Your East Anglian Wedding news and ideas from around the region

Hintlesham Hall is a charming wedding venue in Suffolk with glorious gardens

Surrounded by peaceful gardens, Hintlesham Hall has an impressive Georgian frontage and an elegant Tudor feature at the back. This Suffolk gem is sure to wow your guests as they wind their way down the treelined drive and discover the impressive hall.

There's a choice of distinctive rooms where you can tie the knot, including the Georgian-style Salon, which has an impressive chandelier, an ornate gold-leaf ceiling and space for up to 100 friends and family.

Intimate ceremonies take place in The Justice on the ground floor, which overlooks the back lawns. There are three function rooms too, including The Salon, which, with the adjacent Parlour, is big enough for up to 135 of your loved ones to celebrate in style.

Goodybag collaboration with Yankee Candle - don't miss out!

For couples coming along to the County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Shows at Bluewater, Kent, Mercedes-Benz World, Surrey and Ascot Racecourse, Berkshire, they're in for a treat because in the Goodybags you'll find a Yankee Candle Votive. Yankee Candle Filled Votives come in the Signature Collection-exclusive and tried-and-true fragrances, making these tiny treats an easy (and adorable) way to try something new. Hand-illustrated labels, vibrant wax colours, and a premium soy-wax blend create an inspired addition to your home. Decided on a favourite? Arrange several of the same fragrance together to add sparkle and scent to your mantel or table.

Goodybag collaboration with Mocktails - don't miss out!

For those looking for booze-free options this wedding season, Mocktails Uniquely Crafted, is the non-alcoholic premium cocktail brand perfect for big-day guests; and when attending County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Shows at at Bluewater, Kent, Mercedes-Benz World, Surrey and Ascot Racecourse, Berkshire, you'll find a sample in your Goodybag! The alcohol-free, ready-to-drink beverages are perfect for those looking to offer a range of beverages at their wedding. Mocktails showcase a delectable collection of flavours, each carefully crafted with the finest ingredients, spices, and botanicals sourced from around the world.

Dream themes

Planning a wedding is a stressful time, but allocating a theme can help by making the important decisions slightly less difficult. Here, editorial assistant Sophie Clark has created a guide to inspire you for your big day. From Regency-core to overflowing natural elements, there are plenty of themes to draw inspiration from to help you navigate your wedding planning. Not only could it narrow down a specific colour scheme from which you can arrange the bridal parties' outfits, but it can project the atmosphere you want to achieve at your dream-like wedding. This will ensure that the memories created on your special day are timeless, and that the photos will turn out absolutely divine to give you something to reminisce on.

County Wedding Events coming to Micklefield Hall, Hertfordshire!

If you're newlyweds-to-be embarking on your wedding planning journey, pop along to the County Wedding Events wedding show at Micklefield Hall, Hertforshire, for inspiration on Sunday 6th October 2024! 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.

County Wedding Events coming to Ravenwood Hall Hotel, Suffolk!

If you're newlyweds-to-be embarking on your wedding planning journey, pop along to the County Wedding Events wedding show at Ravenwood Hall Hotel, for inspiration on Sunday 6th October 2024! 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. Ravenwood Hall is the perfect setting for your dream wedding in Suffolk. The Hall, parts of which date back to Henry VIII, is conveniently located just three miles from the ancient market town of Bury St Edmunds. Set in seven acres of secluded, tranquil gardens in the lovely Suffolk countryside, the Hall makes the perfect backdrop for a country house wedding.

Cley Windmill has welcomed an on-site chef

Cley Windmill, a beautiful wedding venue situated in North Norfolk, has welcomed an on-site chef. Wendy will prepare food for weddings at Cley Windmill; she can create three-course sit-down meals, barbecues, afternoon tea, buffets and canapés to ensure your big-day menu is perfect.

The property is surrounded by reeds and marshland with the sea in the distance, creating an idyllic setting for those in search of an original big-day backdrop. You can take over the whole windmill for your big day, with space for up to 22 people across 10 bedrooms.

No-shows at weddings are costing couples across the UK approximately £1.52 Billion each year

No-shows and last-minute declines at weddings are not only incredibly annoying but also can have a hefty impact on a couple's finances. Data collected by Togather, the UK's leading event booking platform, reveals that wedding no-shows are costing couples on average £6,163.36 per wedding or £1.52 billion each year. Given that, on average, 20% of guests who RSVP ultimately do not attend, the financial implications for couples are significant. By analysing customer budget data from thousands of weddings across the country, Togather has shed light on the financial strain caused by guest absences. It's revealed that the average cost of a UK wedding in 2023/24 stands at £30,816.41, with cost per guest amounting to £385.21.

Ravenwood Hall is situated in seven acres of luscious countryside

Ravenwood Hall has seven acres of luscious countryside to be enjoyed by guests and couples alike. Its extensive grounds, with well-kept lawns, woodland and other clearings, provide the perfect backdrop for those picture-perfect moments.

This charming country house hotel has an impressive Tudor façade and the interiors showcase its historic origins and complement the exquisite frontage.

Weddings primarily take place in the Main Hall or in the Edwardian Pavilion. The Pavilion is a popular choice for couples as it's self-contained with private gardens, restrooms, a bar and a marquee attached.

Data reveals staggering cost increases for stag and hen dos

New research by Adventure Connections, a leading provider of group adventure experiences, reveals a staggering increase in the cost of stag and hen weekends, with prices skyrocketing in recent years. The data, based on bookings between 2016 and 2024, highlights a significant financial burden for those celebrating upcoming nuptials. The average cost of a stag weekend has surged by 136% since 2016, rising from £2,018 to £4,759 in 2024. This represents a substantial increase of approximately 11.32% per year, far outpacing the rate of inflation during the same period. Similarly, hen do expenses have climbed by 130%, increasing from £1,752 to £4,022 over the same period, with an average annual increase of around 11%. This is based just on UK staycation trips alone.

County Wedding Events coming to Luton Hoo, Bedfordshire!

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 29th 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.

The Spa at Bedford Lodge Hotel is hosting a Wellness Retreat this September

The Spa at Bedford Lodge Hotel has announced the launch of its exclusive wellness retreat, set to take place from Friday 13th September to Sunday 15th September 2024. This transformative two-night retreat promises to be the ultimate escape, offering a carefully curated experience around nutrition and sleep, designed to rejuvenate both the body and mind.

The Wellness Retreat has been meticulously crafted to help guests relax and reconnect with themselves, focusing on the essential elements of nutrition and sleep to restore inner harmony. Participants will embark on a journey of self-care, supported by a range of activities and treatments aimed at fostering holistic wellbeing, including a nutrition workshop with a leading nutritionist, a sleep focus session with an ESPA specialist, a sound bath session, yoga and pilates.

County Wedding Events coming to Sprowston Manor, Norfolk!

If you're newlyweds-to-be embarking on your wedding planning journey, pop along to the County Wedding Events wedding show at Sprowston Manor, Norfolk, for inspiration on Sunday 29th September 2024! 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. Sprowston Manor Hotel, Golf and Country Club would make the perfect venue for your dream wedding. The Manor House hotel is over 450 years old with charming features from it's grand sweeping staircase to the original historical fireplaces, landscaped gardens and calming water features.

Brits say yes to dogs at weddings - but on your honeymoon?

As more Brits include their furry friends in significant life events like weddings, this trend is beginning to extend beyond the big day - many couples are now choosing to bring their dogs along on their honeymoons as well. With searches for 'minimoon destinations' rising 150% in the last 90 days, many are opting for UK-based getaways that include their canine companions, as highlighted in a recent viral TikTok. The recent TikTok video by Tasmin (@maybetamsin), which currently has over 70k views and 8k likes, shows her experience of traveling with her dog on her honeymoon. In the video, Tasmin shares how she brought her dog, Rhubarb, along on their UK staycation 'minimoon,' offering a glimpse into a dog-friendly getaway after their wedding, where Rhubarb also made a special appearance.

Mannington Estate is a hidden gem located in an idyllic spot north of Norwich

Mannington Estate is a hidden gem located in an idyllic spot north of Norwich and just eight miles from the coast. Nestled in rural surroundings, the gardens provide a picture-perfect setting, with the impressive Medieval hall in the background.

The hall is still a family home today, and although you can't get married here, there's plenty of space in the grounds for a magical marquee reception, or you can hire the tearooms for a more intimate celebration.

Platinum Spas interviews Love Island star Amy Hart

Platinum Spas caught up with Series 5 Love Islander Amy Hart to discuss her well-being routines; from fitness and wedding goals to diet plans, as well as her average screen time, and how she switches off with just a month to go until she gets married. Starting with well-being and fitness, what are your current go-to fitness routines? "So, I'm obviously getting married in September, I'm currently shredding for the wedding, but I just had that awful viral cough that was going around, so I haven't been able to go to the gym for 6 weeks, but I actually went back today for my first PT session back. I did a bit of legs, and I'm working with a PT, I'm also trying to get out walking every day with my little boy in the pram, and then I've got this app called Sweat with Kayla – I've had it for years.

Win a menu tasting for two worth £100

Bayfield Catering is a catering company based in Norfolk. The owner, Emma Boubaker, tells us: "I am a local girl from the North Norfolk Coast, born in Blakeney, and I have worked in the catering industry all of my life. I am currently operating my outside catering business with help from my family. I have a passion for food, use good produce and have great relations with local suppliers. We can help you create your special day, making sure it is as stress-free as possible. Whether you've chosen a large or small venue, we can accommodate your needs and give you advice on what will work well. We can supply a variety of hot and cold foods to suit your needs. We offer canapés, finger and fork buffets, and three-course meals with a wide range of choices to suit all budgets and taste buds."

County Wedding Events coming to Prested Hall, Essex!

If you're newlyweds-to-be embarking on your wedding planning journey, pop along to the County Wedding Events wedding show at Prested Hall, Essex, for inspiration on Sunday 22nd September 2024! 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.

Labour's plan to legalise humanist weddings

We are deep in the midst of wedding season. Whether you're attending as a guest, or planning your own, you will probably be taking note of the special moments, and how each couple make their wedding truly their own, and reflective of their relationship. Joanna Newton is a Partner at Stowe Family Law and explains what the proposal in law changes could mean... Over the past two decades, humanist wedding ceremonies (which is a wedding that is non-religious ceremony) have soared in popularity. The most recent statistics from 2020 are from Humanists UK and reveal that humanist weddings have increased by a huge 266% since 2004.

The Granary Estates is an exclusive barn wedding venue in Newmarket

The Granary Estates is an exclusive barn wedding venue set within the picturesque countryside of Woodditton, Newmarket. This carefully restored 18th-century barn is home to an award-winning luxury wedding and events venue, complete with surrounding corn fields, fully equipped accommodation, and a team of dedicated wedding planners on hand.

The venue consists of two original barns linked by an open glass walkway and a beautiful courtyard garden.

Those looking to stay the night will love the beautifully furnished cottages boasting countryside views and a special getting-ready space.