Wonderbra Men

March 8^th is International Women’s Day. A public holiday in some countries, it is a great opportunity to reflect on how much you respect, appreciate, value and treasure the women in your life.

 

Female friends
Your female friends are very special whether you are a man or a woman. Men say their female friends often fulfill a more emotional role in their lives than their male mates. Not being romantically involved means that, with female friends, men often feel more able to let down their macho facade and show their vulnerability. Women are generally good listeners and can provide a valuable source of emotional support – especially in the area of relationships – while still being up for a laugh. 

 

 

 Mothers
It often isn’t until you lose your mum that you realise how special and unique your relationship with her is. It is a tricky role being a mum, especially to a son, because you naturally want the very best for your boy – and unfortunately most women leave something to be desired when viewed through the eyes of a protective mother. If your mum is very critical of your choice of women remember she only wants the best for you but she may not be the best judge of what that is – you are. 

As well as International Women’s Day, March also hosts Mothers Day on the 18^th. Use this opportunity to show your mum how much she means to you.

 

 

 

Sisters
If you are lucky enough to have a sister you will know that it can be a highly emotive, volatile relationship, with sibling rivalry and competitiveness coupled with fierce loyalty and a sense of permanence – your sister will always be your sister even if you fall out and don’t talk for a while. Sisters are the ones who really understand when you talk about your past and your parents and can challenge you if they think your perception is off. Sisters know and appreciate you in ways no other women in your life ever will. They are great people to ask when you need a female perspective on your online dating profile or a new match – they won’t pull the punches but they might be less likely to be possessive of you than your close female friends.

 

 

Female colleagues
Women have different energies, skills and aptitudes to men and as such are more likely to be able to work alongside you than against you in a competitive way, appreciate the differences. 

 

Author Kathy Lette once said: “It's good to remember that women are each other's human Wonderbras – uplifting, supportive and making each other look bigger and better”. I say men can be human Wonderbras too!

Posh English tackles Ginger Irish

Ideas for the perfect wedding meal

Your wedding is one of the most important days of your life, and careful advance planning can ensure things run smoothly. You want the day to reflect your personalities as well as being a fun occasion for your guests.

One thing couples agonise over is the food. Trying to accommodate the tastes and preferences of all your family and friends can be difficult, so it’s best to keep things simple. A sit-down lunch or dinner is the typical wedding meal, but since most people have months to plan it, why not do something a bit different?

The great outdoors

There are many ways to make your special day stand out. For a summer wedding, the obvious suggestion is to go with an outdoor reception. But you can’t guarantee good weather, and particularly in the UK the climate can be temperamental. A marquee can create an interesting space in a garden party and will offer shelter if it suddenly starts to rain.

If you choose an outdoor option, a picnic on the beach is always a winner. You can spread comfortable seats out on the sand with picnic hampers for each group of chairs, equivalent to tables at an indoor venue. Food hampers are an interesting option, even if your reception is indoors. Use gingham tablecloths teamed with fresh flowers and grass around the dining room, and you can create the feel of a traditional picnic without worrying about being outside in your wedding dress.

Grub’s up

It is important to consider the dietary requirements of your guests. Most wedding venues will offer vegetarian options, but it's also worth finding out whether anyone is vegan, lactose intolerant or allergic to wheat. If you find that you have a lot of guests who will need catering for separately, a buffet may be a better option. Many people have pre-conceptions about buffets as being reminiscent of child’s birthday party, but they can be extremely sophisticated and enjoyable if you go with a good catering company and make sure you sample every dish.


The perfect cake

The cake is the ultimate treat everyone will be waiting for. A traditional iced fruitcake is always a safe choice, but if you want to be a little more inventive, there are many exciting alternatives. Cupcake or macaroon towers are popular and have the right mix of sweet-tooth appeal and decadence. For a bit of fun you could add an ice-cream sculpture or a chocolate fountain.

Personal touches

The most important thing to remember when choosing food for your wedding is that it should match the occasion in tone and style. If you have a small, intimate wedding with close friends and family, it may seem inappropriate to have a six-course sit-down meal after the ceremony. After all, your guests are not there for the food, but rather to share your special day. Something personal will go down better than a gourmet banquet.

Resource box

Designer wedding cakes  

Pan-European wedding planners

Wedding-day advice