Whether you liken yourself to Beyonce or just fancy a lavish affair, the best way to throw an epic wedding is to think like a celebrity. So if you have high standards for your wedding day, nail it with our top tips on how to plan a wedding like a celebrity!

Dreaming of designer dresses

The centrepiece of your day, your wedding dress just needs to be perfect! Look to designers such as Jenny Packham or Suzanne Neville for a dress of exquisite detailing. Or, should your budget allow it, go couture and find a designer to bring your wedding dress vision to life. Why not follow one of the hottest celebrity wedding trends around and choose a second dress?! Go for a ballgown for the ceremony and switch into a fitted, beaded slinky gown for the dance floor. Alternatively, there are so many dresses out there now which offer a second look. It’s as easy as, for example, removing detachable sleeves to give your look a twist.

Runway worthy bridesmaid dresses

Although all eyes will be on you, give your leading ladies the VIP treatment with runway worthy bridesmaid dresses. Throw it back to Jessica Simpson’s 14 bridesmaids, which were carefully selected by a stylist, with looks from Marchesa, Temperley and Jason Wu to name a few. One trend which is top of the wedding charts right now is floor length sequin dresses. This option is perfect for adding a touch of luxe.

Fancy footwear

It wouldn’t be a celebrity style wedding without the perfect designer shoes. From Louboutin to Jimmy Choo, more and more brides are choosing to say their “I dos” in footwear by their favourite designer. And they don’t even need to be white. Manolo Blahnik’s iconic blue pumps will cover both your something new and something new. Plus, the justification for the splurge is that you’ll definitely wear them again!

Hire a wedding planner

If you really want the BEST for your wedding day, call on the expert advice of a wedding planner. With someone at your disposal with the knowledge of the superior suppliers in the industry, you can rest assured that your every need will be effortlessly met.

Dramatic entrance and exits

Remember when George Clooney and Amal Alamuddin arrived by gondola? While this might not be practical in Ireland, we’re seeing more dramatic entrances and exits, which add an air of romance. Couples are rocking up to their reception by helicopter, or choosing to end the night with a glittering sparkler send-off, which also looks amazing in photos.

Same day slideshow

Nothing screams celebrity wedding more than having your very own slideshow. At Donal Doherty Photography, we offer guests the option of a same-day slideshow. This means that at the reception, guests can view a selection of photos taken of the day so far.

Floral frenzy

Lashings of flowers are a must at a celebrity wedding so don’t be afraid to go over the top. Kimye’s floral backdrop sparked one of the biggest wedding trends with couples choosing to get more and more creative with their choice of flowers. When it comes to celebrity weddings, tables are always filled with fabulous flowers. From centrepieces to adorning the backs of chairs, nothing is left uncovered. For the real wow factor, choose centrepieces with height to instantly add drama to a room.

Include a dress code

One way to have a celebrity style wedding is to include a black-tie dress code. Easily nod to the rich and famous with black tuxes and floor length dresses. This is the perfect way to ensure guests look the part.

Magical music

Musical entertainment of the best quality is a must at lavish weddings. Celebrities are renowned for hiring 10 piece orchestras, wedding bands and a DJ. When it comes to your entertainment, upping the ante will definitely set the tone for your wedding day.

Wedding hashtag

Getting your wedding trending is the perfect way to make like a celebrity. Getting guests to post photos of your wedding day with your chosen hashtag while not only show everyone how amazing your day is, but it’s also an easy way to keep track of all the photos shared. Creating your very own wedding hashtag couldn’t be easier. Check out this handy generator here.

Party all night long

Celebrities are known for their extended parties, and with many weddings ending at around 1pm, extend the night and keep the party alive. Create an after-hours lounge, with low tables, lots of comfy cushions and candlelight. Invite your closest family and friends and serve them wedding cake and after-party drinks over music for the perfect end to the perfect day.

Lavish gifts for guests

One way to ensure your guests and wedding party never forget your wedding is by creating luxe gift bags or extravagant favors, something which celebrities never fail to neglect. For a budget blowout option, treat guests to a personalised bottle of champagne, with gourmet truffles. Or, for a budget friendly version, choose a mini bottle.

Choose the BEST wedding album

When the wedding is over, you’ll need the best album to preserve your luxurious wedding day photos. Cue our Queensbury wedding album. The epitome of luxury, your wedding album will be stylishly presented.

At Donal Doherty Photography, we treat EVERY couple like celebrities! For the VIP treatment, get in touch here to check availability for your wedding day.