meet Leading Wedding Suppliers, All Under One Roof

Imagine being able to meet hundreds of leading wedding suppliers all in one place. At The National Wedding Show, that dream becomes a reality. From florists to photographers, and cake designers to venue stylists, this show brings together the best in the business, making it a one-stop shopping destination for engaged couples everywhere. Say goodbye to endless hours of online searches and instead, immerse yourself in a world of wedding inspiration and possibilities.

The Latest Wedding Trends and Inspiration

One of the most exciting aspects of attending The National Wedding Show is the opportunity to discover the latest wedding trends and find inspiration for your own special day. Whether you’re drawn to classic elegance or modern chic, there’s something for every taste and style. From breathtaking floral arrangements to innovative decor ideas, you’ll leave feeling inspired and ready to bring your vision to life.

Unforgettable Attractions and Experiences

The National Wedding Show isn’t just about shopping; it’s an immersive experience brimming with unforgettable attractions and experiences. Prepare to be dazzled by the glamorous Catwalk shows featuring bridal, menswear, bridesmaid, and mother of the bride attire, and gain invaluable insights and advice from leading wedding experts at the WEDTalk Theatre. Don’t forget to make a pit stop at the Champagne Bar and VIP Lounge for a moment of indulgence amidst the excitement.

Exciting New Features for Spring 2024

This spring, The National Wedding Show is pulling out all the stops with an array of exciting new features. Visitors can enjoy flower arranging workshops, mini-makeovers, puppy yoga (because who doesn’t love puppies?), bespoke wedding advice clinics, and even live musical performances from celebrity guests. With so much to see and do, you’ll want to make sure you plan your day accordingly to make the most of everything on offer.

VIP Experience

For those looking for an extra special experience, VIP tickets are available. VIP guests will enjoy fast-track entry, unlimited access to the VIP Lounge, a complimentary alcoholic drink to toast to their special day, and a VIP goody bag filled with treats and surprises, not to mention reserved Catwalk seating.

Exclusive Bridebook Ticket Offer

Get standard tickets for £16.50 and VIP tickets for £32.50 at nationalweddingshow.co.uk with this exclusive discount code: BRIDEBOOK.

With its unbeatable lineup of top suppliers, exciting features, and luxury VIP experiences, The National Wedding Show is the ultimate destination for couples planning their big day. Don’t miss out on this fabulous event – secure your tickets now and take the first step towards creating the wedding of your dreams.

6th Wedding Anniversary Gifts: 50 Anniversary Gift Ideas

Celebrating your 6th wedding anniversary is a fantastic milestone that should always be marked if possible. It means you’re more than halfway to your 10th anniversary and your love is growing stronger with every passing year.

But what should you give the love of your life to mark 6 years of marriage? You probably already have a few ideas, but did you know that for more than a century, many couples have enjoyed giving each other traditional or modern gifts that stick close to an ‘official’ theme? There’s also a traditional gemstone and flower, and they’re each filled with symbolism to give your anniversary gift-giving an even deeper level of meaning.

So, in this guide, we’re going to explore 50 6th wedding anniversary gift ideas that fit these themes so you can give your other half the perfect present.

To learn more about all the different anniversary gift-giving traditions from 1 to 90 years, read our complete year-by-year wedding anniversary gift guide.

What are traditional and modern gifts for a 6th wedding anniversary?

The traditional and modern 6th wedding anniversary gifts

The traditional and modern gifts associated with six years of marriage are packed with meaning, so giving your partner a gift associated with one or more of them can really elevate your gift. That extra level of thought and passion can make your 6th anniversary one your partner will always remember.

Traditional 6th anniversary gift – Sugar

The traditional 6th anniversary gift is sugar, which represents how every year of marriage that passes gets even sweeter. And of course, sugar is used in loads of different treats and desserts, so you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to giving your partner something tasty.

Modern 6th anniversary gift – Iron

The modern gift for a 6th wedding anniversary is iron, a strong and incredibly durable metal that can withstand almost anything. After all, the Titanic was made of iron and it took an iceberg to sink it (and we can’t imagine the two of you will encounter many icebergs throughout your marriage). Iron isn’t an obvious gift choice, but with a little creativity, there are plenty of options out there.

6th anniversary gemstone – Amethyst

Amethyst is a stunning stone that comes in various shades of intoxicating purple. Because of its colour, it represents royalty, as well as love and happiness, so it’s perfect for the king or queen in your life. Amethyst is also relatively affordable and looks great set in all kinds of jewellery and accessories.

6th anniversary flower – Calla lily

The traditional 6th anniversary flower is the calla lily, a perennial flower with big heads that are turned up and look a little like china cups. They represent sympathy, unity and beauty, all strong emotions that you no doubt have for your partner.

If you have pets at home, calla lilies can cause problems for their health, so you might want to think about an alternative if you’re keen to give your partner a floral gift to mark six years.

How do you choose a gift for a 6th wedding anniversary?

As you pass the halfway point to your 10th anniversary, how do you decide what to give your partner to mark six whole years together? You might already have a few ideas, but with so many choices it can be tricky making a call on the perfect one. Here are a few things to think about when making your decision:

Are you interested in following the rules? You don’t have to give your partner a traditional or modern gift, but it can be something fun and romantic with extra meaning.
Have you set a budget? The size of your budget might determine what you pick up for your partner.
Are you going to get a personalised gift? Personalisation is a brilliant way to elevate a gift and make it more thoughtful, but it can add to the cost.
Do your ideas fit with your partner’s interests? Sugar is often a sure-fire winner when it comes to gifts, but what about iron? Try to bear your partner’s interests in mind when choosing their gift.

If a couple in your life will soon celebrate their 6th wedding anniversary, you may wonder if you can join in with the fun and get them a traditional or modern anniversary gift. Well, of course you can! These gifts aren’t exclusive to the couple themselves, so if you have a great idea for a gift then go for it – we’re sure they’ll love it.

50 ideas for a 6th wedding anniversary gift

If you’d like to give your partner an extra special gift to celebrate your 6th anniversary but you’re not quite sure where to start, then you’re in the right place. Here are 50 on-theme ideas so you can treat your other half to something thoughtful.

10 traditional gifts for a 6th wedding anniversary

The traditional anniversary gift for six years is sugar, which is a delicious sweet and versatile treat loved by many. But, it’s also more than just giving your partner a bag of sugar they can add to their tea – so here are 10 ideas to get your creative muscles working.

1. An indulgent chocolate fondue set

If your partner loves a sweet and chocolatey treat that’s also a little bit naughty, then an indulgent chocolate fondue set from Hotel Chocolat is sure to set the mood on your anniversary night. Simply warm up the selection of moreish sauces and dip in your favourite treats for something truly lip-smacking.

2. A create-your-own mega jar of sweets

For something totally on theme and also super nostalgic, what could be more perfect than a jar of retro sweets? A create your own mega jar of sweets allows you to choose 20 of your partner’s favourites, from candy necklaces to fizzy refreshers.

3. A sweet shop-scented candle

Okay, so you might not be able to eat a sweet shop-scented candle, but it’s romantic, on-theme and helps create the perfect ambience for celebrating your amazing milestone.

4. A sugar cube pendant

A sugar cube pendant is a sweet and thoughtful gift that definitely thinks outside the… cube. It’s unique and maybe not to everyone’s taste, but it suits a whole range of outfits and your partner can wear it whenever they like to remember your 6th anniversary.

5. A tea caddie set

Emma Bridgewater is a designer loved by many, with a striking but homely range of kitchen and homeware. An Emma Bridgewater tea caddie set is on theme, useful and thoughtful.

6. A handmade fondant figure

A cake is a statement-making sugary gift to give your other half on your anniversary, which itself is brilliant. But, why not make it even more brilliant with a handmade fondant figure or two, to call back to your cake topper you may have had on your wedding day? Or if you didn’t have one, now could be the time to make that happen!

7. A sugar and spice nail set

If your partner loves to paint their nails, a sugar and spice collection is definitely all things nice. These fiery and warming gel polishes are a great way to give your love a unique on-theme gift.

8. Personalised chocolates

Chocolates are usually going to go down well on your anniversary, but for your 6th anniversary, they have extra special meaning. Plus, you can give your partner personalised chocolates to tell them exactly how you feel.

9. A sugar scrub

As well as being a treat for the stomach and soul, did you know that sugar can also be a treat for the skin? A sugar scrub exfoliates your partner’s skin to leave them feeling smooth, soft and radiant. That way, you can spend your anniversary with a home pamper evening.

10. Personalised anniversary doughnuts

If all else fails, why not treat your partner to a personalised box of doughnuts from Krispy Kreme? You can add your names to the box and make sure your other half knows it’s a treat you’ve been thinking about for a while!

10 modern gifts for a 6th wedding anniversary

If you’re sweet enough for your partner, then you may prefer to give them an anniversary gift linked to the modern tradition, which is iron. At first, you might think it’s quite limiting, but with a little creative thinking you can get a loving and thoughtful gift. So, here are 10 iron-inspired anniversary gifts to consider giving on your 6th anniversary.

1. A cast iron lovebird garden ornament

What could be a better gift to mark two lovebirds celebrating their anniversary than with a cast iron sculpture of two lovebirds? It would look fantastic in any garden, doesn’t take up too much room and has absolutely bags of sentimentality behind it.

2. A personalised iron bowl

Bowls are useful and thoughtful gifts, but can be elevated to the next level for your 6th anniversary. A personalised iron bowl fits the theme perfectly and even allows you to include a custom message, so every time your partner puts their keys or some fruit (or whatever they choose to use it for) inside they’ll be reminded of your special day.

3. A wrought iron wine rack

You and your partner might enjoy sharing a bottle of wine together (especially on your anniversary), so you could treat them to a stylish wrought iron wine rack to keep all those bottles neat and tidy.

4. An iron bracelet

Iron might not be the daintiest of materials, but in the right hands, it can be crafted into beautiful jewellery absolutely packed with meaning. An iron bracelet is a fabulous way for your partner to always keep a reminder of your 6th anniversary with them.

5. A wrought iron rose

Roses are a symbol of love recognised the world over, so why not combine roses and iron with a wonderful handmade wrought iron rose? Not only does it look amazing and have tons of meaning behind it, it has the added bonus of never wilting.

6. An iron

If you’re feeling extra brave and want to get your other half an on-theme gift that risks getting you in trouble, you could get them a new iron. This is especially poignant if they’ve been asking for one for a while. You might just want to accompany it with something sugary to sweeten the blow! Check out Currys for a huge selection of irons to fit loads of different budgets.

7. A cast iron hippopotamus statue

For an anniversary gift your partner will never forget, a cast iron hippopotamus is always going to put a smile on their face. It’s something that can sit out in the garden and watch over you with every future anniversary that passes.

8. A cast iron casserole dish

If your partner’s a keen cook, then a solid (literally) choice of anniversary gift is a cast iron casserole dish. Le Creuset is a well-known brand, but a Le Creuset casserole dish can be quite pricey. Thankfully, there are more affordable alternatives, like a ProCook cast iron casserole dish.

9. A cast iron sign

For something unique and retro, a cast iron sign is a brilliant way to add character and personalisation to your gift. You could choose something funny to hang in the garden or on the shed, or a brand new door number to hang beside the front door.

10. An iron heart sculpture

For the love of your life on your anniversary, an iron heart sculpture ticks two boxes: it fits the 6th anniversary theme and tells your partner just how much you love them.

5 affordable gifts for a 6th wedding anniversary

If you’re looking to mark your 6th anniversary with a token traditional or modern gift, then there are plenty of affordable options to suit smaller budgets. Here are five affordable 6th anniversary gifts so you can give your partner something sweet (or iron-y).

1. A cast iron bottle opener

If your other half loves to crack open the occasional bottle, or you enjoy sitting down to enjoy a drink together, a cast iron bottle opener is a super-affordable and thoughtful way to honour the modern anniversary tradition.

2. Decorative iron keys and a lock

A lock is a common symbol of love, with couples often leaving them on bridges or fences at famous romantic landmarks. Instead of this, you could give your partner decorative iron keys and a lock which they could display proudly in your garden. That way you’ll always have something to remember your anniversary by.

3. A few posh chocs

Hotel Chocolat is known for being makers of deliciously moreish chocolates, but unfortunately, some of their more extravagant boxes can be a little pricey. However, they do offer smaller chocolate selections and multi-buy discounts that mean you can still treat your partner with a smaller budget, like with the milk chocolate collection selector.

4. A LEGO Iron Man keyring

If your partner loves superheroes and is a big Marvel fan, a LEGO Iron Man keyring is bending the rules a little, but we still think it totally fits with the theme – plus it’s affordable.

5. An iron keepsake

For the ultimate iron anniversary token gift, an iron keepsake might be small, but it’s thoughtful and cute, and tells your partner how you feel without having to break the bank.

5 DIY gifts for a 6th wedding anniversary

DIY anniversary gifts are a brilliant way to save money and give your partner a gift that’s extra special because you made it – and doubly so if it also fits the theme. In all honesty, it’s going to be tricky forging a gift from iron unless you have the tools and know-how, but at least there are plenty of options for making homemade sweet treats to surprise your partner with. So, here are five ideas to get you started.

1. Chocolate-dipped strawberries

Chocolate-dipped strawberries are sweet, romantic and incredibly simple to make. All you need is a punnet of fresh strawberries and your favourite chocolate to melt, and after a quick dip, voilà! You have a delectable and sexy treat to share with your other half.

2. Homemade cupcakes

Even if you’re not an experienced baker, you can still make your partner some simple cupcakes without worrying about whether or not you’ll be deserving of a Hollywood handshake. You can pick up cupcake kits that include everything you need from your local supermarket, or follow a cupcake recipe online.

3. Homemade fudge

Fudge is ooey and gooey and a fantastic sticky treat your partner’s bound to love. It’s also super simple to make and a basic fudge recipe only requires four ingredients. Then you’re free to add chocolate, sprinkles, a drizzle or anything else your other half might love.

4. Homemade honeycomb

Honeycomb is crunchy, chewy and sweet, and can be quick and easy to make at home. Making honeycomb is part-baking and part-science, but if you get it right the results are delicious. It’s easy to customise your honeycomb and coat it in chocolate or another of your partner’s favourite toppings. There are also plenty of easy honeycomb recipes you can find online.

5. Homemade biscuits

For a homemade sweet treat your partner can dunk in their cuppa, biscuits can be super simple to make. Some only require a handful of ingredients and one or two inexpensive tools, and you can have a lot of fun decorating them with colours and designs your partner will love. There are loads of easy biscuit recipes available online, so have a bit of fun and experiment!

5 experience or activity gifts for a 6th wedding anniversary

An exciting way to spend your anniversary is by treating yourself and your partner to an activity or experience, and there are actually loads of options out there for fun things to do that are sugar- and iron-related. Here are five ideas for things you and your partner can do together to celebrate your 6th anniversary.

1. A baking experience

Baking can be a brilliant way to spend time together, and you’ll have something to show for it at the end which you can tuck into and enjoy! There are loads of baking courses available, so you shouldn’t have to look too hard to find one that suits you and your other half.

2. A blacksmithing experience

For something less sweet and a lot more fiery, a blacksmithing experience is a unique and interesting way to try your hand at something new and have a go at forging something of your very own.

3. Watch Iron Man on Disney+

Cosy up on the sofa, get some movie snacks ready (something sweet to stick to the theme) and have an Iron Man movie marathon. And the entire series is available to stream right now on Disney+!

4. A chocolate factory tour

What’s even better than enjoying a bar of chocolate? Enjoying a bar of chocolate while walking around a chocolate factory! Chocolate making goes back centuries, and you can learn all about the methods, ingredients and techniques that have developed throughout history… and enjoy a few treats along the way. There are a few options as well, like the Cadbury factory tour in Bourneville and York’s Chocolate Story in York.

5. A sword-fighting experience

This one is pushing the theme a little, but swords are often made from iron, and you and your partner take part in a sword fighting experience where you can swing swords around and work up a sweat. It’s so unique and thinking outside the box that your partner will never see it coming (unlike the sword which hopefully they will see coming).

10 6th anniversary gifts that contain amethyst

The traditional gemstone to give to your partner on your 6th anniversary is amethyst, which is a stunning and attention-grabbing purple stone. It’s super versatile and not always hugely expensive, plus it goes well with gold and silver, so you’re bound to find something that suits your partner’s tastes. So, here are 10 ideas for jewellery that contains amethyst.

A necklace
A bracelet
Earrings
Cufflinks
A ring
A broach
A locket
An anklet
A nose stud
Belly button ring

Amethyst is a hugely popular gemstone so most jewellers will have a range of jewellery you can check out. Here at Bridebook, we also work with a huge selection of wedding jewellers that offer loads of different options when it comes to amethysts.

5 floral-inspired gifts for a 6th wedding anniversary

Flowers are usually a sure-fire way to put a smile on your partner’s face when celebrating your anniversary. The traditional flower when celebrating six years together is the calla lily, an elegant and delicate flower which is a real show-stopper. If you’d love to get your partner a gift inspired by the calla lily, here are five ideas to get you started.

1. A calla lily necklace

If your partner loves unique jewellery, there’s no better 6th anniversary gift than a calla lily necklace. It’s cute and dainty, and can be worn with a wide variety of outfits.

2. An iron-forged calla lily

Iron and calla lilies don’t seem like an obvious combination, but a delicate iron-forged flower makes for a wonderful and striking centrepiece that has deep and thoughtful meaning. Check out this gorgeous hand-forged iron calla lily on Etsy.

3. A calla lily bouquet

We couldn’t not suggest a calla lily bouquet. They’re absolutely stunning flowers that make for a beautiful bouquet. Just remember, they can be toxic to pets, so bear this in mind if you have a four-legged friend at home.

4. Calla lily bulbs

Calla lilies don’t thrive in icy temperatures, so generally can’t be planted outside in the UK. But, if you’re up for the challenge and have a greenhouse or inside space, they can still flourish. Plus, calla lily bulbs are relatively inexpensive.

5. Beautiful wishes decorative figure

Willow Tree produces incredible decorative figures, and the Beautiful Wishes figurine features a child holding a bunch of calla lilies. It’s a unique and thoughtful gift your partner will definitely want to display for all to see.

Plan your dream wedding with Bridebook

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Happy Planning!

How to Make a Wedding Guest List (Who to Invite & Who Not To)

While it might seem straightforward at first, anyone who’s written a wedding guest list will tell you it’s far from easy. You can’t invite Peter without Paul, you can’t sit Auntie Jean with Uncle John, and you certainly can’t forget about all those distant relatives you haven’t seen in years but sill feel obligated to invite. As the list grows longer, so do the complexities, considerations, and budget!

But it doesn’t have to be doom and gloom. In fact, writing your wedding guest list is a great chance to reflect on all the special memories you’ve shared throughout the years. When you’re ready to put pen to paper, Bridebook has your back.

See your personalised wedding Guest List

Check out this guide to who you should invite, who you shouldn’t, and even a checklist to make sure you’ve covered all your bases. Plus, we’ll show you a free tool to help make guest list planning a breeze! Ready to get started? Let’s dive in!

What is a wedding guest list?

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A wedding guest list is a list of all the people you intend to invite to your wedding. It is a crucial part of wedding planning as it helps you determine factors like venue size, catering needs, and overall budget.

Your wedding guest list will also set the tone for the big day. For example, is it an intimate event, a family-only affair, or a roaring celebration with everyone you love? Your wedding guest list plays a significant role in shaping the atmosphere and experience of your special day, making it a crucial element to get right.

Who should you invite to your wedding?

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The most important thing to remember is that this is your wedding, and you can invite whoever you want. Don’t feel obliged to invite people you barely know or don’t genuinely care about just to please others. Your wedding day is a celebration of your love story, and the guest list should reflect the people who have played a meaningful role in shaping that narrative. Surround yourself with those who bring joy, love, and support to your life, and your wedding day will truly reflect the happiness you share as a couple.

Follow your heart, trust your instincts, and create a guest list that feels authentic to you as a couple.

If you’re looking for more specific guidelines, consider inviting the below people.

Family

Family is the cornerstone of your wedding guest list. You should invite your immediate family as standard. This includes your parents, step-parents, siblings, step-siblings, and grandparents. Consider inviting your cousins, aunts, uncles, and other close relatives if there’s space.

If you aren’t close to your family or there are strained relationships, you should invite your chosen family to support you on your big day. These include your closest friends, support network, or whoever raised you, like foster or adoptive parents.

What about my distant relatives?

Distant relatives include those who may not be as closely connected to your everyday life but still hold a familial tie. For example, great aunts and uncles, second or third cousins, or relatives you rarely see. If you have space, it’s nice to invite them, but don’t feel too guilty if your budget is tight.

Friends

It’s lovely to have friends at your wedding where possible. Friends provide moral support, calm your nerves, and can help bring the party on your big day. Try to stick to long-term friends or anyone you’ve shared a special bond with. There’s nothing worse than looking back at wedding pictures and seeing a sea of faces you’ve fallen out with!

What about colleagues and neighbours?

Colleagues

You can invite colleagues if you’d like. While some may have crossed the barrier into your long-term friend group, for the most part, they’ll be casual acquaintances. If you’re adamant you’d like them there, consider inviting them to the evening reception only. That way, you can include them in the celebration without overwhelming your guest list or budget.

Neighbours

Again, most neighbours are casual acquaintances with whom you exchange Christmas cards and the occasional hello. However, if you’re especially close with some of your neighbours, consider inviting them to the reception. Again, inviting them to the wedding day will up your budget and venue capacity, so offering invitations to just the reception may be a more practical option.

Who shouldn’t you invite to your wedding?

You don’t have to invite anyone to your wedding you don’t want to.

Seriously.

You don’t have to invite anyone to your wedding you don’t want to.

It’s your special day and your guest list — you have every right to choose who you want to share this special occasion with. Whether it’s distant relatives you barely know, old friends you’ve drifted apart from, or acquaintances you’re not particularly close with, you have the final say on who receives an invitation.

If you’re looking for explicit guidance on who you can leave out, keep reading.

Plus-ones

Plus-ones are companions your guests can bring to your wedding. They are usually extended to guests who won’t know anyone else at the wedding or are in a committed relationship. They provide guests with a familiar face and someone to chat with throughout the day.

However, extending a plus-one to multiple guests can get expensive. If you’re concerned about cost or headcount, consider holding a socialising event before the wedding so all your invited guests can get to know each other. Alternatively, you could invite anyone you’d usually extend a plus-one to on your hen or stag do. This will break the ice and limit the need for plus-ones in the first place.

People who invited you to their wedding

Don’t feel obliged to invite someone to your wedding just because they invited you to theirs. Although it’s nice to repay the favour, don’t feel forced if you’re tight on numbers or you don’t feel a strong bond with them.

Friends’ kids

Deciding whether you want kids at your wedding is probably one of the first ‘guest list’ conversations you’ll have with your fiance. It’s a decision that depends on your style, vibe, and even the venue you’ve chosen. While some couples embrace the energy and joy that children bring to weddings, others prefer a more grown-up atmosphere without the worry of stepping on tiny toes.

There’s no right or wrong answer to whether you should invite kids to your wedding. On one hand, they’ll bring a lovely energy to the day and add an extra layer of sweetness to the celebration. On the other hand, they increase the headcount and change logistical considerations.

Whatever you decide, it’s important you communicate your choice clearly and respectfully to your guests. Highlight on your wedding invitations whether children are invited, and be prepared to defend your position if necessary.

People you don’t really like

This is a bit awkward, but not everyone is going to be your cup of tea. Your wedding day is a celebration of love, joy, and meaningful connections —so why invite someone who doesn’t bring any of those vibes into your life?

Sure, there might be societal pressures or familial expectations nudging you to extend an invitation to certain individuals, but remember — this is your day. You deserve to surround yourself with people who uplift, support, and genuinely share in your happiness.

So, if someone on your list makes your stomach churn instead of your heart flutter, leaving them off the guest list is fine. You’re not obligated to include anyone who doesn’t contribute positively to your life or relationship.

How to make a wedding guest list

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Ready to start crafting your guest list? Try following these 8 easy steps to craft the perfect first draft of your wedding guest list.

1. Consider your venue

Your chosen venue is the biggest constraint on your wedding guest list. You’ll need to consider things like:

How many people can the venue hold?
Can it hold more people in the evening than a sit-down dinner?
Is the venue wheelchair friendly?
What are the seating arrangements?

All these questions will help you determine the maximum number of guests you can invite, and understanding your venue’s layout will help you make informed decisions about your guest list.

2. Consider your budget

Your budget is the second biggest constraint on your guest list. With the average catering cost coming in at £30-£50 a head, you need to be mindful of your budget when creating your wedding guest list.

Decide how much you’re willing and able to spend per guest, considering the catering cost and how it fits into your overall expenses. Once you’ve determined your budget and allocated a portion to catering, calculate how many guests you can afford to invite within that budget.

3. Start with family

Once you have a rough estimate of numbers, you can start crafting your guest list. We recommend starting with family. Whether it’s blood, adoptive, step, or chosen, your family should be the first people on your guest list.

Start by listing immediate family members, including parents, step-parents, siblings, step-siblings, and grandparents. Then, consider extending the invitation to extended family members such as aunts, uncles, and cousins. Remember to include both sides of the family to ensure fairness and inclusivity.

Additionally, don’t forget about other important family members, such as godparents, nieces, nephews, and close family friends who feel like family. Including these people can add warmth and meaning to your celebration.

4. Move on to close friends

The next step is to consider your close friends. These people have been there for you through thick and thin, so it’s natural you’d want them there on your special day. Start by listing your best friends and moving on to friends from different stages of life. For example, school, university, or close work friends.

Don’t forget about your partner’s close friends as well. This day is about both of you, so it’s important to include their closest friends too. Consider their inner circle of friends and those who have been significant in their life journey. They’re your besties now too, after all!

5. Consider plus-ones

Once you’ve determined exactly who you want on the big day, it’s time to consider your guests. Is there anyone coming who doesn’t know anyone else, or who might feel shy without personal support? If so, you may want to consider extending a plus-one. This will help them to feel comfortable and included on the big day.

6. Think about your parent’s guests

Although it’s important to be firm on only inviting people you want there, it’s polite to loop your parents into the guest list planning.

Start by having a conversation with your parents about their guest list preferences. They may have close friends, relatives, or acquaintances they would like to include in the celebration. Listen to their suggestions and take them into consideration when finalising your guest list.

But, remember – while it’s polite to consider your parents’ guests, you’re not obligated to invite everyone they suggest. For example, there’s no point in inviting someone you’ve never met before!

Communicate openly and respectfully with your parents about any concerns or limitations you may have regarding the guest list. If you really don’t want someone there – say so. Your mum and dad will understand.

7. Whittle your list down

Congratulations! You’ve completed your first draft.

Now it’s time to put it down and walk away for a few weeks. You need to clear your mind from all thoughts about your guest list. Focus on other parts of wedding planning, on household chores, or even practise a bit of self-care.

When you’re ready to come back to your guest list, it’s time to start cutting. It may seem brutal, but cutting down your guest list is necessary to ensure your wedding remains within your budget, venue capacity, and desired atmosphere. While removing names from your list may seem daunting or even heartbreaking, prioritising your closest family and friends will result in a more meaningful celebration.

Cut anyone from your list that you’re no longer close with or that you haven’t spoken to in the last year. We recommend you whittle down friends before you start on family. But you can of course reduce your guest list however you see fit.

8. Communicate with your guests

Once you’ve finalised your guest list with your wedding venue, you’ll need to communicate your decisions to your guests. Be clear and upfront about who is invited and who isn’t, especially when it comes to plus-ones or children. If you’re facing challenges with your guest list, for example, capacity limitations or budget constraints, be honest with your guests.

Remember, you don’t have to outright tell people that they’re not invited to your wedding. You only need to tell people who might have expected an invite just to give them a heads-up. Think about how you’d like to be told that you’re not invited to a wedding and act accordingly.

Once you’ve told the necessary people, you can start making and sending out your wedding invitations.

Can I make a wedding guest list using Excel?

Photo © Gin Fizz Photographic | See their Bridebook profile

You can, but it might be a bit clunky.

At the very least, you’ll need separate columns for each guest’s:

First and last names
Names of any plus-ones
Home address
Phone number
Dietary requirements
RSVP sent
RSVP returned

Even if you’re an Excel whiz, you might struggle to create a user-friendly and intuitive spreadsheet to help you track your guest lists. Plus, let’s be honest, who wants to deal with Excel when you could be taste-testing cakes or picking out flowers? Using a dedicated wedding planning tool can streamline the process and save you from the headache of managing a complex spreadsheet.

Instead, try using Bridebook’s free Guest List planner. This tool has everything you need to quickly and easily create a wedding guest list. You can bulk add guests, categorise them by day or evening guests, keep track of your RSVPs, and make use of separate sections for notes, dietary requirements, and what table number they’ll be sitting at. What’s more, Bridebook’s wedding planning tool is completely free! Sign up today and kick-start your wedding planning.

Get started on your Guest List

The ultimate wedding guest checklist

A printable wedding guest checklist infographic with tick boxes to help couples get started on their guest management — Get started on your wedding guest list

Use this wedding guest checklist to help make sure you’ve invited all the most important people to your big day:

Family

Mums/step-mums/adoptive mums
Dads/step-dads/adoptive dads
Brothers/sisters/siblings
Grandparents
Aunts/uncles
Cousins

Friends

Childhood friends
School friends
University friends
Work friends
Friends from clubs/activities
People you speak to every day (Pro tip: scan your messaging apps)

Others

Work colleagues
Neighbours
Plus-ones
Friends’ kids

Top tips for creating your wedding guest list

Photo © Emis Weddings | See their Bridebook profile

Start early

It’s never too early to start making your wedding guest list. Crafting your guest list early means you can begin the process with a clear mind and without feeling rushed. Plus, it will help you budget properly and give you a steer on venue size.

Be prepared to make tough decisions

It’s not going to be nice, but when it comes down to it, you need to be prepared to cut your guest list down to a manageable size. Be prepared to make tough decisions about who to include and who to exclude.

Make the list with your partner

Include your partner throughout the process. This will not only speed things up, but also reduce arguments and make sure you’re on the same page when it comes to who should and shouldn’t get an invite. Sit down together and discuss your priorities, such as which family members and friends are must-invites and which ones you can afford to leave off the list. This collaborative approach will help prevent disagreements or misunderstandings later on in the process.

Consider if you really need plus-ones

Plus-ones are nice to have, but do your guests really need them? Most people are happy and sociable at a wedding. Even if some of your guests don’t know anyone at the start of the wedding, they certainly will by the end. Ultimately, extending plus-ones to your guests depends on space and budget. Don’t invite people you barely know for the sake of being considerate, especially if your budget is tight.

Manage your wedding guests on Bridebook

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Writing your wedding guest list is both a science and an art. It’s about finding the right balance between inviting everyone you love and staying within budget. By following the steps outlined in this guide, from prioritising family and close friends to looping your parents into the process, you can create a list that represents your relationship and ensures your big day is just as special as you imagined.

Remember, it’s okay to make tough decisions and trim the list down to a manageable size. Quality over quantity is key when it comes to creating an intimate and meaningful celebration. And don’t forget to communicate your decisions clearly to your guests, ensuring that everyone feels included and informed.

If you want to make managing your guests a breeze, try Bridebook’s free Guest List tool. Sign up today for your free account and plan the wedding of your dreams!

Happy Planning!

How Much Does a Wedding Cost? The 2024 UK Average

Want to know how much the average wedding costs this year? Introducing Bridebook’s UK Wedding Report 2024: our annual wedding industry study revealing year-on-year changes. This year was our biggest and best yet: we surveyed almost 6,000 married and engaged couples (2,000 more than 2023), representing a mix of regions and demographics, to find out what couples like you are spending on. Time to get planning your own wedding budget…

Average Cost of a Wedding in the UK

Average UK Wedding Costs: With and Without the Engagement Ring and Honeymoon

Despite the cost of living crisis, wedding spending rose £1,500+ year-on-year to £20,775 as the average total UK wedding cost, surpassing £20,000 for the first time. The figure rises to £25,952 including the engagement ring and honeymoon.

Looking ahead, we see younger Gen Z couples more affected by the economic climate. Yet rather than reduce spending, these couples expect to spend £4,000 more on their weddings. This willingness to spend more reinforces the importance couples place on their wedding. They’re also finding ways to save with second-hand items like upcycled decor, or by reselling items.

Average Wedding Costs by Supplier Category

Average UK Wedding Costs: Breakdown by Supplier Category

Average wedding spend increased in almost every category between 2022 and 2023. The most significant cost is that of the wedding venue (£9,877 average with catering, and £6,084 without catering, representing 25-50% of the total wedding budget). We’ve put together a wedding cost breakdown below! These are the average supplier costs for UK weddings in 2024, split into helpful categories:

Venue and catering

Average cost of a wedding venue – £9,877 (+ catering) / £6,084 (- catering)
Average cost of wedding catering – £5,732 (professional) / £1,097 (speciality)

Music and entertainment

Average cost of wedding music – £1,127 (reception) / £641 (ceremony)
Average cost of wedding entertainment – £727 (non-music)

Decor and hire

Average cost of professionally printed wedding stationery – £384
Average cost of wedding decor and hire – £1,449
Average cost of a wedding marquee – £4,202
Average cost of wedding transport – £705

Other wedding costs

Average cost of wedding favours – £158
Average cost of a wedding planner – £2,436
Average cost of a celebrant/toastmaster – £501 (celebrant) / £515 (toastmaster)
Average cost of a honeymoon – £4,329

If you’re looking to save money on your suppliers, savvy wedding planning is a must! Our top tip is to enquire to several suppliers to do more price comparisons.

Total Wedding Costs by Region

Couples are now spending over £15,000 (or 77%) more to marry in London (£36,778) compared to the national average (£20,775). That’s significantly more than couples who marry outside the UK, where the average cost is £17,572 (that’s 15%, or £3,000, less than the total UK average). Both Wales (£15,529), and Yorkshire and the Humber (£16,612), are the regions with the lowest costs, making them the most budget-friendly options. So, if you’re looking to save money on your wedding, the location can make a huge difference!

Total Wedding Costs by Day of the Week

Average UK Wedding Costs: By Day of the Week

Weekend weddings remain the most expensive, with Saturday weddings costing £22,290 on average (7% above average), and Sunday weddings £21,751 (5% above average). Tuesdays (£16,273) and Wednesdays (£16,345) are the least costly options (~20% below average). So, if you’re on a budget and looking for a cheaper alternative, consider a midweek wedding. This can hugely cut costs!

Monday – £17,922
Tuesday – £16,273
Wednesday – £16,345
Thursday – £19,179
Friday – £20,238
Saturday – £22,290
Sunday – £21,751

Total Wedding Costs by Month of the Year

Average UK Wedding Costs: By Month of the Year

Wedding costs tend to be highest from May through August, with May (£23,148) and June (£23,989) weddings costing 11-15% above the average. Costs are lowest in the winter, with January (£15,712) and February (£17,844) being the cheapest months in which to tie the knot (24% less than the UK average). So couples can expect to splurge to marry in the summer months, and save by marrying in winter. This continues the seasonal trend of previous years.

January – £15,712
February – £17,844
March – £18,518
April – £21,011
May – £23,148
June – £23,989
July – £21,509
August – £20,715
September – £20,445
October – £17,991
November – £20,849
December – £20,499

Total Wedding Costs by Guest Count

Average UK Wedding Costs: By Guest Count

Headcount can significantly influence wedding spending. The more guests you invite, the more your wedding will cost. This rise is primarily due to catering needs. So, if you’re looking to cut costs, consider having fewer guests to feed. Couples who host 50 guests or less spend 42% less on their weddings than the average. By contrast, couples who host 150 guests or more spend 80% more.

50 or fewer guests – £12,006
51-100 guests – £20,340
101-150 guests – £25,175
151 or more guests – £37,431

The Bottom Line on Average UK Wedding Costs

So, if you’re planning on celebrating a wedding in 2024, you’re looking at an average spend of £20,775, up £1,500 year-on-year. The average cost may be more or less depending on the region, day of the week, month of the year, and any other personal preferences and priorities (for example, which supplier professionals you want to book rather than DIY, or how many guests you’re prepared to cater for). For a more thorough category-by-category breakdown of the cost of UK wedding suppliers, check out our article on the ultimate wedding budget breakdown. And for a budget breakdown that’s tailored for you, look no further than Bridebook’s one-of-a-kind personalised wedding budget planner.

Happy Planning!

What to Wear to a Wedding Reception

Wedding season is fast approaching, which means it’s time to don your glad rags and head to the dancefloor! But, first thing’s first — what are you going to wear?

Whether you’re the best friend, a distant relative, or the plus-one, figuring out what to wear to the wedding reception can be tough. You’ll need to navigate the realms of style, etiquette, and personal flair to create an outfit that’s uniquely you. It’s no small feat!

So, if you’re wondering what to wear to a wedding reception, keep reading! We have specific guidance on formal, casual, and cocktail wedding reception attire to help you feel comfortable and confident as you celebrate the big day.

What is a wedding reception?

A wedding reception is the evening portion of a wedding day. It’s usually framed as a party to celebrate the happy couple’s big day and as a display of hospitality to those who attended and supported the wedding. Think of it as the grand finale of the special day!

It’s common for someone who isn’t immediate family or a close friend of the newlyweds to be invited to the reception only. You may also be invited as a plus-one or an extended part of the couple’s social circle. While the ceremony is more intimate, the reception opens its arms wider, inviting a wider group of guests to share in the love and happiness.

What do you wear to a wedding reception?

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If you’re feeling stuck on what to wear to a wedding reception, check out the following guidance. Formal, cocktail, or casual are three safe bets when dressing for an evening wedding reception.

What is formal attire for a wedding reception?

Formal attire is the epitome of elegance and sophistication. It’s all about fitting in with the beauty of the big day and making an impression.

Ladies

Ladies should wear a floor-length gown, a tea-length dress, or even a classy jumpsuit. Rich fabrics like silk, velvet, or satin are all beautiful options, and you should opt for dark colours or jewel tones. If you’re a fan of glitz and glamour, a little bit of sparkle doesn’t go amiss at a formal wedding reception!

Enhance your outfit with sparkling jewellery, a stylish clutch, and satin gloves for a touch of elegance. Remember, formal dressing isn’t just about the dress, but about the outfit as a whole.

Men

Men can’t go wrong with a well-tailored suit in a dark colour. Pair with a crisp shirt, a contrasting tie, and polished dress shoes to complete the ensemble. Black, charcoal, and deep navy are all acceptable suit colours, and shirts should be white or pale blue.

Accessorise with cufflinks, a pocket square, and a dress watch. You should look clean and well-groomed, with clean nails and a well-maintained beard (if you have one). It’s also a good idea to get a haircut a week or so before the wedding. This way, you’ll look tidy without worrying about itchy hairs ruining the day.

Gender-neutral or non-binary

A jumpsuit, tailored suit, or formal separates are all great gender-neutral or non-binary options. The most important thing is striking the balance between formality and being true to your own style. Don’t feel the need to wear a suit if you’d never usually wear one; likewise, don’t wear a jumpsuit if you’re going to be uncomfortable all day. Instead, opt for an ensemble that makes you feel confident and fabulous, ensuring you can fully enjoy the celebration.

A great tip is to express yourself with accessories. For example, if you’re more flamboyant, opt for chandelier earrings to offset a classic suit look. Alternatively, consider going bright with your makeup while opting for a jumpsuit in a dark or jewel tone. This will help you infuse your personal style into your outfit while still respecting the formality of the occasion.

Shoes should be classic and comfortable to ensure you can dance the night away without issue.

What is casual wear for a wedding reception?

Casual wear usually means a more relaxed or informal dress code. Similar to ‘come as you are,’ casual dress codes are all about feeling comfortable while still dressing appropriately for a family party.

Ladies

Ladies can wear sundresses, midi dresses, or a nice top with flowy trousers. You could also wear a pretty blouse with dressy shorts or a casual jumpsuit if that’s more your style. Bring a light cardigan or denim jacket to keep off the chill.

Accessories should be understated, and you can wear clean trainers, sandals, or other flat shoes. Try an effortless hairstyle like a side braid or loose waves to tie into the laid-back style.

Men

Try pairing a button-down shirt or polo shirt with some smart chinos for a polished but casual look. You could also include a casual blazer or smart jumper if the weather promises a chill. Complete the ensemble with stylish yet comfortable footwear. Loafers, slip-on shoes, or clean trainers are all great options for a casual look.

Stick to pale, neutral colours and subtle patterns for a timeless look.

Gender-neutral or non-binary

Casual separates are a good gender-neutral or non-binary option. For example, a stylish blouse with flowy trousers, a tunic top with leggings, a smart shirt with chinos — the choices are endless. Mix-and-match however feels right to you and accessorise accordingly. Consider a belt, a dress watch, and understated jewellery.

Remember that fashion is a form of self-expression. Choose an outfit that’s true to you and reflects your personality. Wear it with confidence and you’ll look fabulous.

What is cocktail attire for a wedding reception?

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Cocktail attire is a great balance between casual and formal attire. It allows guests to dress to impress while still maintaining a sense of ease and approachability. Here’s a detailed guide on what cocktail attire entails for women, men, and non-binary guests.

Ladies

You can’t go wrong with a little black dress for cocktail wear. However, if this isn’t your style, a midi-length bodycon dress, a dressy jumpsuit, or a knee-length cocktail dress are also great options. Statement jewellery, a clutch, and a fascinator can all elevate your outfit and add a touch of glamour.

We recommend wearing heeled shoes or dressy flats to a cocktail reception. These shoes will not only complement your outfit but also add a polished touch to your overall appearance.

Men

Men can either wear a tailored suit or a shirt, tie, and dressy trousers. Black, navy, and charcoal are all great options. However, you can also opt for something jazzier with cocktail wear. For example, dark purple, dark green, or even burgundy can be both stylish and unusual.

Choose polished dress shoes such as Oxfords or loafers. Match the shoe colour to your suit for a cohesive appearance.

Add refined details with a pocket square, tie bar, cufflinks, and a dress watch. These accessories contribute to an overall sophisticated look and tie in well to the cocktail theme.

Gender-neutral or non-binary

Cocktail wedding receptions offer flexibility when it comes to guest outfits. So long as they’re dressy, fashionable, and well-groomed, almost anything goes! This is great for non-binary or gender-neutral guests who want to express themselves through their clothing.

Opt for a tailored suit, a jazzy jumpsuit, or fashionable separates for a look that reflects your personality. Experiment with a range of colours, from classic neutrals to vibrant hues, depending on your mood and the season. Cocktail receptions often allow for a broader colour palette.

You can wear whatever shoes complement your outfit. Whether it’s heeled boots, dressy sandals, or even polished Oxfords, the most important thing is that you’re both comfortable and well-presented.

The bottom line on dressing for a wedding reception

Photo © OneMo Photography | See their Bridebook profile

No matter the dress code, the key to dressing for a wedding reception is to balance comfort with style. There’s nothing worse than the night being ruined because of blisters or tight trousers. Instead, opt for an outfit that fits well, suits the dress code, and reflects your personality. This way, you can fully immerse yourself in the celebration without worrying about wardrobe malfunctions.

If you’re looking for further inspiration, check out our post on the ultimate guide to wedding dress codes. With over 13 popular dress codes to choose from, you’re sure to find something that fits the bill.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photo © Jasmine Haskovic Photography | See their Bridebook profile

What do brides wear to a wedding reception?

It’s becoming increasingly fashionable for brides to change into a ‘party dress’ during their wedding reception. These dresses are usually shorter and made with less fabric than a traditional wedding dress. This means your wedding dress will stay perfect, and you can dance the night away without all the skirts and petticoats weighing you down.

Do you have to dress up for a wedding reception?

You don’t necessarily have to, but it is nice to. Even casual wedding dress codes often call for a slightly more polished and put-together look than everyday attire. While the level of formality can vary depending on the couple’s preferences and the specified dress code, dressing up for a wedding reception is a thoughtful way to honour the happy couple and the significance of the big day.

What is the best colour to wear to a wedding reception?

There’s no one ‘best’ colour to wear to a wedding reception. The best colour will completely depend on your preferences, the formality of the occasion, and the wedding colour scheme. However, generally, pale colours, pastels, and neutrals are good for summer weddings, while darker colours or jewel tones are preferable for winter weddings.

Happy Planning!

What to Wear to a Winter Wedding

What could be more beautiful than getting married amidst frozen lakes, snowy paths, and robins peppering the trees? Winter wonderland weddings create a stunning backdrop for the big day and infuse the celebration with a feeling of enchantment and romance. It’s like a real-life fairy tale!

Although beautiful, winter weddings can cause some issues for guests. Trying to strike the balance between being stylish and staying warm can be a challenge. Plus, there’s always the risk of changing temperatures.

If you’re wondering what to wear to a winter wedding, you’re in the right place! Read on to learn how to balance style and warmth in this inclusive winter wedding dress guide.

What is a winter wedding?

A winter wedding is a wedding planned between the months of December and February. People may choose to get married in the winter for a variety of reasons:

The season holds a special significance to the couple
The beautiful scenery
The delicious food
The cosy aesthetic
The dark nights are perfect for fireworks
It’s unique
It’s memorable
It’s cheaper

Winter weddings are usually held inside to ensure the comfort of both the couple and the guests. However, in some circumstances, winter weddings may be held outside. For example, if you’re abroad or love the idea of getting married in front of a frozen lake.

What do you wear to a winter wedding?

This section includes some general guidance on what to wear to a winter wedding. However, we also have further information about what to wear to a winter wedding in specific situations. For example, an Indian winter wedding, a winter beach wedding, a winter barn wedding, and more. Read on to learn all about how to dress for a winter wedding.

Ladies

Dresses, jumpsuits, tailored suits, and stylish separates are all great options to wear to a winter wedding. The benefit of wearing a dress is that you can also wear thermal tights, which will keep you warm while maintaining a polished look.

We recommend that you opt for heavier fabrics like velvet, wool, or satin. These will both stave off the cold and add a touch of luxury to your outfit. Dark colours or jewel tones are best. For example, plum, dark green, or dark blue. Avoid black, which can look harsh.

Add winter accessories like a faux fur stole, a stylish cape, gloves, or a cosy wrap to stay warm while making a fashion statement.

You might not be able to see if there are cobblestones leading up to the venue, so opt for footwear that is suitable for the potential challenges of navigating through snow or colder weather. Try closed-toe shoes, ankle boots, or a low heel to keep your feet warm. You should also bring a wool overcoat.

Gentlemen

We recommend that men focus on strategic layering, as a suit and coat may not be enough to keep you warm all day. Start with a suit in rich tones like charcoal, navy, or deep burgundy. These colours not only complement the winter season but also exude sophistication. You could also opt for wool or tweed if you’d like something a bit different.

We also recommend you wear a waistcoat, vest, or some other layer beyond your suit. Adding layers allows for flexibility in adjusting to varying temperatures. You’ll also need a long wool coat and a stylish scarf to keep you cosy. Consider a fabric like cashmere for a touch of class.

Choose thicker dress socks in a colour that complements your suit. This not only adds a layer of warmth but also ensures a cohesive and put-together appearance. Shoes should be practical and weather-appropriate.

Non-binary or gender-neutral guests

Non-binary or gender-neutral guests attending a winter wedding have a variety of stylish and comfortable options. For example, you could try a jumpsuit, a tailored suit, or even separates if that’s more your style.

Opt for neutral colours, winter tones, or even explore textured fabrics that evoke the seasonal spirit. Rich burgundies, deep greens, classic Christmas reds, or tartan can be versatile. We always recommend bringing a tailored coat to keep you warm and accessorising with the cold in mind. For example, gloves, scarves, and even potentially earmuffs.

Shoes should be comfortable and outfit-appropriate. Try boots, dress shoes, or even clean, modern trainers to complement the overall look.

What to wear to a barn wedding in the winter

A barn wedding brings a sense of rustic charm to the big day. With hay bales to sit on and potential animals to stroke, there will be a sense of magic and whimsy in the air. However, it’s important to remember that barns can be draughty and likely won’t enjoy the wonders of central heating. Be sure to dress accordingly.

Ladies

A long-sleeved dress or jumpsuit will keep you warm in cooler temperatures and keep off the chill. A jumpsuit has the added benefit of allowing you to line dance without worrying about what your skirt is doing! Consider fabrics like velvet, wool, or heavier materials that provide both style and insulation. Add a shawl, cardigan, or a denim jacket over your outfit to finish the look. This will help you fit in with the rustic nature of a barn wedding while keeping you toasty and warm.

Choose practical footwear suitable for a rustic setting. Ankle boots or closed-toe shoes with a low heel can help navigate uneven terrain while keeping your feet warm. You could even wear cowgirl boots if you’d like!

Gentlemen

Men should consider a wool or tweed suit, a long coat, and fun cowboy boots. You could opt for a flannel or checked shirt. However, if you want to wear this, then your suit should ideally be in a neutral tone so you don’t look too busy.

Add appropriate accessories like leather gloves, a stylish scarf, or a cap to enhance your winter barn wedding look. These items can add warmth and a touch of personality. Stetson or Western hats may also be an option. However, for etiquette reasons, hats may need to be removed when inside, so if you’re going to be inside all day, consider first whether there’s any point in wearing a hat.

Non-binary or gender-neutral guests

Gender-neutral or non-binary guests will look great in a tailored check suit. This should be in a heavier fabric to keep them warm and paired with a neutral, long-sleeved shirt.

Alternatively, try utilising layers and separates to create a look that’s uniquely you. Mix textures and patterns for a personalised touch while staying warm in a barn setting.

Choose comfortable boots or closed-toe shoes suitable for walking on uneven surfaces. Gender-neutral options may include Chelsea boots, loafers, or stylish Oxfords. Jewellery should be kept to a minimum to maintain your rustic look.

What to wear to an Indian wedding in the winter

Ladies

Indian wedding celebrations are beautiful and colourful wedding ceremonies filled with love and culture. Traditional ladies’ wedding attire includes sarees, Anarkali suits, or lehenga.

Whatever style you choose, we recommend that you pick heavy fabrics in rich colours like burgundy, emerald green, or royal blue. The heavier fabric will provide warmth, and intricate embroidery or embellishments can add a touch of glamour. Pair with a matching dupatta for an elegant ensemble.

We also recommend that you keep your feet warm with closed-toe heels or embellished flats that complement your outfit. Complete the look with statement jewellery like chandelier earrings, a maang tikka, and bangles.

Gentlemen

Men should opt for a sherwani, a Bandhgala suit, or a Jodhpuri suit in rich, winter-appropriate fabrics like velvet or brocade. Darker colours such as maroon, navy, or bottle green work well for the season and will contribute to the rich, colourful tapestry of an Indian wedding ceremony.

Pair your outfit with traditional Indian footwear like mojris or juttis. Make sure they’re comfortable — Indian weddings can involve a lot of standing and dancing! Depending on the couple’s religion, you may also be asked to wear a turban as a sign of respect. The families will be more than happy to help you if you’re struggling with how to do this. You can also find a wealth of information and guidance on YouTube.

Non-binary or gender-neutral guests

Indian wedding attire is traditionally gendered. However, there’s no reason you can’t put together an outfit that reflects your gender identity while respecting this rich culture.

Consider wearing a fusion outfit that combines traditional and modern elements. For example, you can combine a jacket with Indian embroidery worn over trousers or a skirt. Alternatively, an Anarkali suit, traditionally worn by women, can be adapted for non-binary individuals. Choose one with a floor-length top and pair it with palazzo pants for a more gender-neutral look.

Statement jewellery like bangles, a long necklace, or chandelier earrings can help pull your outfit together. Make sure your shoes are comfortable and match your outfit.

What to wear to a Church wedding in the winter

Ladies

A dress, tailored suit, or matching separates are all great options for a church winter wedding. You should also bring a shawl or wrap coat to keep off the chill, and consider wearing a hat to tie the look together.

The most important thing about dressing for a church wedding is that your outfit should be modest. This is easily done in the winter. The general rules are that you can’t show your knees, shoulders, or too much of your chest.

Gentlemen

Men can’t go wrong with a classic suit and tie combination. Dark colours like black, charcoal, or navy are safe and sophisticated suit choices. Pair it with a crisp dress shirt and a tie that complements the overall colour scheme.

Non-binary or gender-neutral guests

Gender-neutral guests can wear a tailored suit, jumpsuit, or a dress shirt with tailored trousers. You could layer up with a waistcoat or vest to add warmth and interest, and add a long or trench coat in a neutral colour. This will create a polished and put-together look.

Shoes should be formal and comfortable. Consider loafers, Chelsea boots, or heeled boots, depending on your personal style.

What to wear to a beach wedding in the winter

If you’re attending a beach wedding in the winter, it’s likely to be abroad. As a result, you should consider the climate and weather of that country when picking your beach winter wedding clothes.

Ladies

Beach weddings are known for their laid-back feel — lean into it with a Boho-chic outfit. For example, flowy skirts, off-the-shoulder tops, maxi dresses, or other loose-fitting dresses can create a relaxed yet stylish look. Flat and comfortable shoes will help you navigate a sandy beach, while accessories should be focused on keeping the sun off your face (think shades and sunhats).

You should also bring a light jacket or shawl just in case there’s a chill in the winter.

Gentlemen

You’ll likely be far too hot in a full suit at a beach winter wedding. Instead, wear a lightweight linen or cotton shirt in a beachy colour. Short-sleeved or rolled-up sleeves can keep you cool during the day. Pair your shirt with chinos, suit trousers, or loose-fitting linen trousers for a laid-back look. Wearing loafers or boat shoes will help you stay comfortable and casual.

Non-binary or gender-neutral guests

Opt for a flowy jumpsuit, lightweight suit, or mix-and-match separates that show your unique style. The beauty of a beach wedding is that it’s laid back, so you have the freedom to experiment with your outfit and find something that makes you feel comfortable.

Embrace a colour palette inspired by the coastal surroundings — think soft blues, sandy neutrals, or even fun, tropical patterns. Remember to choose comfortable and beach-appropriate footwear. These include strappy sandals, espadrilles, or clean trainers.

What to wear to a Christmas wedding

A wedding at or around Christmas is the perfect blend of romance and festive cheer. If you’re not sure what to wear to one, keep reading!

Ladies

A Christmas wedding is a great opportunity to don your most glamorous outfits. Try a floor length velvet gown, a sequin midi-dress, or a classic wrap dress in a festive pattern or solid colour. Accentuate your outfit with festive accessories like a statement clutch, bold earrings, or a faux fur stole for an extra touch of glamour.

Gentlemen

You can’t go wrong with a well-tailored suit for a Christmas wedding. Consider adding some festive touches to make you stand out. For example, a festive tie, tartan pocket square, or Christmas-themed socks to add the perfect touch of festive cheer to your outfit.

Non-binary or gender-neutral guests

Non-binary or gender-neutral guests can wear a festive jumpsuit, well-tailored suit, mix-and-match separates, or a flowy dress or tunic in festive colours or patterns. These comfortable and stylish looks will ensure that you feel confident and authentic while celebrating the joy of a Christmas wedding.

The bottom line on dressing for a winter wedding

Knowing what to wear to a winter wedding can be tricky. You need to consider the weather, the dress code, the venue, and your own personal style. Trying to blend all these elements into one cohesive outfit with the added benefit of keeping you warm can be a real headache.

However, with a considered approach and a little bit of guidance, you can easily create a look that not only feels authentic to you but also shields you from potentially harsh winter weather. You can’t go wrong with a long dress and tights, a tailored suit, or a fun and festive jumpsuit.

If you’re still feeling stuck, try our post on the ultimate guide to wedding dress codes. You’ll find guides on what to wear for the 13 most popular wedding dress codes, including how to add your own fun spin on your wedding guest outfit.

Happy Planning!

The Top First Dance Songs of 2024

Looking to find out what the top first dance songs of 2024 will be, to get inspiration for your own wedding playlist? Then look no further! We’ve got the lowdown on the 25 most popular first dance songs from our Engagement Report, based on feedback from over 3,500 engaged couples planning weddings for 2024. For an overview of more general wedding trends for the coming year, check out our dedicated post on 13 key wedding trends for 2024 and beyond.

What makes a good first dance song?

Photo © Photographer Liam Gillan | See their Bridebook profile

Picking the perfect first dance song is an important decision, as it sets the tone for a memorable moment that you and your partner will cherish for years to come. While personal preferences obviously play a significant role, there are plenty of other factors to consider.

1. Meaningful lyrics

A good first dance song should ideally feature lyrics that resonate with you and your partner, and celebrate your unique love story. Whether it’s a classic ballad or contemporary hit, the words should mean something to you and say something about your shared journey and love.

2. Timeless appeal

You can’t go wrong with a timeless classic. It’s a classic for a reason, and is guaranteed to have enduring appeal beyond the day of your wedding itself, aging gracefully

3. Beautiful melodies

A beautiful melody enhances the atmosphere of your first dance. Whether it’s a slow and soulful ballad or uplifting tune, the melody should be captivating, and create a harmonious backdrop .

4. Personal connection

The best first dance songs are those that hold a special place in the hearts of the couple. Whether it’s a song that played during a significant moment in your relationship or one that you both simply love, a personal connection adds an extra layer of meaning to the dance.

5. Danceability

Obviously a good first dance song needs to be one you can dance to! While slow ballads may be traditional, and work well for slower waltzes, you can also consider a song with a lively and upbeat rhythm to inject a little celebratory energy into your first dance.

6. Versatility

Choosing a song that accommodates different dance styles can make sure you feel comfortable and confident on the dance floor. A truly versatile song allows for a slow, romantic dance or a more lively and playful performance, depending on your personal preferences of course.

7. Emotional resonance

A good first dance song evokes genuine emotions. Whether it’s the tender lyrics of a ballad or the infectious energy of an upbeat track, the song should create a powerful emotional connection, making the dance a truly moving experience for you and your guests.

8. Cultural significance

Some couples may choose a song that holds cultural or sentimental significance. It could be a song that represents your heritage, reflects your shared values, or is a part of your family traditions.

9. Artist diversity

Beyond just the first dance song, opting for a diverse selection of artists throughout the dancing in general ensures that there’s a broad range of musical styles and voices represented. This will cater to different tastes and adds richness to the overall wedding playlist.

10. Memorable instrumentation

Memorable instrumentation, whether it’s the gentle strumming of a guitar, the soulful notes of a piano, or the dynamic arrangement of a full band, will contribute to the overall magic of the first dance. The instrumental elements should complement the song’s mood and vibe.

What are the top first dance songs of 2024?

In a nutshell, the top 25 first dance songs of 2024 feature legendary classics alongside contemporary hits. Elvis Presley reigns supreme amidst male vocal ballads and country songs.

The no.1 first dance song of the year is an old favourite, “Can’t Help Falling In Love”, by Elvis Presley – no doubt seeing a revival following the 2022 biopic ‘Elvis’ – while Ed Sheeran, Shania Twain and Elton John each hold two songs in the top 25.

Male vocal ballads are trending as well. In particular, James Arthur, Lewis Capaldi, Biffy Clyro and Clinton Kane are firm favourites for 2024 first dance songs.

Country music songs are gaining popularity, with Luke Combs and Lonestar ranking the highest.

These insights are based on a survey sent to and filled in by over 3,500 currently engaged couples.

See below for the full list, in order or popularity.

1. “Can’t Help Falling In Love” – Elvis Presley

Taking the coveted top spot is the timeless classic, “Can’t Help Falling In Love”, by Elvis Presley. This ballad, a staple at weddings for decades, seems to have experienced somewhat of a revival following the 2022 biopic ‘Elvis.’ The lyrics, “Wise men say only fools rush in, but I can’t help falling in love with you,” encapsulate the profound emotion that accompanies the union of two souls.

2. “Perfect” – Ed Sheeran

Ed Sheeran, a maestro of modern romance, claims the second spot with “Perfect.” The song’s sweet melodic tones and heartfelt lyrics make it a perennial favourite for couples seeking a contemporary yet sentimental first dance track, so it’s no surprise to see it ranking so highly this year.

3. “Stand By Me” – Ben E. King

A classic among classics, “Stand By Me” by Ben E. King secures the third position. Its soulful harmonies and enduring message of unwavering support and love make it a timeless choice for couples taking their first steps onto the dance floor as a married pair.

4. “The One” – Kodaline

Kodaline’s “The One” occupies the fourth spot, offering a poignant melody and lyrics that speak to the unique connection between two individuals. The chorus, “You make my heart feel like it’s summer when the rain is pouring down,” captures the essence of everlasting and uplifting love.

5. “Lover” – Taylor Swift

Taylor Swift’s “Lover” graces the fifth position, blending a retro vibe with modern romance. The lyrics, “Ladies and gentlemen, will you please stand? With every guitar string scar on my hand, I take this magnetic force of a man to be my lover,” celebrate the joy of finding a lifelong partner.

6. “Baby I’m Yours” – Arctic Monkeys

Arctic Monkeys’ “Baby I’m Yours” brings a touch of indie coolness to the list, offering a refreshing alternative for couples seeking a unique and memorable first dance experience.

7. “All Of Me” – John Legend

John Legend’s soulful ballad, “All Of Me”, secures the seventh spot, providing a heartfelt declaration of love. The lyrics, “Cause all of me loves all of you, love your curves and all your edges, all your perfect imperfections,” resonate with couples embracing each other’s strengths and flaws.

8. “Say You Won’t Let Go” – James Arthur

James Arthur’s “Say You Won’t Let Go” holds the eighth position, offering a tender and soul-stirring narrative of love and commitment that endures through the passage of time.

9. “Beautiful Crazy” – Luke Combs

Country music takes centre stage with Luke Combs’ “Beautiful Crazy,” claiming the ninth spot. The song’s country charm and sincere lyrics make it a stand-out choice for couples wanting a more rustic and heartfelt first dance, that still has all the feels.

10. “At Last” – Etta James

Etta James’ classic “At Last” lands at number ten, providing a soulful and elegant option for couples wanting a timeless and sophisticated first dance experience. We love the lyrics, “We love has come along, my lonely days are over”, which celebrate the joy in finding your soulmate.

11. “Amazed” – Lonestar

Lonestar’s “Amazed” holds the eleventh spot, delivering a country-infused ballad that expresses the overwhelming emotion of finding a unique love that leaves you truly in awe.

12. “You’re Still The One” – Shania Twain

Securing the twelfth position, Shania Twain’s “You’re Still The One” serenades the list with its timeless country charm. The song weaves a narrative of enduring love, making it a poignant choice for couples to affirm that, despite the passage of time, they are still each other’s one true love.

13. “Pointless” – Lewis Capaldi

Lewis Capaldi’s “Pointless” claims the thirteenth spot, adding a touch of melancholy and introspection to this list. The song’s emotional depth makes it a compelling choice for couples seeking a more contemplative first dance experience.

14. “Can You Feel The Love Tonight” – Elton John

Elton John claims the thirteenth spot with “Can You Feel The Love Tonight.” This truly iconic ballad, known for its enchanting melodies and evocative lyrics, takes couples on a romantic journey, creating a magical atmosphere that resonates with the joy and tenderness of newfound love.

15. “Better Together” – Jack Johnson

Jack Johnson’s “Better Together” secures the fifteenth spot, offering a laid-back and feel-good vibe for couples who appreciate a more relaxed atmosphere for their first dance.

16. “Thinking Out Loud” – Ed Sheeran

Ed Sheeran makes a second appearance with “Thinking Out Loud” in the sixteenth spot. The song’s romantic and danceable rhythm makes it a popular choice for couples seeking to strike a balance between both the modern and the timeless for their first dance.

17. “From This Moment” – Shania Twain

Shania Twain’s classic “From This Moment” takes the seventeenth spot, echoing the sentiments of enduring love and commitment that are perfect for a first dance number.

18. “Space” – Biffy Clyro

Biffy Clyro’s “Space” claims the eighteenth spot, offering a departure from more traditional ballads with its alternative rock sound, and in the artist’s own words, celebrating coming back to someone and knowing nothing has changed. The song’s unique energy provides an unconventional yet captivating choice for couples with more eclectic tastes.

19. “Simply The Best” – Tina Turner

Tina Turner’s timeless anthem, “Simply The Best”, secures the nineteenth spot, exuding confidence and a real celebration of love. Its upbeat tempo and empowering lyrics make it an ideal choice for couples ready to kick off their first dance and marriage with flair.

20. “Everlong” – Foo Fighters

The Foo Fighters’ “Everlong” brings alternative rock to the list at the twentieth spot, offering a dynamic and energetic choice for couples who want to infuse their first dance with both a classic rock ‘n’ roll spirit and a touch of early 2000s nostalgia.

21. “Dancing In The Moonlight” – Toploader

Toploader’s “Dancing In The Moonlight” claims the twenty-first spot, providing a fun and carefree atmosphere for couples who want to celebrate their love with a lively and upbeat dance.

22. “Your Song” – Elton John

Elton John’s “Your Song” secures the twenty-second spot, which showcases this artist’s ability to craft timeless melodies and poetic lyrics that resonate across generations.

23. “Still Into You” – Paramore

Paramore’s “Still Into You” lands at the twenty-third spot, injecting a dose of pop-punk energy into the list. The song’s upbeat tempo and playful lyrics offer a contemporary and spirited option for couples who want a lively and less traditional first dance.

24. “I Guess I’m In Love” – Clinton Kane

Clinton Kane’s “I Guess I’m In Love” claims the twenty-fourth spot, providing a modern and soulful choice for couples who appreciate the emotive power of contemporary R&B.

25. “How Long Will I Love You” – Ellie Goulding

Closing the list at the twenty-fifth spot is Ellie Goulding’s “How Long Will I Love You,” a tender and romantic ballad that encapsulates the timeless question of enduring love.

Start creating your wedding playlist now!

As couples step onto the dance floor in 2024, these diverse first dance songs will be serving as the soundtrack to their unique love stories. From the timeless allure of Elvis Presley to the contemporary charm of Ed Sheeran to the soulful notes of country music, the top 25 first dance songs of 2024 are sure to feature on many a couple’s wedding playlist this year and beyond!

Happy Planning!

14 Romantic Valentine’s Day Proposal Ideas

Valentine’s Day, the day of love, is almost upon us, and what better way to celebrate it than by asking the person you love most to spend the rest of their life with you? Much like Christmas Day, Valentine’s Day has its own enchanting aura, making it a perfect time for a one-of-a-kind romantic proposal. If you’re contemplating a special Valentine’s Day proposal, we’ve got you covered with 14 heartwarming ideas to make this day truly unique, along with some inspiring set-up visuals from The Proposers, the world’s first ever proposal company.

Is Valentine’s Day a popular day for proposals?

Absolutely! While the festive period and New Year’s Eve are widely popular for engagements throughout the UK, Valentine’s Day very follows closely behind. According to our latest Engagement Report, based on feedback from over 3,500 currently engaged couples, the 14th of February is the fourth most popular date for proposals. The magical atmosphere, celebration of love, and the special moments shared on this day make it an ideal backdrop for a proposal.

Should you propose on Valentine’s Day?

Much like a Christmas Day proposal, deciding to propose on Valentine’s Day depends on your personal preferences, wedding plans and budget. With love and connection at its very heart, Valentine’s Day can be a particularly magical and romantic setting for a proposal.

However, it’s essential to consider your partner’s feelings about this particular day and how they would most like to celebrate such a significant moment. If your partner adores Valentine’s Day and appreciates the heavily romantic atmosphere, a proposal on this day could be incredibly meaningful. On the other hand, if your partner would prefer a more low-key and non-traditional setting, you might want to choose a different day to ensure your proposal aligns with their vision. You know your partner best of all, so it’s totally your call to make!

Why Valentine’s Day is ideal for a proposal

Valentine’s Day is a celebration of love, which makes it a dreamy choice for a wedding. Its emphasis on romance and connection, along with its traditional love-related symbols, make it stand out as the day of love.

Symbolic day of love: Valentine’s Day is universally recognised as a day to celebrate love and romance, especially with a partner, making it a particularly appropriate occasion for a proposal.
Romantic atmosphere: The day is infused with romance, from love hearts and red roses, to candlelit dinners and champagne bottles, providing a backdrop that will naturally enhance the magic of the moment.
Time together: Many couples like to spend quality time together on Valentine’s Day, providing an ideal opportunity to create lasting memories.
Intimate celebrations: Unlike larger public holidays, Valentine’s Day is usually a more intimate celebration, allowing for a more personal and focused proposal.

14 Romantic Valentine’s Day proposal ideas

When it comes to incorporating sweet and romantic ideas into your proposal, there’s a fine line between classy and cliché! Less is often more! That’s why we’ve put together 14 unique romantic wedding ideas inspired by Valentine’s Day, featuring gorgeous visual inspiration from The Proposers. Which are your favourites?

1. Message in a Bottle

Craft a heartfelt message expressing your love and commitment to your partner. Roll up the paper, tie it up with ribbon in a cute decorative bottle, and present it to your partner as a symbolic gesture of your enduring love.

2. Hot air balloon ride

Soar to new heights by proposing during a magical hot air balloon ride, surrounded by breathtaking views and the tranquility of the sky. Check out this heartwarming sunrise proposal arranged by The Proposers for inspiration.

3. Proposal under the stars

Set up a cosy outdoor space with blankets and pillows, creating a fabulous starlit setting for your proposal. The celestial backdrop will be sure to add a touch of magic to the moment as you pop the question.

4. Enchanted private garden proposal

Arrange for a private garden experience, complete with fairy lights and flowers, where you pop the question surrounded by the beauty of nature. The Proposers’ Sky Garden Proposal Package is a particularly fun and vibrant option along these lines, combining tropical rainforest backdrop with breathtaking city views.

5. Personalised love story book

Create a special customised love storybook that recounts your journey with your partner, culminating in a heartfelt proposal at the end of the book.

6. Valentine’s Day scavenger hunt

Plan an interactive scavenger hunt that takes your partner on a journey through significant locations in your relationship, with the final destination being the spot where you propose. If you’re London-based, The Proposers’ Treasure Hunt Proposal Package is for you, complete with a tour around London’s most famous landmarks and personalised clues.

7. Customised jigsaw puzzle proposal

Create a custom jigsaw puzzle with a picture of both of you, and as your partner completes it, it will spell out ‘Will You Marry Me?’

8. Candlelit dinner at home

Prepare a romantic dinner at home with candlelight, soft music, and a surprise proposal, creating an intimate and personal atmosphere. This is a great option if you’re partner isn’t too big on grand gestures but still enjoys sweet romantic vibes.

9. Magical beach sunset proposal

Head to the beach for a romantic sunset beach proposal. The serene sound of the waves and the breathtaking view will add a touch of magic to your special moment. Consider incorporating a candle-lit walkway or spelling out ‘Will You Marry Me’ in flickering candles in the sand. Check out The Proposer’s work creating the dreamiest secluded beach proposal for inspiration.

10. Romantic movie night in

Set up a garden or living room movie night featuring your favourite rom coms. Strategically pause the movie to pop the question and turn your love story into a real-life romantic movie.

11. Fairy tale castle proposal

Arrange for a proposal in a charming historic castle setting amidst the allure of fairy tales and happily ever afters. If this sounds enchanting to you, The Proposers’ can help you plan the dreamiest Fairy Tale Castle Proposal in the English countryside, complete with romantic candles, fairy lights, and a musician to serenade you. No Valentine’s Day proposal could be more romantic!

12. Hotel bedroom surprise proposal

You might already be treating your partner to an overnight stay in a fancy hotel this Valentine’s Day, but why not combine it with your proposal? The Proposers can help you transform any hotel bedroom space into the perfect backdrop for a ‘yes’ moment that will blow your partner away.

13. Heart-shaped fireworks

Nothing screams Valentine’s Day quite like love hearts, so why not organise a private fireworks display, with the grand finale forming a heart in the night sky as you ask the most important question of your life.

14. Private dinner cruise proposal

If your partner’s into boats or riverside vistas, book a private dinner cruise and propose against the backdrop of city lights reflecting on the water for a truly romantic and unforgettable Valentine’s Day proposal.

Plan your proposal today!

For help planning your perfect proposal, The Proposers are your dream team! With over 13 years of experience and 5,000 ‘yes’ moments to date, they’ll guide you every step of the way so you can transform your vision into reality.

Happy Planning!

The Best Accommodation for Your Guests – Bridebook x HotelPlanner

Want to make sure your guests get a great night’s sleep at the best rates?

Simply follow these 3 easy steps:

Go to the Bridebook accommodation portal.
Do a search with your wedding dates and venue with 1 room.
Share the link with all your guests to make sure they can find a great place to stay close to your venue at the best rates.

HotelPlanner has almost all the live accommodation availability around your weddding venue. As they specialise in group bookings, their rates are often considerably cheaper than the competition.

So what are you waiting for?

The Ultimate Guide to Wedding Dress Codes

Trying to decide what to wear to a wedding can be tricky. Thankfully, wedding dress codes can help you narrow down your wedding attire as a guest.

But what do they all mean? White tie, black tie, semi-formal, destination? Deciphering a wedding dress code can feel like navigating a maze.

Don’t worry — we’re here to help. Check out our ultimate guide to wedding dress codes. Read on to unpack the 13 most popular wedding dress codes. This includes options for female, male, and non-binary or gender-neutral guests. Ready to get started? Let’s jump in.

What is a wedding dress code?

Decoding Wedding Dress Codes — Decoding wedding dress codes: the ultimate guide for wedding guests

A wedding dress code is the dress code guidelines that the nearly-weds would like their guests to follow. This can either be a recommendation, for example, ‘There are lots of cobblestones at our venue, so we recommend no high heels!’ or a more stringent request, for example, ‘Please wear black tie only.’

Following the dress code will ensure you fit in with the nearly-weds’ vision and match the aesthetics of the day. It will also make sure you feel comfortable and enjoy the celebration to the fullest.

Do I have to follow a wedding dress code?

You don’t have to, but it’s recommended. It’s a simple way to show your appreciation to the couple for inviting you and show that you want to contribute to their big day. It’s a small gesture, but it goes a long way. Plus, it’ll ensure you’re comfortable throughout the day.

The ultimate guide to wedding dress code

Ready to jump into the ultimate guide to wedding dress codes? Let’s get started.

White-tie

White-tie wedding clothing for guests is the fanciest of the fancy. It is formal, traditional, and usually reserved for the most sophisticated of occasions — perfect for a wedding.

White-tie ladies

Ladies’ white tie attire includes a full evening dress or evening gown, elbow-length gloves, heeled shoes, elegant jewellery, and a clutch bag. Your gloves should be a matching or complementary colour to your dress. Alternatively, you can never go wrong with white gloves.

White-tie men

Men should wear a black tailcoat with satin peak lapels, a waistcoat, a crisp white shirt, suit trousers, a bow tie, and a top hat. You should accessorise with cufflinks, a pocket square, and a pocket watch if you have one.

In terms of suit colour, stick to black. However, a very dark navy or purple may also be appropriate.

White-tie gender-neutral or non-binary

While traditional white-tie attire has been historically associated with specific gender norms, modern interpretations of formal dress codes are more inclusive.

A well-tailored suit is a great gender-neutral white-tie option. You could consider having a suit made and tailored to fit you perfectly and maintain an androgynous silhouette. This also means you have more freedom with the style and fabric. For example, you could pick a dark purple velvet or a suit lined with a beautiful pattern like paisley.

Black-tie

A black-tie dress code is a formal dress code a step down from white-tie. It’s associated with elegant, upscale weddings and other formal events.

Black-tie ladies

Ladies should wear a floor-length gown and heeled shoes for a black tie dress code. You can forgo gloves for black-tie. However, your outfit should convey a sense of formality and sophistication. You should accessorise with elegant jewellery and a clutch bag or wristlet.

Black-tie men

Men should wear a tailored tuxedo, black formal trousers, a crisp shirt, a bow tie, and a cummerbund in a complementary colour. You should accessorise with cufflinks and a pocket square.

Black-tie gender-neutral or non-binary

A tailored tuxedo is another solid choice for gender-neutral black tie attire. Choose a crisp shirt, a tailored suit jacket, a vest or cummerbund, tailored trousers, smart shoes, and polished accessories for a gender-neutral and formal outfit.

Formal or black-tie optional

Formal or black-tie optional is a dress code that gives guests more flexibility in what they wear to the big day. This dress code indicates that guests can wear black-tie if they choose. However, so long as they dress formally, they’ll fit in with the aesthetic of the day.

Formal or black-tie ladies

Ladies have the option to wear a full-length gown or a stylish cocktail dress. Accessories and jewellery should be classy, and you can opt for a low heel if you’d prefer. Fascinators or hats are also appropriate for formal or black-tie optional events.

Formal or black-tie men

Men can choose to wear a formal dark suit or take it up a notch with a classic black-tie ensemble. This includes a tuxedo, formal shirt, and optional accessories like a bow tie or cummerbund.

Formal or black-tie gender-neutral or non-binary

A tailored suit is a great option for formal or black tie optional events. However, you could also opt for a stylish jumpsuit, a classy wrap dress, or even well-coordinated separates like a flowy blouse and trousers. Keep accessories refined and sophisticated for a polished overall look. For example, dangling earrings, a long necklace, an antique pocket watch, or a clutch handbag are all great options to complete your look.

Cocktail

A cocktail dress code is a semi-formal style of dress typically chosen for events that fall between casual and formal. This dress code suggests a level of sophistication and style without the formality of black-tie attire.

The best thing about cocktail attire is that you can really have fun with it. You can dress in a brighter colour than you may have picked for black-tie, can include sparkles, or even use flashy fabrics like satin. This will add a touch of glamour to your look.

Cocktail ladies

Ladies have a ton of options for cocktail attire. From beautiful wrap dresses or a-line to a classic fit-and-flare, you really can wear whatever makes you feel comfortable. We recommend choosing a knee length cocktail dress or midi dress to match the occasion and wearing heeled shoes.

Accessories can include statement earrings, a stylish belt, or a pretty bag to complete the look.

Cocktail men

Men should opt for a classic suit in a dark colour for a cocktail wedding dress code. However, a cocktail dress code is the perfect opportunity to experiment with unusual suit colours and textures. If you aren’t comfortable in a suit, you could consider a well-fitted blazer paired with stylish trousers and a contrasting shirt.

Experiment with accessories like colourful pocket squares, bold ties, or even stylish cufflinks to inject personality into your outfit.

Cocktail gender-neutral or non-binary

The flexibility of cocktail wear means it’s a great choice for gender-neutral guests. You could wear a stylish jumpsuit, a co-ordinated skirt set, or even a tailored suit in a colourful fabric. Keep accessories light and neutral so as not to distract from your outfit.

Semi-formal or dressy casual

Semi-formal or dressy casual is a dress code that falls between casual and formal wedding guest attire. It is more sophisticated than everyday casual wear but doesn’t require the formality of black-tie or cocktail wear.

Semi-formal or dressy casual ladies

Semi-formal or dressy casual means you can opt for a flowy dress, smart separates, a pretty wrap dress, or just about anything that makes you look polished and put together. You can wear heels or flats, and accessories should be tasteful and appropriate. For example, a nice watch, clutch bag, or jewellery set.

Semi-formal or dressy casual men

Men should choose a well-fitted dress shirt in a solid colour or subtle pattern with dress pants in a complementary colour. You could also wear a blazer or sports jacket if the weather is chilly and accessorise with a smart tie and cufflinks.

Semi-formal or dressy casual gender-neutral or non-binary

You can’t go wrong with tailored separates, a stylish jumpsuit, or a button-down shirt with chinos. Flat, dressy shoes are the most appropriate. Avoid overly casual sneakers or sandals.

Casual

Casual wedding guest attire is more relaxed than semi-formal or formal options but still requires thoughtful consideration. The level of casualness can vary, so it’s important to take cues from the wedding invitation, venue, and time of day. Casual weddings usually happen in the summer, so it’s important to dress to keep the sun off.

Casual ladies

Try a sundress, a flowy maxi dress, or a casual skater dress in light or pastel colours for a casual wedding dress code. Floral prints or simple patterns work well for a daytime wedding. In terms of shoes, try a low heel, sandals, or pretty dress shoes. Accessories should be light and designed to keep the sun off your face if the wedding is outdoors. For example, a hat or visor. You could also try a woven bag for a summery touch.

Casual men

It’s perfectly acceptable to wear a polo shirt, casual button-down, or a smart shirt for a casual wedding. Pair with chinos, loafers or boat shoes, and a stylish watch and belt, and you’re good to go!

Casual gender-neutral or non-binary

Try pairing a loose-fitting shirt with dress pants, chinos, or a flowy skirt for the perfect, versatile gender-neutral wedding attire as a guest. Pair this outfit with slip-on shoes, loafers, or even clean, stylish trainers to strike a balance between comfort and sophistication.

Seasonal

Seasonal wedding guest attire will depend largely on the season. For example, you would dress differently for a spring wedding than you would an autumn wedding.

Seasonal ladies

Spring or summer

Light fabrics, bright colours, and flowery dresses are all great options for spring or summer weddings. You could also try a summer suit or casual separates for a polished yet relaxed look. You can pair these with clean trainers or pumps and delicate accessories.

Patterned summer dresses tend to have a lot of white in them, so be mindful of this when selecting wedding clothing for guests. Guests should avoid wearing white wherever possible so they don’t overshadow the bride.

Autumn or winter

Wrap dresses, tasteful suits, or coordinated separates are all great options for an autumn or winter wedding. You’ll need a matching jacket to keep off the chill and sensible shoes to keep your feet warm. Stick to jewel tones, dark colours, and fur where appropriate.

Seasonal men

Spring or summer

Lightweight suits in breathable fabrics like cotton or linen are excellent options for a spring or summer wedding. Choose a suit in pastel shades, neutrals, or bright colours to capture the essence of the season. Pair it with a crisp dress shirt, a complementary tie, and slip-on shoes for a modern but relaxed look.

Autumn or winter

You can’t go wrong with a classic dark suit for an autumn or winter wedding. Heavy materials like wool or velvet can add extra warmth, and brogue or Oxford-style shoes are perfect for keeping your feet warm. You’ll need a longer coat to stave off the cold. However, these look quite fashionable.

Accessorise with a watch, cufflinks, and a coordinating pocket square for a classy, put-together look.

Seasonal gender-neutral or non-binary

Spring or summer

Wide-leg trousers, a flowy top, and clean trainers give a modern but sophisticated wedding look. Stick to neutrals, pastels, or light colours to complement the fresh and vibrant atmosphere of a modern wedding.

Autumn or winter

Swap the lightweight fabric for warmer materials like wool or velvet. Wide-leg trousers in a deep, autumnal colour such as burgundy, forest green, or chocolate brown can add a touch of seasonal elegance. Pair them with a long-sleeved, flowy top in a coordinating hue or a rich jewel tone.

Layering becomes essential in cooler weather, so consider adding a tailored blazer or a stylish coat that complements the colour scheme.

Tropical or destination

Tropical or destination weddings bring relaxed vibes, patterned clothing, and casual footwear. Check the weather before you travel and pack accordingly!

Tropical or destination ladies

Flowy sundresses, maxi dresses, or jumpsuits are all perfect choices for ladies attending a tropical or destination wedding. These styles not only capture the laid-back and breezy ambiance of the location but also provide comfort in warmer climates.

Try a bright colour or tropical print to really lean into the aesthetic of a destination wedding. Footwear should be practical yet stylish. Consider strappy sandals, espadrilles, or even elegant flip-flops for beach weddings. Going barefoot, especially for beach ceremonies, can also be a charming and authentic choice.

Tropical or destination men

Lightweight and breathable clothing options are perfect for a destination wedding. Consider pairing these with tailored shorts or chinos for a laid-back look. Tropical prints, vibrant colours, and pastel hues add a playful touch to your ensemble.

Footwear should be comfortable and practical. Try loafers, boat shoes, or even stylish sandals to complement the tropical setting.

Tropical or destination gender-neutral or non-binary

A flowy jumpsuit, wide-legged pants, or any clothes with a relaxed fit will contribute to the laid-back feel of a tropical or destination wedding. Neutral, light, or bright colours are all great choices for a beach or outdoor wedding.

Footwear can include comfortable options like espadrilles, slip-on shoes, or sandals. Ensure they are suitable for the terrain and venue, especially if it’s an outdoor setting.

Come as you are

A ‘come as you are’ dress code means that guests are free to wear whatever makes them feel good, whether it’s casual, semi-formal, or even formal attire. The best thing about ‘come as you are’ is that you often don’t have to buy anything new. Instead, you can reuse items already in your wardrobe and save your money!

Come as you are ladies

Although ‘come as you are’ indicates a laid-back affair, you should still try your best to look nice and respect the formality of the big day. You can’t go wrong with a knee-length dress, low heels, and tasteful accessories.

Come as you are men

Try combining a crisp shirt with dress trousers and a complementary tie for a classic but sophisticated look. A well-fitted blazer or a tailored suit jacket can add a touch of refinement to the ensemble, elevating it to a more formal level.

Come as you are gender-neutral or non-binary

‘Come as you are’ for gender-neutral or non-binary individuals is an inclusive and open invitation that prioritises self-expression and comfort over traditional gender norms. Feel free to express yourself authentically with your favourite outfit, jewellery, and shoes.

Vintage or retro

A vintage or retro-themed wedding is the opportunity to channel the timeless elegance of a time gone by. The invitation should specify the vintage era the nearly-weds are going for. For example, 60s, 70s, or 80s. However, if it doesn’t, consider the overall aesthetic of the venue, the couple’s personalities, or any subtle clues in the invitation that might hint at the desired era.

Vintage or retro ladies

Classic silhouettes like A-line or tea length are perfect for adding a vintage flair to your outfit. You should consider patterns like polka dots, check, or even bright, solid colours paired with black accessories. Pearls, gloves, and a small fascinator can also help add a vintage touch to your outfit.

Vintage or retro men

Choose suits that reflect the fashion trends of the era. For example, slim-cut suits with narrow lapels for the 60s, or wide-legged trousers and bold patterns for the 70s. Hair was a big thing for men in years gone by, so try embracing a Grease-style hair-do for the 50s or a neatly combed style for the 40s. Skinheads were popular in the 80s and 90s. However, this may be drastic for just one day!

Vintage or retro gender-neutral or non-binary

Opt for gender-neutral or androgynous clothing styles that were prevalent in the chosen vintage era. For example, tailored suits with versatile silhouettes, jumpsuits, long skirts, and a-line dresses all work well for a classic, retro look.

Cultural attire

Dressing in cultural attire is the perfect opportunity to learn more about the culture of the nearly-weds. However, it’s important to draw the line between being respectful and appropriating the culture.

Your specific dress will depend entirely on the culture of the bride and/or groom. For example, you’d dress differently for a Korean wedding than you would for a Middle Eastern wedding.

If you have any questions about what you should wear to a cultural wedding, we recommend discussing it with the couple directly. As it’s their culture, they’ll be able to advise you on what would be appropriate to wear and how you should style yourself.

Art Deco

Art Deco is a distinct and vintage fashion style known for its sleek, modern, and glamorous aesthetic. Think the roaring 20s or The Great Gatsby, and you won’t go far wrong.

Art deco ladies

Choose dresses with distinctive Art Deco patterns like geometric shapes, chevrons, or zig zags. Sequins, fringe, dropped waists, and beadwork are also characteristic of classic 20s styles.

Avoid wearing heels. Instead, opt for ballet flats or Mary-Jane style shoes. Accessories should be bold and flashy. Think headbands, chandelier earrings, beaded clutch bags, and long bead necklaces.

Art deco men

Tailored suits with contrasting colour combinations were a classic choice for 1920s dressing. Think black and white, navy and cream, or deep jewel tones. You could also incorporate geometric patterns into your clothing for added flair. For example, patterned ties, pocket squares, or vests with Art Deco-inspired designs.

Art deco gender-neutral or non-binary

Choose tailored suits with a modern, androgynous cut. Look for suits that feature clean lines and a sleek silhouette. Experiment with two-piece or three-piece suits in contrasting colours, embracing the bold and geometric style of Art Deco.

Alternatively, a glitzy jumpsuit or long, flapper-style dress with fringe can provide an equally stunning and gender-neutral interpretation of the Art Deco aesthetic.

Colour-coded

It’s becoming more common for couples to request guests stick to a specific colour scheme, rather than setting a specific dress code. This gives guests the opportunity to express their personal style while contributing to a cohesive wedding aesthetic.

Colour-coded ladies

How you decide to apply the colour-coding request is completely up to you. For example, if the theme is blue, you could opt for a blue dress, blue shoes, a blue handbag, or even blue jewellery.

Colour-coded men

Again, if the dress code is blue, you could wear a blue suit, blue shirt, blue shoes, or a blue tie. We recommend you don’t dress entirely in blue. Instead, try picking one central blue item and building a complementary outfit around this. For example, blue trousers with a complementary shirt.

Colour coded gender-neutral or non-binary

Try a tailored suit, jumpsuit, wrap dress, or mix and match ensemble in the designated colour. You can also match your makeup, jewellery, or accessories to the colour scheme for an inclusive look.

The bottom line on wedding dress codes

Although wedding dress codes give guidelines for wedding clothing for guests, there’s still a lot of flexibility within these parameters. Instead, think of them as a framework within which you can showcase your unique style, ensuring you both honour the couple’s vision and feel authentically yourself.

Within the defined parameters of formal, semi-formal, casual, or themed attire, there’s room for personal expression. Whether it’s choosing a gown that perfectly complements the colour scheme or adding a touch of flair with unique accessories, you have the freedom to tailor your outfit to reflect your personality.

Remember, the essence of dressing for a wedding is to celebrate love, joy, and the union of two individuals. So, whether you’re donning a classic black-tie ensemble or opting for a more casual look, the key is to feel comfortable, confident, and ready to revel in the festivities.

And if you’re still struggling to figure out the perfect wedding ensemble, check out our handy guide on what to wear to a wedding as a guest.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best dress code for a wedding?

The best dress code for a wedding is whatever best represents you and your partner. If you’re laid back, try a ‘come as you are’ dress code. If you’d like to throw a more formal affair, opt for black- or white-tie.

How do I choose a wedding dress code?

Choosing a wedding dress code comprises a lot of aspects. This includes your vision, the formality of the event, the venue, and any theme you had in mind. Take an inventory of the energy you’d like to feel on the day and translate that into your dress code.

Is it OK to wear black to a wedding?

It is acceptable to wear black to a wedding, especially if it’s a modern wedding, a black tie wedding, or a colour-coded wedding. However, we recommend that you avoid wearing black for spring or summer weddings, outdoor weddings, or destination weddings.

Happy Planning!

5th Wedding Anniversary Gifts: 50 Anniversary Gift Ideas

Reaching your 5th wedding anniversary is such an amazing achievement. That’s half a decade married to the love of your life, which is something that should definitely be celebrated. That means it’s the perfect opportunity to give your partner a gift that’s absolutely jam-packed with symbolism and meaning.

But what sort of gift should you give your partner to mark your 5th anniversary? Should it be something they’ve asked for and you know they’d love, something that fits close to their passions and interests, or something else? There are traditional and modern anniversary gifts that couples have been giving each other for more than 100 years – as well as a traditional gemstone and flower. That’s not to say that they’re rules you have to stick to, but they can elevate your gift-giving and give it the deep level of meaning that’s fitting for such a fabulous milestone.

In this guide, we’re going to offer you 50 ideas for a 5th wedding anniversary gift, to give you a great place to start in your hunt for the perfect pressie. Then you can take the plunge and pick something up that you know your partner will truly love.

For more information on the different traditions associated with anniversaries from 1 to 90 years, read our complete year-by-year wedding anniversary gift guide.

What are traditional and modern gifts for a 5th wedding anniversary?

Traditional 5th anniversary gifts are filled with symbolism, so you can give your partner something that has meaning and thoughtfulness. There are traditional and modern gifts, as well as a traditional flower and gemstone, giving you plenty of opportunities to do something a little bit different.

The traditional and modern 5th wedding anniversary gifts

Traditional 5th anniversary gift – Wood

Of course, wood comes from trees, and trees are strong and durable. They can also grow to become exceptionally tall and withstand anything thanks to deep and unshaken roots. And even the tallest tree came from the tiniest of saplings. This is much like your marriage, which over the last five years has become strong enough to take on the world. Wood is also a versatile material and gifts come in various shapes and sizes, to suit loads of different budgets.

Modern 5th anniversary gift – Silverware

The modern 5th anniversary gift is silverware, which, if we’re being totally honest, isn’t actually very modern at all anymore. It represents wealth and glamour, which means it can be a fairly expensive gift option to choose. But it can also be luxurious and spectacular.

5th anniversary gemstone – Sapphire

Sapphire is the traditional 5th anniversary gemstone, a blindingly blue precious stone that symbolises wealth and royalty. And because it’s classed as a precious stone, it can be relatively pricey – but that also means it’s stunning when set in jewellery or accessories.

5th anniversary flower – Daisy

The traditional 5th anniversary flower is the humble daisy, one of the symbols of spring that represents purity and joy. It’s also the quintessential flower, with an open head with long and slender petals. Daisies are traditionally white, but also come in different colours such as yellow, purple and red.

How do you choose a gift for a 5th wedding anniversary?

If you’re not sure what kind of gift to give your partner to commemorate your 5th anniversary, but you know you’d like to give them something with important meaning, how do you narrow it down? Think about the following points before making your decision:

Are you interested in following the traditional and modern rules? If so, think about what type of meaning you’d like your gift to convey. It’s also important to remember that you don’t have to stick to these gifts if you don’t want to.
What’s your budget? It’s possible to pick up a wooden anniversary gift for relatively cheap, but the same can’t be said about silverware, which is notoriously pricey. This could sway your decision.
Are you interested in personalisation? Wooden gifts are great for offering personalised touches. You can get personalised silverware, but it’ll add to an already rather high cost.
What would your partner like? Have they told you they’d like something in particular? If so, how does this align with the traditional and modern 5th anniversary gifts?

If a couple in your life is about to celebrate their 5th anniversary, you might be interested to know whether or not you can join in by giving them a wooden or silverware gift. Well, the good news is, you’re more than welcome to stick to the traditional or modern gift-giving rules, and it’s a great way to tell the couple that you’ve put extra thought into their surprise.

50 ideas for a 5th wedding anniversary gift

It might not be long until your 5th wedding anniversary, which can be a tricky one if you’re looking to celebrate it by giving your partner a traditional or modern gift. Silverware might be on the expensive side, but thankfully wood gives you loads of possibilities. So, below are 50 ideas to get you thinking creatively about what your partner might love.

10 traditional gifts for a 5th wedding anniversary

The traditional 5th anniversary gift is wood, which at first you might assume is a rather dull gift to give someone you love. But, the expectation isn’t that you’ll give your partner a lump of 2 by 4 – it’s actually an incredibly versatile material that gives you practically endless options. So, here are 10 wood-themed anniversary gift ideas to give you a little inspiration.

1. A wooden photo frame

Many of us love to have photos of ourselves, loved ones and the things and places we’ve experienced either hung on the wall or displayed on a shelf. Since it’s been five years since the two of you tied the knot, you could frame your favourite wedding photo and give it to your partner in a wooden photo frame. A simple and classic gift that’s hard to get wrong.

2. Personalised wooden coasters

We all need coasters, and they’re perfect for injecting a bit of you and the things you love into your home. Wood coasters are a great gift that you can make even better with a custom personalisation. The Wood Look lets you give your partner a pair of wooden coasters carved with a special message.

3. A personalised wooden desktop calendar

Calendars are already popular accessories to have on your desk, and are particularly useful if your partner has a habit of asking what day it is or what you have coming up that weekend. A personalised wooden desktop photo calendar can help alleviate any date-related questions they might have, with the added bonus of being highly customisable.

4. Wooden cufflinks

You might not think that wood would be a good material to use in accessories, so you might be surprised to learn that wooden cufflinks are fabulous! They’re unique, stylish and an on-theme 5th anniversary gift that your other half totally won’t expect.

5. A wood-burned photo

We’ve already included a wooden photo frame on this list, but what if the wood was the photo? You can now burn highly-detailed photographs onto a piece of wood, which looks great displayed in your home. Just upload your photo and let the experts on Etsy do the rest. And don’t worry if there’s anything in the background, they’ll take care of all of that for you.

6. A wooden bracelet

First we included wooden cufflinks and now we’re including a wooden bracelet! The walnut and grey of a wooden bracelet is like no other jewellery your partner has and can be worn with loads of different outfits and suits various styles. We bet they’ll never see a gift like this coming!

7. Wooden garden bench

If you have a back garden with enough room to spare, a wooden garden bench can provide you with somewhere to sit and relax and enjoy the summer sun (when we have those rare moments of summer in the UK at least). They can be pricey, but a high-quality bench will last years and whenever there’s a nice day you and your partner can sit outside with an ice-cold drink and think back to your 5th anniversary.

8. Plant a tree in your partner’s name

It’s important that we help support our woodland here in the UK, so it would be totally on-theme to dedicate the planting of a tree to the love of your life. You can do this on the National Trust website, so you know your gift will support a great cause. And you’ll be sent a certificate you can print off so you have something to give your partner on the big day.

9. A personalised pizza board

We’re willing to put money on the fact that your partner loves pizza… most people do, after all! A quirky, fun but also practical gift would be a personalised wooden pizza board, so every time you sit down to enjoy a pizza you can have a lovely reminder of your 5th anniversary.

10. A custom wooden sign for your home

Your partner might have a gaming room they like to retreat to, or perhaps a crafting room, a gym, or a shed they can’t seem to keep out of. If this sounds like your other half, a personalised oak house sign can tell everyone exactly whose space it is. Or, you could simply hang it up next to your front door to display your house name or number.

10 modern gifts for a 5th wedding anniversary

The modern anniversary gift for celebrating five years is silverware. Although it doesn’t feel particularly modern by 21st-century standards, it does still make for an extravagant and thoughtful – if a tad expensive – gift to give your partner for your 5th anniversary. Technically, silverware could include any old set of knives and forks, but when the anniversary gift rules were written it meant the more expensive stuff.

Below, we’ve given you 10 ideas that fit the theme, but with some 21st-century additions for those who might not want to rely on expensive cutlery or gravy boats.

1. A personalised silver spoon

If you’re keen to give your partner some silverware but don’t want to spend hundreds, a personalised silver spoon is a fantastic way to do it. That way you can give something meaningful to your partner but not have to break the bank – or feel guilty about using them or getting them dirty!

2. A silver hipflask

A hipflask is a really extravagant gift to have, especially one made from silver. They can also be personalised to make it extra special. Personalised Hip Flasks offer a rather pricey sterling silver option, or Engravers Guild has a pewter variation which also comes in a wooden case, ticking off both boxes!

3. Silver cufflinks

If your other half is partial to wearing a suit, then a pair of silver cufflinks is a gift that allows them to take you with them wherever they go. They’re also fairly reasonable in price, at least as far as silver gifts go, and offer the option to include an engraved personalisation.

4. A silver guitar pick

The guitar is one of the most popular musical instruments in the UK, so for anyone who has a partner who plays, you’ll know just how much they love playing a tune. They might also be forever losing their picks – so, to celebrate your anniversary, give them a pick they’ll never want to lose in the form of a sterling silver skull guitar pick.

5. Silver photo frame

We’ve already included a wooden photo frame in this list, so it seems only right to include a silver photo frame as well. Wood might not fit your taste or home decor, and a silver frame helps any photo stand out.

6. An engraved silver-plated pen

Many of us use pens throughout the day for work, doodling, journaling and more. If this includes your other half, then a silver-plated pen would make for the perfect gift to mark your 5th anniversary. It can also be engraved if you want to turn an ordinary silver pen (if there is such a thing) into an extraordinary silver pen.

7. Antique silverware

We couldn’t create this list without at least mentioning antique silverware. By today’s standards, silverware is quite old fashioned, not to mention expensive. If you’d love to give your partner some real authentic silverware used by past generations, take a trip to your local antique shop and browse what they have in stock. If you see something you think your partner will really love make sure you snap it up quickly before someone else does.

8. A silver bowl

For something stylishly silver, which can also be put to good use (if you dare) as a serving bowl or fruit bowl, a silver and glass bowl is more traditional silverware but with a more contemporary feel.

9. A silver bookmark

If your partner loves getting lost in a good book, no doubt one of their pet hates is losing their page. Turn their frustrations into a great on-theme 5th anniversary gift with a silver Victorian hand bookmark. For what it is it’s fairly pricey, but your partner’s sure to get a lot of use out of such a meaningful gift.

10. Silver teaspoons

One of the most quintessential silverware gifts you can give is, of course, a silver teaspoon. So if your partner loves the finer things in life, they’ll love a traditional set of teaspoons in a fitted case. They might not want to use them because of how special they are, but they’ll always them as a wonderful keepsakes.

5 affordable gifts for a 5th wedding anniversary

Silverware can be an expensive anniversary gift, and maybe you’re not sure if your partner would love something made of wood – but you still want to give them an on-theme gift to mark five years together. Well, if you’ve got a small budget, you can still give them something filled with meaning. Here are five affordable gifts you can consider giving your other half to celebrate five years.

1. A pair of wood earrings

If you have a partner who loves dangly earrings, then they’ll definitely love these very affordable and very on-theme wood earrings. There are plenty of choices available so you can choose an eye-catching pair of earrings to suit your partner’s taste.

2. Interlocking wooden hearts

For an affordable token 5th anniversary gift that ticks many boxes, interlocking wooden hearts come with a lot of thoughtfulness and meaning behind them. Of course they’re wood, which represents the strength of your relationship, the hearts represent love, and the fact that they’re interlocking represents just how connected you are. Such a lovely sentiment on your big day.

3. A personalised wooden key keychain

A small but thoughtful gift that your partner can always keep with them is a personalised wooden key keychain. It’s neat and high-quality and can include a custom message of your choosing.

4. A wooden clock

For something stylish and practical, as well as totally on-brand with the traditional theme, a wooden clock with its simplistic design will look great hung in any room. That way, your partner will be reminded of your 5th anniversary whenever they check the time.

5. A wooden necklace

Another brilliant piece of wooden jewellery – which also just so happens to be affordable – is a wooden necklace. If your partner likes to wear jewellery and accessories that are big and bold, then they just might well love something colourful and unique. Avalaya has a big selection of wooden necklaces, so check them out and see if there’s something your other half might love.

5 DIY gifts for a 5th wedding anniversary

If you’re keen to make your own DIY anniversary gift to give to your partner to mark five years, there are plenty of options for you as wood is obviously a great material to use for making things. Silverware, on the other hand, perhaps not! If you’re a keen woodworker, you’re probably not struggling for a few ideas, but there are still DIY gifts you can do even with little experience. Here are five to get you started.

1. A whittled wooden ornament

With a chunk of wood and a few basic tools, you can whittle the most beautiful and special ornament with little or no prior experience. You could whittle a duck or a bridge or even you and your partner hand in hand – the options are limitless. You can pick up a beginner’s carving tool kit relatively cheaply, and there are how to start whittling video tutorials available to give you a few ideas.

2. Wooden bunting

Wood makes for a brilliant and durable way to make your very own bunting that you can hang inside or out. And if you make it yourself, there are loads of fun and unique ways you can personalise it to include little touches about your relationship. Check out YouTube for tutorials on how to make personalised wooden bunting.

3. Wooden recipe book stand

If your partner fancies themself as a bit of a whizz in the kitchen, they might have a collection of cookbooks they take inspiration from. Help them keep their recipes to hand and everything neat and tidy with a DIY wooden recipe book stand.

4. Wood coasters

We’ve already included wooden coasters in this list, but DIY wood coasters have a real rustic feel to them which means they don’t lose that fresh-from-nature look. They require a few woodworking tools, so if you have access to some you’re in a great position to give your partner something truly on-theme and full of charm. Check out this DIY wood coaster tutorial on YouTube for easy-to-follow steps.

5. Wooden trinket box

Your partner might have a collection of jewellery and accessories but maybe struggles with somewhere to keep them – you might have even given them many yourself. A DIY wooden trinket box is a super thoughtful and caring gift that’s also incredibly useful. Watch this DIY wooden trinket box tutorial video on YouTube for information on how to make your own.

5 experience or activity gifts for a 5th wedding anniversary

Your anniversary is the perfect opportunity for you and your partner to head off somewhere and experience something fun and unique. But surely you can’t tie something like that into your 5th anniversary? Actually, you might be surprised! Here are five suggestions for wood- and silver-themed experiences.

1. A trip to a cabin in the woods

What could be more on theme for a 5th anniversary experience than staying in a wooden cabin somewhere deep in the woods? That’s so much wood! Your 5th anniversary is the perfect excuse for a woodland getaway so you and your partner can spend some quality, uninterrupted time together. Check out the likes of Forest Holidays and Airbnb for a wide variety of different options.

2. Take part in community tree planting

You could use your 5th anniversary as a way for you and your partner to give a little something back. Community tree planting is a huge nationwide movement that aims to plant millions of trees and increase the size of our woodland areas. Search online to find your nearest community tree-planting event.

3. A fancy afternoon tea

Afternoon tea is seen as a real treat. It’s offered in tea rooms, hotels, attractions, country houses, restaurants… and many are luxurious and extravagant, with some still using posh silverware! Virgin Experience Days have loads of different afternoon tea-related options.

4. A silverware factory tour

By today’s standards, silverware might be seen as a little old fashioned, despite the fact that it’s actually the modern gift for celebrating five years of marriage. But, there are still some producers that manufacture beautiful silverware. Newbridge Silverware is one of those companies, and they just so happen to also offer factory tours just outside of Dublin!

5. Visit a manor or country house

For a taste of how the other half used to live (when they ate from the most expensive silverware as if it were from IKEA), you could visit a castle, abbey or stately home. Many attractions like these offer visitors the opportunity to stroll through the grounds and through the property to check out the extravagance. Some even offer guided tours too. One option is Highclere Castle, which you might recognise as THE Downton Abbey!

10 5th anniversary gifts that contain sapphire

The 5th anniversary gemstone is the incredible precious stone, sapphire. Sapphire is an absolutely wonderful stone that offers intoxicating sparkle and works just as well whether set in jewellery made from gold, silver, platinum or anything else your partner might love. This includes all different kinds of jewellery, so no matter what your partner enjoys wearing, you’re bound to find something just right. Here are 10 ideas you might think about that look fabulous with sapphire.

A necklace
A bracelet
Earrings
Cufflinks
A ring
A broach
A locket
An anklet
A nose stud
Belly button ring

There’s unlikely to be a jeweller out there, including high-street brands and independent retailers, that doesn’t have a huge selection of sapphire jewellery for you to browse. We also work closely with a range of wedding jewellers that offer incredible sapphire jewellery.

5 floral-inspired gifts for a 5th wedding anniversary

Flowers are always a wonderful gift to receive, but on your 5th anniversary, you could give your partner a floral gift with extra special meaning. Daisies are the traditional flower for five years of marriage, and one of the most recognisable flowers there are, which makes them a perfect addition to a bouquet or as inspiration for other gifts. Here are five gift ideas for the daisy-lover in your life.

1. A daisy bouquet

Of course, we couldn’t start this list without including a daisy bouquet. Daisies are small and delicate and come in lots of different colours, which makes them great when included in a floral arrangement or a dedicated daisy bouquet.

2. A Swarovski crystal daisy

Swarovski is one of the most well-known makers of glass and fine crystal, so you know their products are big on quality. That’s why a Swarovski crystal daisy just might be the perfect gift for your partner. And despite it being such a fantastically luxurious gift from a big-name brand, it’s not quite as expensive as you might think.

3. A daisy serving platter

Biscuits, vol-au-vents, cakes, sandwiches… just a few of the many uses for a daisy serving platter. It’s big, it’s bold and it’s instantly recognisable, and it’s something you can break out whenever you have guests over.

4. A sterling silver daisy pendant

It’s silver, it’s a daisy and it’s a double-hitting 5th anniversary gift that has twice as much symbolic meaning. A sterling silver daisy pendant is every bit as eye-catching as it is subtle. It’s not cheap but it is beautiful, and is likely to be something that your partner holds on to for many, many years.

5. A daisy chain ring

Another gift that includes both daisies and silver, a sterling silver daisy chain ring is actually relatively affordable and includes two links to traditional 5th anniversary gifts. It’s also a subtle nod to your anniversary that your partner can wear and pair with a wide range of styles and outfits.

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4th Wedding Anniversary Gifts: 50 Anniversary Gift Ideas

You’ve spent four wonderful years together and you and your partner are deeper in love than ever. Your 4th anniversary is a wonderful milestone, and it deserves to be celebrated. It’s also a great opportunity for you and your other half to spoil each other.

But what should you give them to mark such a brilliant occasion? You more than likely have a few ideas about what your partner loves and the type of gifts that make them smile. But, there are specific traditional and modern gifts that many couples like to give each other to commemorate four years of marriage. Similarly, there’s also a traditional flower and gemstone that has a specific meaning.

So, in this guide, we’re going to explore all the traditions surrounding your 4th wedding anniversary to help you choose a gift that has extra special sentimentality.

For more information about what couples give each other for their anniversaries from 1 to 90 years, read our complete year-by-year wedding anniversary gift guide.

What are traditional and modern gifts for a 4th wedding anniversary?

The traditional and modern 4th wedding anniversary gifts

For more than 100 years, couples have enjoyed giving each other one of the traditional or modern gifts associated with a 4th anniversary, as well as the traditional flower or gemstone… or even a combination of more than one. They each have a deep meaning behind them that makes gift-giving even more thoughtful.

Traditional 4th anniversary gift – Fruit or flowers

For the traditional anniversary gift for four years of marriage, there are actually two for you to choose from: fruit or flowers. Fruit represents the sweetness and growth of your marriage, and flowers also represent growth as well and beauty. With a little imagination, it opens you up to some really amazing gifts – or a bouquet of beautiful flowers will always hit the spot.

Modern 4th anniversary gift – Appliances

The modern gift for a 4th anniversary is appliances, which doesn’t seem like an obvious choice. Then again, even the modern anniversary gifts were created 100 years ago when there weren’t as many options as there are today and appliances weren’t as common. We can’t imagine your partner would love an iron as an anniversary gift (or maybe they would?) but there’s a huge range of possibilities out there.

4th anniversary gemstone – Topaz

The 4th anniversary gemstone is topaz – specifically blue topaz. It’s usually a striking shade of blue that offers a lot of stunning sparkle. It represents clarity and wisdom, which you no doubt have plenty of after four years of marriage. Blue topaz also goes well set in all types of jewellery, giving you loads of opportunities to find something your partner will love.

4th anniversary flower – Hydrangea (or sometimes geranium)

Hydrangeas are big blooms that come in a massive range of different and vivid colours, so you’ll have no problem finding one that fits your partner’s preferences. Hydrangeas represent grace and beauty, making them a lovely gesture to give to your other half to mark your big day.

Depending on where you look or who you ask, another flower also associated with four years is the geranium, which is smaller and more delicate than hydrangeas but still just as beautiful. They represent happiness and health, which is just lovely.

How do you choose a gift for a 4th wedding anniversary?

With so many options available to choose from (three gifts, two flowers and a gemstone) how can you possibly choose the best gift to give your partner for your four year anniversary? Well, there are several things to consider before you make your decision:

Do you both care about the traditional and modern rules? If you do, finding something that’s on theme will be a high priority, but it’s not something you should necessarily feel obliged to stick to if you don’t want to.
Do you have a budget? Appliances, gemstones and flowers can be pricey. Make sure to set your budget ahead of time and don’t be tempted to go over it.
How much personalisation are you looking for in a gift? Personalised gifts can turn an ordinary gift (if there is such a thing) into an extraordinary gift. But not all gifts can be personalised, so think about if this is something you want to do.
What are your partner’s tastes? The traditional and modern gifts might not be something your partner would particularly enjoy, so think about their interests and how they line up with these.

If you have a friend or relative who’ll soon celebrate four years with their partner, you might wonder whether you can join in on anniversary gift-giving traditions. Well, thankfully, the answer is yes! Anyone can feel free to join in, and it shows them that you’ve put a lot of thought and consideration into your gift.

50 ideas for a 4th wedding anniversary gift

If your 4th wedding anniversary is just around the corner and you want to give your other half a gift filled with special meaning, with so many gifts to choose from you might not know where to start. So, below are 50 ideas that fit the 4th anniversary themes to help get you started.

10 traditional gifts for a 4th wedding anniversary

There are two traditional anniversary gifts for a 4th wedding anniversary: fruit or flowers. That means, there are loads of options to choose from which should (hopefully) make choosing one that little bit easier. And to help you get started, here are 10 ideas for fruit- and flower-themed anniversary gifts.

1. A fresh fruit hamper

Fruit is sweet and tasty and if your partner loves it, it can be an ideal gift. But, rather than just chucking them a bunch of bananas, how do you elevate fruit? Well, the most simple way to turn humble fruit into a brilliant gift is in the form of a hamper. Express4fruits has a ton of fruit baskets to choose from, to suit loads of different budgets and tastes.

2. A fruiting plant

Another way to give a fruity gift to your partner is in the form of a fruiting plant or tree. Then it’s a little bit like two gifts in one, fitting the fruit theme while being something your partner can care for and watch grow. You can choose anything from a kiwi plant to an olive tree, many of which can thrive in the UK. Browse Plants4presents to see the kind of fruiting plants that are available.

3. Delicious fruit preserves

If you’re concerned about giving your partner a gift they might not be able to eat through in time but still want to give something fruity, then delicious jams or preserves are a wonderful on-theme gift. Plus, why not pair it with some clotted cream and scones and treat them to a homemade afternoon tea? A fruit preserve gift box could be just the gift you’re looking for.

4. Fruit-scented candles

You could bend the rules a tad and give your other half something romantic and thoughtful but still very much in the spirit of the traditional 4th anniversary gift. Fruit candles smell absolutely amazing and help set the mood for a romantic evening celebrating four years together. A nice set like the fruit scent stack from Scented Candle Studio could be everything you need.

5. A flowery fruit basket

If you can’t decide between fruit and flowers as a gift to give your partner on your anniversary, then why not simply give them both in the form of an edible flowery fruit basket? They’re fantastic show-stopping works of art that your partner just won’t see coming!

6. An M&S bouquet

There are flowers, then there are M&S flowers. Yes, everyone knows that M&S is a brand associated with quality, and the same applies to their flowers. There are absolutely oodles of choices too, so whether you want something romantic, something colourful or something subtle, you’re bound to find something your partner will love. Browse the M&S site to see what sort of bouquets they have to offer.

7. A dried floral bouquet

Fresh flowers are often a go-to floral gift for many, but there’s something quite beautiful and delicate about dried flowers that means they’re also a wonderful option. They can be just as colourful and come in a wide variety of styles as fresh flowers. And there’s the added benefit that they don’t wilt nearly as long – in fact, many will last up to three years! Check out The Happy Blossoms to see just how incredible dried bouquets can be.

8. A custom flower arrangement

If you know exactly the kind of flowers your partner loves, then why not trust a floral expert to craft a bouquet featuring all their favourite blooms? A bouquet builder ensures you give your partner a carefully made flower arrangement that’s guaranteed to put a huge smile on their face on your anniversary.

9. A pressed flower necklace

For a floral gift that will last a lifetime, a pressed flower necklace preserves your partner’s favourite flower in resin which they can wear any time they like. That way, they’ll always have a reminder of your thoughtfulness which they can take with them wherever they are.

10. A LEGO bouquet

Another floral gift that will never wilt comes in the form of a LEGO bouquet, which looks pretty darn realistic when displayed in a vase! There’s also the fun the two of you can have building them together, and you don’t need to get someone round to water them when you go on holiday!

10 modern gifts for a 4th wedding anniversary

If you’re not sure your partner would love fruit or flowers as an anniversary gift, the modern equivalent is, believe it or not, appliances! There’s a lot of choice out there, but here are 10 ideas to get you on your way.

1. A mixer

If your partner’s a keen baker and has perhaps marvelled at the mixers on The Great British Bake Off, then they’d probably love a KitchenAid mixer. They’re the crème de la crème of kitchen appliances and are super high quality. But, they can be quite pricey, so just make sure they align with your budget.

2. An air fryer

One of the most fashionable kitchen appliances of the decade is the air fryer, which encourages healthier cooking in a short amount of time, helping to save energy and money. Win win! Air fryers may seem like a gimmick, but they’re surprisingly versatile, so aren’t necessarily one of those appliances you’ll only dig out of the cupboard once in a blue moon. Check out the range of air fryers available at Currys to find one that’ll suit you.

3. A soup maker

Soup is a great winter-warming comfort food, but it can be a bit of a hassle to make at home. Not with a soup maker! All your partner has to do is throw in the ingredients and let it do its thing. Then, in less than 30 minutes they’ll have a yummy bowl of soup made exactly how you like it. Check out the Argos website to view their range of soup makers.

4. A coffee machine

If your partner loves a nice cup of coffee in the morning, they’ll know just how tricky it can be to get that barista-made taste at home. But, they can get a step closer with a coffee machine, whether it’s a traditional coffee maker or one that lets you simply pop in a pod – coffee machines are really varied. And thankfully, they also suit a range of budgets. Check out the wide selection at John Lewis to find something that suits your partner’s taste in coffee.

5. A Dyson Airwrap

Dyson may have made a name for itself as a manufacturer of super-powerful vacuum cleaners, but in recent years they’ve branched out into other appliances, including a firm hair care favourite with the Dyson Airwrap. It’s considered one of the best multi-stylers out there and does everything from drying to straightening. They can be quite pricey, though – but many will say it’s worth it!

6. A Stitch waffle maker

If your other half loves Disney and grew up watching Lilo and Stitch, then they’ll definitely love a Stitch mini waffle maker. It might not be something they’ll use every day, but you’ll be able to cook up a fun and tasty breakfast on the morning of your anniversary – you could even pair it with some fruit compote to include the traditional gift, too.

7. A slow cooker

If you’re both busy professionals, then it can be tough finding the time to make sure you’re eating home-cooked food. A slow cooker is a great way to make sure your home is filled with incredible smells when you walk through the door, without you having to spend hours slaving away in the kitchen. Morphy Richards is known for their great range of slow cookers with options to suit all needs and budgets.

8. A Hotel Chocolat Velvetiser

For a little taste of chocolatey luxury, a Hotel Chocolat Velvetiser allows you to make the most indulgent, creamy and deliciously naughty hot chocolates at home. There are loads of different flavours of hot chocolate available to make, including milk chocolate, salted caramel, white chocolate and orange. Yummy!

9. A Batman toaster

Something that’s guaranteed to put a smile on the face of any fan of the Dark Knight, a Batman toaster lets your partner make perfect toast with the Batman logo right there on the bread – which means it’s even more perfect!

10. A pizza oven

There’s nothing quite as delicious and moreish as wood-fired pizza – the trouble is, you usually have to go out to a nice restaurant to get it. That is unless you have your own portable wood-fired pizza oven at home. It might take you a few goes, but once you’ve mastered it you’ll be cooking incredible authentic pizzas in no time, so it’s a great option for your pizza-loving partner.

5 affordable gifts for a 4th wedding anniversary

If you’re looking to give your partner a gift in line with the traditional or modern themes and you don’t want to spend much (and avoid giving them a bag of apples) there are still plenty of options. So, here are five 4th anniversary gifts you can give that have plenty of symbolism and thoughtfulness behind them even if you have a small budget.

1. A fruit keyring

Who said your fruity gift has to be real? A fruit keyring can come in a whole host of different styles and shapes, so you can give your partner a funny token on-theme gift while not breaking the bank.

2. A fruity breakfast in bed

Breakfast in bed is always a very welcome surprise, but there’s no better time than on your anniversary. You could sneak out to the local shop and pick up some fresh fruit and pastries, then lay them all out on a sharing board to present to your other half for a loving start to the day.

3. A rose in a bottle

Flowers are the ultimate symbol of love but have a double meaning on your 4th anniversary as they’re one of the traditional gifts. So, you could give your partner a rose that will never wilt, hidden in a tiny bottle and personalised with a custom label. It’s adorable, affordable and unforgettable. Check it out at Not on the High Street.

4. A little bouquet of chocolates

Some people love flowers, some people love chocolates and lots of people love both. And for those people, a box of bouquet chocolates could be just the thing you’re looking for as a brilliant and affordable anniversary gift.

5. Bath flowers

For the ultimate romantic night in, you could run the bath for your partner and fill it with scented soap flowers to make the water smell beautifully floral. And why not join them so the bathroom gets all steamy?

5 DIY gifts for a 4th wedding anniversary

Making your own gift to give to your partner for your fourth anniversary can be a lot of fun, and it’s something anyone can do regardless of whether you’ve made anything before. Here are five touching DIY anniversary gifts for celebrating four years.

1. Chocolate-covered strawberries

All you need is a punnet of fresh strawberries and a bar of your partner’s favourite chocolate to make the most indulgent and romantic treats there are. Just melt down some chocolate using a bain marie or in the microwave (taking extra care not to burn it) then dip the strawberries in them and leave them somewhere cool to set. They’re quick and easy treats that are dead simple to make and hit all the right spots on anniversary night.

2. A flower press kit

Pressed flowers are fabulous little keepsakes that are simple to make and take very little effort. You also don’t need any fancy tools to do them, but a flower press kit can walk you through it.

3. Paper sunflowers

Sunflowers are big and beautiful flowers that represent summer and sunshine. They’re also pretty easy to make out of paper so you can create your very own paper sunflower bouquet. There are paper sunflower video tutorials available to help get you started.

4. A wildflower bouquet

British wildflowers are absolutely stunning, and during the spring and summer months they’re found in abundance in fields, parks and woodland. It’s also a perfectly fine thing to do unless you remove the roots, so just make sure you do it carefully. If you do, you can put together a one-of-a-kind wildflower bouquet that’s extra special because you made it. Wildflower Favours has a handy wildflower bouquet guide so you can make something truly beautiful.

5. Homemade fruit jam

While you can of course buy jam, nothing quite beats sweet and sticky homemade jam – especially if you’ve made it yourself. And usually, it only needs a few ingredients, so it’s relatively quick and easy. Just find a yummy jam recipe, grab an empty jar and your favourite fruit, and make something full of love.

5 experience or activity gifts for a 4th wedding anniversary

On their anniversary, many couples choose to spend the day in each other’s company doing things they enjoy and having fun. That’s why an activity or experience gift is a great option for an anniversary. So, here are five experience gifts that tie into a 4th wedding anniversary.

1. A flower-arranging experience

Instead of simply giving your partner a bouquet of flowers on your anniversary, why not give them an experience so the two of you can arrange flowers together? A flower-arranging experience is fun and rewarding and is a unique way to spend time on your anniversary. You can take home your bouquet when you’re done, and some provide a glass of fizz and snacks to enjoy along the way. Check out Buy a Gift to find a flower-arranging experience close to you.

2. Visit some historic gardens

Where do flowers often grow? In gardens, of course! And up and down the UK there are incredible gardens that are accessible to the public. If your anniversary is in the spring or summer, it’s a great time to visit and see the whole place in bloom, like at Woburn Abbey and Gardens. Or, you could visit the world-famous Kew Gardens which is home to more than 50,000 plant species.

3. Pick your own fruit

Towards the end of summer, farms around the country offer visitors the opportunity to pick their own fruit. It’s a charming way to spend a morning or afternoon, and it’s usually reasonably priced too. Take a look online to see which farms close to you offer fruit picking and do something different on your anniversary.

4. Take a trip to the Eden Project

The Eden Project in Cornwall is a way to experience international biomes, from tropical rainforests to the Med, and see how plants and flowers flourish around the world. Cornwall might be a fair trek for you, but you could make it an excuse to spend your anniversary away.

5. A jam-making masterclass with the Preservation Society

We’ve already suggested making jam as a DIY anniversary gift, but you could take this to the next level by taking part in a jam-making course thanks to the Preservation Society. What better way to learn how to make jam than by actual jam experts?

10 4th anniversary gifts that contain topaz

The 4th anniversary gemstone is topaz – specifically blue topaz – which is a lovely shimmering shade of blue that looks absolutely incredible set in all different kinds of jewellery. So, here are 10 ideas for wonderful jewellery you could give to your other half to mark four fabulous years together.

A necklace
A bracelet
Earrings
Cufflinks
A ring
A broach
A locket
An anklet
A nose stud
Belly button ring

You’ll find topaz used in a lot of different jewellery, both from independent jewellers and big-name high street brands. We also work with a range of wedding jewellers who can help you find exactly what you’re looking for.

5 floral-inspired gifts for a 4th wedding anniversary

Flowers might be one of the traditional 4th anniversary gifts, but just like every other anniversary, there’s also a traditional flower – the hydrangea. If you want to give your other half something inspired by this flower (and who could blame you because they’re stunning), here are five ideas you could consider.

1. A bouquet of hydrangeas

Hydrangeas are like explosions of vivid colour, with big blooms that are surprisingly hardy. They’re wonderful additions to a bouquet, but work just as well when they’re the star of the show. You really can’t go wrong with a bouquet of hydrangeas.

2. A hydrangea-scented candle

Hydrangeas have an alluring sweet, almost dessert-like smell to them, which is one of the reasons why bees love them so much! It also means it’s the perfect scent to fill your home with, so a hydrangea-scented candle makes for an on-point anniversary gift.

3. A hydrangea scarf

Because hydrangeas flourish in millions of gardens up and down the UK, they’re possibly one of the most recognisable flowers out there. If your partner loves the look and feel of this garden icon, then they might love a hydrangea scarf to keep warm during the winter months.

4. Hydrangea bulbs

As we’ve already mentioned, hydrangeas are a great flower to grow in the UK, which makes them a brilliant plant for budding (get it?) horticulturalists. And hydrangeas come in loads of different colours, so you’ll easily find one your partner will love. If you plant them in the spring or autumn they’ll flower around mid to late summer. Check out your local garden centre or browse the huge selection of hydrangeas at J Parker’s.

5. A hydrangea pin badge

Another lovely way to honour the humble hydrangea is with a hydrangea enamel pin, which is a subtle and affordable way for you to give your partner a floral-inspired anniversary present.

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3rd Wedding Anniversary Gifts: 50 Anniversary Gift Ideas

Three years might not sound like much, but the fact that you’ve made it to your third wedding anniversary is incredible. All the trials and tribulations you’ve been through, and you still love each other more than ever. We think that definitely means you should treat each other if you can.

But what should you give your partner to mark your 3rd anniversary? Chances are you’ve thought about one or two things you might like to give them, but did you know there are traditional and modern gifts that many people like to give and have done for over 100 years? There’s also a traditional gemstone and flower, so if your thoughts revolve around flowers and jewellery, you might want to include the traditions there to give your gift a little more symbolic meaning.

In this guide, we’re going to explore all the gift-giving traditions and the meanings behind them when it comes to celebrating your 3rd anniversary. That way you’ll have all the information you need to make the best choice for you and your partner to make your anniversary extra special.

For more information about the different gift-giving traditions associated with anniversaries from 1 through to 90 years, read our complete year-by-year wedding anniversary gift guide.

What are traditional and modern gifts for a 3rd wedding anniversary?

The traditional and modern 3rd wedding anniversary gifts

Ever since they were made official in the early 1900s (not that you have to stick to them by any means), lots of couples have had fun giving their partners traditional or modern anniversary gifts, as well as gifts linked to the traditional gemstone or flower.

Traditional 3rd anniversary gift – Leather

Leather is a really durable, hardy and flexible material that can withstand almost anything – which is also true of your marriage as you celebrate three years together. In fact, a leather shoe was found that was over 5,500 years old. Your marriage probably won’t last that long, but we bet it could! Leather represents strength and resilience – and for those looking for an alternative, vegan or faux leather is also just as strong and still absolutely on-theme.

Modern 3rd anniversary gift – Glass or crystal

The exact opposite of leather, glass or crystal is very delicate and fragile. This is also true of marriage, because if you don’t look after it then there’s a risk it could break. But, the fact that you’ve got to three years is evidence of how you look after your relationship. And a glass or crystal gift is a lovely way to show that.

3rd anniversary gemstone – Pearl

Pearls are incredible iridescent stones that come from saltwater and freshwater mollusks. They represent purity and beauty, and what’s more beautiful than you celebrating three years as a married couple? You can also get vegan-friendly pearls, so there’s plenty of choice for everyone if you’re looking to give your partner pearl jewellery.

3rd anniversary flower – Sunflower

The sunflower is one of the most recognisable flowers in the world with its huge open head packed full of nutritious seeds. It’s one of the symbols of summer, and represents happiness and long life – so could there really be a more appropriate flower for celebrating your anniversary?

How do you choose a gift for a 3rd wedding anniversary?

No one else in this world knows your other half quite as well as you do, and you might already have a few ideas about what you want to give them to mark your third anniversary. But, before you dive in and start adding things to your shopping basket, there are a few things to think about to make sure you choose the perfect pressie.

Do you or don’t you follow the ‘rules’? Traditional and modern gifts don’t suit everyone’s tastes, so decide whether it’s something you want to include in your celebrations.
Have you established your budget? When it comes to gift giving, it’s easy to get carried away, so make sure you set your budget and don’t be tempted to sway from it.
Are you looking for a super personalised gift? Personalised gifts are thoughtful and unique and make for something extra special.
Have you considered your partner’s tastes? You might want to give your partner something leather- or glass-related, but would they love something else more?

If you’re looking for a gift for a friend or family member who’s celebrating their third anniversary, you’re also free to be as involved in the rules as you like. Joining in by giving them a traditional or modern gift can be a lot of fun and shows that you’ve put a lot of thought into it.

50 ideas for a 3rd wedding anniversary gift

If you’re excited to give your partner a symbolic and thoughtful gift to mark your 3rd anniversary but don’t know where to start, we’ve put together this helpful list featuring 50 ideas to get your started.

10 traditional gifts for a 3rd wedding anniversary

The traditional anniversary gift for three years is leather, and thankfully there are plenty of options when it comes to choosing a brilliant and thoughtful present. So, here are 10 leather anniversary presents, which include a mix of cow leather and vegan leather options.

1. A personalised leather keyring

If you’re not sure your partner would love a leather gift but you’re keen to give them something traditional and symbolic, a personalised leather keyring is a cute way to give them something that’s totally on theme. It’s something your partner can carry with them wherever they go, and if you order one through Pedal and Brass you can personalise it, too.

2. A leather wallet or purse

Wallets and purses go through a lot of wear and tear, being pulled in and out of pockets and bags at least a couple of times a day. That’s why nothing beats a high-quality wallet or purse, and it’s something your partner will love and get a lot of use out of. There are great leather wallets available at Wallet King and a huge selection of purses at Lakeland Leather.

3. A leather photo album

Physical photo albums have fallen out of fashion over the last decade or so, and it’s about time that changed – there’s nothing quite as lovely as cracking out old photos to look back on and reminisce. A leather photo album, like those at Noble Macmillan, are great for storing those precious photographs. Or, for something a little different, a leather scrapbook gives you a place to personalise your memories and add a little character.

4. A leather laptop bag

If your partner spends hours of their day glued to their laptop for work, you’ll know just how precious it is to them. You could incorporate that into your choice of gift, by giving them a smart leather laptop bag. Knomo has a great range of extra special leather laptop bags to keep your other half’s work safe and secure.

5. Personalised leather coasters

You can never have too many coasters at home, and personalised leather coasters are stylish, durable and totally fit the theme of a traditional 3rd anniversary gift. Leather coasters from Your Surprise allow you to choose from various options and personalise them with a custom message.

6. A vegan leather notebook

Your partner might write a lot of notes, maybe for work or if they study. Or they could write a journal or like to keep paper close by to write things down. If this is anything like your partner, a vegan leather notebook would be a perfect gift.

7. A watch with faux leather strap

A watch is never a bad idea for a gift, with so many amazing options available to fit all budgets, tastes and styles. And thankfully, there are also loads of different watch strap materials out there too, including faux leather. This trendy faux leather strapped watch from Zazzle ticks a whole lot of boxes associated with the perfect 3rd anniversary gift.

8. A vegan leather jewellery box

Everyone with more than just a couple of items of jewellery knows just how tricky it can be to keep everything safe. If this sounds like your partner, a vegan leather jewellery box will do just the trick – not too expensive, on theme and super useful!

9. A faux leather e-reader case

Kindles and other e-readers are a prized possession for any bookworm. Yes, there’s nothing quite like the smell of a real book, but e-readers are so handy and versatile. Keep your partner’s e-reader in tip-top condition with a vegan leather e-reader case.

10. A vegan leather bookmark

Continuing with the bookish theme, if your other half really does love getting stuck into a physical book, a personalised vegan leather bookmark will make sure they never lose their place. And whenever they sneak in a quick chapter, they’ll always be reminded of your third anniversary.

10 modern gifts for a 3rd wedding anniversary

If you’re not sold on the idea of giving your partner a traditional leather gift, you could choose the modern option, which is glass or crystal. Here are 10 ideas to get you started and hopefully make your decision crystal clear.

1. A Swarovski crystal cherry blossom

Swarovski is one of the biggest and most well-known makers of crystals and other luxury fashion accessories, so spoiling your partner with a gift from Swarovski makes a huge statement. And thankfully, not all Swarovski gifts break the bank, like the Garden Tales Cherry Blossom, a minimalist pink flower with 230 facets to ensure real sparkle.

2. An engraved crystal heart

A lovely and hugely personal crystal gift that looks brilliant on a mantlepiece, shelf or inside a display cabinet is an engraved crystal heart, like the ones produced by 3D Crystal. All you do is send them your favourite wedding snap and they’ll recreate it inside a crystal heart. And when combined with a light base, it really makes for a fabulously personal gift.

3. A Royal Scot crystal vase

Royal Scot is an internationally renowned producer of fine, handmade crystal. Give your partner a real treat on your third anniversary with a vase that you could even give to them with flowers already in them. Then, every time they get flowers they’ll always be reminded of your symbolic gift. Check out the Royal Scot website to browse their selection of vases.

4. A Fortnum and Mason teapot

When many hear the name Fortnum and Mason, they know it’s a name associated with luxury and class. That’s why a Fortnum and Mason glass teapot makes for a brilliant gift for any tea-loving partner. It elevates the average brew and makes every tea time that little bit more special.

5. Royal Doulton Champagne flutes

Royal Doulton has been making ceramics and other luxury items for over 200 years, and they also happen to produce some incredible glassware. And as you’re celebrating three years together with the love of your life, that’s definitely a great excuse to crack out some fizz – and Royal Doulton Champagne flutes are some of the best ways to enjoy it.

6. An engraved whisky glass

If fizz isn’t really your other half’s thing and they prefer a warming glass of whisky instead, an engraved whisky glass will always go down well (as well as the drinks they’ll have from it). The Engravers Guild of London can add unique personalisations to make your gift stand out.

7. Glass on Blu-ray

Glass and crystal won’t suit everyone’s interest, so why not think a little creatively, and give your partner a copy of the movie Glass on Blu-ray. Glass is the sequel to both Split and Unbreakable, so you could have a thrilling movie night in while making sure your gift is still totally on theme. You can pick up the Blu-ray at Amazon if you’re going old-school, or find it on your favourite streaming service.

8. A Saturn crystal light

Give your partner a tiny piece of the galaxy with a Saturn crystal light. The base features a rechargeable battery that lasts up to 16 hours, making it a lovely night light for every space geek out there.

9. A bottle of their favourite tipple

If you really are struggling for ideas for a glass anniversary gift, you could just pick them up a bottle of their favourite tipple. Brandy, gin, vodka, wine, prosecco, ale… so long as it’s in a glass bottle it definitely counts. And if your partner isn’t a big drinker, you can also pick up specialty fizzy pops, or even good ol’ Coca-Cola, which always tastes better when it’s in a glass bottle.

10. A glass paperweight

Paperweights are a smart addition to a desk, even if we’re now in an age where we don’t use as much paper, so paperweights aren’t particularly needed. But thankfully, they’re still lovely ornaments – especially a Royal Scot engraved hare paperweight. That’s just one of many designs that you could choose from, with the options out there being practically endless.

5 affordable gifts for a 3rd wedding anniversary

Both leather and crystal can be a rather pricey gift to give your partner, which can make it tough to stick to the traditions if you have a limited budget. But, if you look in the right places, you can pick up a gift that’s on theme but doesn’t cost too much, so you can still get your other half a gift full of charm and meaning.

1. A glass pocket hug token

A glass pocket hug token tells your partner that you’re always thinking about them. It features hugs, hearts and is made of glass – and it’s super affordable! It’s the perfect token gift to mark your 3rd wedding anniversary.

2. A glass tealight holder

Tealights light a room with a warm dancing glow, which can only be made better with a lovely tealight holder. Dunelm has an affordable glass lotus tealight holder that ensures even more sparkle than a tealight alone.

3. A Dartington crystal gin glass

If your other half is partial to the odd gin, a lovely Dartington crystal gin glass is definitely on theme. It’s the perfect excuse to enjoy a drink to celebrate your big day!

4. A leather cable organiser

We all hate it when cables get the better of us and slither around on top of and underneath desks. If you only want a token gift that fits with the third anniversary theme, a leather cable organiser will suit you to a tee.

5. A leather luggage tag

Bring a little touch of luxury to your partner’s luggage with a leather travel luggage tag from the Leather Company. It’s genuine leather that just so happens to be affordable and really useful, so what’s not to love?

5 DIY gifts for a 3rd wedding anniversary

DIY gifts are fun to make, thoughtful and full of heart. You might assume that making a gift using glass or leather might be difficult and time-consuming, or require skills and tools you might not have. But that’s not always the case, so here are 5 DIY 3rd anniversary gift ideas so you can give your partner a brilliant handmade surprise.

1. Leather wallet

Believe it or not, it’s totally possible to make a wallet yourself without the need for specialist leather-making tools. Making a wallet yourself out of leather is also a fun challenge and means your partner will get a completely one-of-a-kind gift. If you fancy taking on the challenge, there are leather wallet-making video tutorials that walk you through the process.

2. A leather knot bracelet

If you have a few offcuts of leather (and if you don’t they’re cheap to buy online) making a knot bracelet is surprisingly simple. It also means you can give your partner a touching gift that they can wear for many years to come. There are plenty of leather knot bracelet video tutorials available and you don’t need any expertise to give it a go.

3. A glass bracelet

If you’re not sure your partner would love a leather bracelet, how about a glass bracelet instead? Or even a necklace or anklet? You don’t need to be an expert to give jewellery-making a go, and there are glass bracelet-making kits that provide you with everything you need to make your partner something they’ll love.

4. Homemade stained glass

Stained glass looks fabulous whether it’s window, glass, ornament or something else entirely. And you can even have a go at making your own stained glass with a stained glass craft kit, which you can use to elevate an ordinary drinking glass or dish and turn it into something special.

5. A homemade jar of jam or chutney

A mason jar can cost just a few pounds to pick up, which you can then fill with any sort of homemade jam or chutney you can think of. Raspberry, strawberry, fig, plum, pickle, piccalilly, peanut butter… the possibilities are endless. And whatever you create will taste so much more delicious because it’ll be made from the heart.

5 experience or activity gifts for a 3rd wedding anniversary

Your anniversary is all about the two of you, and what better way to celebrate than by doing something fun together? Leather and glass might not seem like they lend themselves particularly well to a fun experience, but with a little creative thinking, there are plenty you could get up to together. So, here are five ideas to help get you started.

1. A leather-making workshop

There’s nothing quite as satisfying as making something yourself and having something you’re proud of. So why not tie this into your third anniversary theme and spend time with your other half taking part in a leather-making workshop? You’ll get to find out all about centuries-old techniques and have a lot of fun in the process. There are leather-making courses and workshops available up and down the UK.

2. A glassblowing experience

If you’re not sold on the idea of making something out of leather, you could always make something out of glass! Glassblowing is another skill that goes back thousands of years, and a glassblowing experience gives you the opportunity to try it out for yourself and make something you can hold onto forever.

3. A whisky-tasting experience

Okay, so whisky tasting might come out of a barrel, but where is it poured? Into a glass of course! If your partner has a pallet for fine whiskies, then there’s no better way to spoil them than with a whisky-tasting experience. Another alternative would be a wine tasting experience, which would be equally as fun.

4. A glass factory experience

Dartington is one of the biggest glass manufacturers in the UK, and has a solid reputation as being the best. They also just so happen to offer factory tours, as well as glass painting, demonstrations and hand casting – a great experience linked really closely to the modern third anniversary gift. Check out the Visit Dartington website for more information.

5. Line dancing classes

This one might be a bit of a stretch, but it’s a brilliant way to spend time together on your third anniversary for two reasons: one, it’s line dancing which is a hell of a lot of fun, and two, cowboys wear leather so it totally counts! There are loads of local line dancing classes and clubs, so see if there’s one close to you for something really different!

10 3rd anniversary gifts that contain pearl

The third anniversary gemstone is pearl, a wonderful iridescent stone that comes from mollusks. There are also vegan alternatives so everyone gets to enjoy the beauty of this amazing stone. It’s a versatile stone used in all types of jewellery and accessories, so whatever your partner wears you’re bound to find something they’ll love. Here are 10 ideas for jewellery and accessories that can be set with pearl.

A necklace
A bracelet
Earrings
Cufflinks
A ring
A broach
A locket
An anklet
A nose stud
Belly button ring

Loads of big-name and independent jewellers have a whole selection of jewellery that contains pearl, and there are even some retailers that specialise in it. You might also want to browse the range of wedding jewellers we work with, as many have a huge amount of choice.

5 floral gifts for a 3rd wedding anniversary

The traditional flower for celebrating your third anniversary is the magnificent sunflower, one of the most recognisable flowers there is and the symbol of summer. Here are five sunflowery anniversary gift ideas to mark this wonderful occasion.

1. A bouquet of sunflowers

Sunflowers are bright and cheerful flowers that last a fairly long time if you look after them properly, and they look great either as the only flower in a bouquet or as part of a larger arrangement. They’re in abundance during the summer months, but florists have sunflower bouquets and arrangements year-round.

2. Sunflower seeds

One of the best things about sunflowers is just how easy they are to grow at home. All you need is a small patch of soil or a pot and access to sunlight, and then just let it do its thing. Sunflowers grow really fast, so if you plant them in April or May you should have huge yellow flowers by the middle of summer. You can pick up a packet of sunflower seeds for around a couple of pounds at your local garden centre.

3. LEGO sunflowers

Real flowers might not be your partner’s thing, or maybe they have an allergy or you don’t have the space. Thankfully, LEGO has a solution, with a set that allows you to build your own LEGO sunflowers. You can spend time building them together and then display them in a vase – and the best thing is they’ll never wilt!

4. A sunflower suncatcher

For something small and floral that brilliantly catches the essence of summery sunflowers, a sunflower suncatcher is a small but perfectly on-theme gift.

5. A sunflower necklace

If your partner loves sunflowers, then they’ll adore a sterling silver sunflower necklace with round cut topaz. It’s dainty and beautiful and the sort of necklace your partner can wear for any occasion.

Plan your dream wedding with Bridebook

At Bridebook, we’re proud to have helped more than 2 million couples in the UK and beyond come together to plan the wedding of their dreams. Every day, more and more of those couples go on to celebrate their 3-year wedding anniversary.

Browse other similar articles…

Happy Planning!

Venue Showcase: The Magic of Glazebrook House Hotel

We’re shining a light on Glazebrook House Hotel, a place where time stands still, wedding dreams come to life, and magical memories are made. If you’re an engaged couple in search of a stunning, luxurious and intimate venue nestled on the edge of Dartmoor, Glazebrook House Hotel will be the perfect setting for your special day. In this exclusive showcase, we’ll explore the enchanting features of the venue, with insights from the owner and managing director, Pieter Hamman. Read on to discover the magic for yourself.

Highlights of the venue

Photo © Glazebrook House Hotel | See their Bridebook profile

Glazebrook House Hotel offers a secluded haven with private grounds, making it an ideal choice for couples seeking a more exclusive and romantic atmosphere. The venue boasts a range of features that cater to various different wedding styles, ensuring a truly personalised and unforgettable experience.

Owner Pieter Hamman sums up Glazebrook House Hotel’s stand-out features as follows: “Unique interiors, beautiful gardens, and a magical atmosphere make Glazebrook House Hotel the perfect choice for couples seeking an unforgettable wedding experience.” Through the collaboration of their creative team and striking interior designs by Timothy Oulton, Glazebrook prides itself on its enchanting atmosphere with stunning British revival décor, alongside its sumptuous handmade furnishings, beguiling vintage and retro curios, uniquely inspired by Alice in Wonderland.

Glazebrook are also proud award winners, most notably:

Condé Naste Johannsen 2016 – Best boutique hotel in the UK and Ireland
Visit England 2018 Gold – Best small hotel in England
South Devon Herald 2018 – Best hotel and overall winner of Outstanding Tourism Business Award

This outstanding venue isn’t just award-winning, but also LGBTQIA+ and multi-faith friendly, and caters to Kosher, Halal and Asian catering.

Ceremony and reception options

Glazebrook House Hotel is licensed to hold civil ceremonies and accommodates up to 140 guests. With various gorgeous areas to choose from, including the grand staircase, the beautiful dining hall, and the enchanted gardens, couples have the flexibility to tailor their ceremony to their unique vision.

Catering and dining experience

The dining hall seats up to 80 guests for the wedding breakfast, and the venue can cater for up to 140 guests for the reception and party. Glazebrook offers a partnership with a top-notch events catering company, ensuring the very best in food and drink. You can opt for bespoke menus or choose from a selection of locally sourced, seasonal options.

Accommodation and natural surroundings

With eight gorgeous bedrooms, including a bride and groom suite, Glazebrook can comfortably accommodate up to 20 guests. The beautifully styled rooms and landscaped gardens provide a perfect backdrop for photos and intimate moments with friends and family alike.

Bespoke wedding planning services

Glazebrook goes beyond just providing a wedding venue. With full wedding planning and on-the-day coordination services, you can relax and enjoy your special day while the dedicated team ensures everything runs seamlessly.

Meet the venue’s owners

Owners Pieter and Fran Hamman originally came into the wedding industry through hotel ownership and a love of helping make people happy. Pieter shares his very best expert advice for couples planning their wedding: “Plan, plan, and more planning to make sure you get exactly what you want.”

Pieter also shares his two most memorable weddings: “Both a Narnia themed wedding complete with characters and decorations and an Alice in Wonderland themed wedding complete with fancy dress and fun surprises!” As you can see, Glazebrook provides the ideal setting for unique themed weddings that are personal to you and as alternative as you like!

Secure your booking today

If you’re dreaming of a unique wedding surrounded by beauty, luxury and unparalleled service, Glazebrook House Hotel is the place where your magical memories will begin. Glazebrook’s coordinator, Hannah Roberts, will guide you on a tour through the house and discuss your wedding plans in more detail, before answering any questions you might have and creating a personalised wedding proposal and quote for you. View their profile and enquire today to make your wedding dreams reality. What are you waiting for?

Happy Planning!

What to Wear to a Wedding as a Guest? Dos, Don’ts and Top Tips

You’ve been invited to a wedding! Yay, free cake!

…But wait. What are you going to wear?

For as long as there have been weddings, there have been wedding guests struggling to know what to wear. Do you go traditional, simple, or show-stopping? Should you match your partner or go for complementary colours? And what’s the deal with hats? It’s enough to make anyone consider ‘losing’ their RSVP.

But, don’t worry — we’re here to help. From decoding wedding dress codes to navigating the fine line between fashionable and flashy, we’ll help you curate a look that not only complements the celebration but also shows off your personal style. Read on to learn the best colour to wear to a wedding, a breakdown of popular dress codes, and some top tips on wedding guest dressing. Happy styling!

What should I wear to a wedding as a guest?

Photo © Shauna Rolfe Photography | See their Bridebook profile

The most important thing about wedding outfits for guests is that they don’t upstage the bride and groom. That means no ball gowns, no top hats*, and definitely no white.

The key is to find that sweet spot between expressing your style and adhering to the dress code set by the couple. You’ll also need to consider the weather and the location of the wedding. For example, a beach wedding in the summer will call for completely different attire from an autumnal forest wedding.

As a rule of thumb, you can’t go wrong with semi-formal. That means a knee-length cocktail dress, a tailored suit, or a chic jumpsuit.

*Top hats are a standard part of white-tie dress codes. However, white tie is rarely used. As a general rule, no top hats unless explicitly stated on the invitation.

What sort of wedding guest outfits are there?

What to Wear to a Wedding As a Guest Dos, Don’ts and Top Tips — What to wear to a wedding as a guest: inspiration for all seasons

Winter wedding guest outfit

Winter wedding guests face the delightful challenge of balancing style with the practicality of staying warm. As the temperatures drop, it’s an opportunity to embrace luxurious fabrics, rich colours, and cosy layers to create a standout ensemble.

Consider a long-sleeve cocktail dress in a jewel tone or something with a little bit of sparkle. If you aren’t a fan of dresses, you can’t go wrong with a well-tailored suit and a long coat that staves off the cold.

Close-toed shoes are always recommended, and you could try bringing a wrap or faux fur stole for both warmth and flair.

Summer wedding guest outfit

Summer weddings are all about being light and floaty. If you’re a fan of a dress, try a flowy chiffon number or a sundress in a cheerful print. Otherwise, try a light-coloured suit like pale blue or grey paired with a crisp, short-sleeved shirt. This strikes the perfect balance between formal and laid-back.

Loafers or dressy sandals are a great choice for footwear.

Plus-size wedding guest dresses

Plus-size guests will look fabulous in wrap or fit-and-flare style dresses. Don’t shy away from bold colours for a dramatic yet feminine look.

Slingback shoes are also a great option for those with wider feet as they provide comfort and style.

Mature ladies’ dresses for wedding guests

Mature ladies might want to opt for an a-line dress or even a tea-length gown for a sophisticated look. When selecting colours, consider timeless options like classic navy or sophisticated neutrals. These hues are not only elegant but also super versatile, allowing you to pair your dress with a range of accessories and outerwear for different seasons.

Petite wedding guest dresses

Empire waist dresses are a great choice for petite guests as they can make you look taller. You could also try a high-low hem which adds length where you need it, or try a suit tailored to your petite frame.

Maternity wedding guest dress

Maxi dresses are a great option for maternity wedding attire. The long, flowing silhouette provides ample room for your growing belly, allowing you to move with ease. If you’re not a dress kind of person, maternity jumpsuits are a modern and trendy choice.

Look for styles with an adjustable waist or a wrap design for flexibility, and make sure you can get in and out of it comfortably in a toilet cubicle. You may need a few practice runs before the big day!

What is the best colour to wear to a wedding?

Photo © Fresh Shoot Studios | See their Bridebook profile

The best colour to wear to a wedding will depend on the season and the couple’s requests. For example:

Spring or summer wedding

Light or bright colours are perfect for a spring or summer wedding. Think pastels, mint green, coral, turquoise, or pink.

Autumn or winter wedding

Keep your tones dark or muted for an autumn or winter wedding. Think navy, burnt orange, purple, mauve, or dark green. Jewel tones are always trendy and can add an air of sophistication to your outfit.

Match the dress code

It’s become increasingly popular for the couple to specify what colours they’d like the guests to wear. For example, you might see:

“We’d like everyone to dress in pastel colours” for a whimsical wedding.
“Please could everyone wear different shades of blue” if someone has a specific colour scheme in mind.
“We’d appreciate it if everyone could dress in black” for an ultra-chic wedding.

Don’t wear white as a guest

Unless specifically stated on the invitation that the couple would like you to wear white — just don’t do it. Most people consider it disrespectful.

It’s best to steer clear of different shades of white too. That includes ivory, bone, cream, and other similar tones.

What if my dress has a white base but a pattern over the top?

White dresses with flowers, birds, or another pattern over the top might be acceptable if the dress is more than 60% pattern and the white base isn’t the predominant colour. If you’re certain you want to wear this dress, we’d recommend getting the bride’s approval first.

What is the dress code for a wedding?

Photo © Gene Weatherley Photography | See their Bridebook profile

You may see one of the following dress codes listed on your wedding invitation:

Black tie. Black tie usually means a tuxedo, elegant evening gown, or a cocktail dress.
Formal. A formal dress code will mean a suit, knee-length dress, or cocktail dress.
Beach formal. Try suit trousers with a button-down shirt and no tie, or a floaty maxi or midi-length dress.
Casual. Casual can mean many things. However, you can’t go wrong with suit trousers and a short-sleeve button-down shirt. You could also wear a sundress or a blouse and skirt.

If no dress code is listed, it’s best to dress semi-formal, which means a well-fitted suit or a pretty, knee-length dress.

What is the most popular dress code for a wedding?

Most people tend to opt for semi-formal. This keeps everyone looking smart while still allowing the guests to be comfortable.

Where to buy clothes for wedding guests

Whether you’re bougie-on-a-budget or have a little more to spend, you’re sure to find beautiful options in these online shops.

Less than £50

Vinted

Vinted is a second-hand clothes-selling app where you can find beautiful dresses for as little as £1! You can search for specific brands, sizes, colours, materials, and more. Many clothes are brand new with tags, and those that aren’t are in great condition. Plus, buying second-hand clothes is way more sustainable than purchasing brand-new clothes.

Asos

Asos is the perfect shopping destination for wedding dresses. You can set a budget using the ‘price range’ filter, and even sort dresses from lowest to highest price. You can also filter for size, colour, length, brand, and body fit.

Zara

Zara has a mix of pricier and low-cost dresses. This European brand exudes sophistication with its unique contemporary style, and you can filter dresses by size, colour, and style. However, taller guests may struggle with the length of Zara’s dresses.

Quiz

Quiz is a beautiful option if you prefer traditionally feminine styles. Packed with flouncy and fluttery styles, Quiz offers great clothes for wedding guests at reasonable prices.

£50-100

Abercrombie & Fitch

Abercrombie & Fitch has a whole section of their website dedicated to helping you be the ‘Best Dressed Guest’. Their dresses are beautiful, high quality, and suit a wide range of body types with their petite, regular, and tall sizing.

John Lewis

The John Lewis department store stocks a range of beautiful brands; it’s the perfect destination if you’re not sure what you’re looking for. If you’re lucky enough to live near a John Lewis store, they offer a complimentary personal shopping service to help you find your dream wedding guest dress.

Next is another retailer that carries a range of brands. The website is easy to navigate, and you can easily filter by price, size, colour, and occasion.

Over £100

Ted Baker

Ted Baker is another store known for its ultra-feminine styles. Although they’re a little on the pricey side, they have regular sales, and the quality is second to none.

Karen Millen

Karen Millen is known for its high-quality and beautiful wedding guest dresses. You’ll never be outdone in a Karen Millen gown. Their wide range of dresses will suit many different body types and personal styles.

Monsoon

Monsoon has been a staple of wedding guest dress shopping for years. Renowned for its bohemian-inspired designs, this brand effortlessly captures the essence of romantic and whimsical fashion.

Top tips for wedding guest attire

Photo © S Howard Photography Ltd | See their Bridebook profile

Watch those shoes

We know they look fabulous, but wearing ultra-high heels or brand-new leather shoes on a wedding day is a recipe for disaster. Tall heels will tire your feet out and prevent you from dancing, and brand-new shoes are likely to rub and cause blisters.

Instead, opt for shoes you know you’ll be comfortable in. Try wearing a lower pair of heels that you can dance all night in or wearing an already broken-in pair of brogues.

If you’re adamant you want to wear high heels, consider bringing a lower heel to change into later on. Your feet will thank you in the morning.

Be mindful of culture

Weddings with a religious element may ask you to cover up before you enter the church, temple, or mosque. You generally need to have your knees and shoulders covered to enter a religious building, and may even be asked to remove your shoes or cover your hair. Although this may not be your preference, it’s important to respect the couple’s wishes.

Consider the weather

Check the weather on the morning of the wedding, and always have a backup outfit in mind. If there’s a chance of rain, consider bringing a foldable umbrella or a stylish raincoat that complements your outfit. For unexpected temperature changes, having a shawl or light jacket can make a significant difference.

If in doubt… double-check

If you’re not sure whether an outfit is in line with the couple’s requests — ask them.

It’s perfectly acceptable to reach out to the bride, groom, or someone close to them to clarify any questions you may have about the dress code. This not only ensures that you’re on the right track, but also demonstrates your consideration and respect for their wishes.

The bottom line on being the best dressed wedding guest

Photo © Damion Mower Photography | See their Bridebook profile

Picking the perfect wedding guest outfit can be stressful. Between the cost, dress code considerations, and endless style options, the task may seem daunting. However, with a bit of planning and time spent internet shopping, you’ll be the belle of the ball.

We recommend you closely adhere to the wedding dress code, dress for comfort and not just style, and double-check with the couple if you’re unsure. Happy shopping!

FAQs

Do you have to wear heels to a wedding as a guest?

No, you don’t have to. The most important thing is that you’re comfortable.

While high heels add an air of elegance to any outfit, they are by no means mandatory.

What should you not wear as a wedding guest?

You shouldn’t wear T-shirts, vest tops, football shirts, jeans, dirty trainers, flip flops, or other casual clothes to a wedding unless specifically asked to. This is the most special day of the bride and groom’s lives — make an effort for them!

Can anyone attend a wedding as a guest?

Anyone can attend a wedding ceremony in a registry office or religious building. However, you shouldn’t attend a reception you’re not invited to. It’s impolite.

What is a wedding guest book?

35 wedding guest book alternatives

Paper-based guest book ideas

1) Thumbprint tree guest book

2) Message in a bottle guest book

3) Recipe card guest book

4) Postcard guest book

5) Advice cards guest book

6) Wishing tree guest book

7) Message bunting or garland

Creative guest books ideas

8) Vinyl record guest book

9) Guest book bench

10) Message board

11) Wishing well guest book

12) Scrapbook station

13) Jenga guest book

14) Wine label guest book

Photo guest book ideas

15) Polaroid guest book

16) Photo booth

17) Doodle or sketch guest book

18) Selfie station guest book

19) Photobook app

20) Mugshot wall

21) Giant polaroid frame

Collectible guest books

22) Wishing stone guest book

23) Customised ornaments

24) Miniature canvas paintings

25) Customised playing cards

26) Customised guitar picks

27) Time capsule

28) Customised ceramic tiles

Interactive guest books ideas

29) Audio guest book

30) Jigsaw puzzle guest book

31) Typewriter guest book

32) Chessboard guest book

33) Personalised board games

34) Wedding bingo

35) Date night jar

The bottom line on wedding guest book ideas

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Happy Planning!

What are traditional and modern gifts for a 7th wedding anniversary?

Traditional 7th anniversary gift – Wool or copper

Modern 7th anniversary gift – Stationery or desk set

7th anniversary gemstone – Onyx

7th anniversary flower – Freesia

How do you choose a gift for a 7th wedding anniversary?

50 ideas for a 7th wedding anniversary gift

10 traditional gifts for a 7th wedding anniversary

1. A comfortable wool blanket

2. A cosy jumper

3. A wool sheep with a heart balloon

4. A wool teddy bear

5. A wool craft kit

6. A personalised copper bracelet

7. A striking copper vase

8. Copper coin cufflinks

9. A personalised copper keyring

10. A personalised framed copper heart

10 modern gifts for a 7th wedding anniversary

1. A notebook and quill set

2. A really nice set of pens

3. A personalised mouse mat

4. A personalised planner

5. A nice and neat gift set

6. A vintage stationery box

7. A personalised pen pot

8. A smart desk organiser

9. A fancy notebook

10. An engraved pen

5 affordable gifts for a 7th wedding anniversary

1. A jar of anniversary wool

2. A cute copper elephant ring holder

3. A personalised copper token

4. A woolly hedgehug

5. A wool anniversary card