If you’re looking for some top wedding planning tips, there’s nothing like the expertise from a real wedding professional. We spoke to Yasmin Downing, the passionate florist behind Yasmin Downing Floral Design, who specialises in combining modern elements with timeless tradition to create the perfect aesthetic. In her own words: “Since opening a dried flower business during the pandemic, I found my life’s passion in floristry. Having been mentored 1:1 by Master Florists, whilst building a portfolio working on real-life weddings, photoshoots, commercial projects and television, I have brought my skills and experience to a professional level.” Yasmin has also appeared on the BBC’s Ultimate Wedding Planner as one of eight aspiring contestants.

Yasmin’s top 10 wedding planning tips

Photo © Yasmin Downing Floral Design | See their Bridebook profile

1. Order a spare buttonhole (or two)

This can avoid awkward “I forgot Uncle Pete” moments and also covers you if you have a boisterous groom who breaks his buttonhole before your photos (Yasmin has actually had this happen!).

2. Have an “emergency” kit

Your wedding emergency kit should include all the things you won’t know you’ll need until you need them (check out our bridal SOS kit post for more information). Yasmin suggests:

White cotton
Chewing gum
Needle
Toothpick
Elastic bands
Flower pins
Floss
Hairband
Bobby pin
Painkillers
Nail glue
Lash glue
Tweezers
Plasters

3. Think about your shoes

If you’re going to be wearing high heels on your wedding day, and taking them off isn’t an option for you, Yasmin recommends taking a couple of paracetamol to pre-empt the pain.

4. Cover yourself in SPF

If you’re like the majority of couples who opt for a spring or summer wedding, be sure to cover yourself in SPF 50. This will make sure you don’t end up pink by 3 PM, Yasmin explains.

5. Protect your skin from clothing marks

Remember to protect your skin from anything that might mark your skin, Yasmin suggests. This includes any socks, bra or wrist hairbands that can dig into your skin.

6. Burn your ribbon ends

If you’ve having satin ribbon on your bouquets, Yasmin recommends burning the end of the ribbon to get a nice polished edge. This will prevent it from fraying throughout the day.

7. Opt for seasonal blooms

Choose flowers that are in season to keep your budget down. Out of season florals have to be imported, Yasmin explains, which can significantly bump up the cost.

8. Consider your dressing area

Ensure that where you get ready is big enough for your whole party. Get lots of mirrors ready as there will be a few of you trying to check yourselves out. Yasmin suggests you pick somewhere with easy parking and access. You don’t want to spend the morning directing people to your location!

9. Factor in a break

Yasmin recommends that you plan in a 20-minute “break” from the day so you and your new spouse can have a moment away from everyone to simply reflect and take it in.

10. Put you and your partner first

Remember that at the end of the day the only thing that truly matters is you and your partner. In Yasmin’s own words: ‘Don’t give a sh*t about ensuring your guests are happy all day. There’s booze and food, so they’ll be fine. Just make sure the two of you are having a great time.”

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