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

Romantic couple getaways in the UK are on the rise

More UK couples are choosing short romantic getaways closer to home, with new booking data revealing a surge in staycation demand. Parkdean Resorts has seen a 14% year-on-year rise in couple bookings, highlighting a growing trend for affordable, short breaks in the UK. With value for money and convenience driving travel decisions, couples are increasingly selecting spontaneous, stress-free escapes over costly trips abroad. Offering easy access to coastal and countryside retreats, UK staycations provide the perfect balance of relaxation, adventure and romance. As more couples seek intimate UK breaks, travel experts share the top trending destinations and tips to make a romantic staycation extra special.

Legal officiants vs legal venues

The wedding industry in the UK is worth £14.7billion, and the average cost of a wedding is over £20,000. With not only the cost, but the time and effort put into your wedding and making it one of the most special days of your life, you want to make sure that the event does actually legally marry you and your partner! Joanna Newton, a partner at Stowe Family Law, advises on the changes, and what couples need to consider.... In England and Wales, for your marriage to be legally binding, your ceremony venue needs to be a registered location. For more and more people, this is their local registry office, as they are choosing to have their wedding in venues that, whilst special to the couple, are unlicensed. In many cases, this means couples are having two weddings – one for the legal bit and one for the fun!

Whistlefish- Affordable, eco-conscious wedding stationery & gifts

When it comes to planning a wedding, organising a hen party or finding thoughtful gifts, Whistlefish makes it simple with its beautifully designed wedding collection. Whistlefish offers affordable, design-led products that make every moment of the celebration feel special. Crafted by their in-house artists in Cornwall, the range blends timeless style with eco-conscious values, proving you don't need to spend a fortune to achieve a polished, personal wedding look. Whistlefish offers a range of chic, budget-friendly pieces to help bring a couple's vision to life.

Cheshire-based Luna and Wild Unveils Scandi-Inspired Christmas Dried Flower Collection

Luna and Wild is delighted to unveil its new sustainable Christmas collection, perfect for winter weddings and festive home styling inspired by Scandi hygge living. Handcrafted in the UK, each dried and preserved flower design captures the serene beauty of Nordic winters while offering long-lasting, eco-friendly elegance. Featuring two stunning styles—classic red and green for a traditional yet boho Christmas, and calming winter whites for a minimalist, cosy feel—this collection brings warmth, texture and natural charm to your seasonal décor. With plastic-free packaging and mindful craftsmanship, Luna and Wild invites you to celebrate a more conscious, magical Christmas that lasts year after year.

‘Til death us do part: making plans for beyond your future.

On 16th May 2025 the Law Commission published its recommendations on wills and proposed a new statute. This is the first significant reconsideration since the Wills Act 1837 which is still effective today. Life was quite different in 1837. Queen Victoria ascended the throne aged 18 years old. Any property owned by a women on marriage was transferred automatically to her husband. It would be 40 years before Thomas Edison lit up the first electric lightbulb.

Artemis Becomes First UK Venue Group to Achieve Sustainable Wedding Alliance Accreditation

Artemis, a leading UK wedding venue group, whose head office is based in North Wales, is delighted to announce that it has been awarded accreditation by the Sustainable Wedding Alliance (SWA). This prestigious recognition, a culmination of a partnership that began in September 2023, marks Artemis as the first venue group in the UK to be officially accredited by the SWA. The partnership focused on embedding robust, sustainable practices throughout Artemis's head office operations, setting a benchmark for environmental and social responsibility within the wedding industry. The Sustainable Wedding Alliance is a respected organisation dedicated to promoting genuine sustainability throughout the wedding sector. Their rigorous accreditation programme recognises businesses that demonstrate a strong commitment to ethical practices, social inclusion, and a reduced environmental impact.

Bridebox - the bridal subscription box for DIY brides

Each beautifully presented box contains everything needed to create stunning wedding crafts and personalised keepsakes, alongside thoughtful self-care treats designed to help you pause and truly enjoy your engagement journey. With clear, friendly instructions and all materials included, Bridebox takes the guesswork out of adding personal touches to your big day, allowing you to experience the satisfaction of creating something meaningful while taking precious moments for yourself amidst the planning whirlwind. More than just crafts, each Bridebox offers an opportunity to learn new skills, experiment with different ideas before committing to larger wedding projects, and perhaps most importantly, provides that perfect excuse to set aside the to-do list, brew a cuppa, and reconnect with the joy that should always be at the heart of your wedding planning adventure.

Cake International returns for 2025

The world's premier cake decorating and baking show, Cake International, is back for 2025 and it's bringing even more flavour with it. Co-located with the ever-popular Bake International, this year's show promises to be the most spectacular yet, with new features, industry-leading exhibitors, hands-on workshops, and a landmark celebration to launch the Cake & Bake International Awards. Find out more here.

Local supplier spotlight: Andy Boyle Photography

Husband and wife photography duo Andy and Karen Boyle are passionate about capturing the magic of your wedding day across Cheshire, Merseyside, the Northwest, Wales, Staffordshire, and Shropshire. Working seamlessly together, they provide full-day coverage—from morning preparations through to your first dance—ensuring every special moment is beautifully documented. Their relaxed, unobtrusive style allows you to enjoy your day while they capture candid moments, timeless family portraits, and intimate couple shots. You'll receive an online gallery to share with loved ones, plus a personalised USB keepsake. For couples wanting something extra special, stunning bespoke photobook albums are also available. "We love working together and being part of such joyful days," says Andy. "We'd love to chat about your plans."

Wedding reforms: Freedom, flexibility… or fancy-dress farce?

Following a recent announcement of major reforms to the wedding laws in England and Wales, Kate Van Rol, barrister at 4PB advises what these changes could mean... The government's latest plan to reform weddings has been met with excitement, curiosity, and the occasional raised eyebrow from the vicarage. Ministers promise to liberate love from the clutches of red tape – simplifying the marriage process and allowing couples to wed in a manner that truly reflects their beliefs, personalities, and (let's be honest) Instagram aesthetic. Under these proposals, couples will no longer be bound by the old rulebook of marrying only in a church or registry office. Instead, weddings could take place almost anywhere – in gardens, on beaches, aboard boats, or even in a back garden with a barbecue and a borrowed gazebo. Religious and non-religious groups alike would be able to conduct legally binding ceremonies. It's marriage law for the modern age — simple, flexible, and tailor-made for a society that's allergic to formality. But as with all government reforms that sound too good to be true, there's a catch or two lurking beneath the confetti.

Make a wedding-day journey to remember with Liverpool lovely, PeoplesBus

Booking a vintage red Routemaster bus for wedding guest transportation combines style, efficiency, and nostalgia. This iconic 1959 vehicle, operated by Liverpool's PeoplesBus, offers a unique and memorable way to travel, comfortably seating up to 64 guests. With a driver and conductor on board, guests receive attentive service throughout their journey, creating fun and candid photo opportunities. Beyond its charm, group transport ensures everyone arrives on time, easing scheduling worries and eliminating parking concerns. PeoplesBus is renowned for its reliable, well-maintained fleet and professional staff, making it an environmentally friendly and convenient choice that adds a wow-factor to your special day.

Would you like to win your hen do?

GoHen.com, one of the UK's leading hen party planners, are giving one lucky bride-to-be the chance to win her entire hen weekend for free. Yep, one lucky group will win an unforgettable GoHen weekend for 10 friends worth £2,000 – for free! With 70+ amazing destinations across the UK and Europe, and 1,000s of activities and accommodation options to choose from, you can make your send-off exactly how you imagined it – whether that's spa days and cocktails or beach clubs and bottomless brunches.

A meaningful Christmas gift

Knowing what to get your loved ones a Christmas seems to get harder every year. What to get people who seemingly want nothing but have everything? This year, gift them mindfulness with Myind Map MY Journal. created by Rosemary Ikpeme, this journal takes users on a 90-day journey of self-discovery and mindfulness activities. This journal blends productivity tools with mindset practices, combining visualisation, the law of attraction, and colour therapy illustrations to support reflection and manifestation.

Discover the Cosiest Hot Chocolate Spots at Manor House Alsager

Manor House Alsager, the award-winning Cheshire spa renowned for its swim-up bar and heated outdoor garden, is the ideal autumn retreat. Enjoy cozy moments with a hot chocolate by crackling fires in three stunning spots: the UK's first swim-up bar for a glamorous, Insta-worthy experience; the Woodshed, offering alpine ski lodge vibes with log-burning fires and blankets; and hanging day beds, perfect for snuggling with a book and warm drink. Don't miss the Autumn Sale with up to 20% off selected Spa Days and Stays from 17th September to 2nd November. Spa breaks start at £355.75.

The 3 Golden Rules for Choosing the Right Wedding Jewellery

With Married at First Sight dominating our screens from Sunday to Thursday, it's hard not to be inspired by the stunning bridal looks, sparkling jewellery, and dreamy hairstyles on display. Whether you're planning your own big day or simply daydreaming about it, finding the right accessories is key to creating a look that feels uniquely yours. From statement earrings to delicate hairpieces, the perfect finishing touches can elevate your ensemble from beautiful to unforgettable. Experts at Abbott Lyon have revealed how to choose wedding accessories that balance timeless elegance with your personal style.

Celebrate among lush parkland and modern luxury close to Liverpool at Formby Hall Golf Resort and Spa

Nestled within 200 acres of stunning parkland, this luxurious hotel provides the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable wedding celebration. With modern décor, high ceilings, and large windows, the venue beautifully blends indoor elegance with the natural beauty outside. The Flower Petal Garden and Rockery offer picturesque spots for breathtaking couple photos. The Ambassador Suite, accommodating up to 250 guests, features crystal chandeliers, customizable lighting, and stunning views of the championship golf course. Flooded with natural light and complete with a wrap-around balcony, the suite can be tailored to your needs. Couples also enjoy a complimentary menu tasting, a free anniversary stay, and included wedding night accommodation, while guests benefit from discounted room rates.

A luxurious hamper with an added personal touch

For anyone looking for an outstanding wedding gift, a luxurious hamper with an added personal touch is an ideal option. Top Hampers was born from the belief that gifts should mark an occasion in a way that is meaningful and memorable, to enable you to give gifts that are thoughtful and personalised, showing just how much you care. They have used their expertise to create a range of ready-to-go wedding hampers. These are perfect if you are short on time ahead of the wedding, as you can rely on Top Hampers for quality and the personal touch, while knowing the hampers can be delivered the next working day.

One in three Brits skip weddings over sky-high guest costs

Despite being one of the biggest factors in long-term relationship success, money is still a taboo topic for most couples. New research from HSBC UK reveals that three in four Brits (75%) consider financial compatibility essential. The nationwide survey of 2,000 adults explored how modern couples navigate finances - from dating apps to wedding vows - and the pressures, expectations and unspoken rules that come with spending in relationships. The impact of this silence is clear, with 58% of couples having argued about money.

How to transform the Orangery at Rowton Hall Hotel & Spa into the wedding setting of your dreams

Rowton Hall Hotel & Spa, nestled in the heart of Cheshire, is excited to reveal expert tips on styling its new Orangery for weddings. In a recently published guide, the wedding team shares inspiring ideas to transform the space into a sunlit, botanical backdrop, perfectly aligned with current trends. From airy drapery that highlights natural light to lush greenery and seasonal florals, the guide offers practical advice for creating an enchanting atmosphere. Couples are encouraged to personalize their day with custom signage, favours, and soft lighting like candles and lanterns. Cheryl Roberts, sales manager, describes the Orangery as a versatile space ideal for both relaxed ceremonies and elegant receptions, enhancing Rowton Hall's wedding experience.

Warrington's La Beau Fleurs shortlisted for Retail Florist of the Year Award

Warrington's La Beau Fleurs has been proudly shortlisted for Retail Florist of the Year at the 2025 British Florist Awards—a well-deserved recognition for a business that's been rooted in community spirit for over a decade. Founded by Rachel Peers, the independent florist is known for its "If we can, we do" ethos, reflected in everything from supporting local schools and churches to offering heartfelt, bespoke floral designs. With a loyal customer base, five-star service, and a recently launched budget-friendly Bijou Collection, La Beau Fleurs is committed to making beautiful flowers accessible to all. Whether it's a wedding, sympathy tribute, or everyday bouquet, each creation is crafted with care, passion, and a deep understanding of its customers' needs—proving that floristry can be both personal and purposeful.