All the latest wedding news for couples getting married in the North West, along with bridal fashion and beauty inspiration and honeymoon ideas.
Take a peek at the grand West Tower
Set back from a quiet country lane, West Tower sits proudly at the end of a secluded driveway surrounded by well-kept gardens with mature shrubs and trees. Situated in eight acres, the building commands an uninterrupted view of the Lancashire countryside and is a photographer's paradise at sunset. Built as a family home in 1885, the hotel has 27 guest bedrooms in addition to a bridal suite allowing up to 65 guests to stay on the night of the wedding. The state-of-the-art Crystal Suite Dressing Room is also available for brides and grooms to use in the morning.... read more
Posted: 24 November 2020
Almost Mr & Mrs gifts for would-be brides and grooms
Exclusively for Christmas, London-based Pink Positive has launched a collection of 'Almost Mr & Mrs' gifts for would-be brides and grooms, including festive mugs and sweatshirts. With 71 per cent* of couples postponing their wedding this year due to the global pandemic, the collection is a thoughtful way to bring some cheer. The collection also includes the signature 'personalised gift boxes' with custom gift message inside the lid to make every gift look amazing with a luxurious finishing touch!... read more
Posted: 23 November 2020
DarkleMoner Photography showcases some of their favourite work
"As the evening celebrations were about to start, I saw the bride taking a moment to herself, indulging in a beverage. I converted the original image from colour to greyscale to create stark contrasts and bring out the interesting backlighting. For the groom image, this ceremony was held on a beautiful spring day at the Best Western Higher Trapp Country House Hotel in Simonstone. The groom can be seen waiting patiently for this bride- to-be. As she descends a flight of stairs, he stands, eyes on her, composed and earnest."... read more
Posted: 20 November 2020
Are we all longing for more romance?
Ahhh 'romance', here at County Wedding Magazines HQ we are, of course, suckers for a classic, romantic love story! Apparently, a quarter of Brits (24%) are to, and admit they are longing for a little more romance in their life, according to new research from luxury UK jewellery retailer Goldsmiths - who also looked at the UK's perception of romance in their own lives as well as the films they favour when they're looking for a little bit of love!... read more
Posted: 20 November 2020
Qube Events & Productions made it to the finals of the Great British Entrepreneur Awards
Debbie Marks, the founder of Manchester-based décor and styling company, Qube Events & Productions is a finalist in the Great British Entrepreneur Awards in the Creative Industries category. Founded in 2013, the awards acknowledge the hard work and inspiring stories of entrepreneurs and businesses in the UK. Debbie started her business while on maternity leave 12 years ago and grew a passion for delivering creative events. Given what we've seen over the past few months, the 2020 edition of our awards is arguably the most important.... read more
Posted: 19 November 2020
How to re-book your wedding entertainment
This is an important question to ask with everything that's going on right now. The very first thing you should do is make sure your supplier has your new date available. Lots of musicians have already had bookings for 2021 and 2022, and I for one have been re-booking weddings, so these dates are filling up fast. Check if there are any re-booking fees or an increase in pricing for future dates. I'm transferring all deposits to the new date and honouring all prices given previously, but some suppliers may be raising their prices, either due to recovery costs or inflation.... read more
Posted: 18 November 2020
How will law reforms impact weddings
In the biggest reform proposed to England's marriage ceremony law the Government's legal advisors have recommended that couples be allowed to marry in whatever outdoor location they choose. The current law, which prohibits couples from marrying in anything other than a permanent structure with a roof if the ceremony is to be solemnised legally, has been largely unchanged since 1836. The Law Commission (an independent body which scrutinises legislation) are wishing to radically modernise the current antiquated laws. There is a strong consensus from the public that reform is desperately required as the current laws are not fit for purpose nor are they reflective of the way in which people wish to solemnise their relationship.... read more
Posted: 18 November 2020
Celebrate your big day at Elizabeth Gaskell’s House
Elizabeth Gaskell's House is a restored Victorian property that once belonged to the writer, Elizabeth Gaskell. The Grade II* listed venue was built between 1835 and 1841 and is now surrounded by a beautiful garden oasis and a short driveway to the pillared entrance. Guests are welcome to explore the gardens which have planted borders, winding paths, a heavily scented pergola and native planting schemes. There's a range of period rooms available for ceremonies from the cosy, book-lined study to the Drawing Room where Elizabeth and her family used to entertain writers such as Charlotte Bronte and Charles Dickens.... read more
Posted: 17 November 2020
Dinner for one? Individual catering ideas for weddings in a pandemic
Good food is very often simple food! We all know that coronavirus has thrown wedding plans across the UK into chaos. The traditional ceremony, wedding breakfast and evening do is being revamped and reworked from a safety-first viewpoint. Aside from the face coverings, hand sanitiser and social distancing, there's also the catering to think about. Gone are the days of canapés, sharing platters and serve yourself buffets – all hot spots for cross-contamination. Now, with the emphasis on not getting too close, innovative catering ideas that focus on the individual are coming into their own.We caught up with expert Liz Taylor, of wedding planners the Taylor Lynn Corporation, to hear her Covid-friendly wedding catering ideas that put safety first; without losing the taste, impact and importantly the style, from the occasion.... read more
Posted: 16 November 2020
AS Photography reveal three of their favourite images
Photographs are more than just keepsakes. They're a way of reliving those happy memories over and over again and reminding yourself of just how wonderful life can be. These photos provided by Angelika Szymoniak from Angelika Szymoniak Photography are from the latest wedding she's done. "These are very special to me as it took place after lockdown and the couple were only allowed six guests. It's a difficult time for everyone which makes these images even more special."... read more
Posted: 13 November 2020
Diamonds are a girl's (or guy's) best friend!
Ooooh what a lovely prize we have in store for our County Wedding Magazines readers over the next fortnight. After such a miserable year, we're now at the start of a grey and gloomy winter season; what better way to bring some sparkle to your life than by winning a £200 voucher to spend at thediamondstore.co.uk? Whether you want to spend it on a little pick-me-up gift for yourself, or put if towards your wedding rings or bridal party gifts, the choice is yours if you end up being our lucky winner!... read more
Posted: 13 November 2020
Wolf & Gypsy, a new jeweller in Manchester, has launched a new collection
Wolf & Gypsy, a new jeweller in Manchester, has seen rapid growth over the last few months, with celebrities such as Fearne Cotton and Louise Thomspon now wearing its pieces. The brand creates intricate jewellery using recycled sterling silver, gold vermeil and ethically sourced conflict-free gemstones, all manufactured and handcrafted by talented artisans in an ethical workshop in India. To celebrate their success, the company has expanded its offering with a gorgeous new vintage collection, offering high-quality, one-of-a-kind pieces.... read more
Posted: 12 November 2020
DarkleMoner Photography is offering our lovely readers 15% off her services
I got my first camera at the around of 11, and have been photographing all the things happening in my life ever since. Upon finishing school, I began work with a veterinary practice, and a few years later, I moved onto a photo processing company, where my interest in photography came alive. A few years later, a dear friend asked me to photograph her wedding. I was so delighted to be part of her special day, and I began my journey capturing emotion and spontaneity.... read more
Posted: 11 November 2020
Dance the night away at Augill Castle
Augill Castle is situated in the gloriously unspoilt Eden Valley between the Yorkshire Dales and Lake District National Parks. The 15 acres of grounds are a mixture of formal and country gardens, with historic turrets and castellations, perfect for taking photographs. The property was built in 1841, and in 1997 the current owners bought it and worked hard to transform it into the luxurious wedding venue we see today. Inside, there is a range of quirky and decadent rooms and suites available, spacious public rooms and antique furniture.... read more
Posted: 10 November 2020
Rhiannon and Mark met while working on a performance of The King and I. "Our musical director ended up being one of Mark's groomsmen and a witness for our marriage." Mark proposed during a romantic trip to Paris. "We spent the day visiting the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum and the banks of Seine, but it was blisteringly hot," shares the bride. "Once we arrived back at our hotel, Mark offered to let me take a cold shower to cool down first, which I gratefully did. Little did I know, he was getting the ring ready and started playing the song Perfect Day from my favourite film, Legally Blonde. I burst into the room dancing to the track and was greeted by Mark on one knee!"... read more
Posted: 6 November 2020
Linthwaite House has launched two packages to encourage couples to explore the great outdoors
Linthwaite House, a luxurious wedding venue in Windermere, has launched two packages to encourage couples to explore the great outdoors. The Peddle & Picnic package includes two nights accommodation, full English breakfast, cycle hire and a delicious picnic. Those looking for a more laid-back approach to their staycation might prefer the Row & Recharge option, which includes two nights accommodation, breakfast, use of the rowboat and a picnic. When not riding or rowing, there are plenty of peaceful corners in the grounds for guests to explore and safely social distance, such as the boules pitch, croquet lawn and outdoor chess set.... read more
Posted: 5 November 2020
How to choose the perfect venue stylist
I would start by looking at their website and viewing some of the products they have available. Get in touch and check their credentials and ask if their stock can be hired or sold. Make sure they have what you require either ready-made or bespoke and establish any delivery or collection costs. Ensure the firm is insured and if your wedding gets cancelled that you'll get your money back. Before booking, ask if they provide receipts, what deposit is needed and if the money is paid by a secure and safe method.... read more
Posted: 4 November 2020
Sending gifts to loved ones from a distance has never been so easy with Letterbox Gifts. As many people have not been able to host their planned weddings this year, or be able to see family and friends, what better time to share the love on what would have been your hen/stag do, or what would have been your wedding day. Letterbox Gifts have everything you could think of for sending that special person a little something straight through their letterbox. Each Letterbox Gift is gift-wrapped by hand and comes with a free personalised card, making it just that little bit more special for your loved ones to open.... read more
Posted: 4 November 2020
How luxury wedding venue Braxted Park is helping fellow wedding suppliers across the country
Stunning Essex vedding venue Braxted Park has not only diversified and adapted its own operations to fit with ever-changing restrictions on weddings during 2020, but it has also formed the Association of British Wedding Businesses (ABWB). The association aims to support its members and fellow wedding suppliers who have felt the effects of the coronavirus pandemic, as well as act as a liaison with the government – something which is even more important now we face the UK's second lockdown.... read more
Posted: 3 November 2020
Say your vows at Victoria Warehouse
Victoria Warehouse was built in the early 1900s and was originally used as a cotton storage facility. The property quickly became a symbol of strength and innovation in the city and, as a result, many of the historic features have been lovingly preserved. The venue offers innovative event spaces in the heart of Manchester, with exposed walls, stone floors and an urban backdrop. Located close to Salford Quays, there are plenty of quirky spots to take those all-important photographs.... read more
Posted: 3 November 2020
31 is the age that the average Brit will get married
One4all Gift Cards has launched a new interactive timeline which reveals the ages most worth looking forward to and what makes them so special – revealing 31 is the age that the average Brit will get married! A survey of 2,027 UK adults also revealed that the age at which we are most happy with our lives is 36. One4all Gift Cards has launched a new interactive timeline which reveals the ages most worth looking forward to and what makes them special. Brits can reflect on happy memories from their past while looking forward to some of the happy years and birthdays they have to come. According to the data, the average Brit has already ticked off key adulthood milestones by this point – and in fact, it shows that your late twenties and early thirties are a time to look forward to, due to the number of special occasions and achievements that are taking place in the average adult's life.... read more
Posted: 2 November 2020
Good things come in small packages with Mercure microweddings
2020 has been a year like no other for those planning their weddings with an estimated 75,000 weddings postponed this year. However, it has given couples the freedom to let go of all those big wedding expectations; and for brides and grooms who would like a more intimate day, Mercure's Microwedding experience is the perfect solution. From country houses to city-centre modern, couples can find a Mercure venue to suit their personality and suit the new government guidelines...... read more
Posted: 30 October 2020
Fall in love with this stunning bohemian-inspired shoot at Roanhead Beach
We adore these gorgeous images taken at Roanhead Beach. To find out more, we spoke to the photographer, Clare Gelderd: "Bohemian styled weddings are a hit right now because they're relaxed, fun and create a blank canvas. Imagine embracing the sand between your toes as you walk down the aisle with the sea breeze and sun on your face, the experience alone is priceless. I wanted to showcase my refreshing approach to photography, and with the help of some amazing suppliers, we created a gorgeous backdrop. We worked hand-in-hand to create the perfect picnic plater, a traditional gypsy cob, decorative features and stunning bridalwear."... read more
Posted: 30 October 2020
Raine & Bea, an award-winning lingerie company, has re-opened its doors and is launching a new collection. The Lancashire-based boutique first launched in 2018 and offers a range of styles including a luxurious bridal collection. Alongside its designs from the owner, Jenna Barnes, it also showcases British-owned brands including Something Wicked, Studio Pia and Katherine Hamilton. Jenna has won a range of awards over the years, and the store is actually the smallest lingerie boutique in Britain.... read more
Posted: 29 October 2020
Creating a Christmas-themed cake
For a glamorous option, you could opt for a spectacular all-white cake with oversized snowflakes and snowballs. A dusting of edible glitter will add some sparkle in the candlelight. A white bakewill also provide a stunning backdrop for a more traditional Christmas theme and can be decorated with deep red sugar roses, green garlands of holly and ivy and red berries. If cool chic is more your style, then a Nordic theme with stag heads, hand-painted reindeer, prints and a green, red, cream and grey colour scheme could be the way forward.... read more
Posted: 28 October 2020