Your East Midlands Wedding news and ideas from around the region

Weddings in 2023: Make sure your big day is protected

A wedding is a special day for a couple, but it can also be an expensive one. Between venues, caterers, photographers, dresses, and entertainment, the costs can add up and even run into the tens of thousands. And with the current cost of living, couples will also be navigating rising costs. For those planning a wedding, it's important you insure 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.

Mental Health Awareness Week 15th-21st May

Planning a wedding can certainly be an exciting time, from picking the cake to choosing the entertainment, it's full of fun tasks to check off a to-do list. However, wedding planning can also come with a host of negativities such as worrying about money and feeling anxiety about family politics on the big day. Increasing evidence shows that gardens and green spaces are associated with better physical, social and mental health.

Travel Chaps will help you plan the perfect honeymoon

There is so much to do when planning your wedding, but your honeymoon shouldn't be a cause of stress; travel consultants Travel Chaps excel at making the whole process as simple and easy as possible.

Travel Chaps pride themselves on being fabulous travel consultants that specialise in booking honeymoons. Based in Lincoln, Lincolnshire, this dynamic duo will do all the leg work for you and present to you the dream honeymoon you may not have known you dreamt of. Bringing fantasy to reality, they spend their time curating all the small details to ensure your honeymoon really is a once in a lifetime trip and more than you could have imagined.

The Goldcrest Weddings team celebrate the company's eighth anniversary

To help couples create dream weddings, the team at Goldcrest Weddings and Events are offering eight per cent off all decorating and favour services to celebrate their eighth anniversary. The Nottingham-based business serves the East Midlands and beyond. Founded in 2015, the company has evolved and knows all the latest wedding trends. Enjoy a free consultation to discuss décor needs, and the experienced team will make dream weddings a reality. From chair sashes and centrepieces to bespoke favours, they'll guide couples every step of the way

Maileg Wedding Mice back at Bluebell's Burrow

Award-winning, family-run toy business, Bluebell's Burrow, is one of the UK's leading stockists of Maileg toys. These super-stylish, picture-perfect collectable toys are loved by both children and adults. With the wedding season fast-approaching, Maileg Wedding Mice Set (priced at £64) comes in a pretty presentation box, which opens up to reveal the bride and groom on their wedding day. Their clothes and accessories are removable, providing dress-up opportunities and imaginative play for children.

Bizarre wedding traditions: The Eurovision edition

Wedding traditions are dramatically different around the world. From the type of cake served to the attire of the bride, you'll be amazed at what happens on wedding days around the continent. To celebrate Eurovision 2023 taking place in the vibrant city of Liverpool, engagement and wedding ring experts at Steven Stone have rounded up some of the most bizarre traditions from participating countries – including the Big 5.

The do's and don'ts of having pets at weddings

Are you considering including your dog in your wedding festivities? While it can be a lovely way to honour your furry best friend, there are some important considerations to remember to ensure that everything goes smoothly. Dog Behaviourist at Pooch & Mutt Dr Emma Scales-Theobald, PhD, shares the do's and don'ts of including your dog in your wedding, from making sure your dog is properly trained and socialised to creating a comfortable and safe space for them during the event. These tips will help ensure your dog is happy, healthy, and well-behaved throughout the celebration...

Perfect Silhouette Hairdressing wins another wedding award

Lincoln's Perfect Silhouette Hairdressing has won National Wedding Hair Stylist at The Wedding Industry Awards 2023. After winning the Regional Wedding Hair Stylist of the Year in the East Midlands category, owner Robyn Wood went on to win at the national stage after being judged by a panel of industry experts. She comments, "This award has been a career goal of mine for several years. To be the national winner and be recognised at such a high level is a dream come true and a real pinch-me moment!"

Introducing Story Locker’s wedding podcast

With the ever growing popularity of podcasting, welcome to the next big thing which makes podcasting accessible. Story Locker, a one of a kind in the UK podcast recording service that lets participants create a personal podcast based on their life story or to celebrate other special moments in life. The couple can choose to either record their podcast before their wedding day and recall the journey of their love story – from when they first met & the engagement (how it all happened!) to setting the date, the planning and build up to the big day or record their podcast after their wedding day to include memories of the big day too!

Discover weddings at Bondhay Golf Club in Nottinghamshire

Nestled in Dukeries, Bondhay Golf Club provides the perfect settings for memorable weddings with endless charm and character. As couples travel down the long driveway with two golf courses on either side, they arrive at the family-owned venue and will fall in love with the spaces. The stunning grounds and gardens provide a picturesque backdrop to memorable photographs. Couples will discover the immaculately tended fairways, blooming flowers, lush greenery, charming walkways and peaceful ponds – perfect for romantic walks. The dedicated team works with couples to ensure they receive their dream wedding while tailoring the day to their needs and requirements.

Why Champagne is the number one choice for weddings and celebrations

Champagne naturally goes hand in hand at weddings and there is no shortage of creative ways to share the pinnacle of sparkling wine. The Champagne Bureau UK*, has included useful tips below on how to best serve Champagne at a wedding and help select the right style for the occasion. Using the correct glassware: whilst trends come and go and flutes have commonly been thought of as the crème de la crème - a tall, rounded, tulip-shaped glass is the perfect choice and expertly shows off your Champagne's aromas and bubbles.

#ThisBarbie is getting married! New cards from Thortful

thortful has launched a Barbie card range to send to your bestie on her big day! The internet has been coloured pink with over 107,000 views on Tiktok for #ThisBarbie following the release of a new Barbie trailer. Greetings card marketplace, thortful, has created Barbie cards to send to your nearest and dearest, including 'This Barbie has passed her driving test', and 'This Barbie is getting married'

Avoid a pet custody dispute - get a petnup

Ella Welsby, a senior associate at law firm DMH Stallard and specialist divorce lawyer, explains below how a petnup can help avoid a costly custody battle. Ella Welsby, a senior associate at law firm DMH Stallard and specialist divorce lawyer, said: "We are a nation of animal lovers, but consideration of how pet ownership would be dealt with in the event of a relationship breakdown often comes too late. Given the continued trend for couples to embark on pet ownership as a first foray into family life, it is important to appreciate how to best protect respective interests.

The Pumping House is the perfect location for weddings

Located on a six-acre site in the heart of Sherwood Forest, The Pumping House is a beautiful Grade II listed venue that brings an industrial vibe to a countryside location. The red brick building still features the original and distinctive chimney that can be seen by approaching visitors. The venue's interior is a work of bespoke craftsmanship with grand turn-of-the-century elements blended with industrial-chic flair. The Ollerton Room has beautiful parquet flooring and original-paned windows that supply plenty of natural lighting for ceremonies with up to 100 people. If couples want a more extensive guest list, The Engine Hall can host up to 160 people and the team can transform the space into an impressive setting for wedding breakfasts too! The stunning arch windows and high-glass ceiling create an illuminating space that's perfect for events.

5 ways to plan a sentimental bridesmaid proposal

Planning your wedding is such a personalised experience, and getting to do it your own way is part of what makes it so special. With this in mind, have you thought about how you'll ask your bridesmaids to be part of your wedding party? Add a sentimental touch to this moment with these tips from Kirsty Prankherd, Managing Director of Write From The Heart. Getting everything planned for your wedding is such a personal process, and asking your bridesmaid to be in your wedding party is one of those special moments you'll remember long after the event. So naturally, you'll want to add some individual touches to this proposal to make it an even more special moment between you and your friends.

Noble Macmillan is celebrating this year's wedding season

Luxury leather goods brand Noble Macmillan is celebrating this year's wedding season with a stunning collection of exceptional quality, personalised leather gifts. This thoughtfully curated edit includes a variety of exquisite items from their ever popular classic travel games and bound photo albums, to their brand new glassware range, specifically their stunning hand-blown decanters - all would make wonderful additions to any wedding list.

The Spa at Breedon Priory has a new package that's perfect for nearlyweds

Situated in Derbyshire, The Spa at Breedon Priory has launched a Living Well Spa Day that's perfect for those looking for the ultimate relaxing session. The new package has been created to help people focus on their health and wellbeing. Thanks to their expert knowledge, the team will guide guests through an exciting day of reflection and learning as they discover simple ways to create a better lifestyle. What better way to start the day than with a 75 minute sunrise holistic practice with the option of Yoga, Thai Chi,or Qi Gong as well as a 30-minute guided meditation session? Then indulge on a refreshing smoothie before heading to the thermal facilities followed by a two-course lunch in The Terrace Restaurant.

Beau Belles Bridalwear is currently undertaking a refurbishment

Located in Derby, Beau Belles Bridalwear is currently undertaking a massive refurbishment to provide a wow-factor experience for brides searching for their dream gown – it's also the perfect way to celebrate the company's 32nd anniversary! With this considerable refurbishment, the team are looking forward to helping even more modern brides feel special in a luxurious and friendly atmosphere. The architect has designed three large bridal suites with a glass lantern roof, which will fill the spaces with sunlight to show the team's beautiful collection of more than 400 gowns from designers including Justin Alexander, Sincerity Bridal, Romantica of Devon, Mori Lee and Julietta. The suites will have seating for the guests to help brides make that all-important decision.

Warren Farmhouse is a rustic venue based in Nottinghamshire

Tucked away amongst Nottinghamshire's beautiful countryside with views overlooking Sherwood Forest, Warren Farmhouse is a rustic and luxurious property. Located on Warren Farm, the marquee venue hosts celebrant-led blessings with 150 people on the lawns with the Grade II listed farmhouse as a backdrop, under the ancient oak tree in the paddock or by the pond. The in house celebrant creates bespoke and meaningful weddings that will create memories to treasure for a lifetime. Laid-back celebrations with 150 loved ones occur inside the traditional exposed pole tent marquee, which is located in an exclusive and secluded paddock with plenty of space for festival-style activities. Guests will love the giant fi re pit, hay bale seating area, oversized wooden games and the double rope swing hanging from the ancient oak tree.

How to throw a Hen Do on a budget

A typical spend for a Hen Do weekend can cost over £250 per person, taking a big chunk out of the wedding budget. Not only is this a massive cost for the bride, but it could also lead to members of the bridal party worrying about how they can afford such lavish expenses, which may result in them bailing out on the plans. Making arrangements in advance and planning activities ahead of time means both the bride and the party enjoy the celebrations without any falling outs. Sticking to local destinations or opting for activities like bottomless pottery painting over brunch are some of the simple solutions to saving money but still allow everyone to revel in the fun.