Your North West Wedding news and ideas from around the region

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.

2026 wedding trends that are set to dominate your feed

As wedding-related searches such as 'dream wedding' and 'wedding décor inspo' are up 10,000% year-on-year according to Pinterest trends, it's clear that couples are turning their attention to the finer details of their nuptials. To guide couples through 2026 wedding planning, Jess Levick, Assistant Buyer at Suit Direct, and Lucy Hook, Floral Lead at Bloom & Wild, reveal the key wedding trends shaping celebrations next year, covering regency romance, natural colour palettes and hyper-personalised celebrations.

Tottergill Farm is offering a discount

Tottergill Farm, a romantic mini-moon destination in Brampton, Cumbria, is offering a 15 per cent discount. Enjoy a magical getaway in one of the pet-friendly award-winning cottages with amazing views and your own hot tub. Set in a private, peaceful setting with gorgeous walking trails, next to the stunning Lake District, there are so many things to see and do, including free leisure centre entry.

The discount is valid between 3rd Nov and 18th Dec. Use the code WINTER15 when booking to receive the 15 per cent discount.

What are Prenup and Postnup Agreements?

Nuptial agreements have seen a rise in popularity in the UK, with high profile divorces highlighting the risks of not having a prenup or postnup in place. In addition, people now tend to get married later in life when they have accumulated more wealth and therefore have more assets to protect. Claire Porter, partner within the family team at leading Cheshire-based law firm SAS Daniels, discusses nuptial agreements for pre and post-marriage...

Enjoy a festive afternoon tea at Lindeth Fell

Charming English Country House Lindeth Fell, which overlooks Windermere in the Lake District. will be offering its lavish afternoon tea with a festive twist until January.

The Arts & Crafts house stands in seven private acres of its own Thomas Mawson designed gardens and offers stunning views of England's largest lake and the Coniston mountains but is just a few minutes from the heart of Bowness and some of the best walking and cycling routes in the Lake District, providing an idyllic Winter escape.

Be inspired by Pantone's Colour of the Year 2026 for your nuptials

Pantone, the global colour authority and provider of professional colour language standards and digital solutions for the design community, today introduced PANTONE 11-4201 Cloud Dancer, a billowy white imbued with a feeling of serenity as the Pantone Colour of the Year selection for 2026. An ethereal white hue, PANTONE 11-4201 Cloud Dancer serves as a symbol of calming influence in a frenetic society rediscovering the value of measured consideration and quiet reflection. At first, you'd be forgiven for thinking 'well it's a white tone, and there is a lot of white at a wedding already - so what's new?'.

Celebrate the festive season at Farlam Hall

Celebrate the most magical time of the year amidst the timeless elegance of Farlam Hall, a charming PoB and Relais & Châteaux hotel located in the heart of Cumbria. With 12 guest rooms and six Stable Suites, this luxurious country retreat is the perfect escape for those seeking comfort, indulgence and festive spirit.

Guests can savour the season with a delectable Festive Lunch, served every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from 26th November to 20th December in the Michelin-starred Cedar Tree Restaurant. Chef Patron Hrishikesh Desai showcases a refined three-course menu for £65 per person, complemented by mulled wine on arrival, homemade bread, and tea, coffee and mince pies to close.

Expert Reveals: The Biggest Wedding Trends for 2026

You've found the love of your life, and you're happily engaged. It's finally time for your main-character moment, your wedding, and we're here for it. Whether you're just getting started on planning or you've been swimming in tulle for months, one thing's clear: 2026 is the year of "I do, my way." According to Nick Bramer, Co-owner & Marketing Director at Country House Weddings, "2026 is shaping up to be the year of personality-driven weddings. Couples are blending tradition with innovation to create days that feel unapologetically 'them'." Below, Nick shares the biggest wedding trends set to define 2026.

Local supplier spotlight: Weddings by Rowena

Rowena, of Weddings by Rowena, is a fun, relaxed documentary-style wedding photographer based in the North West and beyond.

"I've had the honour of capturing more than 250 love stories and still get butterflies every time I step behind the lens," shares Rowena. "My approach is all about letting your day unfold naturally while I blend into the background, catching those real, joy- filled, and spontaneous moments that you'll treasure forever."

Two new Rituals stores are coming to Manchester

Both stores offer an immersive experience into Rituals' signature range of luxurious bath, body, and home products, designed to inspire moments of mindfulness and self-care in everyday life. These openings mark a significant step in the brand's continued investment and growth in Manchester, bringing Rituals' unique philosophy to an even wider audience in the region. Find out more about the new stores here

Legal experts warn couples not to change wedding plans amid wedding law reforms

Proposed changes to 19th Century weddings laws could be about to change everything for couples, but one legal expert has urged wedding planners to hang fire before making any changes to their big day. Legal experts from The University of Law say: "While there have been various updates to wedding laws in recent years, such as legalising same-sex marriage and changing the legal age requirement for marriage, nothing has changed the laws that govern marriage to this extent since the 1800s. "The main thing couples need to know now, is that nothing is going to change in the immediate future. The reforms still need public consultation, then the usual Parliamentary processes before implementation, all of which could take many years.

Local supplier spotlight: Barton Manor Hotel & Spa

Barton Manor Hotel & Spa in Preston, Lancashire, beautifully marries historic architecture with modern design, offering guests a unique and picturesque setting. The hotel's grounds include beautifully landscaped gardens which provide a blend of formal landscaping and natural beauty, offering serene spaces for relaxation and events. The Pavilion Garden, with its expansive lawn and mature trees, provides a peaceful setting for outdoor gatherings and leisurely strolls. Additionally, the hotel's secret garden offers a more intimate and secluded atmosphere, ideal for quiet reflection or private ceremonies.

Offering a harmonious blend of historic elegance and modern luxury, the décor throughout the hotel is of the highest quality, featuring premium materials and refined finishes. Each space is thoughtfully designed to combine classic architectural details with contemporary style, creating an inviting and sophisticated atmosphere.

Cumbria-based Jennings Brewery has reopened its doors

Cumbria-based Jennings Brewery has reopened its doors, bringing back historic, award-winning beers, two new beers, and a new on-site taproom. The brewery has pledged to return to its roots, reviving old favourites like Sneck Lifter and Cocker Hoop, alongside new additions such as Derwent Mild and Back Yam – a nod to the Cumbrian dialect phrase meaning 'back home'. Find out more here

Local supplier spotlight: The Dunes Hotel

Set in the heart of the Cumbrian coastline, The Dunes Hotel is surrounded by picturesque countryside and rolling greenery. The landscaped grounds provide a serene backdrop for photographs, with open spaces perfect for drinks receptions or quiet moments. Nearby, scenic coastlines at Roanhead Beach add to the romantic atmosphere, ensuring couples and their guests enjoy a tranquil yet memorable setting.

The hotel boasts a sleek, modern exterior with a timeless appeal, framed by the natural beauty of its Cumbrian setting. Large windows flood the building with light and offer striking views of the surrounding landscape.

7 Ways Marriage Celebrations Will Change By 2035

Planning a wedding used to follow a predictable script – white dress, church ceremony, big reception with 150+ guests. But it seems those days are numbered. According to this expert, the next decade promises to completely reshape how couples say "I do," driven by technology advances, environmental concerns, and evolving social attitudes. Wedding expert Nick Bramer from Country House Weddings, a family-run business specialising in exclusive-use venues across the UK, has witnessed these changes first-hand at their castle and country estate locations. "We're seeing couples make bold choices that would have seemed impossible just five years ago," says Bramer. "The traditional wedding playbook is being rewritten entirely."