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

Give newlyweds the gift of luxury

Across the world, wedding gifts have become a tradition for family, friends and loved ones to show their appreciation to the happy couple and to wish them all the best. A wedding gift is a celebration of their marriage, and to provide them with gifts they may need – or want - to start their new lives together. Although many people still choose to give tangible tokens, many are looking to gift the happy couple an experience that they can enjoy together. PoB Hotels, a collection of carefully curated rooms, the finest restaurants and spas, and the most authentic regional experiences across the British Isles, offers the perfect solution – a Gift Voucher.

Celebrate in style with picture-perfect table decor

Engagement parties and rehearsal dinners are a great way to kick start your big day celebrations, with many people now opting to host these at home for a more intimate experience. So, how do you make your table stand out? Iconic Rayware brands, Viners and Mason Cash are synonymous with weddings and recognised nationally for their classic tableware products. Read on to discover the top styling trends from Viners and Mason Cash that aren't to be overlooked this wedding season!

Expert tips for creating a unique wedding menu

The traditional three-course wedding breakfast doesn't have to be boring. In this article Nidhi Verma, head of food & founder of The Cookaway, shares a few ideas for alternative food menus for wedding guests. Getting involved with the putting together of your wedding menu can allow you to focus on what's important to you, whether that's only using local produce and seasonal ingredients, incorporating foods you and your partner really like, making sure there are plenty of fun elements, or serving with the utmost style. But if standing out is your priority, how can you ensure your menu is unique? If you're wondering how you can make your special day a little more individual, below are a few ideas to get you started.

The 20 most iconic marryoke songs for a perfect wedding

Are you a couple looking for songs for your wedding this summer? Searches for 'wedding songs karaoke' up +40% and 'best karaoke songs 2023' increasing by +300%, and thortful has put together a list of the most iconic marryoke songs for 2023. The top 20 karaoke songs for your wedding this year Taking the top spot is the absolute belt-it-out classic that is Summer of '69 by Bryan Adams. Given that it has remained a popular song after pretty much four decades, we'd say the score is well-deserved. Just behind in second place is a song that any '90s kid could sing in their sleep – the girl power megahit Wannabe by the Spice Girls.

Escape to the county with Handpicked Hotels

One of the most well-loved country house hotels in Cheshire, Rookery Hall Hotel & Spa combines old-world charm with the best modern comforts, creating a homely atmosphere that guests can relax into from the moment they arrive. Those wanting to escape urban life will love Hand Picked Hotels' Escape to the Country Breaks experience, inclusive of a luxurious stay with early check in and late check out, a seasonal five-course chef's tasting menu and breakfast. You also have the option to take your four-legged family members, as designated dog-friendly rooms are available upon request.

Want to say 'no' to being a maid-of-honour? Here’s how!

Being a maid-of-honour or even a bridesmaid can be hugely exciting and a big honour, however, it takes responsibility, a lot of time, money and energy, all dedicated to making someone else happy. So if you really don't want to be a bridesmaid, plucking up the courage to turn down an invite might seem like a nightmare. A new survey from Ginger Ray which seeks to answer some of weddings' trickiest questions reveals that almost two-thirds (63%) of Brits think it was acceptable to say no to being a member of the wedding party based on the financial burden and additional responsibilities it poses.

Feel the island vibes with ChloBo's new range

Chester-based jewellery brand ChloBo has recently launched a new collection inspired by the mystical island of Es Vedra Ibiza, and it's packed with perfect pieces for your honeymoon. The Island Energy Collection combines new neckline textures with colourful beaded bracelets and eye-catching sunglasses chains. Bursting with charming depictions of the dreamlike landscape, alongside new semi-precious stones, each piece is designed to bring joy, connection and balance to your life. Check out https://chlobo.co.uk

Browns launch champagne bottomless brunch

This month, Browns Restaurants will be adding a Champagne bottomless brunch to their signature weekend menus, as part of this year's festivities to celebrate the group's 50th anniversary. From Friday to Sunday until 2pm, guests can enjoy free-flowing Moët & Chandon Impérial Champagne, alongside signature brunch dishes such as Browns Lobster Benedict, a satisfying stack of Pancetta Buttermilk Pancakes, Smoked Salmon, Smashed Avocado, Garlic Mushrooms on Sourdough and a variety of classic egg dishes. Alternatively, opt for more substantial dishes, like the Browns Burger and Chargrilled Chicken & Bacon Club.

David’s Bridal commences ‘everything must go’ closing down sale

Bridal store chain, David's Bridal has confirmed that all UK stores are launching a closing down sale, with dramatic reductions across wedding dresses, bridesmaid dresses and more. Following its administration announcement last month, David's Bridal is closing all four of it's UK stores, with all stock discounted. David's Bridal's extensive closing down sale will commence with at least 40% off everything in-store.

One4all Gift Cards expands partnerships

Popular wedding gifting brand leading multi-store gift card, One4all Gift Cards, has announced two exciting new partnerships with global fashion retailer, ASOS, and premium e-commerce marketplace, Secret Sales - making it an even more appealing choice for wedding day gifting. ASOS, one of the largest international e-commerce retailers, is now accepting the One4all Gift Card for all online purchases, meaning customers can access all their favourite brands at the touch of a button. With over 850 brands to choose from as well as their own ASOS ranges, which include Collusion and Topshop, shoppers will be spoilt for choice. As a forward-thinking brand, ASOS interpret the latest trends into more than 30 different sizes, allowing all customers to find something they love. As well as the chance to shop for clothing, accessories and beauty products from a variety of brands.

South Of England wins battle of the spas reveals Spabreaks.com

Spabreaks.com 2022 booking data has revealed that spas in the South totalled 57.4% of all bookings made in 2022, winning the battle of the spas against the north of England. The UK spa industry has a lot to offer, whether you're looking to escape to the countryside or fancy break in the city. Whether it's in the north or south, there's a place in the UK that will accommodate whatever spa break you're looking for.

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.

See your wedding party comfortable, confident and dressed to impress

When it comes to the big day, the question on everyone's lips is: what am I going to wear? It's difficult enough to decide for yourself, let alone being responsible for another group of people, your closest confidants, who make up your bridal party. So, where to begin? It sounds selfish, but if you can't be on your wedding day, when can you: with yourselves. The reason for this is that your look with have the greatest influence on that of your bridesmaids and groomsmen. If you've opted for a boho vibe, you'll want to look for a similar style for your best gals. Likewise, if the groom has fallen in love with a pastel, tweed, three-piece, dressing the chaps in tuxes won't quite be the ticket!

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...

Discover spring's honeymoon hotspots with Go Cruise & Travel

For a honeymoon at this time of year, we'd recommend a trip across the pond. North America and the Caribbean are great destinations for honeymooners looking for the holiday of a lifetime.The weather there is fantastic in the spring and honeymoon options vary right across the experience spectrum, from fun breaks on a cruise to the Orlando theme parks, and endless beaches to historical and natural delights. Why not include a bit of each in a two-centre holiday?

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!

Celebrant Jen Walker from JW Ceremonies tells us how to bring the fun to a spring wedding

Jen Walker from JW Ceremonies (www.jwceremonies.com) says: A springtime wedding can be the most fun! There are so many colour palettes to choose from to mix and match; both pastels and bright colours work amazingly well with the gorgeous light spring brings. People assume that summer is the perfect time for an outdoor wedding; but the truth is, with the summer sun, wedding attire for both brides and grooms in the heat, and the many seasonal insects, it can create some issues. In comparison, with all the beautiful blossom trees in bloom, the sun shining and a cool breeze – its springtime that makes the perfect outdoor wedding ceremony season! But yes, with our British weather and spring showers, you may also need a plan B to bring the outside in.