Your Berks, Bucks and Oxon Wedding news and ideas from around the county

Revealed: England and Wales’ most common wedding anniversary date as August accounts for nearly one in six

1 September is the most common wedding anniversary date, with an average of 1,557 marriages taking place on the date, new analysis has revealed. The research, from drinks and gifting retailer Bottled and Boxed, analysed 22 years of marriage registration data from the Office for National Statistics to identify the dates when couples across England and Wales are most likely to be celebrating their wedding anniversaries each year. Every date in the top 10 falls between late July and early September, showing how heavily the most common anniversaries are concentrated in late summer. August is the most common month for wedding anniversaries, accounting for 15.7% of all marriages analysed, with an average of 1,254 couples married per day.

Marriage law reform: what the Government’s proposals could mean for couples

Planning a wedding is fun, stressful, time consuming. Couples want a ceremony that reflects their taste, is reflective of their love for each other and feels unique. The current restrictions in place can sometimes fetter that. Long-awaited plans to modernise weddings law in England and Wales could give couples far greater freedom over where and how they marry. It is hoped that they may be part of a much wider transformation of family law which is going through the biggest shakeup in decades.

Buckinghamshire's Burnham Beeches Hotel to host Beat the Bloat on 19th August

Buckinghamshire's Burnham Beeches Hotel is set to host Beat the Bloat with Evie Whitehead on Wednesday 19th August 2026. The newly refurbished Burnham Beeches Hotel located in Burnham will welcome Nutritional Therapist Evie Whitehead for an exciting evening focused on digestion, wellbeing and simple everyday nutrition. The event will begin with a 45-minute talk anda Q&A session, followed by a relaxed evening of conversation, light bites and the chance to ask Evie for practical tips on supporting gut health and feeling your best This is ideal for anyone wanting to focus on their health and wellbeing before their wedding or honeymoon.

Entering your marriage era? Forget wedding favours; McDonald’s launches Limited Edition ‘Wedding Flavours’

The nation's brides and grooms can live happily ever after, as prayers are answered with personalised McDonald's sauces for their Big Day. With some of the biggest celebrities making their way down the aisle this summer, it's safe to say 2026 has been the year of saying "I do" – and now McDonald's is bringing the flavour to the wedding season. How many epic weddings end with guests making a grand finale pit stop at a Maccies en route home? Well now you won't have to detour, McDonald's is going to literally bring the ceremonial rite of passage to the actual wedding party.

Bye Bye Sweet Caroline: The Classic Anthems BANNED From UK Weddings

The era of the predictable wedding singalong is officially dead, according to new data from entertainment agency Jonny Ross Music. New figures have revealed that Britain's couples are ruthlessly blacklisting the nation's favourite party anthems from their big days. A shocking analysis of playlist requests shows that legendary floor-fillers are being banished to the 'Do Not Play' list. Modern couples are ordering DJs to completely snub overplayed staples like 'Uptown Funk' and 'Mr Brightside'. But Brits are not turning their backs on the dancefloor. Instead of relying on default reception cheese, millennial newlyweds are demanding authentic club vibes that replicate a proper night out.

Celebrate Afternoon Tea Week at De Vere Wokefield Estate

Celebrate Afternoon Tea Week from Monday 10th - Sunday 16th August at De Vere Wokefield Estate in Reading, Berkshire. Afternoon Tea Week is the perfect excuse to rediscover one of Britain's most cherished traditions. From elegant country estates and historic castles to luxury resorts, travellers are increasingly planning short breaks around memorable dining experiences, with afternoon tea remaining one of the nation's favourite indulgences. To celebrate Afternoon Tea Week, The Audience has rounded up some of the best UK destinations, that includes De Vere Wokefiled Estate, where an exceptional afternoon tea can be enjoyed alongside a relaxing short break, proving that a classic British tradition is still one of the best reasons to escape for a night or two.

Burnham Beeches Hotel set to host an English Wine Pairing Evening

On Wednesday 13th August, Burnham Beeches Hotel will host an English Wine Pairing Evening with Chapel Down in Brasserie 1727, celebrating the very best of English wine with a carefully curated set menu. Each course will be paired with wines from one of the country's most renowned producers. Diners will hear from a Chapel Down representative throughout the evening, who will share insights into the craftsmanship, heritage and growing appeal of English winemaking. Set within the beautiful Buckinghamshire countryside, Burnham Beeches Hotel offers a particularly elegant backdrop for the evening. The memorable summer supper with a strong seasonal feel will include breaded camembert bites or house cured salmon to start, honey-glazed pork belly or pan-friend seabass as the main course finished with a delicious dessert.

The Conservatory, Luton Hoo Estate's Wedding Fair

If you're newlyweds-to-be embarking on your wedding planning journey, pop along to the County Wedding Events wedding show at The Conservatory, Luton Hoo Estate, for inspiration on Sunday Sunday 20th September! Sister company to County Wedding Magazines, the event brings couples that are desperate for face-to-face wedding planning in touch with local professionals who are on hand to help plan the wedding day. From photographers to cake makers, musicians to florists you're sure to tick a lot off of your to-do list by attending one of our County Wedding Events.

Countdown to County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Ascot Racecourse

We live and breathe weddings at CWM towers, so we can't wait for our Signature Wedding Show at Ascot Racecourse on Sunday 20th September ! It's one of four Signature Wedding Show of 2026's Autumn wedding show season; and a must-visit for all those that got engaged over the summer months. The event brings couples in touch with local professionals who are on hand to help plan the wedding day. From photographers to cake makers, musicians to florists you're sure to tick a lot off of your to-do list by attending one of our County Wedding Events.

The British Wedding Tradition Most Guests Never Question

Most wedding guests have heard the phrase "wedding breakfast", but very few stop to question it. After all, the meal is rarely served in the morning. It usually comes after the ceremony, often in the afternoon, and can involve anything from a formal three-course dinner to sharing boards, canapes, grazing tables and dessert stations. So why do we still call it a breakfast? According to Nick from Country House Weddings, the answer goes back centuries and is tied to religion, fasting and the way weddings were once celebrated in Britain. Breaking A Very Specific Fast The word "breakfast" does not originally mean a morning meal. It simply means breaking a fast.

Immersive circus and dining experience, Tyger, comes to Oxfordshire

Fools Delight has announced their summer 2026 show Tyger, an immersive circus and dining experience is coming to Oxfordshire. Running from tomorrow, the 23rd of July 2026 through to the 2nd of August, Fools Delight's latest production transforms a corner of Oxfordshire into a living, breathing world of circus, blending spellbinding performances, with an exquisite three-course communal feast. Inspired by William Blake's iconic poem, Tyger will feature a series of stunning circus duos that bring this duality to life through high-skill acrobatics and aerial dance, exploring the fearful symmetry inherent in the human spirit. Created by a team of world-class circus artists, producers and culinary creatives, this season also offers a variety of daytime programming and special cultural events.

Yankee Candle - quick on sale now!

If you're looking for thoughtful gifts for your bridal party or stylish wedding favours, now is the perfect time to shop. A selection of Yankee Candle fragrances is currently available at 30% off on Amazon until 10 July. The discounted range includes romantic favourites such as Wedding Day, alongside fresh summer scents including Cherry Blossom, Sage & Citrus, Tangerine & Vanilla, Red Raspberry, Fluffy Towels and Lavender Vanilla. Those planning autumn or winter weddings can also stock up on seasonal fragrances including Warm Cashmere, Autumn Wreath, Christmas Cookie, Snow in Love and Mistletoe.

Wasing Park Named Most Desirable Wedding Venue in the UK

Wasing Park, the nationally renowned luxury wedding venue nestled in the Berkshire countryside, is delighted to announce it has been named the UK's Most Desirable Wedding Venue by Bridebook. The accolade sees Wasing Park top a shortlist of 25 of the UK's leading wedding venues. Set within a beautifully restored farm hamlet and surrounded by 4,000 acres of pristine woodland and parkland, Wasing Park is one of the UK's most prestigious exclusive-use wedding venues, renowned for blending sustainability with timeless elegance. The recognition reflects Wasing Park's continued commitment to creating exceptional celebrations in a setting that is both exclusive and effortlessly connected to nature. Whether couples are planning an intimate gathering, a one-day celebration or choosing to extend their wedding into a bespoke experience, every celebration is thoughtfully tailored to reflect their vision.

Franco Manca serves up Strawberries & Cream Tiramisu for Wimbledon

With Wimbledon well underway, Franco Manca, with branches in Wales, Oxfordshire and Hampshire, is bringing a taste of centre court to its menus with a limited-edition Strawberries & Cream Tiramisu, inspired by the Championships' most iconic flavour pairing. Available until the 12th of July 2026, this delicious seasonal dessert offers a fresh take on the Italian classic, layering juicy strawberries with a light, creamy tiramisu base for a simple, summery finish. The popular dish is available as a stand-alone option across all Franco Manca restaurants nationwide, making it an easy way to tap into the Wimbledon spirit – with no ticket required.

ALDI reveals scent-sational summer home fragrances

Looking to add a touch of luxury to your home (or wedding this summer) without the designer price tag? Aldi has unveiled its latest Hotel Collection home fragrance range, with prices starting from just £3.99. Available in stores from June, the collection sees the return of customer favourites including the Premium Hotel Collection candles in Bergamot & Vanilla, alongside new summer-inspired scents such as Waffle Cone Sundae, Tropical Hibiscus, Lemon and Neroli and Sea Salt & White Sails. The range also includes reed diffusers and classic fragrances such as Cardinal Red, Liquid Luxe and Intense Passion, allowing shoppers to layer scent throughout the home.

WINNERS OF THE NATIONAL PUB & BAR AWARDS 2026 ANNOUNCED

The winners of the National Pub & Bar Awards 2026 were recently announced, with establishments in Wales, Oxfordshire and beyond. In total, 94 County Winners were announced, as well as Highly Commended venues for each area. Regional Wiinners were announced for every region across the UK. Pub Group of the Year went to Caledonian Heritable, and Bar Group of the Year was won by German bier haus brand Albert's Schloss. The Tyrrells Tyrrellbly Good Taste Award – presented by the event's headline sponsor – was awarded to The Welldiggers Arms in Petworth, West Sussex. The Industry's Choice Award is voted for by hundreds of people from across the sector and, once again, went to The Devonshire in Soho, London.

Henley Festival names Cardiff-raised Adjua winner of Audi Presents RISE Music Award

Henley Festival Presented by Hemani has announced Welsh-Ghanaian artist Adjua as the first-ever recipient of the Audi Presents RISE Music Award – an initiative created to champion and accelerate emerging music talent. The inaugural award marks a significant new chapter for Henley Festival's charitable RISE programme, which was established to support the next generation of creatives across music, visual art and backstage production. Through the partnership, Audi and Henley Festival will provide breakthrough artists with performance opportunities, mentoring, professional guidance, and access to influential networks within the music industry. Adjua will perform at this year's Henley Festival from the 8th - 12th July, bringing her distinctive indie-grunge R&B sound – infused with Afro and funk influences – to the festival audience.

RSVPing 'YES' to multiple weddings? Here's how to budget!

Attending weddings can be a joyous occasion, but it can also be expensive, particularly if you're invited to more than one over the course of the year. Costs such as new outfits, travel and accommodation, and gifts mean the overall expense of attending can quickly add up. Duncan Fortune, Head of Commercial at Tesco Bank, says: "Wedding season can be a significant expense for households. Planning ahead and setting a dedicated budget for celebrations can help spread the cost over several months, allowing people to make the most of the celebrations while keeping their finances on track."

How to treat the father-of-the-bride this Father's Day

Father's Day is the perfect excuse to celebrate the father of the bride. After all, he's been there through the wedding planning, the emotional speeches, the last-minute panics and probably more than a few budget discussions too. Whether the wedding has already happened or it's still to come, Father's Day is a brilliant opportunity to show him just how much he's appreciated. If you're looking to do something a little more exciting than buying another novelty mug or pair of socks, wedding experts The Stag Company share their favourite experiences that can make the day feel extra special.

New wedding gifts from Experiences.co.uk at The Oxfordshire Golf Hotel and Spa

An exciting new range of gifts for bridesmaids and groomsmen has been launched as wedding season arrives. But these are thank you gifts with a difference, designed for adventurous, fun-seeking individuals, as well as those in need of pampering, advises Experiences.co.uk. Imran Malek, corporate sales manager at Experiences.co.uk, said: "Bridesmaids and groomsmen play a vitally important role at weddings, providing much needed support on the big day and beforehand, so it's only fitting they be thanked for their hard work." Imran adds, "Some people can find it a challenge to choose a gift they will truly treasure and that will provide many happy memories, which is why we've launched even more amazing experiences ideal for bridesmaids and groomsmen in time for this summer's wedding season."