Your North West Wedding news and ideas from around the region

Macmillan Cancer Support launches letter-box gifting service

GoodPost, is the new online gifting service from Macmillan Cancer Support that allows customers to shop personalised greeting cards, letter box gifts, hampers and more which can be sent straight to a loved one's door at the click of a button. It's really convenient and with every purchase, all proceeds go straight to the charity. As part of the new service, buyers can pick from a new range of exclusive gifts and cards.

Wedding Gifting with Le Creuset

As we head towards wedding season, here's a selection of suggested gifts from Le Creuset. From the staple Cast Iron Casseroles to Stoneware Mugs and sophisticated Red Wine Glasses Le Creuset has the perfect gift for every newlywed couple. What's more, with varying price points, the ranges are also budget-friendly for guests. The extensive product options come in a wide range of colours making for a personal and thoughtful present.

BRIDHA, a bridal boutique in Bolton, has officially reopened its doors

BRIDHA, a bridal boutique in Bolton, Greater Manchester, has officially reopened its doors. "We've been trading for more than 30 years; the last 17 years of which were run by my late father-in-law, who sadly passed away in November 2021 during the Covid 19 pandemic," says Mez. "The store was previous known as Bliss Bridal Bolton, and as a family we decided to renovate the store and rebrand in honour of my late father-in-law. We wanted the new name to reflect this and therefore we incorporated his initials into the name (DHA). We came up with BRIDHA (pronounced BRIDE-UH), which combines the word bride and his initials. We had a launch evening in February, and courtesy of Maggie Sottero, we held a raffle and gave away a free dress to one very lucky bride.

Wed-cations are the wedding trend for 2023

While multi-day wedding celebrations are completely common in many cultures, it's something western couples are only just starting to consider. However, the addition of events extending beyond the ceremony and reception is something that Jess Martin, wedding planning expert at Ginger Ray expects to see more of here in the UK, as the Wed-cation is revealed to be a key trend for the wedding industry.

Luxury pre-wedding get together - the British Grand Prix

Be closer to the action while enjoying more access, more entertainment and more style than ever before with MATCH Hospitality's FORMULA 1® official hospitality offering. MATCH Hospitality offers an incomparable combination of first-class facilities, unrivalled viewing and seamless service worthy of this breathtaking sport. For the first time, Hilton Garden Inn (the world's first Grand Prix start/finish line hotel – owned by Bricks Group) Silverstone is offering an exclusive hospitality package designed with flexible group sizes in mind, including unforgettable views of the track accompanied by incredible hospitality.

The Aviary is a purposely built single story building in the Lancashire countryside

The Aviary is a purposely built single story building in the Lancashire countryside. Featuring large glass doors and windows that fill the rooms with natural light, this breathtaking venue is surrounded by country views, exotic birds, and a family of donkeys.

The property has been designed seamlessly marrying country chic with all of the conveniences and accessibility of a modern building. The timeless, neutral décor provides the ideal setting for couples to add their own personal touch and colour schemes to create their perfect day.

New book launch helps couples speak from the heart

From the ceremony to the speeches, there are elements of a wedding day that require a few special words, whether that's from the couple themselves of perhaps a loved one. If you struggle with putting in to words exactly how you feel, then using an existing quote, reading or poem could help convey your sentiment; step forward 10 Poems for a Wedding, selected and introduced by Kathryn Bevis.

Award-winning musician Simon Levi has launched a new wedding service

Manchester-based Simon Levi is one of the most in-demand saxophonists in the country. This year, Simon has gigged and shared stages with the likes of DJ FAT Tony, Radio 1 DJ Scott Mills, DJ JustMaybe (Defected Records), Nick Hussey (Defected Records) plus Damon Hess (O Beach/Sin Ibiza) and Sweet Female Attitude (Flowers).

Simon has an exceptional musical background and a wealth of experience. He can play anything from house and jazz to funk and soul, with something to please all of your wedding guests and keep the dancefloor packed all night.

Give newlyweds the gift of luxury

Across the world, wedding gifts have become a tradition for family, friends and loved ones to show their appreciation to the happy couple and to wish them all the best. A wedding gift is a celebration of their marriage, and to provide them with gifts they may need – or want - to start their new lives together. Although many people still choose to give tangible tokens, many are looking to gift the happy couple an experience that they can enjoy together. PoB Hotels, a collection of carefully curated rooms, the finest restaurants and spas, and the most authentic regional experiences across the British Isles, offers the perfect solution – a Gift Voucher.

Celebrate in style with picture-perfect table decor

Engagement parties and rehearsal dinners are a great way to kick start your big day celebrations, with many people now opting to host these at home for a more intimate experience. So, how do you make your table stand out? Iconic Rayware brands, Viners and Mason Cash are synonymous with weddings and recognised nationally for their classic tableware products. Read on to discover the top styling trends from Viners and Mason Cash that aren't to be overlooked this wedding season!

Expert tips for creating a unique wedding menu

The traditional three-course wedding breakfast doesn't have to be boring. In this article Nidhi Verma, head of food & founder of The Cookaway, shares a few ideas for alternative food menus for wedding guests. Getting involved with the putting together of your wedding menu can allow you to focus on what's important to you, whether that's only using local produce and seasonal ingredients, incorporating foods you and your partner really like, making sure there are plenty of fun elements, or serving with the utmost style. But if standing out is your priority, how can you ensure your menu is unique? If you're wondering how you can make your special day a little more individual, below are a few ideas to get you started.

The 20 most iconic marryoke songs for a perfect wedding

Are you a couple looking for songs for your wedding this summer? Searches for 'wedding songs karaoke' up +40% and 'best karaoke songs 2023' increasing by +300%, and thortful has put together a list of the most iconic marryoke songs for 2023. The top 20 karaoke songs for your wedding this year Taking the top spot is the absolute belt-it-out classic that is Summer of '69 by Bryan Adams. Given that it has remained a popular song after pretty much four decades, we'd say the score is well-deserved. Just behind in second place is a song that any '90s kid could sing in their sleep – the girl power megahit Wannabe by the Spice Girls.

The biography Taylor Made has been released as an audio book

The biography Taylor Made, now released as an audio book, tells the real-life story of the inspiring event planner and businesswoman Liz Taylor. This heartfelt biography tells the inside story of Liz's journey, including some of her most lavish celebrations, international business events and more personal occasions, such as a host of celebrity weddings.

She speaks most fondly of organising her own two daughters' weddings and a last minute save of the wedding of Michelle Keegan and Mark Wright after their wedding planner lets them down, with just three months until the big day.

Want to say 'no' to being a maid-of-honour? Here’s how!

Being a maid-of-honour or even a bridesmaid can be hugely exciting and a big honour, however, it takes responsibility, a lot of time, money and energy, all dedicated to making someone else happy. So if you really don't want to be a bridesmaid, plucking up the courage to turn down an invite might seem like a nightmare. A new survey from Ginger Ray which seeks to answer some of weddings' trickiest questions reveals that almost two-thirds (63%) of Brits think it was acceptable to say no to being a member of the wedding party based on the financial burden and additional responsibilities it poses.

Silverholme Manor, Graythwaite Estate is a traditional Georgian manor house

Offering stunning views of Lake Windermere, Silverholme Manor, Graythwaite Estate is a traditional Georgian manor house surrounded by extensive grounds with lawns rolling down to the lakeside. The elegantly-furnished property is full of original character with modern comforts throughout.

Silverholme Manor, Graythwaite Estate, is licensed for ceremonies in The Coach House, the Dining Room and the Library. For those who want to tie the knot outdoors, the patio, which offers panoramic views of Lake Windermere, is also available.

Browns launch champagne bottomless brunch

This month, Browns Restaurants will be adding a Champagne bottomless brunch to their signature weekend menus, as part of this year's festivities to celebrate the group's 50th anniversary. From Friday to Sunday until 2pm, guests can enjoy free-flowing Moët & Chandon Impérial Champagne, alongside signature brunch dishes such as Browns Lobster Benedict, a satisfying stack of Pancetta Buttermilk Pancakes, Smoked Salmon, Smashed Avocado, Garlic Mushrooms on Sourdough and a variety of classic egg dishes. Alternatively, opt for more substantial dishes, like the Browns Burger and Chargrilled Chicken & Bacon Club.

David’s Bridal commences ‘everything must go’ closing down sale

Bridal store chain, David's Bridal has confirmed that all UK stores are launching a closing down sale, with dramatic reductions across wedding dresses, bridesmaid dresses and more. Following its administration announcement last month, David's Bridal is closing all four of it's UK stores, with all stock discounted. David's Bridal's extensive closing down sale will commence with at least 40% off everything in-store.

Big Bear’s BBQ has invested in a second custom-built trailer

Big Bear's BBQ, a mobile catering company, has recently invested in a second custom-built trailer allowing the team to offer a mixture of British and American barbecue foods.

"We've been building our business for the past three years," says owners Jill and Hugh. "We started in our custom-built wood-fired pizza trailer and soon found ourselves being asked to provide catering for private events and weddings. This soon became an area we enjoyed exploring, and have since made many long-lasting customers, friends and contacts. We have built our business by trying to provide high-quality food at an affordable level by making each event we cater for bespoke and as personalised as we can."

One4all Gift Cards expands partnerships

Popular wedding gifting brand leading multi-store gift card, One4all Gift Cards, has announced two exciting new partnerships with global fashion retailer, ASOS, and premium e-commerce marketplace, Secret Sales - making it an even more appealing choice for wedding day gifting. ASOS, one of the largest international e-commerce retailers, is now accepting the One4all Gift Card for all online purchases, meaning customers can access all their favourite brands at the touch of a button. With over 850 brands to choose from as well as their own ASOS ranges, which include Collusion and Topshop, shoppers will be spoilt for choice. As a forward-thinking brand, ASOS interpret the latest trends into more than 30 different sizes, allowing all customers to find something they love. As well as the chance to shop for clothing, accessories and beauty products from a variety of brands.

Holmes Mill is home to several establishments with something for everyone

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 Spinning Block houses a boutique hotel alongside a Bistro Bar and Grill, and the Bowland Food Hall, part of the Boiler House complex, showcases some of the best food and drink from Lancashire and beyond.

The property is full of fascinating architectural features – each one contributing to the ambience and atmosphere. This spectacular wedding venue has been lovingly restored to proudly showcase its heritage and history while still retaining a luxurious and modern feel.