A Checklist For Moving In With Your Partner
A BRIDAL LUNCHEON WITH DINE INDULGE + Tips and Ideas For Planning One
So how many bridal showers are too many? I’m curious, how many pre-wedding celebrations did you have? Because I seriously think I’m going to end up having more than what’s considered the norm, I intend on dragging this out as long as I can 😀 Thanks to Dine Indulge I hosted my bridal luncheon with some of my closest friends to celebrate the fact that we’ve FINALLY set a date for our wedding and that we’ve booked our wedding venue. I’ll tell you all about that in another post but; SPOILER ALERT! I’ts not going to be in Mexico as we’d originally planned. Anyway, back to my bridal luncheon. Last weekend, I invited my old school buddies to lunch at my new house cooked by a professional chef, courtesy of Dine Indulge. So, I thought I’d share some of the photos with you all.
I was looking forward to doing something a little different with my gal pals to celebrate the occasion, so hiring a private chef to cook for us from the comfort of my own home was perfect. It suited the fact that it was a more casual affair, but the restaurant style food made it that bit more special.
As a vegan I was super impressed by the wide range of choice on the many different menus Dine Indulge has on offer. I chose the Asian course from the express menu. I LOVE Asian food so I knew I was going to enjoy it however I had two issues, the first that I wouldn’t be able to eat the desert as it wasn’t vegan and secondly, one of my gals pals couldn’t eat the prawns? However, I really needn’t have been concerned, our chef Chloe swapped in the vegan option for my friend who couldn’t eat prawns and the chocolate orange tart from the special course on the express menu so I was able to eat the desert which almost never happens. I cannot begin to tell you how good the food was! Everyone was commenting on how amazing it tasted, why I haven’t heard of Dine Indulge before I’ll never know.
Chloe was the nicest person and I had no qualms about letting her cook in my home, she even did the washing up! Chloe if your reading this can you come and live with us please!
Well that’s all for the pre-wedding celebrations for this year. But I’ll soon be sharing more about our venue and our decision to change our wedding location so stay tuned, I cant wait to tell you more!
Tips and Ideas for Planning a BRIDAL LUNCHEON
Planning a bridal luncheon is like setting the stage for a sweet, heartfelt encore before the grand finale of the wedding. It’s an event full of charm and gratitude—a time to gather the important women in the bride’s life, from moms to best friends to childhood pen pals (if that’s still a thing!). Whether you’re the bride, a bridesmaid, or the trusty planner, here are some tips to make the luncheon as unforgettable as the main event itself.
First, let’s talk about the vibe. A bridal luncheon is naturally more laid-back than the wedding, which is all the more reason to go for an aesthetic that feels like a breath of fresh air. Think floral dresses, sunny terraces, and tiny sandwiches—yes, tiny sandwiches, because they’re adorable and make everyone feel like they’re in a Jane Austen novel. If you’re hosting outdoors, maybe add a cozy seating nook or even a flower crown station for a whimsical touch. There’s something magical about sipping lemonade in the garden, wearing a crown of fresh flowers, and giggling with friends before the chaos of the wedding week kicks in.
On the other hand, if you’re going for an indoor bridal luncheon, consider a high-tea theme with vintage china and sparkling glasses. But here’s a tip: don’t let “high tea” scare you into a regimented affair. It’s more about an intimate, delicate feel than following any set rules. And remember, not everything has to match. In fact, a little mix-and-match with vintage dishes or linens can make the table feel like it’s pulled right out of a storybook.
One thing I’ve learned from planning bridal luncheons is that everyone’s secretly craving a creative twist. Sure, brunch and mimosas are a classic, but why not surprise guests with a tasting menu of mini desserts or an interactive element, like DIY mimosa stations? People love a little creativity with their carbs. And don’t even get me started on the allure of a dessert bar filled with pastel-colored macarons and mini cakes.
Now, let’s address a key question: Should you give gifts at the bridal luncheon? My take? A small token of appreciation is thoughtful, especially if it’s something that can be used at the wedding, like personalized fans for an outdoor ceremony or little bottles of essential oil for relaxation before the big day. But don’t go overboard—bridal showers are usually for the larger gift-giving moments. The luncheon should feel like a relaxed, cozy way to celebrate each person’s role in the journey to “I do.”
A little entertainment can also make a bridal luncheon memorable. Picture this: a friend playing acoustic guitar, sharing a laugh over old photos, or even a short toast or two. But remember, the last thing a bride needs is to be embarrassed with stories that might make Grandma blush! Keep it lighthearted, and if anyone wants to share a funny memory, make sure it’s wedding-appropriate.
The beauty of a bridal luncheon is its simplicity—a moment to pause and savor. Amid the whirlwind of planning and timelines, it’s like a mini celebration of the love, friendships, and family ties that make the bride’s world go round.
