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

Different entertainment you ask? Poldark is the answer!

If you and your partner are looking for something unique for your wedding celebration entertainment, to create life long memories and to share amazing stories for decades to come, then Poldark is what you wouldn't have thought of, but what you are looking for. Your wedding celebrations are probably one of the most memorable times of your lives; a time to share your love with one another, a time to celebrate with those close to you and a time to look back and remember each and every moment.

Hen party dos and don'ts according to brides

Planning a hen party can be a stressful task, and with more and more brides opting for weekends over one last night of single life, there's even more pressure to get it right. To help you create the perfect celebration, Amy Greenshields, party planning expert at cardfactory spoke to 10 recent brides and bride-to-bes, unveiling their hen party dos and don'ts. Using this insight, Amy shares her top tips for 'kissing the miss goodbye' in style.

Must-see refurbishment at Pennyhill Park

Surrey-based Pennyhill Park Hotel & Spa is exhibiting at County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Ascot Racecourse on Sunday 7th April and Mercedes-Benz World on 28th April; the team will be on hand to discuss your big day, as well highlight the venue's stunning new refurbishment. Newly refurbished and opened in Summer 2023, the venue's Wedding Terrace is a beautiful space offering both indoor and outdoor opportunities for couples. The whole of the terrace wing will be dedicated to you and your wedding, including the newly renovated and refurbished Parkview Suite and Water Lily Suite. Taking your pick of The Library for indoor ceremonies or the Pavilion for outdoor ceremonies, your wedding will flow seamlessly inside and out with the beautiful backdrop of the ivy-clad main house. You'll also have the rooms located in the terrace wing for your wedding party, so there isn't far to go at the end of the celebrations.

Effortless Events provide high-quality, stylish photo booths for weddings and events

Effortless Events, a luxury photo booth hire company supplying Vintage Photo Booth, Selfie Photo Booth and Retro Magic Mirror to Buckinghamshire, Berkshire, Hertfordshire, Surrey and London, is exhibiting at County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Ascot Racecourse. Owner, Stephanie says, "Our unique selection of high-quality Photo Booths are made by trusted UK and US based suppliers. We use high spec Canon DSLR cameras and high speed printers, to provide instant sharp prints for you and your guests. "We understand the challenges and effort that come with planning an event and coordinating with multiple suppliers. This is why we believe that transparent pricing and a simple online photo booth booking process are an absolute must. Above all else, we are here to "let the good times and the camera roll..."

Music and entertainment ticked off the list at Ascot Racecourse's wedding fair

Insanity Strings is exhibiting at County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Ascot Racecourse on Sunday 7th April 2024. An international music agency that provides exceptional string musicians for a diverse range of events and occasions, the company is your premier destination for top-tier string musicians to elevate any occasion - whether you're planning a wedding, corporate event, a recording session or an intimate gathering. Its diverse musicians, with a wide spectrum of talents, have graced some of the world's most iconic stages, from grand concert halls to intimate and majestic wedding venues around the world; ensuring their performances resonate with audiences across genres and cultures.

Expert advice on how to plan a wedding in 2024

Georgie Mitchell, Wedding Planner and Wedding Expert for online fashion destination Silkfred, shares her expert insight on how to plan a wedding in 2024. "Figure out your goals! Every wedding starts very differently and couples want different things. Sit together and decide what is the most important part of your wedding day - are you looking for a big party? Therefore drink and music may be key. Alternatively, if the look of everything is the most important thing, then this is where your money will be spent. Ensure you then allocate the budget and start with these suppliers."

Get the reception started with Nightlights DJ & Event Services

As a DJ and event services provider, Nightlights understand that events and celebrations are not just ordinary occasions. They are moments that deserve to be remembered and cherished for a lifetime. That is why they incorporate high-quality music, lighting, and entertainment to create a memorable atmosphere for their clients. With years of experience and dedication to customer satisfaction, Nightlights DJ & Event Services is committed to taking your event to the next level. Whether it is a wedding, corporate event, birthday, or any occasion that needs a touch of excellence, trust Nightlights DJ & Event Services to provide a one-of-a-kind experience."

Say 'I Do' to your dream smile: Transform your wedding smile within three hours!

Specialising in dental aesthetics, Smiles and Smiles will be exhibiting at County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Ascot Racecourse on Sunday 7th April, and Mercedes-Benz World on Sunday 28th April, where the team will be on hand to answer all of your questions. Are you envisioning your perfect wedding day, ready to dazzle everyone with the most radiant, picture-perfect smile? At Smiles and Smiles, with its state-of-the-art AI and 3D design technology, expert dentistry, and exceptional customer service, they will collaborate with you to craft your uniquely perfect smile. "We ensure that the results will leave you with newfound joy and a confidence boost for your special day," shares the team. "We're also thrilled to offer you a chance to win a smile transformation worth up to £3,000 when you visit us at our stand!* Don't miss out on this opportunity to turn your dream smile into reality!"

Find your big-day photographer at Ascot Racecourse's Signature Wedding Show

Based in Oxford, Oxfordshire and South Devon Matthew Ellacott Photography specialises in natural, authentic photography. Matt is not simply a photographer, but is a storyteller dedicated to capturing the essence of your wedding day for you. Matt thrives on capturing the joy of your celebration, his collections are focussed on the people and moments, that you will love to look back on, complemented with a few special signature portraits. With a warm, relaxed approach and unobtrusive style, Matt ensures your moments remain authentic, and unscripted. If you are a little photo-shy, he also has a talent for making you feel comfortable in front of the camera.

A spiritual wedding journey with Connected Collective

Bring the esoteric to your love journey by incorporating tarot in to your wedding day with exhibitor, Claire Laveaux of Connected Collective; showcasing her Psychic, Spiritual and Tarot work at Ascot Racecourse and Mercedes-Benz World Signature Wedding Shows, hosted by County Wedding Events. Intertwine Tarot with your Love story. Gain clarity and calmness during planning your big day. Connect deeply with each other through learning how to read Tarot for each other. A Couple's Journey is tailored to celebrate this magical moment, offering profoundly meaningful connections to the energies that surround you and your partner. Let Tarot reveal the beauty and wisdom that await in your union.

Luxury stationery designed and hand-crafted in Berkshire

If you're looking for a luxury stationery suite for your wedding day, then pop along to County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Ascot Racecourse and visit the Harris & Bloom stand. Wedding and event stationery designer Amy Harris will be showcasing a variety of stunning stationery examples of her work, from invitation suites to signage and menus! Your journey with Harris and Bloom is all about helping you realise your vision from the initial contact and planning, to finalising all of the bespoke finishing touches that will make your dream stationery a reality

Say cheese, with the Vintage Camper Booths

Looking for something unique, quirky, and that will be loved by your guests? Pop along to Ascot Racecourse's Signature Wedding Show, hosted by County Wedding Events to find what Vintage Camper Booths has to offer. "We are a local business in Ascot with a range of unique campervans and indoor photo booths, glitter bars, audio telephone guestbook services, and, new for this summer our Vintage Ice Cream Trike!" shares owner Naomi. "This will be available to hire on a self-serve basis offering a range of delicious ice cream and sorbets in a variety of flavours, what's more, we have an introductory offer on for the show!"

20% off packages at Decobloom boutique

Elevate your event with DecoBloom Boutique's decor hire service, explore stunning floral arches, centrepieces, and arrangements at County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Ascot Racecourse in April. "Hello future couples," say owners Donna and Katrina, "We're eagerly counting down the days until the Ascot Signature Wedding Show, where we'll have the pleasure of meeting you in person! We're thrilled at the opportunity to connect with you and hear all about your beautiful love stories and cherished family moments.

Wedding cake aplenty with The Artist Cake

Baking and cake designer extraordinaire Tiago, of The Artist Cake, will be showcasing his cake creations at County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Ascot Racecourse. With more than 14 years' experience in pastry and eight years as a cake designer, Tiago decided to start his own business March, 2022, where The Artist Cake was launched. "Are you looking for a unique Celebration Cake? Meet me, The Artist Cake, at the show and book your date to get a 25 % discount over £650 purchase (available only on the show). Also I'm currently doing a giveaway of a £500 cake don't miss this opportunity!" adds Tiago.

Award-winning venue at Ascot Racecourse's Signature Wedding Show

As you travel down the tree-lined driveway and catch your first glimpse of the elegant 17th-century mansion house, you'll know you've arrived somewhere special. Set in 35 acres of parklands, Highfield Park is the perfect backdrop for your wedding day. The team will be on hand at County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Ascot Racecourse to answer all of your wedding planning questions about hosting your wedding at this idyllic venue. What's more, Highfield Park as just won Wedding Venue of the Year (South & East England) at The English Wedding Awards!

The HMS Warrior creates a unique wedding backdrop

The HMS Warrior creates a unique wedding backdrop in the heart of Portsmouth's Historic Dockyard, with spectacular views across Portsmouth Harbour and beyond. Ceremonies onboard the ship create captivating stories as couples embark on a new chapter in their life bathed in the grandeur of maritime history. HMS Warrior is more than a venue; she's an experience lovebirds will never forget! Surrounded by her timeless beauty, couples can say "I do" in one of the exquisite venue spaces. The Officer's Half Deck is the perfect blank canvas for ceremonies and receptions with 60 seated guests. Couples can add personal style to occasions, creating a beautifully bespoke atmosphere. For those looking to experience more intimate ceremonies, resplendent in Victorian grandeur, the Captain's Cabin will create an effortlessly luxurious ambience for ceremonies with 20 people. As pairs continue through their perfect day, they'll move seamlessly from the vows to celebratory drink receptions on the Upper Deck of HMS Warrior. Stand under the magnificent mast and sails, gently swaying in the sea breeze, and enjoy the very best in catering, canapés and champagne while taking in the sublime waters of the Solent!

Find your wedding DJ with County Wedding Events

Fizz and Groove are going to be at our Ascot Racecourse Signature Wedding Show on Sunday 7th April, giving you the chance to witness its entertainment offering first hand, and also chat to the team about your big day requirements. Fizz and Groove are a wedding and event hire company based in London and the surrounding counties and have 100% five-star reviews. They have an incredible offer on at the moment that they call 'The Complete Fizz and Groove Experience' which includes:

Luxury gifts for all occasions with WOLF

The ultimate gift awaits with WOLF, a family-owned British brand, luxury jewellery boxes, travel jewellery cases, bags, watch winders and cases and a plethora of other accessories. Whether it's a pre-wedding treat for yourself, a thank you gift for your bridal party, or something you want added to your big-day giftlist, WOLF's beautifully designed jewellery boxes and cases are exquisite in design and intricate in detail and make the perfect travel accompaniment for your hen do or honeymooon. The Caroline Large Jewellery Box could be a wonderful maid of honour gift for the wedding season or a timeless classic gift for a mother, while the travel jewellery case Caroline Jewellery Portfolio, available in ivory, black or red, is perfect for securing precious items on your honeymoon.

Bespoke jewellery with exhibitor Initialled

What better way to celebrate your big day than with unique, hand-stamped, personalised initial jewellery? You'll find a stunning selection at County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Ascot Racecourse, courtesy of exhibitor: Initialled. With pieces you and your bridal party can keep, wear again and cherish forever, it offers a range of options and price points from 24k gold/silver plated, waterproof and tarnish-free stainless steel to the longer lasting sterling silver and gold vermeil.

Close-up magic with Tommy Knight at two of County Wedding Events' Signature shows

Want to hear the 'oohs' and 'aahs' from excited guests on your wedding day? Why not hire a magician? Pop along to the County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Ascot Racecourse on Sunday the 7th April, and Mercedes-Benz World on 28th April, and meet magician Tommy Knight. "I'm a professional close-up and stage magician, recently becoming Surrey's 'Stage Magician of the year', and I'm really excited to meet you all at the show! I'm offering a 15% discount to anyone who books me after visiting my stand - so come and say hi!"