All the latest wedding news for couples getting married in Berkshire, Buckinghamshire or Oxfordshire, along with bridal fashion and beauty inspiration and honeymoon ideas.
Gifted with love - bottoms up!
Perhaps an idea for after Dry January, why not send each of your bridal party members this gift in the post and then you're all set for your virtual hen do! This beautiful gift set comes with a 75cl bottle of delicious STARLINO Rosé and a large stemmed aperitivo glass which is engraved with the STARLINO branding. If you haven't got a celebration planned, then why not schedule a pre-wedding date night with your loved one for some much-needed R&R?... read more
Posted: 25 January 2021
Unique way to make your wedding day special during Covid
The beauty of lockdown is having extra time on your hands to plan the big day and spend more time looking in to extra ways to make the event truly bespoke. Lark is an exciting new company which composes tailor-made, personalised songs – perfect for weddings. Lark's team of award-winning writers, musicians and producers, who have worked with the likes of Alicia Keys, Amy Winehouse, Sia and Sam Smith, collaborate with couples to craft a completely bespoke song from scratch. The finished product is a mastered piece of music - truly unique and meaningful to them which will be treasured forever.... read more
Posted: 22 January 2021
Create a bespoke Valentine's Day with Alicia J Diamonds
Do flowers and chocolates tell someone that you love them? Yes, but beautiful bespoke jewellery says it even more so. Alicia J Diamonds think that this Valentine's Day is the time to take the plunge and let someone know how much you love them with the gift of exceptional gemstone jewellery that lasts a lifetime. At Alicia J, they know that no two love stories are the same. Every piece of jewellery gifted on the day of love should be as unique as the person who will wear it. Whichever stone or idea you pick, they can create any kind of jewellery: earrings, bracelet, necklace or even an engagement ring. Their bespoke concierge service allows you to design and personalise a precious piece of fine jewellery for your loved one from the comfort of your own home.... read more
Posted: 21 January 2021
Berkshire-based wedding photographer Annabel Farley offers spring shoot opportunities
Berkshire-based wedding photographer Annabel Farley is offering spring photo shoot opportunities for engaged couples, with enquiries now open.Annabel tells us, "spring is one of my favourite seasons, everything in nature is changing and promising new life! Especially the beautiful daffodils that are little rays of sunshine and the delicate bluebells that make for a fairytale backdrop! With the current national lockdown, spring is giving us faith and I feel positive that we'll get to enjoy it! This season is a great time to get outdoors so here is why you should book a spring photo shoot with me...... read more
Posted: 19 January 2021
Brits still going ahead with life goals - especially marriage!
With everything from travel plans to wedding dates put on hold in 2020, luxury UK jewellery retailer Goldsmiths, asked 1,000 UK adults how they would be approaching big life events when the world gradually regains some sense of normality this year. Despite the unexpected events of 2020 having disrupted life as we knew it, it seems that 84 per cent of Brits are determined to carry on with 'life plans' such as tying the knot, buying a house and starting a family!... read more
Posted: 15 January 2021
Wasing Park's Winter Wonderland goes virtual
Inspired by the season of sparkle, Wasing Park's Virtual Winter Wonderland event is running from now until 26th January 2021. Winter Wonderland provides couples with inspiration and ideas for hosting their wedding at Wasing in the chilly months as well as the warmer ones. The venue is dressed to impress, with twinkling fairylights, candles and delightful floral displays. During this extended period that Wasing has been without weddings, there have been many updates and improvements made at the venue. Landscaping has also been high on the agenda and a new raised garden and water fountain have been built outside of the Castle Barn. Another wonderful addition is a stunning mural in The Stables bar created by artist Frederick Wisest.Wasing's new stretch tent floating over the terrace at the back of the Castle Barn, is adorned with comfortable seating, cosy blankets, twinkling lights and firepits. This new area will give wedding couples more outdoor space that can be used all year round. High-risk guests not comfortable eating inside will now have an alternative space and it will be perfect for the first dance, surrounded by socially-distanced friends and family!... read more
Posted: 14 January 2021
Paws for thought – why having a ‘pet-nuptial’ agreement is the ultimate preparation
Couples who have adopted a pet during the pandemic can save themselves the unnecessary heartache of losing shared pets by arranging a 'pet-nuptial' agreement in case – obviously here at County Wedding Magazines HQ we truly hope it's not the case – of future separation with their partner. For custody of furry friends, there is currently no official legally binding measures in place for what happens to pets after a breakup. Legally a pet is seen as an asset, and as with any assets in a divorce, ownership will be decided by the court - however having a prearranged agreement in place, commonly known as a prenuptial agreement, can assist the court to make a decision.... read more
Posted: 13 January 2021
We talk new year dress trends with Ellie Sanderson
Ellie Sanderson has been dressing brides for 14 years now and sells a personally curated collection of dresses mostly from British bridal designers including Suzanne Neville and Sassi Holford. Each designer is hand-picked for their brilliance and quality, fit and cut. Talking about her 2021 collection, Ellie tells us, "Weddings come in all shapes and sizes and it's ever-changing so the main thing is that each bride looks and feels incredible on her special day, whether that's with fifteen or thirty guests. We offer a relaxed and fun collection of dresses and jumpsuits, plus a small edit of short styles designed by Suzanne Neville perfect for micro weddings and registry office celebrations."... read more
Posted: 12 January 2021
Win a two night luxury spa break for two in Bournemouth
County Weddings Magazine has teamed up with The Connaught Hotel and Spa to give our readers the chance to win a two night luxury spa break for two in their boutique hotel. The lucky winner will receive a voucher which can be redeemed any time in the next 12 months.You'll get to enjoy a spa treatment of your choice, then spend the afternoon relaxing in their 18m indoor swimming pool, jacuzzi, sauna and steam room.In the evening you'll be treated to a delicious three course dinner in their AA Rosette restaurant, then why not spend the rest of the evening in The Connaught Gin Bar where you can sample some of the 60 varieties of gin on offer!... read more
Posted: 11 January 2021
Inspired by dry-January, event planner Liz Taylor has top tips for an alcohol-free wedding
January is traditionally a time for good intentions and new, healthier beginnings. Be that swapping out meat for plant-based Veganuary, dusting off the running shoes, or cutting out alcohol for Dry January. With more than 20 per cent of the UK population now describing themselves as teetotal, the idea of a dry wedding may be more popular than you think. And what could be better than waking up hangover free on your first day as a married couple? For others, living and marrying without alcohol has a religious or cultural meaning. So, if you're planning a wedding in January, or indeed any month of the year, it makes sense to give guests some alcohol-free options.... read more
Posted: 8 January 2021
Berkshire-based make-up and hair artist Melissa Clare offers spring tips
Melissa Clare is a professional bridal, fashion and editorial make-up and hair artist based in Berkshire. Here, she unveils her trends for spring weddings..."Ombré eyeshadow is a beautiful choice for a spring wedding. This is where you transition the colours on your eyelids across a few gradients creating a beautiful blend of tones, allowing you to add in a popping shade with some more natural ones to enhance your eye colour. Popping shades of purple blended with hazel browns look beautiful on green eyes. Mix orange and pink tones with bronze for blue eyes and try burgundy and golden shades for brown eyes.... read more
Posted: 7 January 2021
Clare Hartland-Brown from Betty Bee Bakes unveils ideas for 2021 cakes
Clare Hartland-Brown is the owner of Betty Bee Bakes, a bespoke wedding and celebration cake company based in Old Windsor, Berkshire. We ask her to reveal her new-season designs for micro weddings taking place this spring. Here's what she said..."If you're planning a small yet perfectly formed wedding then there are plenty of options for a spectacular wedding cake other than the three-tiered design that might not get eaten. A smaller cake doesn't mean less impact. Choose your decorations wisely and it will still look as stunning as a larger design. A four-inch tier on top of a six-inch tier will serve 20 finger-sized portions after the coffee and speeches when guests are already full. If you have your heart set on a three-tier design then why not serve it as dessert?"... read more
Posted: 5 January 2021
Brides in Milton Keynes can enjoy a hen night at Franzos
Planning a wedding in 2021 and stuck for hen night ideas? If you're searching for a relaxed casual dining environment with your best girls with not a veil or L-plate in sight then Buckinghamshire-based brides-to-be located near Milton Keynes should try out Franzos (when current restrictions lift). Newly opened, this piri piri chicken restaurant is big on flavour offering the taste of the signature Portuguese sauce with a new twist across a menu featuring healthy pittas and wraps, burgers and platters all cooked to your choice of spice, from classic marinade to extra-hot.... read more
Posted: 31 December 2020
Norton Grounds in Chipping Campden offering micro wedding package
Norton Grounds in Chipping Campden nestled in the Cotswolds hills in Gloucestershire and close to the border of Oxfordshire offers exclusive-use weekend weddings. The Cotswold stone Threshing Barn that has been recently renovated is set in a stunning, landscaped courtyard that looks romantic at night lit up with atmospheric lighting. There's a paddock overlooking the 18th-century farmhouse that offers the ideal spot for a marquee, yurt or a tipi hired from a supplier of the couple's choice.The immaculate gardens offer plenty of beautiful locations for big-day photographs and are home to a pond, weeping willows and acres of surrounding land boasting stunning Cotswold views. Because there's a limit to the number of weddings that take place at the venue each year, the team can plant flowers in areas around the grounds for each wedding theme.... read more
Posted: 29 December 2020
A different kind of hen party before the wedding
These days, most groups want to leave the UK for their hen party, but times are changing, and we are starting to realise that there are plenty of fantastic places to visit with your friends right here in the UK. What's more, is you'll find a hen party house that is more accessible to everyone, and it will be a lot cheaper too. You'll also have ample choice of hen party activities, like hiring a prosecco van with unlimited fizz or a private chef for the evening. Here are six pretty villages you can spend the weekend with your best friends to see the bride off in the best way possible... read more
Posted: 28 December 2020
UK retailer The Perfume Shop reveals sales of home fragrance increased by a whopping 357% month on month following lockdown, as the UK continue to spend more time at home. Not only can fragrance lift your mood at home, but it's also important to consider how fragrances can impact your wedding day. If you have a particular favourite scent, why not have candles or diffusers at the entrance to your wedding venues so that guests can be greeted with a pleasant welcome - and it will evoke memories of your special day for years to come as the sense of smell is closely linked with memory, probably more so than any of our other senses.... read more
Posted: 25 December 2020
Sudbury House Hotel & Restaurant in Oxfordshire reveal 2021 packages
Sudbury House Hotel & Restaurant located in Faringdon, Oxfordshire, is nestled on the edge of the Cotswolds in nine acres of beautifully landscaped gardens and surrounded by woodland sits this recently refurbished, Grade 11 listed, four-star hotel. The main part benefits from a contemporary design seen in the spacious and comfortable bar, lounge and Magnolia restaurant while the neighbouring Old House, formerly a Georgian family house, has been restored to its former glory and is a popular choice for weddings with its antique furnishings, sculptures, artwork and magnificent wooden staircase combined with an elegant red carpet.... read more
Posted: 24 December 2020
Notley Abbey in Aylesbury, Bucks, offer tasting sessions with wine
A tree-lined driveway leading to Notley Abbey reveals the main house with its charming stone exterior and stunning grounds, ideal for big-day photos. The main entrance features a beautiful archway that's often decorated with flowers and at the back, there's an enchanting turret. Inside are nine luxurious bedrooms, perfect for wedding guests. Ceremonies take place in a choice of three areas. The cosy Abbot's Hall is ideal for intimate gatherings of up to 90 loved ones, and larger celebrations of up to 170 guests can enjoy The Monks' Refectory, a Grade I listed stone-walled barn oozing charm and character.... read more
Posted: 22 December 2020
Savings expert gives top tips on budgeting for your big day!
Putting money away for a rainy day can seem pointless - especially when this year feels like one long rainy day! If you know exactly what your hard-earned money is going towards the saving process can be a lot more enjoyable. For many, one of the biggest expenses will be the biggest day of their lives - their wedding day. Kevin Mountford from Raisin UK has provided his top tips on how best to save for your big day...... read more
Posted: 21 December 2020
A fully sustainable retreat for pre-wedding escapism
Blackhouse Forest Estate is nestled in 773 acres of breathtaking, natural woodland, heather and hills of the Yarrow Valley in the Scottish Borders; it makes a stunning setting for a pre-wedding or post-wedding getaway with family or friends. With an abundance of indigenous flora and fauna, a stunning Loch and a fully sustainable off grid energy system, it is the ideal destination for weddings, retreats, walking, fishing or just getting away from it all with friends and family. The renewable energy systems create an entirely self-sufficient escape from the pace of everyday life.... read more
Posted: 18 December 2020
Alicia J Diamonds reveal how 40% of engagements are to happen between now and Valentine's Day
Last year, 40 per cent of UK engagements happened between Christmas Eve and Valentine's Day. Christmas and New Year are two of the most popular times of the year to propose, and it's easy to see why. There's just something so magical about the festive season which makes it a perfect opportunity to pop the question. According to a YouGov Survey, the most accepted time for a couple to be together before getting engaged is between six months and two years, according to 57% of people. Being together for at least a year is the most popular choice, with 27%, followed by at least two years (18%) and at least six months (12%). With this in mind, Alicia J Diamonds unveil their engagement ring trend predictions for 2021...... read more
Posted: 17 December 2020
The next steps after your wedding: Financial planning
Zoe Bailey, Chartered Financial Planner and Director at Tilney comment on the next steps after your wedding when it comes to financial planning for life's milestones: "Major life events like moving to a new home, renovating your current one, or starting or adding to your family are exciting milestones but they do need careful planning. Putting a savings plan in place can help you meet your life goals as you reach each important stage of your life together," she says. Read on to find out more... read more
Posted: 16 December 2020
Wasing Park in Berkshire set to host Winter Wonderland 2021
Couples are invited to book now for Wasing Park's Winter Wonderland event which will run from 9th until 26th January 2021. Inspired by the season of sparkle, Winter Wonderland provides inspiration and ideas for couples interested in hosting their wedding in the chilly months as well as the warmer ones. While it may be cold outside, Wasing Park will be dressed to impress, warming hearts with twinkling fairylights, candles and delightful floral displays. During this extended period that Wasing has been without weddings, there have been many updates and improvements made at the venue. Landscaping has also been high on the agenda and a new raised garden and water fountain have been built outside of the Castle Barn. Another wonderful addition is a stunning mural in The Stables bar created by artist Frederick Wimsett.... read more
Posted: 15 December 2020
The perfect flowers for you based on your star sign
Stuck for wedding flower inspiration? Read on... Signs the Zodiac originate from Babylonian astrology and can often offer guidance and comfort to those who believe them. Whether in times of struggle or marking a new start, Zodiacs are there to show the future is written in the stars. Whilst everyone knows that each Zodiac sign correlates to a different time of year, did you know that each Zodiac also has a corresponding flower? Zodiac flowers reflect each star sign's personality trait and offer insight into what the stars have planned for us. After all, each Zodiac is as unique as a flower.... read more
Posted: 14 December 2020
Curate your own wedding gift box
With the updated Tiered Restrictions across the country, gift-giving in person is trickier than ever - and if you know someone tying the knot now micro-weddings are back, what can you give them? With Heath & Hill you can discover that elegant and thoughtful gifting is both stress-free and expertly executed. Its gift stylists source the finest products year round to curate elegant, well thought out collections; with the 'Build Your Own' concept you can take all of that expertise and add your own personal touch.... read more
Posted: 11 December 2020