Your North West Wedding news and ideas from around the region

Simmons Bar Manchester is a new bar that's perfect for hen and stag dos

Simmons Bar Manchester is a new bar that's notorious for its happy hour. Embarking on a mission to bring fun and value back to the world of bars, Simmons Bar has been throwing epic parties for over a decade, with its Manchester opening set to be its biggest yet.

Perfect for hen and stag dos, Simmons Bar offers a blend of nostalgic charm and lively nightlife, making it a favourite among partygoers and nearlyweds.

Owner Nick Campbell explains: "Manchester leads the way when it comes to nightlife and we're excited to be able to be a part of it. We were keen to launch as we mean to go on, with a series of high-energy parties, including our famous free bar."

The Red Pump Inn is a historic country inn dating back to 1756

Nestled in the heart of Lancashire's Ribble Valley, The Red Pump Inn is a historic country inn dating back to 1756. Surrounded by open fields and with panoramic views of Pendle Hill and Longridge Fell, this idyllic setting offers an unforgettable backdrop for your wedding celebration.

After owners Jonathan and Fran built their daughter Ciara the yurt for her wedding in 2021, the couple were delighted that guests told them to keep it up because their 'your wedding, your way' approach was just what the area needed.

Hen party trends for 2025

If you're planning a hen party in 2025, you're in for a treat. The trends for next year are shaping up to be fresh, fun and full of personality, offering something for every type of bride and her tribe. Hen party experts Fizzbox give us a sneak peek of their predictions on what's hot for hens in 2025. Drag shows have been a hen party staple for a while but, in 2025, they're stepping firmly into the spotlight. With drag culture thriving thanks to shows like RuPaul's Drag Race and its ever-expanding global franchises, hens are falling in love with the glitz, glamour and unapologetic fun that comes with a drag-themed celebration. Expect everything from live performances at local drag bars to private workshops where the group can learn how to strut in heels, master a smoky eye or perform their own lip-sync battle. The bottomless brunch industry will continue to boom with drag brunches taking centre stage. This is a standout trend for 2025.

PoB Hotels has named the Gilpin Hotel and Lake House as one of the most relaxing places to visit

PoB Hotels has named the Gilpin Hotel and Lake House in Cumbria as one of the most relaxing places to visit. Gilpin Hotel and Lake House offers a spectrum of bespoke spa experiences across its two distinct properties. The Spa Suites at Gilpin Hotel provide the ultimate privacy, boasting 100 square meters of luxury with private treatment areas, saunas, and outdoor hot tubs. For a more social retreat, the Swedish-style Jetty Spa at Lake House sits high in the tree canopy, offering ESPA treatments with stunning lake views. Hotel guests can enjoy the spa space with its steam room and relaxation areas, while Lake House residents have exclusive access to an indoor pool and traditional sauna. The ESPA Gilpin Signature Experience is a must-try, embodying the essence of relaxation in the Lake District's serene setting.

Eleven Didsbury Park is a wedding venue nestled away in Didsbury

Nestled away in the leafy suburb of Didsbury, Eleven Didsbury Park offers a homely feel with calming neutral tones intertwined with stunning artwork, open fireplaces and exposed brickwork. The Walled Victorian Garden invites lovebirds to relax and unwind with an abundance of wonderful flora and fauna to explore. The Victorian villa has 20 on-site bedrooms for guests to choose from, comfy sofas and a neutral décor throughout, ideal for those of you wanting to add your own touches.

The property isn't licensed for ceremonies, so the service can take place at the venue's sister hotel, Didsbury Park Hotel. However, the on-site Garden Lounge and Victorian Walled Gardens will create the perfect backdrop for a more informal reception, seating up to 80 guests under the heated canopy.

Name change statistics after marriage in the UK

The UK Deed Poll Office, and we recently published an article with unique statistics on name changes after marriage in the UK. When it comes to marriage, one of the most recognizable traditions is changing your name. For many, adopting a spouse's surname is part of the process. But for others, the decision is more complex—some opt for a double-barrelled surname, while others keep their own. So, what does the data really say about name changes after marriage in the UK? Gender breakdown of name changes: After Marriage One of the most frequently discussed aspects of name changes is the gender breakdown. Traditionally, women have been more likely to adopt their husband's surname, but how does the data actually look?

Storrs Hall in the Lake District has launched a new Wellbeing Package

Storrs Hall on the shores of Windermere in the Lake District has launched a Wellbeing Package to be enjoyed with stays in its Lakeside Hot Tub Suites close to the waters of England's largest lake, making for a perfect, private DIY retreat.

The Wellbeing Package provides guests with seven full-sized, award-winning Pure Lakes products – all natural and handmade on the hill just across the lake. These include a gentle facial exfoliator, a body salt scrub, a foaming shaving gel, a bentonite clay face mask, a moisturising balm, a silken bath foam, and a sleep-inducing room spray, so guests can enjoy a full-body pamper in the privacy of their own suite.

Eaves Hall is an exclusive-use venue located in the heart of the Ribble Valley

Eaves Hall is a breathtaking, exclusive-use venue located in the heart of the Ribble Valley. Standing amid 13 acres of award-winning gardens, this magnificent Georgian mansion has been refurbished and redecorated to create a contemporary country house ambience. The building, with its pavilion and lavish gardens, makes Eaves Hall a stunning backdrop for your big day.

Fully licensed for civil ceremonies both inside and outside, Eaves Hall has two suites available indoors: The Ballroom, which can hold 60 guests, and the Dining Room which can accommodate 120 people.

10 most wedding obsessed cities in Britain

A new finding by the online wedding rings retailer The Wedding Rings Co. (theweddingringscompany.co.uk) reveals a unique insight into where love is truly flourishing across the UK, with cities from all corners of the country making the list. A spokesperson for The Wedding Rings Co. commented on the findings: "It's fantastic to see so many people getting married all over the UK. The number of marriages is rising, which is wonderful to witness, especially after the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. This trend is likely to continue, as more couples are inspired by beautifully curated wedding content on social media - creating a desire to create their own special day which they can share with their friends and family.

Dahlia and Dot Florals are offering our readers a 10 per cent discount on their bridal flowers

Kelly is the lead florist at Dahlia and Dot Florals. "My background and previous profession was in teaching; I was a primary school teacher for 13 years. But after falling pregnant with my daughter, I knew I wanted to do something that always interested me, something where I knew I could create beauty and enjoy what I did every day. So I took the leap, and here I am, working with fabulous couples to make their dream flowers a reality. Throughout my floral journey, I have worked with other designers, wedding creatives and amazing couples and I can honestly say that I've never looked back. I adore what I do, and I'm happiest when surrounded by flowers in my studio, creating dream florals for my couples' special days. We have had the pleasure of creating weddings across some fabulous venues across the UK. Some include Peckforton Castle, The Coach House at Soughton Hall, Capesthorne Hall, Dorfold Hall and The Holford Estate."

Holmes Mill is home to several establishments that are perfect for weddings

Holmes Mill is home to several establishments with something for everyone. At the heart of the complex stands The Boiler House, a vibrant all-day destination featuring a beer hall, brewery, ice cream parlour and Duck Pin Bowling Alley. The Bowland Food Hall, part of the Boiler House complex, showcases some of the best food and drink from Lancashire and beyond. While The Spinning Block houses a boutique hotel alongside the Bar & Grill – perfect for wedding celebrations. Full of fascinating architectural features, each contributing to the ambience and atmosphere, this spectacular wedding venue has been lovingly restored to proudly showcase its heritage while still retaining a luxurious and modern feel.

Holland Hall Hotel has opened a new bridal lounge

Holland Hall Hotel, a Grade II-listed wedding venue, has opened a new bridal lounge. The lounge is the perfect place for bridal parties to get ready, with plenty of space for your hair and make-up to be done in all-natural lighting and a dressing area that's ideal for the first look or reveal. What's more, the hotel also had a groom's room in the works, which will be revealed soon.

Nestled in the picturesque West Lancashire countryside, Holland Hall Hotel has plenty of wedding spaces to choose from, including an outdoor pagoda, a large suite with a private garden area and a modern space with luxury decoration throughout. When you book your wedding at the Holland Hall Hotel, you'll have access to the bridal suite on the night of the wedding and a master of ceremonies.

Pinterest Predicts 2025

Pinterest Predicts 2025 - the much anticipated annual future-gazing report which reveals the biggest wedding trends that will shape the year ahead! Next year, expect to see weddings and parties take inspiration from the post-Baroque period as Rococo Revival puts an opulent and ultra-feminine spin on celebrations. Corsets gowns, luxe accessories and ornate table decorations will take over. In 2025, hosts will think outside of the box as Surreal Soirees take centre-stage; curvy candlesticks, fantastical flowers and out-of-this-world tablescapes will prove popular the wackier, the better! Rococo Revival. All frills, no chill. This year, weddings, parties and aesthetics will draw inspiration from the Rococo era - a post-Baroque period that was both opulent and ultra-feminine. Gen Z and Boomers are driving this trend toward classical corset gowns, luxe accessories and ornate tablescapes.

Lindeth Fell has a secret garden vibe with views out over England’s largest lake

Lindeth Fell was built in 1909 as a private residence by the renowned architects Pattinsons, who were responsible for much of the local arts and crafts architecture for which the area is renowned. It was converted into a hotel in the late 1970s and subsequently bought by the Kennedy Family in the mid-80s who ran Lindeth Fell as an award-winning, five-star boutique B&B. Following the retirement of the family in 2023, Lindeth Fell has been bought by the Hindle family, owners of the nearby Storrs Hall Hotel, as the first addition to the Storrs Collection.

It has a secret garden vibe, with seven acres of lush gardens and high terraces with views out over England's largest lake and the Coniston mountains. Lindeth Fell offers two licensed outdoor spaces for intimate wedding ceremonies – one by the lily-covered tarn and one on the lawns in front of the house.

Best dates for a wedding and honeymoon in 2025

Research from leading UK jeweller Diamonds Factory has revealed the best dates to book your wedding and honeymoon in 2025 in order to get as much time off as possible. Online searches for 2025 weddings have leapt by 916% this year, meanwhile searches for honeymoons skyrocketed by 15,247% during the same period. As couples consider weddings and honeymoons for next year, Diamonds Factory analysis has revealed the best days to book your wedding ceremony which will maximise your annual leave for the honeymoon.

Chelsea Buckley from The Royal Toby has won an award

Chelsea Buckley, a sales and events manager who works at The Royal Toby, was named 'Wedding Co-ordinator of the Year' at County Brides' North West Wedding Awards. Chelsea has overseen almost 300 weddings since she started in The Royal Toby's sales and events department, including a Halloween- themed wedding featuring a grim reaper.

Chelsea tells us: "I love building relationships with the couples that get married at The Royal Toby. It's so fulfilling to see them have a happy and memorable day. I'm thrilled to have been recognised for my work. Every wedding is different and each one is special. Some weddings have taken several years to plan, but we've also organised one in under three months. We've had couples as young as 19 getting married at The Royal Toby through to people in their 70s. We've had a bridal party of 28 walk down the aisle in front of the bride. There have been dogs as ring bearers and celebrities as guests. We've seen it all."

Low Wood Bay Resort & Spa is a luxury hotel with a rich history dating back to 1705

Low Wood Bay Resort & Spa is a luxury hotel with a rich history dating back to 1705. Nestled on the Windermere shoreline in the heart of the Lake District National Park, Low Wood Bay is the perfect base for relaxing and exploring the Lake District, with several of the Wainwrights' walks a stone's throw away and the town of Ambleside a mile away.

The spa has recently been awarded the five Bubble Luxury rating by Good Spa Guide. The revitalising spa has a range of luxury treatments and experiences available, an indoor swimming pool and indoor and outdoor thermal areas to relax and unwind. A great pre-wedding or post-wedding experience for you to enjoy.

Low Wood Bay has 130 bedrooms, which includes 29 rooms in the exclusive Winander Club, two choices of dining experiences with two very different restaurants and a lounge and bar that are ideal for pre- wedding celebrations.

Pantone Introduces Color of the Year 2025: Mocha Mousse

Wedding moodboards at the ready; Pantone, the global colour authority and provider of professional colour language standards and digital solutions for the design community, today introduced PANTONE 17-1230 Mocha Mousse. An evocative soft brown that transports our senses into the pleasure and deliciousness it inspires: cacao, chocolate and coffee, appealing to our desire for comfort. "Underpinned by our desire for every day pleasures, PANTONE 17-1230 Mocha Mousse expresses a level of thoughtful indulgence" says Leatrice Eiseman, Executive Director Pantone Color Institute.

The Red Pump Inn is a new wedding venue in Clitheroe

The Red Pump Inn at Bashall Eaves in Clitheroe is best known as a B&B with a well-stocked bar, delicious food and French-inspired bedrooms. Steeped in history dating back to 1756, the owners Jonathan and Fran built their daughter Ciara a yurt for her wedding in 2021. The couple were delighted and guests told them to keep it up because their 'your wedding, your way' philosophy was just what the area needed. Having a background in construction and having already built the Red Pump Inn's glamping yurts and shepherd's huts, Jonathan built the bespoke wedding yurt and has since hosted a handful of weddings.

Gilpin Hotel & Lake House is a charming country house hotel in Windermere

Located on a picture-perfect private estate in the heart of the Lake District National Park, just a stone's throw away from Windermere, the five-star Gilpin Hotel & Lake House is a charming country house hotel boasting grand spaces, beautiful bedrooms, Michelin-starred dining, and enchanting grounds. The country house-come-hotel has a wealth of gorgeous spaces and services, including a cosy bar and lounge complete with a wood-burning stove, a spacious and stylish function room with floor-to-ceiling windows, a balcony boasting breathtaking views, well- appointed bedrooms and a state-of-the-art kitchen. There are also spa facilities including an indoor swimming pool, sauna, treatment room and outdoor hot tubs.