The Proposal

What do you need for the perfect proposal?

A plan

Every great proposal has the element of surprise and romance.   Firstly, you need to be sure it's the right thing to do.  You then need to decide on the location and the ring.  Simple right!  Don't be fulled that it's as simple as we see on the movies, it takes some planning and organisation to ensure it goes smoothly.

Set the Location

Location is often over thought, our advice would be to choose a quite intimate spot where you can have some privacy (unless you are oozing with confidence).  Here are some suggestions in Renfrewshire.....

Dinner at Mar Hall



Lunch at Finlaystone Park



Hire a boat at Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park



Choose the Ring

An engagement ring is a symbol of commitment and the promise of marriage.  Normally only worn by women, however, many men (including mine) also choose to wear the symbol. 

Choosing the perfect ring is a very personal thing and there is no right or wrong way of doing it.  Some choose to have it purchased before the proposal, whilst some enjoy choosing it together.  My advice to the proposer is ensure you know your future spouses taste well as they will have to wear the ring for a very long time!

Here's some stunning examples to suit every budget.



McKay Jewellers



  



 

















  

Argos



H Samuel



Make sure it's the right choice

The golden rule is not to feel pressured!  You have to feel you and your partner are comfortable and ready to take the next step.  Marriage should be for life so it is not a decision to be taken hastily.

Keep Calm (the proposer!)

Special thanks to

McKay Jewellers, Moss Street, Paisley

Fruit Cake or Sponge Cake?

by i-craft

So many brides these day's are opting for cake creations sculpted from sponge and decorated in all sorts of shapes and sizes from chocolate towers to cupcakes and even cheeseboards.

Putting the more adventurous creations aside, the happy couple are often left with the basic choice of what the tiers of cake should consist of Sponge (various flavours) or Fruit.  The initial choice and reaction by most couples is full sponge stating "I really don't like sponge", however, you are not eating the whole cake by yourself so my suggestion would be to carefully consider the type of guest you are inviting.

I attended two weddings last month both with a similar mix of guest from early 20's to elderly relatives.  1 wedding opted for a 1 tier fruit and 2 tiers sponge (Wedding A) and the other 3 tiers sponge (Wedding B).  At both the wedding the cakes were delicious, however, I did spot 1 glaring difference.  There was loads of sponge left at the end of Wedding B, but hardly any cake left at Wedding A!

Being the sad individual I am (and the fact I was the sober driver!!) I asked a several of people did they enjoy the cake?  and the general consensus from the elder generation of Wedding B was they would like to have seen a fruit cake as they don't get it very often nowadays and it's a real treat so maybe that's could have been why they had to put so much in the bin.

Also it is worth bearing in mind that Fruit Cake keeps much longer than sponge so you could potentially get the bridal party to dish out the left overs for some special guests to take home.

I appreciate that this is only a small section of market research but I worry we are forgetting what's important at our weddings is not only to organise an event to be proud of but to treat those who are nearest and dearest to us.

For more information on cakes or to discuss alternatives please look at i-craft's website or send an e-mail

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Winter Weddings

Taking some inspiration from the elements outside we have put together a mood board for inspiration if you are planning a winter wedding in 2011.

Remember, to get in touch and let us know your thoughts...