Your Cheshire and Merseyside Wedding news and ideas from around the area

Creating Safe Spaces: The Emotional Journey of Wedding Wear

Jake Allen, co-founder and CEO at inclusive tailor, King & Allen shares his insights on inclusive attire. "Many people experience anxiety about being fitted for their wedding outfit. We look to create an environment where clients of all gender identities and body types feel genuinely welcomed and affirmed. The whole process begins with a welcome email, before they even step foot in one of our shops - we have premises in Surbiton/Surrey, Liverpool Street/London, Savile Row/London, Knutsford/Cheshire and Birmingham/Midlands).

How much money should you really spend on big-day gifting?

Confused Brits turn to Google for advice as expert spills secrets to saving cash without looking stingy. Wedding season is fast approaching – and while many Brits are busy outfit-hunting or booking hotels, there's one part of the big day that continues to cause confusion - how much money should you actually spend on the happy couple? It's a question thousands of guests are turning to the internet for. In fact, Google searches for 'how much money should you give for a wedding gift' have soared by a whopping 5,000% over the past month*, proving just how panicked Brits are about getting it right.

How to protect your wedding day against unexpected events

Brides and grooms-to-be are being warned to think ahead on possible disasters, and what they can do to protect their big day. Whether planning a destination wedding abroad or an intimate garden wedding at home, it is crucial for couples to understand the essential checklist and plan for what could go wrong. The research comes after a survey revealed 26% of those planning a wedding in the next three years would not take out wedding insurance. Weddings come with a whole host of unforeseen risks, like supplier no-shows, damaged goods, technical faults, damaged or lost items, severe weather and accident or illness.

Say “I Do” to Free Fizz – DASH Water’s Wedding Giveaway

Just in time for peak wedding season, DASH Water  – the makers of deliciously simple, real fruit-infused soft drinks – is popping the question: "Will you let us bring the bubbles?" Introducing "I Do, With DASH" – a new feel-good campaign giving soon-to-be-wed couples the chance to WIN a 48-can Pick & Mix of DASH for their big day. Whether it's to stock the reception bar, fill the fridge the night before, or keep guests refreshed the morning after, DASH is here to add a little sparkle to the celebrations. Running from 9th - 16th June, the competition invites couples getting married this summer to enter via a simple online form. Winners will receive a one-time-use code for free DASH (plus free shipping), redeemable until 31st August.

Rebel Love Collective delivers inclusivity training for vendors

Rebel Love Collective, a leading provider of LGBTQ+ inclusive wedding services has announced its expansion into new areas to further its mission of creating a more inclusive and affirming space for couples and lovers. Founded in March 2022, Rebel Love Collective has rapidly become a trusted wedding industry name. Through its existing services, including Rebel Love Club (photography and videography), Rebel Love Directory (wedding directory), and the upcoming Rebel Love Wedding Fair, the company has already connected countless LGBTQ+ couples with inclusive vendors.

Let’s hear it for dad!

Here comes Father's Day! How much does dad impact our wedding day? Here we unpack all of his important roles, starting with the most important one: walking us down the aisle. Thank you dad for making sure we don't do that walk alone and for all the embarrassing things you'll say on the day. Click through to read all about dad's jobs on the day of your wedding.

Introducing Cake Spiral™ - the next evolution in cake displays by Prop Options

Prop Options, the UK-based innovators setting the standard for modern cake styling, has launched Cake Spiral – the industry's first fully flat-pack spiral cake support to hit the professional market. Made from high-quality, food-safe acrylic, Cake Spiral transforms from flat to full-height spiral in seconds – no tools, no bending, no shaping required. The structure simply pulls into place, locks securely between tiers, and can be styled and set up in moments. It is the only spiral cake stand on the market to combine fold-flat portability with genuine structural support.

Adventurous staycations at Snowdonia's newest hotel

Plas Weunydd Hotel, nestled in the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the slate landscape of North West Wales in Eryi (Snowdonia), reopened in April with a revitalised look and feel, alongside a new family-focused offering, blending history, comfort and adventure. The four-star Hotel's renewed offering introduces spacious family rooms, a dedicated boot room, monthly guided mountain walks, and a Strava club, all curated by the knowledgeable local team to help guests craft unforgettable adventures. With 24 thoughtfully-designed bedrooms, including five family rooms and dog friendly suites, Plas Weunydd Hotel is the perfect destination for couples, solo travellers, families and groups of friends alike.

Hide yourself away in the Secret Garden

The award-winning Manor House Hotel and Spa in Alsager has announced exciting and ambitious new plans to expand and develop its existing spa garden facilities. The English country inspired garden will see an expansion of 36 square metres, inviting guests into a new secret garden area. The new space will provide a vibrant, multi-experience oasis designed to give guests a mix of relaxation and restore energy levels. Following the popularity of the spa's signature swim up bar, the first of its kind in the UK, the new secret garden will be adding a second, named The Bothy Bar. The new bar will provide more space for guests to enjoy a delicious hot or cold drink, immersed in warmed water.

Tie the knot at Rainhill Hall, nestled in the scenic suburbs of Merseyside

Nestled in the scenic suburbs of Merseyside, Rainhill Hall is a Grade II listed manor house dating back to 1824. Carefully preserved from every angle the historical hall showcases a blend of timeless beauty and rustic charm. The chapel has an opulence of space with a rich history, completed by beautiful stained-glass windows. With its floor-to-ceiling feature flower wall, it really gives the wow factor to your wedding day. It can welcome 180 of your loved ones for the "I dos." It can also host 120 for the wedding breakfast and 180 for the evening celebrations. The chapel bar is just next door and provides a smooth flow for guests during the day.

Modern day hen do ideas - time to celebrate

The hen do is the perfect opportunity to shower your bridesmaids with love before the big day. It's all about celebrating your friendship, laughing until your cheeks hurt and making the most of your time together. If you're looking for unique and fun ways to honour your girlies, here are some ideas from hen experts, bookaparty.com. Treat your bridal crew to a bottomless brunch where the prosecco and pancakes keep coming. Head to the city centre of your choice and enjoy a fun atmosphere, good music and tasty food to suit a range of tastes. Whether it's a full English breakfast, avocado toast, fluffy waffles or pizza, your taste buds will be in heaven, and unlimited drinks help you to kick off your day in style. Sip on free-flowing glasses of fizz, cocktails, beer, cider or soft drinks as you let your hair down and even enjoy some live entertainment from DJs to cabaret shows.

2025 wedding wine trends unveiled by Laithwaites

Laithwaites, the UK's leading online wine merchant, has revealed the top five wedding wine trends of 2025. Created by experts from Laithwaites' wedding wine service, this list reflects the current vogue for unique, cost-conscious wedding celebrations that leave a lasting impression on guests. "Couples are coming to us looking to create experiences that focus on value, showcase their personalities and give their guests a great time. It's so often the food and drink that makes a great wedding stand out," says Greg Roberts, Wine Educator at Laithwaites. Wedding wine trends for 2025.

The Eve Appeal: The UK’s Leading Gynae Cancer Charity’s Get Lippy Campaign

The Eve Appeal is on a mission is to save lives by focusing on preventing and improving the early diagnosis of the five gynaecological cancers. Throughout May, they are encouraging everyone to Get Lippy alongside some of the leadingnames and brands in beauty. The campaign raises awareness of the five gynae cancers: womb, ovarian, cervical, vulval andvaginal through a series of fundraising, education, and awareness initiatives to prevent these cancers before they start.

Brits are calling for an end to ‘rowdy’ stag and hen celebrations

Gone are the days when stag and hens revolved around a simple send-off - with costs spiralling out of control, Brits are calling for an end to 'rowdy' stag and hen celebrations. The study by the UK's most-trusted discount site, VoucherCodes.co.uk, reveals Brits are forking out £1,000 more than they'd like to celebrate their friends' and families' upcoming nuptials, with the average person willing to spend just £214. With many celebrations now lasting several days and requiring trips abroad, the average stag and hen now costs an eye-watering £1,208. It's therefore no surprise that a whopping 71% of people say costs have gotten out of control.

Wedding to cross two countries on three modes of transport in one day

Couple Ben Miller, 32, and Lorenzo Garofalo, 45, are taking the stress of wedding planning to new heights as they intend to take their entire wedding party from Liverpool to Edinburgh by combining the Northern Belle luxury train, road transfer and the floating hotel Fingal in May 2025. The elegance and opulence of 1930s travel forms the theme through this immersive wedding with brunch and dinner onboard the Northern Belle luxury train, known for its art deco opulence and first-class service, with the ceremony taking place onboard the now five-star floating boutique hotel. "We knew we wanted to do something unique and memorable," says Ben Miller.

8 Tips To Avoid Wedding Guest Burnout This Wedding Season

As peak wedding season rolls in, it's not just brides and grooms who are feeling the pressure. New research reveals a growing trend of wedding burnout, and it's hitting guests just as hard. From back-to-back hen-dos and stag weekends to pricey gifts and cross-country travel, the cost and commitment of attending multiple weddings have left many guests feeling emotionally and financially drained. To help guests avoid burnout this wedding season, the experts at Queensmith have shared their 8 top tips to beat the 'wedding guest hangover', from setting a budget to knowing when to say no.

Bridal fashion newness from Unbridled Studio, Liverpool

Unbridled Studio's Collection III launches in 2025 bringing a fashion forward edit of beautifully crafted and considered bridal pieces. Modern and sculptural silhouettes, luxe fabrications and transformative separates layer effortlessly onto the current collection, to evolve and elevate. This collection focuses on textural mixes, with crafted jacquards and modern lace mixing with clean and contemporary satins. Staying true to the brand's ethos, the collection is underpinned by the importance of sublime fabrication and impeccable cuts, with an emphasis on the innovative styling possibilities of each piece. Collection III is available from Unbridled Studio's Liverpool studio from March 2025. Check out www.unbridledstudio.co.uk

Hotpod Yoga Takes on Mental Health Week

Mental health awareness week (12th – 18th May) is upon us and it's time we get serious about our feelings. With the constant rise in social media consumption and the cruelty of the media, it's vita we understand how we can support our mental health. Hotpod Yoga in Birmingham are facing the week head on and, in collaboration with CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably), are helping locals support the worthy cause.

This new cleaning trend is ruining your engagement ring!

The newest trend to clean engagement rings with a coffee steamer, whilst entertaining to watch, is a sure-fire way to ruin your precious ring! We have to be very careful about our jewels and must not forget that it is four simple prongs that hold in our sparkling beauties. To educate us as to why this hack should get the sack is Neil Dutta, managing director of the engagement ring specialists, Angelic Diamonds

Start your fitness journey with The Women's Gym by Total Fitness in Wilmslow

Discover a gym designed exclusively for you! The Women's Gym by Total Fitness is inviting women across Cheshire to experience a new approach to fitness. The gym offers a private and inclusive setting where you can focus on your health and fitness, with support from specially trained instructors allowing you to feel safe and empowered. The Women's Gym includes a full range of cardio and strength equipment, thoughtfully designed workout areas, dedicated workout spaces, digital content to guide workouts, friendly female team members available to assist and a choice to work out in front of mirrors or not, depending on your preference.