Your Hampshire and Dorset Wedding news and ideas from around the area

Find out more about Marisska Couture Bespoke and Couture Tailoring

As a personal stylist, my passion for design runs deep. Growing up surrounded by beautiful dresses made by my grandmother and my father's exquisite cabinet design, creativity has always been the driving force behind my work. For me, fabric isn't just material; it's a canvas brimming with potential. I draw endless inspiration from the rich palette of colors and textures they offer. At Marisska Couture Bespoke and Couture Tailoring, we don't just make garments; we're crafting unforgettable experiences. From our initial consultation to the final fitting, each step of our process is tailored to you, ensuring that your unique vision comes to life with meticulous attention to detail.

New research reveals biggest wedding trends of 2024, and some will surprise you

The wedding themes of 2024? Expect them to be smaller and more intimate, more informal and just generally more fun! That's according to a new study which was commissioned by high street jewellers, F.Hinds. They asked 2,000 UK couples for their thoughts on which wedding traditions are still important (and which aren't), and what new trends will be incorporated into wedding day plans for 2024. They also spoke to a wedding expert for her views. Their research revealed that the 'big day' traditions that remain in favour include the bride walking walked down the aisle (53%), having wedding rings (52%), cutting the cake (49%), having a best man (44%), and the bride being given away by a family member (43%).

County Wedding Events comes to Selden Barns, Worthing, Sussex

If you're newlyweds-to-be embarking on your wedding planning journey, pop along to the County Wedding Events wedding show at Selden Barns, Worthing, Sussex for some much-needed inspiration on Sunday 28th April, 2023! Sister company to County Wedding Magazines; the event brings couples that are desperate for face-to-face wedding planning in touch with local professionals who are on hand to help plan the wedding day.  From photographers to cake makers, musicians to florists you're sure to tick a lot off of your to-do list by attending one of our County Wedding Events.

East Afton Farmhouse offers a stunning backdrop to weddings

Surrounded by rolling countryside on the beautiful Isle of Wight, East Afton Farmhouse offers the most idyllic setting for celebrations with beautiful beaches, coastal scenery and vast countryside. The grounds never disappoint, with many beautiful backdrops all year round. The gardens change from white roses and blossom blushes in the spring to warm tones and rich vibrant flowers in the summer. Sunset red fields of grass and crunchy amber leaves can be seen in the autumn, and the crisp light bounces off cool greens in winter, which complements the dusky purple sky. Why not use the grounds to host party games, reception drinks, canapés or formal photos? There are three spaces licensed for weddings!

Having a multicultural wedding? Make sure everyone is include with these tips from Speechy

'The Speech Surgery' with Heidi Ellert McDermott, Founder of Speechy & author of The Modern Couple's Guide to Wedding Speeches. My groom's family is Italian and some of them don't speak any English. How do we ensure they feel included during the speeches? This is becoming an issue for more and more couples as relationships become increasingly international. Bringing two cultures together at a wedding can be wonderful but it's not without its challenges, the prime example being the speeches.

Meet the De Vere Horsley Estate wedding team

De Vere Horsley Estate, located in East Horsley, Surrey, is a picture-perfect setting for nuptials. Celebrate your wedding day with family and friends in total privacy as you are the Royal Household of your very own 'castle' for the day. Exclusive hire of the Towers gives you this 19th-century ancestral home to the Lovelace family, with your very own lake, croquet lawn, cloisters and ornamental chapel... perfect for the photo album! Your guests can relax at the end of your special day in one of the venue's fabulous Towers Mansion House bedrooms. The best room in the house is already reserved for you, with another four Junior Suites, three Family Rooms and 20 Deluxe Double rooms available to be reserved by your guests.

Top tips on moving in together for the first time

Making the big decision to move in together can be an exciting, yet daunting time! Whether you've been living apart due to distance, financial constraints or other circumstances, deciding to take the next step in your relationship can help strengthen your bond and progress it further. Whilst being around each other 24/7 has its benefits, it's important not to overlook the potential issues that could arise as a result. Property experts at Essential Living have teamed up with Dr Becky Spelman, Psychologist and Founder at Private Therapy Clinic to reveal some of the issues the couples might experience and her top tips on what to keep in mind before taking the big step.

MasterChef: The Professionals champion Tom Hamble is set to captivate diners at The Avenue at Lainston House

Exclusive Collection proudly announces the second chapter of residencies with MasterChef: The Professionals champion Tom Hamblet. Following a successful residency at Camellia at SouthLodge, West Sussex, Tom is set to captivate diners at The Avenue at Lainston House, Winchester, from April 3rd to June 30th 2024. The crafted three-course menu, priced at £85 per person, allows guests to savour his innovative dishes firsthand. Trained at Westminster Kingsway College in London, Tom brings seven years of invaluable experience gained from working in Michelin-starred and AA-rosette-winning restaurants. Standout dishes will include wood pigeon featuring crispy onions, celeriac remoulade, celeriac puree, pigeon and chocolate sauce. Also, roasted scallop with Jerusalem artichoke puree, marigold oil, artichoke crisps, and a pastry tube with buttermilk and artichoke mousse.

Renowned bridal hairstylist at County Wedding Events' Mercedes-Benz World Signature Show

Amanda Flory Bridal was established with a vision to deliver a premium hair service to the contemporary bride. The team will be at County Wedding Event's Signature Wedding Show at Mercedes-Benz World on Sunday 28th April to talk through your dream bridal look. "Our focus lies in making your special day flow. Ensuring your relaxation, and above all, enhancing your natural beauty to make you feel confident, radiant, in fact the best version of yourself possible on your big day," shares Amanda. Amanda brings more than 20 years' expertise in hairdressing, having worked alongside some of the finest artists from all over the world. A bridal specialist who enjoys creating soft boho waves, hair up, as well being an expert with curly hair.

Are you still looking for a photographer who loves colour and print-worthy moments as much as you do?

"I'm Cemanthe, a documentary photographer who loves weddings. I specialise in telling the story of the day, through photography. That's something that all photographers do and say, and so they should as that's the way it's done in the industry. However, for me it's more than that... I leave a piece of my soul with each of my couples and I pour my emotion and joy into their editing. So shooting and editing your wedding is my happy place, and I love both equally as much," shares Cemanthe.

Wedding menu guide from Papier

A wedding day is an unparalleled occasion, filled with unforgettable moments and cherished memories. Best-selling British stationery brand Papier understand the importance of every detail on this special day, especially when it comes to creating a memorable dining experience for the happy couple and their guests. Food is a huge part of your wedding day. Whether it's a meal guests have chosen or a set menu, informing your loved ones about what's ahead gets them excited to sit down and tuck in

Chat to videography specialist Wedding Film Guy at County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show

Wayne O'Connor, from Wedding Film Guy, will be exhibiting at County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Mercedes-Benz World on Sunday 28th April, and is on hand to answer all of your wedding videography questions. "Hey! I'm Wayne, a UK-based professional wedding videographer. I specialise in crafting cinematic wedding films that capture every moment of your special day. With numerous five-star reviews, I've also won an award this year and was a finalist in The Wedding Industry Awards - I'm dedicated to creating your dream wedding video.

Balmer Lawn Hotel & Spa is the ideal setting for weddings

Balmer Lawn Hotel & Spa is a must-see space. Set back behind a cricket pitch, the iconic venue has the perfect mixture of traditional and contemporary styles. With sun-drenched terraces and beautiful gardens, lovebirds will be spoilt for choice when it comes to stunning backdrops. Looking out over the lawn, the impressive building boasts a fascinating past and has been used as everything from a hunting lodge and a field hospital to an army staff college and coaching inn. As an award-winning destination for weddings, pairs can exchange vows in the garden's oak-beamed Sylvan Pavilion. Or, why not opt for the Beaulieu Suit with 140 loved ones?

Worried about your dad's wedding speech? Here's some top advice from Speechy

'The Speech Surgery' with Heidi Ellert McDermott, founder of Speechy & author of 'The Modern Couple's Guide to Wedding Speeches. At Speechy, we believe that all great speeches have good story-telling at the heart of them. So instead of hunting down one-liners, encourage your dad to simply tell his favourite stories. Remind him that he can call on your mum or siblings for help with content and constructive feedback, and send him links to lots of various speech examples to get his brain thinking.

Looking for floral wedding inspiration? Pop along to Mercedes-Benz World's Signature Wedding Show

Tracy and Leah from Fleurs Amanda are looking forward to meeting you at County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Mercedes-Benz World on Sunday the 28th April. "We both enjoy wedding floristry and have had many years' experience. We would love to plan your bouquets and arrangements to make your day complete and memorable." shares the duo. Pre-register your attendance on the County Wedding Events' website.

Find handmade venue styling extras from Oak and Ward at one of our Signature Wedding Shows

Oak and Ward, supplier of exquisite handmade furniture are exhibiting at County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Mercedes-Benz World on Sunday 28th April, where you can see its designs and creations first-hand. "Our beautifully solid oak or pine rustic trestle tables will help you create the perfect look for your wedding reception. We hand make all the furniture in our Oxfordshire workshop using materials from sustainable sources, where possible." share Nick. "They don't require a cloth and are, as far as we are aware, unique in the industry, offering attractive and sturdy folding metal legs to complete the look and engineered to be totally wobble free.

Meet Toastmaster & MC Joe at Mercedes-Benz World's wedding fair

Joe Gallagher is an experienced and professionally trained Master of Ceremonies and his expertise lies in seamlessly integrating all of the key elements of your wedding day. He will of course respect the formalities but works with you, your guests and the venue team to create a relaxed, organized and fun atmosphere. The role of an MC & Toastmaster involves so much more than just making announcements on the day and Joe will help remove the stress on the day ensuring you can relax more and really enjoy your special day. Joe really focuses on making the announcements at key times very special and engaging creating a great experience for all. Here is a testimonial to support the difference Joe can make at your wedding.

Escape to the picturesque Dorset countryside and snuggle up in a cosy hideaway at Outbuildings

This family-run converted farm sleeps two to six people in each of its seven (soon nine) beautifully appointed lodges, each converted from traditional barns and farm buildings. Adults only and dog friendly, it's a place to escape the rat run and immerse in quiet indulgence. Think Champagne in the woodland outdoor hot tub, cuddling up in the Hay Barn Cinema with hot chocolate, pizza and naughty treats on tap, ordering delicious cocktails and cooking up a storm with the Breakfast Bites Hamper. The team is excited to announce two new lodges opening in February 2024, located in 'The Byre'. Both will have outdoor copper baths, showers with a view, and big beds that look out of glass walls. Local chef Mark Kick, formerly of The Ivy, whips a delicious menu of local seasonal produce three times a week in The Cart Shed. Alternatively, enjoy home-cooked 'ready meals' in your lodge or the Baaaa. Whatever the weather, Outbuildings is designed for checking in and checking out, whether couples want to explore the local coastline and countryside or snuggle up in a fluffy robe by the log burner with Netflix and a hot chocolate. Discover: www.holidayoutbuildings.com

Surrey wedding cake supplier on hand at County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show

Lake Thomas Cakes is located in New Malden, SW London/Surrey and has been established since 2007. The business is run by Shenaz Lake-Thomas who creates and makes all the cakes and who will be on hand at the County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Mercedes-Benz World on Sunday 28th April to talk about your wedding cake ideas. "We offer a variety of wedding cakes, anything from traditional to quirky designs with a selection of flavours to choose from, as well as cupcakes and sweets for the discerning customer," shares Shenaz. "Our cakes are made to order and we work closely with the clients leading up to their special day and ensure they receive a beautiful quality and a tasty cake. We offer a complimentary consultation where you have the opportunity to sample some of our delights and assist creating your designed cake into reality. If you would like to see previous examples of my work then please have a look at my website.

The best place in the UK for a springtime wedding

A new study has revealed the areas in the UK with the best vendors and venues for spring wedding ceremonies, with Essex being crowned top for both. The research conducted by photo wall art creator StoryBoards analyzed data from a popular wedding planning site, to identify the UK regions with the highest quantity of top-rated vendors and venues, including vineyards, cake companies, and stationery brands. Most brides and grooms will agree that planning a wedding is stressful, as trying to pull off an event that feels unique to the couple while managing expectations, budget, and family can be difficult at times. Thankfully, beautiful venues exist to help make the whole process easier.