how to have an English or American theme wedding

This article is designed to give brides on both sides of the Atlantic, tips and hints to make your special day have an authentic English or American theme.

differences between English and American weddings

Below is a list of the differences between English and American weddings so you can decide which elements to mix and match:

size of the bridal party

English bridal parties are small and often only contain a few select friends or family members. On average, a bride will only have three bridesmaids compared to the six an American bride would have:

This could be because English brides are expected to pay for their bridesmaids' dresses and some extras, while American brides are not expected to pay for any element of their bridesmaids' outfit.

order of the day

The order of the day at English weddings is much more spread out and has many more customary stages. Whereas, American weddings are normally evening-based and the running order of events is much more compact.

wedding reception drinks

American weddings include a cocktail hour where the bride and groom get to spend time with their bridal party and close family alone before joining the other guests. This gives a wedding an intimate feeling. English weddings have reception drinks that mix all guests, leaving more time to mingle with everyone but less time with those closest to you.

wedding reception running order

American receptions start with the entrance of the bridal party and couple (often dancing), straight into first dance and cutting of the cake. Usually, the first dance and disco will begin as the food is served. Whereas, traditional English receptions start with a formal wedding three-course meal, speeches, cake cutting and then the first dance.

speeches and toasts

The English toast follows a strict order; father of the bride, groom and lastly best-man. The best man's speech usually is a roast and is designed with jokes about the groom.

American speeches are much more relaxed in order, and the bride will often also get the opportunity to speak. Guests should expect more sentimentality at an American wedding.

who pays for the reception bar tab

English weddings usually have a cash bar compared to the standard open bar provided by American couples. This can save the couple money, but this may affect the overall party atmosphere as guests may be more cautious with drinking.

American wedding ideas

• Add a wedding rehearsal dinner: This will allow both families to meet and get conversations started the evening before your wedding.
• Arrive in an extravagant American car and make sure your photographers get the perfect photos.
• Dance your way into the wedding breakfast: Pick a favourite tune and dance your way into the wedding reception to add a bit of fun to a formal English wedding.
• Include a wedding cocktail hour: This will give you both extra time with your bridal party before greeting your other guests.
• Make a bridal speech: Either share a speech with your groom or add in some of your thoughts and thanks.
• Have an open bar wedding reception: This will ensure your guests genuinely let their hair down and get to leave their money in their room.

how to have an English theme wedding

• Give your day an Englsh backdrop by picking a cultural or historical venue.
• Add a twist of English decoration with fabric bunting
• Start your wedding early and spread out the running order of the events, so you get more time to celebrate.
• Arrive by horse and carriage or classic car just like a real royal
• Include a high-tea rather than reception drinks and have tea flavoured treats and cocktails.
• Add sophistication to your day and include traditional English food, such as a roast dinner.

how to combine English and American wedding ideas

If you are keen to combine cultures on your special day, follow the below simple steps for the ultimate English and American wedding day

Decorate with English and American flags

• Add flag Bunting across your reception venue
• Ask your venue to fly Flags for both countries

have an English and American bridal party

• Choose Bridesmaids dresses in royal blue or ruby red
• Have beautiful red, white and blue floral arrangements and bouquets
• Get your groom's party wearing flag theme socks

Serve English and American wedding food

• Pick a flag cake or ask your cake maker to design something unique that incorporates both cultures.
• Design and serve traditional American and English cocktails at the reception
• Include English and American snacks or sweets for hungry guests
• Host an evening American bbq or English cold-meat buffet

Add final English and American touches

• Divide wedding favours by nationality
• create a transatlantic wedding playlist