All the latest wedding news for couples getting married in the North East, along with bridal fashion and beauty inspiration and honeymoon ideas.
The most popular UK wedding locations
The UK is full of gorgeous locations that are perfect for weddings. From the rolling countryside to the history-rich cities, no picturesque location is out of reach for soon to be newly-weds. But, of all the places to tie the knot, where is the most popular? New data analysed by Surrey resort and wedding venue, Foxhills, has revealed the most popular wedding locations, showing the favourite places in the UK for all types of marriage ceremonies. By analysing data on the total number of weddings in a year and scoring them by how many times they occurred in various types of marriages, the most popular wedding locations in the entire nation have been discovered.
Posted: 25 July 2022
Most popular celebrity weddings of all time
New research by DC Jewellery has revealed the world's most popular celebrity weddings of all time, from Royal weddings to A-listers, when there's a famous couple tying the knot we can't help but want to know all the finer details: what did they where? Who was on the guest list? What cake did they have? The research proves that the world's fascination with British royalty is real. Meghan Markle and Prince Harry had the most popular celebrity wedding of all time (beating Kate and Wills), with a total of 301,600 Google searches since 2018 and 2,579,200 total Google searches in the last year alone. Kate and Prince William had the 6th most popular celebrity wedding of all time, with 1,050,600 searches in the last year, closely followed in 8th place by Kate's sister Pippa's wedding to James Matthews.
Posted: 23 July 2022
Couples are planning deluxe weddings
In the past couple of years, tying the knot has been challenging. Getting married is an important decision, and recent events had only contributed to rousing doubts and dilemmas around this life-changing milestone. Many couples resorted to intimating weddings that abided by government regulations. From Zoom ceremonies to short guest lists, brides and grooms have embraced the micro-wedding trend. But, as we cruise confidently back towards normality, large celebrations seem likely to make a welcomed return. This sparks one obvious question: how is the rise of big, jaunty ceremonies altering the plans of soon-to-be-married couples? Here, the team at Langley Castle, has taken a look at how we can expect to celebrate weddings in 2022, detailing both trends and tips you may want to consider for your own big special event.
Posted: 21 July 2022
A date night at INNSiDE by Meliá Newcastle
Fancy combining a love of ale with a date night away from wedding planning? Book in for a stay at INNSiDE by Meliá Newcastle – and get set to enjoy the venue's new INNSiDE IPA! To coincide with the hotel celebrating their first anniversary back in May, INNSiDE collaborated with Newcastle's Brinkburn Brewery to launch their very own, local IPA. Generously dry hopped with citra and moutere to create a full-flavourful, easy-drinking ale that really punches above its weight, the can design is the same bespoke Newcastle-inspired masterpiece that was created by James Dixon when the hotel launched.
Posted: 21 July 2022
Out with the old - and in with the new wedding laws
The Law Commission of England and Wales has today outlined recommendations to reform weddings law that gives couples more choice over where and how their wedding takes place. This will be music to the ears of many couples who are currently restricted by many of the outdated regulations. The main law which governs marriage is from 1836 and it seems madness that modern couples are still having to adhere to these policies that do not reflect their beliefs or blended unions.
Posted: 19 July 2022
Darlington Hippodrome reveal a great line-up of shows for summer 2022
f your mam's absolutely petrified at the thought of being invited on your Ayia Napa hen then it's high time you organised a get-together for those that don't fancy a weekend to remember (or, in most cases, a weekend you probably won't remember). Step forward Darlington Hippodrome, who've just revealed a great line-up of shows for summer 2022 and beyond. Drama-buffs can enjoy laughs and thrills with a new stage adaptation of the comedy Boeing Boeing (Tuesday 26th to Saturday 30th July), or see Susie Blake star as Miss Marple in The Mirror Crack'd (Tuesday 20th to Saturday 24th September).
Posted: 19 July 2022
What your wedding favours say about you
The wholesale experts at WholesaleSweets.co.uk have looked at the sweet treats a couple chooses and what it says about them. Wedding favours are usually a small, fun and sweet way of saying thank you to guests for attending a wedding. Traditionally wedding favours were sugared coated almonds but over the years people have put their own spin on wedding favours and now give out things like sweets, jars of honey or jam and even mini shots. Kathryn Hague from Wholesale Sweets said: "Wedding favours have been around for years and it's really interesting to see what people choose for them these days.
Posted: 19 July 2022
Mystery stags and hens dos - reduce the stress!
2022 is the year of the re-organised Covid wedding, there will be around 350,000 weddings across the country this year which means nearly 700,000 hen/stag and sten dos! srprs.me, the world's leading mystery holiday provider, has collated its top tips for organising the least stressful, most spontaneous mystery trips perfect for stag and hen dos this summer - saving friendships from endless decision-making in the process. Anneke Nijenhuis, Chief Surprise Officer at srprs.me, wants to take the stress out of planning a stag or hen do with the following tips...
Posted: 17 July 2022
9 tips on how to prepare for an outdoor wedding
Outdoor weddings became increasingly popular during Covid due to restrictions and the safety of guests. However, the outdoor wedding trend looks like it's here to stay with celebrities like Kourtney Kardashian and Travis Barker recently hosting a beautiful outdoor wedding on the Amalfi Coast. A British summer's day can be enchanting, being surrounded by nature, the brilliant blue skies above, and an aisle strewn with flowers, a perfect setting for a magically romantic wedding. Planning an outdoor wedding requires several considerations from locations, decor, and weather, the experts at Queensmith have listed their top tips on how to be prepared for an outdoor wedding:
Posted: 16 July 2022
How to choose the perfect shade of white or cream - Tips from Colour Me Beautiful
When searching for your wedding dress, you'd be forgiven for thinking it's an easy task just deciding between white and cream! However, although wedding dresses have traditionally been white or cream, these colours come in many different shades and you need to ensure that if you're going for white or cream, that you'll be choosing the most flattering shade for you. In order to help you, Cliff Bashforth, MD of style consultants Colour Me Beautiful, has shared his top tips with County Wedding Magazines.
Posted: 15 July 2022
Head to Gateshead’s NAMCO Funscape Metrocentre
Looking for an alternative hen or stag – or just somewhere different to start the party off? Head to Gateshead's NAMCO Funscape Metrocentre and enjoy all your favourite arcade games and amusements, plus bowling and plenty of deals on drinks. Start the fun off with a couple of games of bowling in your own VIP lanes and get those competitive juices flowing, then play the amusements, from classics to high tech video games. Plus, if you're feeling adventurous, there's even a Clip 'n' Climb facility and Angry Birds Adventure Golf to enjoy.
Posted: 14 July 2022
Ryan Reynolds’s cocktail suggestions to combat the heatwave
Summer has officially arrived in the UK and during the upcoming heatwave, take Hollywood film star and co-owner of Aviation Gin, Ryan Reynolds' advice by serving up some Aviation Gin cocktails for al fresco celebrations. Aviation American Gin has been voted the world's highest rated gin (97 points, Wine Enthusiast) and has helped establish a new style of American gin - softer and smoother, with juniper in the background and citrus and floral notes in the front - resulting in more balanced cocktails.
Posted: 13 July 2022
Axe-throwing parties thanks to Newton Ayecliffe’s Valhalla North
Burying the hatchet at your wedding usually means smoothing over a silly squabble you once had with that cousin you rarely see. That's no longer the case, as you can now throw a real-life axe at your hen party, stag do or reception thanks to Newton Ayecliffe's Valhalla North! The UK's number one independent axe throwing company, owned by husband and wife team Carl and Kat, has just launched its very own Valkyrie mobile axe throwing trailer, which is available for bookings from summer 2022 and beyond.
Posted: 12 July 2022
Take a non-alcoholic walk on the wild side with Wild Eve Recipe no 1.
When planning your wedding day celebrations, accommodating your guests' needs is paramount when considering you food and drink offering. From veggies and vegans to the teetotallers - you should ensure you have something for everyone. Award winning Apothecary and herbalist, Amanda Saurin, is excited to announce the launch of her long anticipated organic botanical infusion drink, Wild Eve Recipe no 1. This innovative, small batch non-alcoholic drink is hand crafted from an exclusive selection of organic flowers, fruits, leaves, and seaweeds, hand foraged on the Isle of Harris, in the Outer Hebrides of Scotland. The carefully blended botanicals assist to reduce stress, alleviate anxiety, and invite calm through the innate properties of the plants.
Posted: 11 July 2022
A good night's sleep with Dreams - 8 top tips!
Being a bride or groom is arguably one of the most exciting and heart-warming days of a person's life, but as the big day draws closer, pre-wedding insomnia can cause difficulty in falling, and staying, asleep. As we know, our sleep is very important and no one wants tired eyes on such a big day. But what can we do to avoid the sleepless nights? According to Dreams Sleep Expert, Sammy Margo, consistency is key. So, maybe it's time to drop the outdated wedding 'preparation' superstitions. Sammy says: "We love rhythm and routine, so sticking to the same routine of bed sharing makes sense before your big day.
Posted: 9 July 2022
From one bride to another: essential wedding tips!
Greetings card marketplace thortful.com interviewed 15 newlyweds to share their essential wedding planning tips to help future couples-to-be. From what to plan for the big day itself to things to remember when getting ready, here are the top 15 pieces of advice from one bride to another. spokesperson at thortful says, "We wanted to make the tips as authentic and real as possible, so we asked newlyweds what they wish they could have told their pre-married self as they prepared for their big day. We hope these tips can truly help any bride who's worried about the planning and make the day extra perfect!"
Posted: 7 July 2022
Eco-conscious brides should head to Darlington
You'll be hard pushed to find someone not feeling the pinch right now thanks to the UK's cost of living crisis. That's Your North East Wedding is pleased to hear about Darlington's Something Old, Something New Sustainable Bridal Wear, who've launched their business as a way of helping brides-to-be find their dream dress at a fraction of the price. The family-run venture was borne from a wedding dress shopping trip of their own last year where they saw a gap in the market.
Posted: 6 July 2022
The big day without the big price tag
With the average wedding in the UK now costing £32,273 it can be an expensive milestone in many people's lives. However, your big day doesn't have to come with a big price tag. With wedding season now upon us, and more people looking to tie the knot after prolonged pandemic engagements, it's more important than ever to plan your finances and work out where you can make savings in anticipation of the big day. With this in mind, Stacey Lowman, financial coach at Claro Money, shares her tips for budgeting for the occasion and saving on different aspects of the day.
Posted: 6 July 2022
Yarm-based Vansecco can supply all of your beverage needs
Found the perfect venue but discovered it doesn't offer drinks as part of the deal? Yarm-based Vansecco can supply all of your alcoholic – and non-alcoholic – needs. "We supply reception drink and bar facilities in an Italian Piaggio van," says owner Lizzy Wilson. "Great for outdoors and equally good inside, too, you can choose from a whole host of beverages to suit all tastes. We've our ever-popular strawberry and rhubarb gin fizz cocktails; there's premium Italian lager on tap, or why not offer friends and family the chance to sip a regionally-produced craft G&T? We of course cater for non-drinkers, and even have options for vegan and gluten-free guests."
Posted: 4 July 2022
New launch: new UK-wide virtual wedding planning service
Newly launched Wed-Start is led by industry veteran Isabel Smith, who has over 10 years' experience in planning luxury weddings all over the world. She has brought together the UK's very best wedding planning experts to offer a Wed-Start to all couples planning their dream wedding. Isabel says, "As industry experts, we know that a lot of couples feel overwhelmed in the early stages of wedding planning. There's so much fantastic advice out there, but there is also a lot of pressure. From family politics, to friends' opinions, to conflicting online guidance, it can all feel like too much...
Posted: 4 July 2022
Mermaid Gin expands its delicious range
The Isle of Wight Distillery has launched Mermaid Zest Gin, a limited-edition, smooth and refreshing grapefruit and gentle juniper London Dry Gin. Mermaid Zest Gin is the fourth addition to the sustainable range which includes Mermaid Gin, Mermaid Pink Gin and Mermaid Salt Vodka. Mermaid Zest Gin is produced in Seaview at the Isle of Wight Distillery, the first and only distillery on the island. Mermaid spirits are shaped by the distillery's stunning surroundings and the unique character of the Isle of Wight, all whilst minimising waste using ethically sourced and often locally sourced ingredients to hand-craft a range of smooth yet complex spirits with a hint of sea air, and the new gin is produced in harmony with the Island's coastal elements, using foraged rock samphire and rosemary.
Posted: 3 July 2022
Thinking about a crash-diet for the wedding? Don't do it!
With wedding season upon us, a new plan, devised by nutrition and fitness experts at PowerWave, the portable home-gym training device, has been launched to help brides (and grooms) get ready for their special day. Created by PowerWave founder "Coach" Jay Laville, its free healthy weight loss guide covers everything from macros to mindset, calories to caffeine and from sugar to sleep. It is also packed full of healthy recipe ideas and inspirational advice from the PowerWave team.
Posted: 1 July 2022
Loved-up Brits turn to puzzles to pop the question
A new craze sweeping the UK is seeing hundreds of people send their partners a puzzle to crack that unlocks a code to a video or text message comprising the four magical words: "Will you marry me?"! However, if you're already engaged fear not, as you can use this same innovative idea for wedding day messages, or asking your loved ones to be your bridesmaid and groomsmen etc. The craze of 'puzzle proposals' was sparked by the launch of a website in July 2020, after a locked down London-based couple, Bobbie Jackson and Will Hall, found themselves with a fair bit of time on their hands. They proceeded to spend the first months of lockdown in their kitchen creating puzzles to surprise family and friends with.
Posted: 29 June 2022
New stay and dine package with INNSiDE and Gino D'Acampo
Exciting lifestyle hotel, INNSiDE by Meliá, part of Meliá Hotels International, has launched A Sunday Well Spent, a new stay and dine package with Gino D'Acampo. Available on Sundays throughout July and August, at INNSiDE's Liverpool, Manchester and Newcastle sites, for just £150 per couple guests can enjoy an overnight stay, a bottle of wine, a delicious breakfast and £75 to spend on food and beverage.You could be sipping cocktails in the Gino D'Acampo 360 Sky Bar in Liverpool, or exploring Newcastle from the city's historical Quayside or starting your trip in Manchester's coolest neighbourhood. INNSIDE by Meliá has three stunning properties for you to choose from in the UK.
Posted: 29 June 2022
New wedding favour collection from Macmillan Cancer Support
Macmillan's new collection of wedding favours are beautifully crafted and are a great way to thank guests, honour absent friends and raise money for the growing number of people living with cancer in the UK. new range this year includes something to suit every taste, including a variety of cultural and religious favours and rainbow pin badges. 100% of the profits of every wedding favour purchase from Macmillan's shop will help the charity to continue doing whatever it takes to support the millions of people living with cancer across the UK.
Posted: 27 June 2022
