Your East Anglian Wedding news and ideas from around the region

Bedford Lodge Hotel & Spa has announced the arrival of a new executive head chef

Bedford Lodge Hotel & Spa has announced the arrival of its new executive head chef, Mark Tomeo. With an illustrious career spanning over three decades, chef Tomeo brings his culinary expertise and passion for locally sourced ingredients to the hotel's esteemed two-AA Rosette restaurant.

Squires Restaurant at the Bedford Lodge Hotel & Spa is renowned for its traditional, locally sourced, and delicious menu. Guests can enjoy the classic bar menu, à la carte and indulgent afternoon teas. Designed as a haven for food lovers, the eclectic menus showcase the finest seasonal ingredients from within a 50-mile radius, supporting the community and reducing the carbon footprint. Complementing the dining experience, the extensive wine menu features champagnes and locally sourced Suffolk wines and spirits.

Gladi-Waiter in the Buff – hen do firm offer

One of the UK's leading hen party planning companies is now offering Gladi-Waiters in the Buff in honour of the new Gladiator film hitting the big screen on the 14th of November. Butlers in the Buff are a hugely popular addition to hen weekends and are often scantily clad in just a small apron and a bow tie. However, GoHen are now offering buff butlers adored in gladiator helmets, shoulder pads and gladiatorial skirts. "Buff butlers are the modern-day gladiator," said GoHen's Head of Events, Ellie Silk. "They're performers, they're in great shape and they're often forced to entertain a rowdy crowd – what's the difference, really?

Isaacs On The Quay is an Ipswich landmark that’s full of character and charm

Set on the Ipswich waterfront, Isaacs On The Quay is a local landmark that's full of character and charm. Once a wool merchant's home and workplace, the Grade I and Grade II* listed building boasts a rich history spanning centuries and has been lovingly restored to provide a charming setting for weddings. Some of the oldest parts are thought to date back to between 1430 and 1550, and there are original features throughout, including exposed beams and vaulted ceilings, with exhibits from the building's industrious past on display.

Formally known as the Sale Room, stone steps lead into the timber-framed ceremony room. Once used for storing wool cloth for export, it's now a magical place to tie the knot and celebrate afterwards.

The ultimate gifting experience your friends, family - and you - will love

In today's busy world, it's not always possible to be there for every birthday, housewarming, or special occasion, but that doesn't mean you can't send a heartfelt message. That's where gift box specialist, Parcel London, comes in. Parcel London is here to offer the ultimate gifting experience - believing that the best gifts are about more than just the item – they're about the connection they represent. They're there for when you can't be. Working with a number of well-known and newly emerging independent brands, Parcel London connects you to the people who matter most through beautiful, useful, and memorable gifts. Every one of their Parcels is lovingly handpicked and carefully hand-wrapped, ensuring that each recipient feels cherished and valued. Whether you need a single gift for a special someone or thousands for a corporate event, they've got you covered

Start the festive season at the Spa at Bedford Lodge in Newmarket

Start the festive season with relaxation and creativity at the Spa at Bedford Lodge in Newmarket.

The Spa at Bedford Lodge, renowned for its luxurious spa experiences, has announced the return of its highly anticipated festive spa and wreath-making events (£140 per person). Following the success of the previous year's festivities, the team has partnered once again with Tolly's Flowers to bring an enchanting holiday experience.

Caley Hall Hotel is set around an original manor house that dates back to 1648

Caley Hall Hotel was recently refurbished and the result is a must-see venue offering a relaxed atmosphere with a country-chic feel. Think wooden beams and tartan carpet, long tables with white cloths and hessian runners, teamed with gypsophila and candlelight for a simple but stylish celebration.

Set around the original manor house, which dates back to 1648, the Caley Hall Hotel offers 37 chalet-style bedrooms, a bar, a lounge and a restaurant. The patio areas are decorated with greenery and the beach at Old Hunstanton is only a 10-minute walk away.

Belles & Beaus has added new services to its existing offering

Belles & Beaus, a venue styling company in Norfolk, has added new services to its existing offering. The first is a large soft play area for under five-year-olds. It's white, so it will complement any theme, and it includes floor tiles, a ball pool, a slide, building blocks, tipis, ride-on cars and bouncy animals. The company is also offering a mobile bar service called The Swan Bar. Offering up to 16 feet as a straight bar or a 360-degree circular bar fully stocked with a range of beer, lager, cider, wine, soft drinks, a cocktail list and a hydration station, which can include Boba bubble tea.

Seasonal style

As seasons change, it's important to be aware of how the weather affects the wedding. Editorial Assistant Millicent Garton takes you through some suggestions of how to embrace the chill and celebrate the sun. Much like seasons, it's only natural that weddings and their themes flow and evolve with changing year. From the cake and catering to the dress and décor, all elements of the big day can be influenced by the time of year, so it's only fitting that special attention should be given to those minor details.

Christchurch Mansion is an impressive wedding venue in Ipswich

Step inside the magnificent Christchurch Mansion with its red Tudor façade and be prepared to be wowed by its high ceiling, black and white marble-checkered floor, and ornate fireplace. This impressive wedding venue is a treasure trove of historic features, with numerous period rooms and furniture.

Nestled within Christchurch Park, the iconic Ipswich landmark boasts expansive, picturesque grounds with rolling lawns, ponds, and scenic woodland, providing a wealth of wonderful backdrops for taking those all-important photographs.

Adella Bridal is hosting a bridal sale on Sunday 10th November

Award-winning bridal boutique Adella Bridal in Wymondham, Norfolk, has teamed up with The Bottom Drawer Bridal and White Reflections to run a huge bridal sale.

Now in its third year, the sale has grown year on year with queues of 200 brides throughout the city. Last year it was hosted at The Assembly House and this year's exciting event will be held at the Maids Head Hotel.

The event is called 'I said yes at the Maids Head' and there is a competition running for 10 lucky brides to skip the queue and have private viewing time along with a glass of champagne and a trip around the city in the Maids Head Hotel's iconic Bentley.

Jane Stewart Photography is offering our readers an exclusive discount

Jane Stewart Photography is made up of a talented team of photographers with more than 40 years of experience. Owners Sarah and Nigel tell us more: "Here at Jane Stewart Photography, we always appreciate the trust that every couple places in us when they book us to photograph their wedding. With qualifications from the Royal Photographic Society and the Society of Wedding and Portrait Photographers, we are quietly confident that we are well placed to repay that trust.

The Boathouse is set in a picturesque spot on Norfolk’s Ormesby Broad

Just a few miles from the coast and the popular seaside town of Yarmouth is The Boathouse. Set in an idyllic spot on Norfolk's Ormesby Broad, the venue is in a picturesque location where your guests can relax on the terrace and take in the stunning views while waiting for you to arrive for the ceremony.

The Boathouse offers six bedrooms on the first and second floors of the main building, which are all individually decorated and styled as boutique boltholes. In the grounds are three fully equipped Woodland Lodges that are available to hire for short breaks. There's also a further lodge where newlyweds can enjoy their first night of wedded bliss among the beautiful surroundings.

The Kesgrave Hall Wedding Show is taking place on Sunday 27th October

Whether you've recently gotten engaged or are at the end of your wedding planning journey, trying to find the perfect suppliers can be stressful. To help you plan the wedding of your dreams, why not visit a local wedding fair? This is the ideal chance to meet some of the region's best companies and discuss your big day.

The Kesgrave Hall Wedding Show will be taking place on Sunday 27th October 2024 between 11am and 3pm. Pre-register to attend this event, where you'll have the opportunity to view Kesgrave Hall, learn more about the venue and meet a variety of suppliers ready to help plan your special day. Entry is free of charge.

Retreat East is set within a wellness retreat in the heart of Suffolk

Set within a tranquil wellness retreat in the heart of Suffolk, Retreat East offers a taste of wedding heaven. Designed by owner and architect Dominic Richards, the beautifully restored dairy farm includes an original 16th-century farmhouse and 16 stylishly converted barns with beamed ceilings, freestanding bathtubs and a country chic vibe – perfect for pre- or post-wedding rest and relaxation.

Surrounded by 35 acres of countryside and wildflower meadows, it's a quintessentially English setting. Whether you're looking for an exclusive- use wedding or a smaller, more intimate affair, you can enjoy a tailor- made experience for your special day.

Norfolk Hideaways has partnered with The Coastal Exploration Company

Norfolk Hideaways has partnered with The Coastal Exploration Company to launch a one-of-a-kind sailing adventure. Inspired by Arthur Ransome's children's classic Swallows and Amazons, the adventure will see families sail out into the wilderness of the Norfolk salt marshes in search of treasure! This collaboration aims to offer a unique experience for younger guests, bringing the thrill of exploration and adventure to their Norfolk holiday – perfect for those of you planning a family-moon or pre-wedding getaway with the kids.

Make sure your wedding day is protected! 

When you're planning a wedding, getting insured is important to protect yourself against anything that could go awry just before, or on the big day. For those aiming to tie the knot this year, Alex Cross, Insurance Director at Tesco Bank shares his top tips on things to consider for your wedding day and make sure you're covered so things can run as smoothly as possible. Weddings can be a pricey affair, with the average cost of a UK wedding in 2024 coming in at around £20,755. Knowing the total cost of your wedding and how much you're spending on each element of your big day is crucial before choosing your insurance policy. Identifying any big-ticket expenses that you'll want covered should anything go wrong, such as venues, caterers, photographers, or dresses is also key. This can also help you decide if standard insurance policies will be enough or if you'll need something more specific or customised.

The Red House is a new wedding venue in Cambridgeshire

Nestled in three acres of beautiful landscaped grounds just 15 minutes from Cambridge, The Red House offers views across open countryside, perfect for creating unforgettable memories. Whether you envision an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, The Red House could be your ideal setting.

The fully exclusive venue hire accommodates up to 120 seated guests, with the option for an additional 100 evening guests, bringing your total capacity to 220. For smaller receptions, the enchanting gardens and elegantly designed marquee, featuring a private outdoor bar, provide a delightful atmosphere for around 60 guests. Step inside the historic main building, dating back to 1799, where open vaulted ceilings, natural oak beams, and a cosy log fire set the stage for your special day.

Upthorpe Wood is the perfect setting for free-spirited couples

Upthorpe Wood is the perfect setting for free-spirited couples who like to think outside the box. This intimate woodland venue is licensed for weddings inside and out and is available on a dry-hire basis, so you're free to make it your own for a truly one-of-a-kind celebration.

You can tie the knot under the Cartlodge or in the Woodland Barn; both look magical lit with twinkling fairylights and are perfect for dining and enjoying the evening entertainment.

The Maltings in North Norfolk has opened its doors

The Maltings' restoration has been a three-year project, taking inspiration from its North Norfolk location. and its history as both a supplier to local brewers and an artist's studio. The old malthouse is now a destination to eat and drink, sleep and play, explore and discover more, blending tradition with modern comfort, style, and service. The results can be seen everywhere, from the 28 rooms spread across the main house and the old stable blocks that reflect the spirit of the area, to the spectacular double-height restaurant, The Grain Store.

How to avoid pre-nups becoming a wedding alarm bell

As one of the most popular seasons for wedding proposals approaches, couples are being reminded to factor pre-nuptials into their plans well ahead of the big day. No longer associated with the rich and famous, people from all walks of life and finance levels are entering into nuptial agreements. And often it's not the couples themselves who initiate the idea to enter into a nuptial agreement, it can often be suggested by their parents. "It's becoming more common for couples to take out an agreement because their parents have helped them financially more than perhaps, they did 5 to 10 years ago," said Sally Ward, a Senior Associate solicitor in Family Law at leading law firm, Ellisons Solicitors.