All the latest wedding news for couples getting married in the North West, along with bridal fashion and beauty inspiration and honeymoon ideas.
£2,000 jewellery giveaway from UK retailer Goldsmiths
In more positive news, the most recent announcement from the UK government has given the go-ahead for weddings to begin a slow return to normality, starting on March 8th, with the aim of lifting restrictions in full by June 21st. With light at the end of the tunnel for those looking to say "I do" in 2021, luxury UK jewellery retailer Goldsmiths was keen to help ease the financial burden of a wedding and have launched a competition to giveaway £1,000 worth of Goldsmiths' own jewellery to two lucky winners.... read more
Posted: 8 March 2021
Florencia and Fernando celebrated their love with a separate service and blessing
Florencia and Fernando met at a wine fair in Argentina. "I'm a sommelier, and Fernando is a wine enthusiast with a website focused on the food and wine community," says Florencia. "It all started as a professional relationship where I would write articles for his site, but over time we realised that our common interests ran deeper and that we loved spending time together. Being with each other has made us better, just like a good food and wine pairing!" Fernando popped the question on 5th May, 2020. "We had just dropped my parents at the airport after they planned to visit for a three week holiday but ended up staying for eight weeks due to the first lockdown," shares the bride. "We were back at our flat at a little past midnight and had just finished dinner when he offered me a nightcap. I was so tired and said I'd share one with him, but he insisted that I get my own.... read more
Posted: 5 March 2021
World Book Day Weddings - be inspired
World book day on 8th March celebrates literature in all its forms, as well as all the creativity, imagination and that little spark of magic that makes a tale worth telling. All book worms know there's nothing better than getting lost in a good novel. If you and your future spouse both share a love of literature, then theming your wedding day around a favourite book could be a great way to celebrate your shared passion. Whether it's delving into the wonderful world of Alice in Wonderland or finding out what's through the wardrobe, Liz Taylor of event management company the Taylor Lynn Corporation (TLC) shares her ideas for World Book Day weddings, with a look inside some of her most famous literary creations.... read more
Posted: 5 March 2021
Netherwood Hotel & Spa has a lovely new treatment list
Netherwood Hotel & Spa has begun working with Elemis and has a lovely new treatment list. The Grade II listed manor house provides a haven for rest and relaxation with restorative treatments and pampering beauty treatments. The Spa Garden is a social space to enjoy all year round, while the Whispering Lounge provides an area for quiet relaxation. There's also a thermal suite and bubbly hot tubs where you can sit back and enjoy a glass of bubbly. Couples can choose from a list of massages, treatments to help reduce fine lines, blemishes and tired-looking skin, eyelash tints, manicures, pedicures and waxing.... read more
Posted: 4 March 2021
Win a post-lockdown hen do with BLOOM Gin
BLOOM Gin, the popular premium gin brand, is giving 2021 brides the chance to win a post-lockdown hen do to remember - and after being cooped up for a year with no plans in the diary here at County Wedding Magazines HQ we think this is quite the treat! After Covid-19 has wreaked havoc for many brides-to-be who have been forced to move their celebrations, BLOOM Gin wants to make sure that 2021 is filled with fun times and happy memories only, by giving brides-to-be and their hens the chance to win the ultimate hen do experience.... read more
Posted: 3 March 2021
The benefits of having two photographers
A second photographer is a great asset for several reasons. Primarily, if you like the reportage style, the second shooter is usually tasked with quietly circulating amongst the congregation during the group photographs. This is where natural images tend to be found. The primary supplier will be dealing with the groups while the second tends to go unnoticed and can catch relatives laughing or children playing. On a personal note, I've always found the long aisle shot of the back of the dress tends to be one of the bride's favourite images from the day. Once the primary photographer has taken up a position at the front, they can't move away. This is one of the many things that tend to be reliant on the second shooter.... read more
Posted: 3 March 2021
Get married at the historic Hyde Bank Farm
Hyde Bank Farm is a gorgeous Grade II listed stone barn that dates back to 1655. The property has a rich history and once belonged to Anne Hyde, the Duchess of York, who married James II. Set within acres of rich countryside, the farm is the perfect setting to take those all-important photographs. The venue has been lovingly converted and furnished to a high quality with striking oak beams, stone walls and heaps of charming character.... read more
Posted: 2 March 2021
‘Insta-worthy’ engagement posts
From famous landmarks to atmospheric candles - Austen & Blake, diamond ring specialists, has revealed the engagement posts that got the most love and what makes them so 'likeable'. The company analysed hundreds of the top 'liked' Instagram photos from around the world to find out the common features that appear the most.With more than 2 million #isaidyes and 1 million #wereengaged and #wegotenagaged hashtags appearing on the popular platform, there was no shortage of love announcements to choose from.So what makes an engagement picture go viral other than people being happy for you? Below, Austen & Blake breaks down the features you need to know about if you want to nail the perfect post.... read more
Posted: 1 March 2021
Top tips on choosing your wedding entertainment
There's so much choice and variety when booking and planning your wedding entertainment. They will spend a lot of time with you and your guests on the big day and will interact and influence everyone. Make a list of what you want, questions to ask and what is important to you. What music do they play? What is their setup like? Can they meet in person or Skype? Set a budget and be realistic. DJ prices vary, and less experienced entertainers will be cheaper than a company with lots of weddings under their belt. Bands will also cost more.... read more
Posted: 26 February 2021
Pop the question with Team Hen
After this week's announcement giving us the go ahead to start making plans again for the summer and beyond it's no better time to set about planning your hen do! From hen party connoisseurs Team Hen, the arrival of its new bridesmaid and maid-of-honour proposal gift boxes means there's no better way to pop the question to your bride tribe. Here at County Wedding Magazines HQ we think they make the perfect gifts for you best girls - can we have one!... read more
Posted: 26 February 2021
Award-winning pet care company, Thea’s Lakeland Walks has launched an online store
Thea's Lakeland Walks, an award-winning pet care company based in Penrith, has launched an online store selling charming bracelets, treat boxes for dogs and cats and lick mats. The team provide quality pet care in Cumbria and the surrounding area and specialise in wedding and event assistance. From a short walk during your wedding breakfast to full daycare, boarding, photography assistance and transport, there are a range of options available to help incorporate your beloved pooch into your big day. Thea's Lakeland Walks also offer a range of faux floral collars to hire for your wedding day to help your furry companion look their best.... read more
Posted: 25 February 2021
Seasonal outfits for the mother-of-the-bride or groom
One of my favourite elements of modern occasion wear is the choice available in both styles and colours. Dresses and jackets remain a popular look and come in a whole host of beautiful fabrics with exquisite detailing. For summer weddings, lots of mums opt for a stand-alone dress which can be equally glamourous. Variety is key, from chic shift shapes to full-skirted styles and everything in between. It's always a good idea to try on a mixture of fabrics and colours to get a feel for what suits.... read more
Posted: 24 February 2021
I do, I do, I do... with a prenuptial agreement in place!
Not just reserved for celebrities and millionaires, prenuptial agreements are becoming increasingly popular with modern couples too, no matter their financial status. With the uncertainty 2020 has brought to the economic and employment market, it can only be seen as a positive step to raise awareness of the importance of prenuptial agreements and eliminate the stigma surrounding them. Millennials, in particular, need to be made aware of the significance of prenups, as they aren't necessarily something to be viewed negatively or avoided, it's simply a sensible way to protect yourself and your finances.... read more
Posted: 24 February 2021
Say 'I do' at Macdonald Leeming House
Standing in 22 acres of gardens and woodland, Macdonald Leeming House is sat majestically at the top of a stone-built external staircase that leads down to Ullswater Lake. This former Georgian private house is classically decorated with period furniture in the public areas and open fires in the sitting rooms. The exclusive-use hotel dates back more than 200 years and offers impressive views over the Cumbrian fells and houses a small meadow at the bottom of the garden, which is perfect for photographs.... read more
Posted: 23 February 2021
The road map to freedom.... and weddings!
Here at County Wedding Magazines HQ yesterday, as we waited with bated breath to hear what Boris Johnson had to say in his announcement, our biggest concern was that he wouldn't address the wedding and events sector at all in his initial proposals for the coming months. One big exhale later, and we were delighted that we had SOMETHING we can start shouting about and we're certainly here to be the ones to do it - yipee!... read more
Posted: 23 February 2021
Getting married? Make sure you debunk your mortgage before tying the knot
First comes love, then comes marriage, then comes...... a mortgage! Yes, it may not sound that romantic, but owning your own home is high on the agenda for many nearlyweds-to-be. While wedding plans may be top of the list, lots of couples picture themselves settling into married life in the comfort of their perfect home without always considering the complexities that need some thought before achieving homeownership – such as being self-employed, having bad credit or being a single parent. Applying for a mortgage can feel like information overload, and hard to separate the facts from fiction. There are many misconceptions around mortgage lending, which can be harmful as many people are left feeling insecure about their financial situation. To help couples navigate the word of mortgages, Paul Coss, Co-Founder of Haysto, has debunked five common myths:... read more
Posted: 22 February 2021
This past year has placed extra significance on those precious holiday memories, and if you're dreaming of far away lands and distant shores then these travel-inspired prints will be a welcome delight. Perfect to add to your big-day gift list, and to adorn your home as newlyweds, Places & Spaces Art Co. has a wide range of original and personalised art prints - why not gift to your loved one with the sentiment of looking forward to your honeymoon when we can travel again?... read more
Posted: 19 February 2021
Be inspired by this breathtaking set of images at The Coppermines Lakes Cottages
This gorgeous set of images were taken in the Lake District. To find out more we spoke to the photographer, Clare Gelderd. She tells us: "Using a palette of earthy tones, beautiful blousy blue blooms and a selection of rustic copper and slate textures we were able to bring the venue to life. Mining for copper in the valley dates back to the 16th -century, and in 1982 the buildings were purchased by Philip Johnson, who set about rebuilding and restoring the property to create a must-see wedding venue. The hair, make-up and attire were styled to suit a relaxed and energetic day, leaving no restrictions for embracing the great outdoors. Locally produced hand-crafted canapes flow with the day, and the cake was in keeping with the concept and fit beautifully in the wedding barn. Within this peaceful Lake District mountain range, guests are only muted by the romantic softening tones from the harpist. This venue has it all, accommodation, parking and most importantly, a setting you can frame as you feel appropriate."... read more
Posted: 19 February 2021
Wolf & Gypsy has partnered with Women’s Aid in celebration of International Women’s Day
Manchester-based jewellers, Wolf & Gypsy has partnered with Women's Aid in celebration of International Women's Day. Between 8th and 14th March, 2021, Wolf & Gypsy will be donating 10 per cent of sales to Women's Aid, the national charity that strive to put an end to domestic abuse against women and children. The Coronavirus crisis has made domestic abuse much harder to detect. Therefore, female founder of the brand, Tori Shay felt a strong connection to the charity and wanted to help make a difference. Tori first developed Wolf & Gypsy in 2018 after a long love affair with jewellery. She combines her love of symbolism, spiritualty, culture and travelling into her creations, forging stunning pieces with a deep meaning behind each one.... read more
Posted: 18 February 2021
Bliss Wedding Shows have announced three upcoming events
Looking for the best suppliers for your big day? Bliss Wedding Shows have announced three upcoming events. The Chester Wedding Fair at Chester Racecourse is taking place on the 7th March, St George's Hall Wedding Fair on the 21st March, and the Liverpool Town Hall Wedding Show is on the 28th March. Brides and grooms can expect to see a line up of exhibitors, catwalk shows, goody bags, live entertainment, special offers and exclusive discounts. There will be a host of ideas and inspirations from companies covering bridalwear, cakes, flowers, photography, jewellery, stationery and much more.... read more
Posted: 18 February 2021
In lockdown 3.0 most of us would be hard pushed to remember a time when we could plan a wedding without having to consider the necessary social restrictions. Usual headaches like seating plans and flowers seem minor in comparison to having to contend with whether The Big Day can even go ahead or how the guest list can be reduced enough to comply. Even with the initial successes of the vaccine rollout, we're all still facing a long road ahead, before we can get back to normality.... read more
Posted: 17 February 2021
How to incorporate nature into your big-day flowers
When a client is going for a relaxed wedding we normally suggest sticking to the basics and adding on where necessary. Start with the bridal bouquet. You don't want to mix up relaxed and minimal/simple. A relaxed bouquet can be a mixture of colours and varieties that look handpicked giving off a natural homemade feel. Next, opt for something complementary for the bridesmaids in a smaller size and a simple cluster of flowers bound with some twine for the buttonholes.... read more
Posted: 17 February 2021
Situated in the heart of Lancashire, Sparth House is a beautiful white Georgian manor house dating back more than 280 years. Surrounded by trees and set within three acres of land, it's easy to forget that the venue is only five minutes from the motorway. Sparth House has large gardens at the front and back of the property with rolling lawns perfect for games and photographs. Blossom trees line Confetti Lane, and there's plenty of outdoor seating where guests can sit and relax. With a nod to the venue's 14th-century heritage and Georgian architecture, all areas of the house have been refurbished to create a modern and elegant space. There are 16 bedrooms to choose from, cosy lounge fires, a main staircase and much more.... read more
Posted: 16 February 2021
Government announcement – what we need to happen
With less than a week to go until Monday the 22nd February, the whole wedding industry waits on Boris Johnson's announcement to outline the roadmap out of lockdown. Here at County Wedding Magazines HQ we have completely and whole-heartedly empathised with the whole of our wedding community, from the couples who have had to postponed their weddings on multiple occasions, to the businesses that have had to adapt to new restrictions and regulations to overcome such dire prospects in the last year. The UK wedding industry normally hosts 20 million wedding guests and 252,000 weddings every year, worth more than £10billion to Britain's economy. Unbelievably despite these astronomical figures, many wedding industry professionals have had little if any support from government financial schemes over the course of the last year.... read more
Posted: 16 February 2021
Most romantic destinations in the UK
The last year has certainly changed the way we make our plans; local weddings and UK minimoons will be a priority for this year and beyond! Luckily, the UK has some stunning coastal locations, idyllic countryside hotspots and cool cities to suit whatever your desires. Why not even mix it up with a city escape mixed with countryside charm; London and the home counties are all on your doorstep! Holiday cottage company, Lyme Bay Holidays have analysed data to find the UK's most romantic destinations and Bristol ranks in the top ten. Read on to find out if your area features in the romance chart...... read more
Posted: 15 February 2021