Your North West Wedding news and ideas from around the region

What’s next for weddings? The Wedding Shop reveals all

Multi-award-winning gift list service, The Wedding Shop has revealed new data, showing the trends that are shaping weddings and couples' gift lists for 2026. Based on information from over 80,000 couples gathered since 2019, the leading personal gift service has looked at changes in how couples are choosing to celebrate, and how their dearest and nearest are gifting them to mark their special day with some surprising results.

The Curling Club is celebrating its largest winter season with a new Manchester site

The Curling Club, one of the UK's favourite alpine-themed winter entertainment, is celebrating its largest winter season to date, with a new Manchester destination. The Curling Club debut in Manchester's New Jackson district is set among its world-class skyscraper skyline. With state-of-the-art curling lanes, après ski bars, DJs, dancers, and festive food, the venue is a standout addition to Manchester's winter social scene. Perfect for hen and stag dos, it's open until 28th February 2026.

Eve Muirhead, Olympic gold medallist and Team GB's Chef de Mission, also returns as Ambassador and is lending her experience and insider knowledge to the site, bringing her competitive spirit and passion for curling to this uniquely British winter experience.

Getting married soon? Sort finances before saying 'I do'

A wedding is a promise of a shared future, but concerningly, especially when it comes to retirement, many couples delay discussion of how they'll plan for their future finances. Mapping out your finances to track life's milestone moments long before the big day is important to ensure both partners feel confident and prepared - from the prospect of taking a possible career break, to job loss, potential illness and being comfortably affording retirement.

Looking for a local getaway? Kirkstone Cottage is in the Lake District National Park

Premier Cottages features around 850 luxury self-catering properties across the UK, ranging from small, romantic boltholes to large family-friendly country estates. The collection includes pet-friendly and glamping accommodation as well as the widest range of accessible properties in the UK. Properties often have onsite facilities like swimming pools, gyms, spas, indoor games rooms and children's play areas.

Kirkstone is tucked within two acres of serene gardens in the Lake District National Park, Mirefoot Cottages offer a luxurious winter escape where guests can unwind using the exclusive spa with a 16-metre pool, sauna, and Jacuzzi. After days spent exploring nearby Windermere or Kendal, retreat to your stylish, firelit cottage before enjoying a massage or treatment available to book. It sleeps four people and prices start at £1071 for a three-night stay in January.

The UK Hen & Stag Destinations Everyone’s Booking for 2026

Once dominated by big nights out and budget flights abroad, hen and stag parties in the UK are having a rethink, and things are now looking very different. Research suggests that pre-wedding celebrations could be completely sober as early as 2040, with groups instead embracing alcohol-free celebrations that they're more likely to remember. Also, rising travel costs, tighter schedules and a growing appetite for wellness experiences are pushing more groups to stay closer to home.

Local supplier spotlight: Town Head Estate

Town Head Estate is a romantic wedding haven on the shores of Windermere. Set within 130 acres of private grounds, it offers a serene walled garden, an original glasshouse and exclusivity for you and your guests. Here, you can wander along half a mile of private lake frontage, explore the boathouse, enjoy luxury accommodation, and set sail on the estate's motoryacht.

Thoughtfully modernised yet full of character, the venue blends natural beauty with contemporary comforts. The Wedding Barn perfectly marries rustic charm with elegant details – exposed stone walls, oak beams and underfloor heating create a warm, inviting atmosphere. A traditional stone bank barn, it offers entry from both the lower and upper levels. The lower level is home to a stylish bar and a relaxed lounge area, ideal for gathering with loved ones. Open stairs lead to the upper floor where an airy, light-flooded space awaits, ready to seat up to 120 guests for your ceremony and wedding breakfast.

The Dunes Hotel is nestled on the Cumbrian coast

Nestled on the Cumbrian coast, The Dunes Hotel has fast become one of the North West's most desirable wedding destinations. With breathtaking scenery, elegant interiors, and a dedicated team that goes above and beyond, it's no surprise that many couples have already secured their 2026 dates.

From intimate celebrations to grand gatherings, The Dunes offers versatile spaces designed to bring your vision to life. The Hawthwaite Suite, with its soft lighting and chic décor, creates the perfect backdrop for a dreamy ceremony, while The Terrace and outdoor grounds provide idyllic spots for stylish receptions and unforgettable photos. The hotel's 40 bedrooms ensure guests can celebrate into the night and wake up surrounded by luxury.

House of Books & Friends is inviting couples to say “I do” amongst its shelves

House of Books & Friends, an independent bookshop in Manchester, is inviting couples to say "I do" amongst its shelves. For the first time, couples can host intimate weddings in the bookshop, with space for up to 40 loved ones to share in the celebration.

Working with Ambience Venue Styling to bring gentle literary themes into the dressing of the space, the bookshop team have added some beautiful touches, enabling book fanatics to have the wedding that they have dreamed about.

The philosophy of white - Pantone's Colour of the Year

White has always been more than a colour; it is the quiet space between thought and form, the light-filled pause where the eye rests and the mind find clarity. Today, in a world buzzing with distraction, white takes on renewed significance. Pantone's selection of PANTONE 11-4201 Cloud Dancer as the Colour of the Year 2026 celebrates this very essence - a lofty, aerated white that whispers calm and serenity into a frenetic society. At James Cropper, the historic British papermaker, white is not just a conceptual ideal - it is a craft, a product, and a philosophy...

Wedding Flower Trends Set to Bloom in 2026

As couples begin planning their nuptials for the year ahead, 2026 wedding trends are already coming into bloom. Drawing inspiration from the likes of Bridgerton and regency-era romance, Lucy Hook, Floral Lead at Bloom & Wild, shares how brides and grooms can embrace these tones through their floral choices creating looks that feel understated yet refined, moving away from bold brights toward something more subtle, romantic and dreamlike.

String Infusion has launched a new side of its business called Fusion Live

String Infusion has launched a new side of its business called Fusion Live! Fusion Live specialises in high-energy, tailor-made DJ experiences that transform any event into an unforgettable celebration.

The team at String Infusion shared: "Whether you're looking for a solo DJ to set the vibe or a full-scale Ibiza-style orchestra to create an electrifying atmosphere, we deliver world-class entertainment designed around your vision. Our team consists of top-tier musicians and performers with years of industry experience, ensuring a seamless blend of live instruments, DJ sets, and interactive energy that keeps your guests engaged from start to finish. From luxury private parties and corporate events to large-scale productions, Fusion Live is your go-to entertainment partner. Let us bring your event to life with a fully customised, dynamic performance that stands out from the rest. Let's make it unforgettable."

Rosedale Botanics has created handwoven willow frames using potted plants

Flower arches at weddings are increasingly popular, but how sustainable are they? What if you had a ceremonial arch that you could plant afterwards? Rosie from Rosedale Botanics has created handwoven willow frames that support up to 80 potted plants to create a sustainable, eye-catching display. The arches are bespoke, allowing you to choose the shape, size and plants used. Although breathtaking alone, you could also choose to add flowers.

Rosie came up with the concept after seeing the devastating waste of cut flowers and plastic displays at weddings. With these beautiful arches, you and your guests can select your favourite plants at the end of the day to take home and plant as an everlasting keepsake.

Hen Party Trends for 2026

Hen parties in 2026 are shaping up to be even more expressive, more personal and far more adventurous than the familiar nights out of the past decade, according to hen party experts Book a Party. Brides and their friends are leaning into weekends that feel curated rather than copied. There is a clear move toward experiences that tell a story about the bride and the group. People want something that feels fresh and clever but still relaxed enough that everyone can enjoy themselves without pressure.

Six Stories has been listed in the Sunday Times 100 list of Britain’s fastest-growing private companies

The Manchester-born business, Six Stories, has appeared on the Sunday Times 100 list of Britain's fastest-growing private companies. This is fantastic news for the company, which has been awarded an Outstanding Achievement Award, and is a testament to its success in the industry. Brides and bridesmaids from all over the UK can shop their fashion-forward designs and bring an extra pop of luxe to their special day. From dresses and veils to bags and hen party outfits, there are plenty of designs to choose from.

Check out www.sixstories.co.uk for more information.

Expert Reveals Why Winter Weddings Are Making a Big Comeback in the UK

Once considered the "off-season" of the wedding world, winter is now becoming one of the most sought-after seasons for UK couples tying the knot. Industry experts say the trend is more than a passing phase, but rather it's the start of a long-term shift in how Brits envision their perfect day. To understand why couples are turning to crisp days, cosy settings, and festive flair, we spoke with Nick Bramer from Country House Weddings, who says winter weddings are not only more romantic, but strategically smart.

Mappin & Webb has opened a new showroom in Manchester

The Watches of Switzerland Group has announced the opening of Mappin & Webb's new jewellery showroom in Manchester. Located in St Ann's Square, the stunning Grade II listed building sits within a designated conservation area, and the exterior shopfront has been carefully restored in line with the original structure, including its distinctive pink façade.

Spanning an impressive 700 square metres, this is the largest Mappin & Webb showroom to date, offering customers a high-quality experience across luxury jewellery brands in an environment that celebrates heritage, craftsmanship and modern luxury retailing.

‘Tis the season to say ‘I Do’ - but don’t forget this crucial step, warns expert

December is the most popular month to get engaged, accounting for more than 11% of proposals¹. But, as peak proposal season approaches, new research from MoneySuperMarket reveals that many couples could be putting their engagement rings - and their wallets - at risk. The research* revealed that two-thirds (66%) of engaged or married couples don't have their rings covered under their home insurance and more than a quarter (27%) don't have any insurance at all. The data highlights a growing protection gap, particularly among younger generations with over a third (38%) of 18-24 year olds having no cover, compared to 24% of 25-34 year olds.

Wedding Song of 2025

The Post Barn, the award-winning Berkshire venue, is delighted to announce its Wedding Song of the Year 2025, as chosen by their 2025 wedding couples. Topping the list is "West Coast" by Lana Del Rey, capturing hearts with its dreamy, cinematic vibe. Following closely are: We Found Love – Sydnee Carter; You Make My Dreams – Alex Francis; No Judgement – Niall Horan; Perfect – Ed Sheeran. In total, The Post Barn played an impressive 9,092 songs for their wedding guests throughout the year. The average listening age of these tunes? A youthful 26, reflecting a vibrant, contemporary taste among couples celebrating their special day.

Local supplier spotlight: Hays Travel

Hays Travel, a travel specialist with stores across the UK, has helped hundreds of couples plan the honeymoon of their dreams.

"Whether you're dreaming of lazy days on sun-kissed beaches, candlelit dinners under the stars, or once-in-a-lifetime adventures in far-flung places, we're here to make it happen," says the team at Hays Travel. "No stress, just complete peace of mind with more choice, value, and award-winning service than ever. Our expert travel team can help you plan a honeymoon that's just right for you, whether it's a romantic getaway in the Maldives, dreamy sunsets cruising in Santorini, couples' safaris in South Africa, or chic city breaks in Paris. We customise every detail of your holiday romance by learning your story, style, and must-haves. From handpicked hotels and dreamy destinations to thoughtful extras like private transfers, room upgrades, and romantic surprises, we'll make sure your honeymoon is as unique as you.

Win a lakeside wedding worth more than £8,000

The Daffodil Hotel & Spa, located on the shore of Grasmere Lake in the heart of the Lake District, is offering one lucky couple the chance to win their big day.

The four-star hotel, part of the Crerar Hotels Collection, is relaunching its wedding offering and giving couples the opportunity to get married on the stunning shores of Grasmere – with one couple set to win the wedding they've always dreamed of.