Midsummer Weddings

The majority of British brides choose to hold their weddings in the summer months - and who can blame them, given the unpredictability of our weather? There's nothing prettier than an outdoor ceremony or reception under blue skies, although it's best to keep a marquee handy in case the heavens open… If the garden's big enough, exchange your vows under a flower-covered altar, or find lovely outdoor sites on websites like www.wedding-venues.co.uk

The colour scheme can echo the flower colours of midsummer - pastel pinks, blues, yellows and lilacs, with lots of fresh white and leafy green. For inspiration and beautiful fashion ideas, rent a copy of Roman Polanski's filmTess to reference gorgeous late Victorian summer frocks and bonnets. (The film ends badly for our Tess, so don't watch it to the end!)

Go for a soft, flowing frock, not a stark minimalist confection or a fancy meringue, and dress your hair simply - a few becoming curls with flowers entwined would be ideal. Sweet open toed mules like the Pamela Mule or strappy sandal like the Debbie wedding sandal add that final touch without going over the top. As for your groom, think costume drama - breeches, waistcoat, billowing white shirt, boots - the sexy country gent, or your very own Mr Darcy!

And why not make your young bridesmaids little flower girls? Dress them in frothy dresses scattered with dainty butterflies such as the Olivia bridesmaid dress or delicate organza flowers like those on the Rosie bridesmaid dress that complement the fresh summery colours and give them baskets of rose petals to scatter as they walk down the aisle. Or if they are older and don't do frills anymore, how about something simple like the Lily-Mei bridesmaid dress or the Ellie bridesmaid dress with their butterflies nestling on the sashes. Still summery but not too frilly. 

The mood should be gentle, countrified, idyllic. Use lots of real flowers as wreaths for your own head and your bridesmaids.' Instead of carrying a stiff florist's bouquet, make up a bunch of roses or wild flowers. Keep the flowers abundant and the colours soft.

As for the refreshments, the informal theme should be reflected in the menu. No one feels like wading through a formal meal in warm weather, so keep it light and fresh with an outdoor buffet - salmon or cold roast chicken, salads, veggie quiche, ice-cream sorbets and fruit, with sparkling cordials and juices to drink as well as delicate champagne. Delicious!

For more ideas on wedding acessories and bridesmaid dresses, shoes and accessories, click here

And for useful wedding information that will make your day extra special, click here