All the latest wedding news for couples getting married in Cheshire or Merseyside, along with bridal fashion and beauty inspiration and honeymoon ideas.
NameSwitch series: It's all in a name - how to change your's post-vows!
After all the precious time spent planning a wedding, and then the excitement of the day itself, followed by a honeymoon of a lifetime, do couples ever think about the admin after the big day? If you're embracing modern independence and keeping your birth name - great news - if you're traditionalist and what to show your newly married status by taking the surname of your beloved - then what's it all about and how do you go about changing it?... read more
Posted: 25 November 2020
Almost Mr & Mrs gifts for would-be brides and grooms
Exclusively for Christmas, London-based Pink Positive has launched a collection of 'Almost Mr & Mrs' gifts for would-be brides and grooms, including festive mugs and sweatshirts. With 71 per cent* of couples postponing their wedding this year due to the global pandemic, the collection is a thoughtful way to bring some cheer. The collection also includes the signature 'personalised gift boxes' with custom gift message inside the lid to make every gift look amazing with a luxurious finishing touch!... read more
Posted: 23 November 2020
Are we all longing for more romance?
Ahhh 'romance', here at County Wedding Magazines HQ we are, of course, suckers for a classic, romantic love story! Apparently, a quarter of Brits (24%) are to, and admit they are longing for a little more romance in their life, according to new research from luxury UK jewellery retailer Goldsmiths - who also looked at the UK's perception of romance in their own lives as well as the films they favour when they're looking for a little bit of love!... read more
Posted: 20 November 2020
Spotlight on Haydock Park Golf Club
The team at Haydock Park Golf Club delight in creating beautiful weddings designed around you. From the moment you begin your planning to the time you leave as newlyweds, this close-knit and highly experienced team are devoted to making sure your special day is everything you want it to be. On offer is a choice of ceremony and reception spaces, which can be tailored to meet your individual requirements. The first of which is the Newton Lounge. Able to host 65 loved ones for your ceremony it offers fantastic panoramic views of the golf course.... read more
Posted: 18 November 2020
How will law reforms impact weddings
In the biggest reform proposed to England's marriage ceremony law the Government's legal advisors have recommended that couples be allowed to marry in whatever outdoor location they choose. The current law, which prohibits couples from marrying in anything other than a permanent structure with a roof if the ceremony is to be solemnised legally, has been largely unchanged since 1836. The Law Commission (an independent body which scrutinises legislation) are wishing to radically modernise the current antiquated laws. There is a strong consensus from the public that reform is desperately required as the current laws are not fit for purpose nor are they reflective of the way in which people wish to solemnise their relationship.... read more
Posted: 18 November 2020
Dinner for one? Individual catering ideas for weddings in a pandemic
Good food is very often simple food! We all know that coronavirus has thrown wedding plans across the UK into chaos. The traditional ceremony, wedding breakfast and evening do is being revamped and reworked from a safety-first viewpoint. Aside from the face coverings, hand sanitiser and social distancing, there's also the catering to think about. Gone are the days of canapés, sharing platters and serve yourself buffets – all hot spots for cross-contamination. Now, with the emphasis on not getting too close, innovative catering ideas that focus on the individual are coming into their own.We caught up with expert Liz Taylor, of wedding planners the Taylor Lynn Corporation, to hear her Covid-friendly wedding catering ideas that put safety first; without losing the taste, impact and importantly the style, from the occasion.... read more
Posted: 16 November 2020
Diamonds are a girl's (or guy's) best friend!
Ooooh what a lovely prize we have in store for our County Wedding Magazines readers over the next fortnight. After such a miserable year, we're now at the start of a grey and gloomy winter season; what better way to bring some sparkle to your life than by winning a £200 voucher to spend at thediamondstore.co.uk? Whether you want to spend it on a little pick-me-up gift for yourself, or put if towards your wedding rings or bridal party gifts, the choice is yours if you end up being our lucky winner!... read more
Posted: 13 November 2020
Sending gifts to loved ones from a distance has never been so easy with Letterbox Gifts. As many people have not been able to host their planned weddings this year, or be able to see family and friends, what better time to share the love on what would have been your hen/stag do, or what would have been your wedding day. Letterbox Gifts have everything you could think of for sending that special person a little something straight through their letterbox. Each Letterbox Gift is gift-wrapped by hand and comes with a free personalised card, making it just that little bit more special for your loved ones to open.... read more
Posted: 4 November 2020
How luxury wedding venue Braxted Park is helping fellow wedding suppliers across the country
Stunning Essex vedding venue Braxted Park has not only diversified and adapted its own operations to fit with ever-changing restrictions on weddings during 2020, but it has also formed the Association of British Wedding Businesses (ABWB). The association aims to support its members and fellow wedding suppliers who have felt the effects of the coronavirus pandemic, as well as act as a liaison with the government – something which is even more important now we face the UK's second lockdown.... read more
Posted: 3 November 2020
Liverpool is the second most popular UK location for proposals
New research has revealed the most popular UK locations for proposals in 2020 according to Instagram, and despite the pandemic, Liverpool remains the number two place to pop the question, placing only behind the capital. The study by family-owned jeweller, Beaverbrooks analysed over 10,000 proposal hashtags, including #engaged #bridetobe and #proposal, to reveal the most popular places to get down on one knee, and the capital came out as the UK's number one proposal hot spot.... read more
Posted: 3 November 2020
31 is the age that the average Brit will get married
One4all Gift Cards has launched a new interactive timeline which reveals the ages most worth looking forward to and what makes them so special – revealing 31 is the age that the average Brit will get married! A survey of 2,027 UK adults also revealed that the age at which we are most happy with our lives is 36. One4all Gift Cards has launched a new interactive timeline which reveals the ages most worth looking forward to and what makes them special. Brits can reflect on happy memories from their past while looking forward to some of the happy years and birthdays they have to come. According to the data, the average Brit has already ticked off key adulthood milestones by this point – and in fact, it shows that your late twenties and early thirties are a time to look forward to, due to the number of special occasions and achievements that are taking place in the average adult's life.... read more
Posted: 2 November 2020
Good things come in small packages with Mercure microweddings
2020 has been a year like no other for those planning their weddings with an estimated 75,000 weddings postponed this year. However, it has given couples the freedom to let go of all those big wedding expectations; and for brides and grooms who would like a more intimate day, Mercure's Microwedding experience is the perfect solution. From country houses to city-centre modern, couples can find a Mercure venue to suit their personality and suit the new government guidelines...... read more
Posted: 30 October 2020
Local shoot - Romance under canvas
Let's take a moment to appreciate this gorgeous shoot again from the Sept/Oct 20 issue of Your Cheshire & Merseyside Wedding, with even more stunning images that we just didn't have space for in the magazine feature. "Tipis are incredible spaces," says shoot coordinator and owner of Bouquet & Bells Claire Boon. "The canvas backdrops and handmade rustic furnishings just cried out for an autumnal styled shoot," she continues. So, Bouquet & Bells set about gathering together a fabulous team of wedding suppliers, capable of bringing the vision to life. The palette sings of the season with plenty of muted oranges, beautiful foliage and copper finishing touches. Claire says, "Those involved went above and beyond to ensure every last detail was covered."... read more
Posted: 29 October 2020
Cheshire amongst the most loved-up places in the UK
2020 might not have been the best year for weddings so far, but that doesn't stop brides and grooms planning their big day. GiftsOnline4U, the personalised gifts online retailer, has delved into Office for National Statistics data to see the UK locations with the most weddings in one year. The research covered England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland separately to be able to reveal the most loved-up places for each of these locations. Read on to see what the data revealed.... read more
Posted: 27 October 2020
How to create your own wedding perfume using flowers
Choosing the perfect wedding gift is difficult at the best of times; you want something truly personal and thoughtful. A lovely personalised wedding gift would be to make your own natural and organic perfume using the bride's (or groom's) favourite flowers and wildflowers - all from the comfort of your own home!A simple spritz of perfume is the finishing touch to the wedding morning getting ready routine, a great scent is not only a confidence-booster to start the day, but it will be a fragrance that evokes the memories of such a special event for years to come...While we all have our signature shop-bought scents, natural and organic perfumes can also be created at home with ease using your favourite flowers and wildflowers. If you're looking for a thoughtful and personalised gift for a loved one, or a gorgeous treat for yourself, then take a look at Serenata Flowers' guide to creating your own perfume at home using real flowers:... read more
Posted: 23 October 2020
5 ways to treat your loved one this Champagne Day (today 23 October!)
Françoise Peretti, Director of Champagne Bureau UK shares her expert tips on how to safely celebrate at home and make this Champagne Day special.If there is anything that 2020 has taught us, is that it's important to celebrate those little moments of pleasure whenever we can. It's been a tough run, and there can be no doubt that we all deserve a joyful lift to start the weekend – wherever you find yourself this Friday. Each year on the third Friday of October is Champagne Day, an international day dedicated to Champagne: the original and pinnacle of sparkling wine. This year we are not able to throw lavish and bustling 20 guests soirées (how far-fetched does that seem now?), but spoiling a loved one at home and opening a bottle together is a familiar tradition that will definitely bring a smile to the face of the special person in your life. Here are my top tips (and remarkably easy ways!) to mark the occasion:... read more
Posted: 23 October 2020
Fun, quirky and thortful - just what we need right now!
Here at County Wedding Magazines HQ we adore this range of cards for couples who have had to postpone their big day! With a whole host of different designs thortful.com has something for everyone; yes nothing can take away from the upset of a cancelled or postponed wedding, but a thoughtful card will certainly go a long way and put a little smile on someone's face. Check out this range of delightful cards to be inspired to send one to someone you know... read more
Posted: 21 October 2020
Get wedding-ready with Institut Esthederm - prize giveaway
French skincare brand, Institut Esthederm's Cellular Water Fresh Moisturising Gel is the ideal moisturiser for skin exposed to urban aggressors and essential for use in your pre-wedding beauty regime. Suitable for all skin type, it acts as a shield against pollution, creating an invisible film that traps particles and pollutants. In addition to the urban defence benefit, this lightweight moisturiser provides all day-long water diffusion between skin cells for dynamic hydration. The skin is revitalized and glows with lasting radiance. Last but not least, it's quick-absorbing texture and practical packaging make it a men's favourite moisturiser too!... read more
Posted: 19 October 2020
Achieve sweet success with Boutique Bakery
Do you have a sweet tooth without being a huge cake fan? This can cause a dilemma when it comes to the wedding showstopper. To cake or not to cake? We asked Nicola from Boutique Bakery for her advice on the matter. Read on to discover her mouthwatering suggestions. "A macaron tower is the perfect alternative to a traditional wedding cake, providing an unusual and beautiful centrepiece. You can choose to have your macarons all one colour, include hand-painted details, or even opt for a multi-shade ombré effect running up the height of the tower.... read more
Posted: 13 October 2020
Get married now, party later! Top tips for a micro wedding
Last month County Wedding Magazines shared with our readers bridalwear designer Sabina Motasem's intimate lockdown wedding - which we loved! This month, here's Sabina's top tips on hosting a personal, intimate, micro wedding.... weddings aren't gone, and they're certainly not forgotten!Sabina says, "Embracing a small and intimate wedding now and having a larger reception later can be intimately beautiful and you get to celebrate again with your guests. After our wedding date was postponed several times and it became clear a ceremony and reception were off the cards. We had a small wedding in September with 15 of our nearest and dearest. "The new wedding restrictions are for legally recognised weddings only in the UK, which means all 'non-legally' recognised weddings are sadly not and follows the 'Rule of 6'. In these instances, many weddings may have a cultural ceremony now followed by a civil ceremony and reception later.... read more
Posted: 9 October 2020
Winter cover-ups with Bellissima Brides
We asked Emma Page of Bellissima Brides for her recommendations when it comes to bridal cover-ups. Many couples have postponed their weddings to the winter, so how do we turn a summer dress into a winter wedding gown? Emma had some great tips. "Ask yourself, how long you're likely to be spending outside. There's no right or wrong to cover ups or sleeves when it comes to the wedding dress look you dream of. Sleeves in summer or strapless in winter, it can all work, and your adrenaline really will get you through anything. I wouldn't compromise your look for the season.... read more
Posted: 8 October 2020
Win a gorgeous necklace from Jana Reinhardt jewellery
County Wedding Magazine readers have the chance to win this gorgeous necklace! The perfect meaningful gift for your bridesmaid or maid-of-honour, this ultra dainty pendant features a finely carved tiny hummingbird. As well as looking super pretty, the hummingbird symbolises joy coming into your life and new beginnings, perfect sentiments to remember your special day by. Delicate and subtle, this gorgeous necklace will add glamour and sparkle to any bridesmaid dress and is classic enough to be worn long after the big day.... read more
Posted: 8 October 2020
Newly married? Make sure you’re both financially protected for the future
Major life events, such as getting married, provide an ideal time to take a closer look at your finances. For example, tying the knot is a good prompt for couples to assess their current financial setup and examine what financial protection is necessary for them, not just individually but also as a married couple. Often, couples are uncertain about what type of life insurance or cover is necessary or when it's best to start planning for it. To help newlyweds, Zoe Bailey, Chartered Financial Planner and Director at Tilney, shares some financial considerations:... read more
Posted: 7 October 2020
It's cocktail o'clock at Thornton Hall Hotel & Spa
Thornton Hall Hotel & Spa has officially opened its new cocktail bar. So, whether it's date night or an intimate family celebration head to the venue's beautiful terrace and garden area to sip on a cocktail - or two - at the new bar. This opening has paired quite nicely with the area's musician friends who join guests every Sunday to entertain. So, taste the fabulous cocktail menu, eat some delicious food and listen to some fantastic music. Just the tonic to bring some sunshine into your life.... read more
Posted: 6 October 2020
Make the most of a couples break at Cottons Hotel and Spa
Why not get away from it all and spend two nights with Cottons Hotel & Spa, Knutsford. Feel relaxed together, safe in the knowledge that everything you need is under one roof, tucked away from the rest of the world. This break includes all the extra special touches you need to enhance your experience, including a bottle of chilled house Champagne in your room on arrival. You'll also get a £30 per person per night dinner allowance; plus, a full English breakfast on both days. From £89 per person per night on a 2 night break. Based on two people sharing.... read more
Posted: 1 October 2020