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

Be the first to check out new North Wales wedding venue, Marchwiel Hall

Introducing the magnificent Marchwiel Hall. Nestled in the North Wales countryside bordering Cheshire and Shropshire, surrounded by private woodland, manicured gardens and its own cricket ground. Marchwiel Hall is an opulent and historic family home, with a team dedicated to deliver special events. Marchwiel Hall stands as a testament to Georgian elegance, nestled on a 165-acre estate that includes established parkland, mature woodland, and a tranquil three-acre lake. The estate's landscaped gardens, stables, and two picturesque gamekeepers' cottages, along with a charming walled garden and its famous cricket pitch, provide an idyllic backdrop for any occasion.

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.

The rise of the celebrant with Sophie Wilcockson

"When it comes to getting married, it's church or registrar, right? Wrong! There's another option," says local wedding celebrant Sophie Wilcockson. Here, she explains why using a celebrant is rapidly becoming one of the hottest wedding trends of 2024. "Back in 2003 when I got married, I'd never heard of a wedding celebrant. When we booked the venue we were told we'd also need to book a registar, which we duly did. This involved half an hour in a cramped office at the town hall with a bored-looking man who asked us to choose the wording for our vows (which consisted solely of deciding whether or not we wanted to obey each other) and select a reading from three options.

Delamere Manor, a seamless blend of enchantment and elegance

At Delamere Manor enchantment and elegance blend seamlessly to create an idyllic backdrop for any wedding. Nestled amid picturesque landscapes in the heart of Cheshire, this venue offers a captivating experience. In addition to its incredible ceremony and reception spaces, Delamere Manor offers an array of amenities from beautifully appointed bedrooms, a beauty parlour, to top-notch catering services with customisable menu options. Ceremonies take place in any one of a number of locations across the venue. The Courtyard is an enchanting inside/outside space that can host up to 140 seated guests. On sunny days, the roof is fully retractable for a flexible dining experience and when day turns to dusk, thousands of twinkling lights give the space a magical feel.

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.

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.

Thornton Hall Hotel & Spa combines sophistication and style

Nestled in the countryside, Thornton Hall Hotel boasts its own luxury holistic spa, which is renowned as one of the finest destination spas in the UK. A stunning wedding location for all seasons, the Hotel combines sophistication and style with genuine, warm hospitality and decades of experience. The pagoda here offers all the charm of a countryside wedding. Located within the Hotel grounds, it boasts 360-degree views of the stunning gardens and the lush scenery beyond. It's ideal for a spring or summer ceremony, but equally magical in the autumn or winter. The Cristal, is a beautifully designed wedding suite with state-of-the-art lighting, ten glittering crystal chandeliers, and ornate metal ceiling panels adding an extra touch of opulence and Art Deco style.

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.

Steeped in modern elegance, Grosvenor Pulford Hotel & Spa offers a dream day

The interior of this four-star hotel is steeped in modern elegance and boasts an impressive red-brick exterior dating back to the 19th century. It's bursting with character and has a rich heritage with links to the Grosvenor estate of the Duke of Westminster. The grounds include a beautiful Asian Sensory Garden, a picturesque lake with a quaint wooden bridge, and a charming thatched gazebo, all set against the glorious Cheshire countryside and Welsh hills. The grounds offer a wonderful backdrop for those all-important photos.

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.

Ruthin Castle Hotel offers a fairytale setting in secluded North Wales

The enchanting Ruthin Castle Hotel offers a truly memorable setting in one of the most secluded and romantic areas of North Wales. Whether your dreams are of an extravagant day, an intimate occasion or a wonderful gathering of family and friends, your Ruthin Castle wedding will be tailormade especially for you. What's more, with a romantic, indulgent history located within acres of picturesque scenery, your photographer will be living their best life capturing those all-important photos!

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.

Find the magical Christmas break for you at Rookery Hall Hotel

Rookery Hall is a luxurious place to stay for those wanting to experience a beautiful country house in Cheshire during the festive season. The hotel is encouraging locals to use the holidays to escape the everyday and immerse themselves in its Hand Picked Hospitality. Every moment at Rookery Hall is carefully crafted to delight you and your loved ones, so you can guarantee an unforgettable experience filled with traditions, delectable dining, and the chance to truly relax and indulge. Please see below for an overview of what's in store during your stay. Christmas Eve: Arrive early to enjoy some pre-booked pampering in the spa before an afternoon tea.

From big celebrations to budget savvy: the changing face of UK weddings

At a time of rising costs and changing perspectives, is the sound of wedding bells as tempting as it once was? To find out, Legal & General polled more than 2,000 married and engaged couples to see if they opted for a big wedding – or a big rethink. A 2024 survey revealed the average cost of a UK wedding has risen to £20,700, marking a 12.5% increase from £18,400 in 2022. Despite this, our survey found that couples typically budget much less, with the average amount set aside being just under £9,000 (£8,997.32). There was also a stark difference in wedding budgets across generations. Younger couples, particularly those aged 16-24, budget an average of £14,937 for their special day, while those over 55 set aside £4,614.

Top tips to get to sleep before your wedding

Pre-wedding jitters cause a large number of brides and grooms to struggle to get to sleep. Upcoming nuptials, even if a positive stress, can be a leading cause of sleepless nights. Sleep expert Dr Deborah Lee gives advice to those Brides- to- be who are struggling in the lead- up to their big day, and gives top tips on how to improve their sleep. As a bride, you face an immense amount of stress, especially in the final days that countdown to your wedding. With plenty of last minute preparations that are trying to please everyone, it's easy to let yourself get swept up and forget to prioritise your sleep. Sleep expert Dr Deborah Lee from Doctor Fox, has partnered with Get Laid Beds to share FIVE expert tips to ensure you wake up on your wedding day like a princess, feeling refreshed and radiant, and not like a bridezilla.

Short story: The Transformation by Jonathan Roberts

We hope you enjoy this magical story, The Transformation by Jonathan Roberts. Once upon a time there was a quite ordinary little girl, just like you or me. She lived in the usual sort of house on an average kind of street where, nothing much happened. However one particular night, this little girl had a quite extraordinary dream that she hadn't expected at all! In this dream she watched herself walk into a building and up some stairs. She wasn't exactly sure why or where she was going, only that she knew for certain that if she did then she should discover some mysterious secret.

Jacqui O achieves sustainable wedding alliance accreditation - the first in Cheshire!

Jacqui Owen, a leading wedding and event florist based in Nantwich, is thrilled to announce that they have been awarded the first accreditation by the Sustainable Wedding Alliance (SWA) the first wedding expert in Cheshire. This prestigious recognition signifies the company's commitment to environmentally responsible practices throughout their floral design and production processes. The Sustainable Wedding Alliance is a respected organisation dedicated to promoting sustainability within the wedding industry. Their accreditation programme recognises businesses that demonstrate a strong commitment to ethical sourcing, minimising waste, and reducing their environmental impact. "We are incredibly proud that Jacqui O has achieved the Sustainable Wedding Alliance Accreditation," says Michelle Miles, Founder of the SWA. "Their dedication to sustainable practices throughout their entire operation is truly inspiring.

Alcohol-free options for weddings with Mocktails

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! 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. Mockarita - A zesty twist on the classic Margarita. Notes of lime, quinine and acacia flower with a refreshingly tart finish. Here at County Wedding Magazines HQ we're finding it hard to choose our favourite... Mocksow Mule anyone?

Autumnal fragrances from Woodwick and Yankee Candle

Connect to nature with scents and colours drawn from the breathtaking outdoors with the cosy new Autumn collection from Yankee Candle®, Cottage Getaway. Inspired by the nostalgic roots of outdoor adventures, and the natural beauty of our world, the collection seeks to spark creativity and inspiration, whilst bringing family and friends together. Launching in August 2024, the collection includes three warming fragrances, Woodland Weekend Memories, Pumpkin Cinnamon Swirl, and Afternoon Scrapbooking. This comforting selection of candles is perfect for reliving cherished moments at home as the late summer falls away and the new season settles n. Relax into Autumn with fragrances that ignite the senses, whilst the bright greens fade from the leaves and dusk draws in earlier by the day.

CWM partnership with Maya Deluxe and Dower & Hall for an exciting prize giveaway!

County Wedding Magazines has teamed up with Maya Deluxe and Dower & Hall for an exciting prize giveaway for our reader and social media followers! If you like or follow all three brands on either Facebook or Instagram, you'll be in with a chance of winning a £350 Dower & Hall gift voucher which can be redeemed online, as well as a £250 gift voucher for Maya Deluxe – that's jewellery and bridesmaids sorted for your wedding day leaving you more time and more budget to crack on with the rest of the wedding planning. Read on to find out more details about the brands and how to enter!