As Wedding Planners we’re frequently asked questions about the structure and content of the formal speeches, so I thought it would be useful to post a general framework that could be followed.

The speeches are traditionally given after the Wedding Breakfast although it’s not uncommon for these to happen before, so that those speaking can relax and feel more at ease during the wedding breakfast.

First Speech – Father of the Bride

• Thanks the guests for coming and sharing their celebrations.

• Thanks everyone who contributed towards the wedding preparations.

• Compliments and praises the bride and welcomes the groom into their family.

• Toasts the bride and groom.

Second Speech – Bridegroom

• Thanks the father of the bride for his toast.

• Thanks the guests for coming and for their kind gifts.

• Thanks both sets of parents.

• Compliments his bride.

• Thanks his best man.

• Thanks and toasts the bridesmaids.

Third Speech – Best Man

• Thanks the groom for his toast to the bridesmaids.

• Comments on the bride and particularly the groom.

• Reads any messages from absent friends.

• Toasts the bride and groom.

We often find that speech advice is requested just a day or two before the wedding day. This can be due to men simply not knowing where to start with it all and wanting to get it just perfect for the occasion. With a little bit of preparation and guidelines to assist, we have found that speeches are always a great blend of heart-felt wishes and genuine appreciation of the people thanked within.

Good luck boys! xx

Wow! I feel so excited about this little gem but you’re going to have to be quick off the mark!

If you are looking for an alternative gift idea for your ladies, then you simply must check these out!

Chanel are launching their own range of temporary tattoos after their huge response at the Spring Summer 10 fashion shows. The models from brands such as Rodarte, Jean Paul Gaultier and Chanel all sported rub-on tattoos as an alternative to statement jewellery. I don’t think anyone realised they were due to become part of the collections though (pause for scream!).

Bracelet tattoo by Chanel

So fab!

They go on sale at Chanel boutiques, concessions and at the Selfridges counter from 1st March but you will have to act fast – they have a price tag of just £49.00 for 55 individual tattoos.

I will be there trying to get my hands on some that’s for sure!

Les Trompe L’œil de Chanel, set of 55 individual tattoos £49.00 by Chanel

Recently I attended ‘Style In The City’ in Birmingham, sponsored by The Sunday Times. I’ve never been one to miss a spot of self indulgence, so I spent the afternoon there having a play with all the fabulous new ‘must have’ items.

Trying to keep my mind focused on work was very hard but I did stumble across a company who I think have a fabulous idea for wedding attendant presents. Vom Fass have Cuvee with gold flakes floating inside. It comes in white or rose and I think it would make a delicious little thank you for your girls!

Deliciously Fabulous!

Vom Fass also have a fab area in the Selfridges Food Hall where you can select from a choice of bottles and have them filled with all sorts of wonderful spirits, whiskey, olive oil or balsamic vinegars.

Because of my insane love for cocktails I couldn’t resist treating myself to a fabulous little pair along with a few bottles of the gold cuvee for my favourite girlies.

For more information, you can log onto Vom Fass here.