An Essex Wedding news and ideas from around the county

Smell scent-sational this V Day

Our sense of smell is the most connected to our memory which explains why scents can transport us through time and space in an instant. It also means scent is an aspect of attraction that can't be overlooked – the gift of a romantic fragrance is a classic Valentine's gift, however the new scents we have compiled are a cut above the rest. Why not treat you and your partner to a matching set and experiment with layering? Or if you're a part of the singles club, invest in self-love with a jus that will have you nuzzling your own elbow all day long...

Channels Golf Club Wedding Fair hosted by County Wedding Events

If you're newlyweds-to-be embarking on your wedding planning journey, pop along to the County Wedding Events wedding show at Channels Golf Club, Essex, for inspiration on Sunday 19th January 2025! 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. The beautifully restored, 17th-century, thatched Essex Barn is an idyllic wedding venue for your special day. Tie the knot with your soulmate in surroundings full of character with up to 100 of your loved ones there to share the moment.

Hintlesham Hall Wedding Fair hosted by County Wedding Events

If you're newlyweds-to-be embarking on your wedding planning journey, pop along to the County Wedding Events wedding show at Hintlesham Hall, Suffolk, for inspiration on Sunday 19th January 2025! 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.

Micklefield Hall Wedding Fair hosted by County Wedding Events!

If you're newlyweds-to-be embarking on your wedding planning journey, pop along to the County Wedding Events wedding show at Micklefield Hall, Hertforshire, for inspiration on Sunday 19th January 2025! 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.

Hen party trends for 2025

If you're planning a hen party in 2025, you're in for a treat. The trends for next year are shaping up to be fresh, fun and full of personality, offering something for every type of bride and her tribe. Hen party experts Fizzbox give us a sneak peek of their predictions on what's hot for hens in 2025. Drag shows have been a hen party staple for a while but, in 2025, they're stepping firmly into the spotlight. With drag culture thriving thanks to shows like RuPaul's Drag Race and its ever-expanding global franchises, hens are falling in love with the glitz, glamour and unapologetic fun that comes with a drag-themed celebration. Expect everything from live performances at local drag bars to private workshops where the group can learn how to strut in heels, master a smoky eye or perform their own lip-sync battle. The bottomless brunch industry will continue to boom with drag brunches taking centre stage. This is a standout trend for 2025.

Crondon Park Wedding Fair hosted by County Wedding Events

If you're newlyweds-to-be embarking on your wedding planning journey, pop along to the County Wedding Events wedding show at Crondon Park, Essex, for inspiration on Sunday 9th February 2025! 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. Set in the beautiful valley of Crondon, with stunning views across the Essex countryside and our championship golf course - Crondon Park has established an outstanding reputation as a premier venue in Essex and the UK.

The Coach House at Markshall is back

Sign up for an exclusive opportunity to explore the relaunched Coach House at Markshall Estate. This stunning venue, set within 2,500 acres of breathtaking natural beauty, is a perfect backdrop for your dream wedding. The venue is hosting a Wedding Showcase on the 19th January11am till 3pm. Nestled within 200 acres of breathtaking arboretum and gardens, and surrounded by 2,000 acres of ancient woodland and picturesque farmland, Markshall Estate offers an enchanting location for your special occasion.

New website for Elly's Flower Studio

Elly's Flower Studio began in 2021, when she started selling bouquets with the dream of one day working in the wedding industry. She's now fortunate to work at some of the most stunning wedding venues across the country, creating incredible floral installations for my wonderful couples. Four years on, and it's time for a website refresh and doesn't it look fantastic.

Name change statistics after marriage in the UK

The UK Deed Poll Office, and we recently published an article with unique statistics on name changes after marriage in the UK. When it comes to marriage, one of the most recognizable traditions is changing your name. For many, adopting a spouse's surname is part of the process. But for others, the decision is more complex—some opt for a double-barrelled surname, while others keep their own. So, what does the data really say about name changes after marriage in the UK? Gender breakdown of name changes: After Marriage One of the most frequently discussed aspects of name changes is the gender breakdown. Traditionally, women have been more likely to adopt their husband's surname, but how does the data actually look?

County Wedding Events coming to Hedingham Castle in Essex!

If you're newlyweds-to-be embarking on your wedding planning journey, pop along to the County Wedding Events wedding show at Hedingham Castle, Essex, for inspiration on Sunday 12th January 2025! A must-visit for all those that got engaged over the festive months, 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.

Greenwoods Hotel Wedding Fair hosted by County Wedding Events

If you're newlyweds-to-be embarking on your wedding planning journey, pop along to the County Wedding Events wedding show at Greenwoods Hotel & Spa, Stock, Essex for inspiration on Sunday 12th January 2025! A must-visit for all those that got engaged over the festive months, 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.

Calling all newly-engaged couples!

And just like that we've stepped into 2025! I love the start of the year, a fresh start. Time to de-clutter, open that brand new diary (stationery addicts you know the feeling!) and manifest the best year of your life. This is when the countdown truly begins for our 2025 brides and grooms - your year has arrived. And if your other half got down on one knee this December, we wish you a huge congratulations! Let's get planning!

County Wedding Events comes to Penshurst Place, Kent!

If you're newlyweds-to-be embarking on your wedding planning journey, pop along to the County Wedding Events wedding show at the Penshurst Place, Kent, for inspiration on Sunday 2nd February 2025! 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.

Cheapest cities for NYE celebrations

A new study has found the cheapest cities for a night out this NYE, with Colchester taking 8th place. Ticket supplier Skiddle analysed the average cost of a list of items from Numbeo, including a new outfit, alcohol, fast food, cigarettes, and transport. They found each city's expected cost for an individual for a night out and ranked these from lowest to highest to find the cheapest on New Year's Eve.

Manor of Groves Wedding Fair hosted by County Wedding Events

If you're newlyweds-to-be embarking on your wedding planning journey, pop along to the County Wedding Events wedding show at Manor Of Groves, Hertfordshire, for some much-needed inspiration on Sunday 26th January 2025! 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.

10 most wedding obsessed cities in Britain

A new finding by the online wedding rings retailer The Wedding Rings Co. (theweddingringscompany.co.uk) reveals a unique insight into where love is truly flourishing across the UK, with cities from all corners of the country making the list. A spokesperson for The Wedding Rings Co. commented on the findings: "It's fantastic to see so many people getting married all over the UK. The number of marriages is rising, which is wonderful to witness, especially after the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. This trend is likely to continue, as more couples are inspired by beautifully curated wedding content on social media - creating a desire to create their own special day which they can share with their friends and family.

Get your skates on!

Fabulously festive news: the Ice Rink is back at Braintree Village for the second year running! Open from 15th November to 5th January, 2025, the spacious rink offers guests an enchanting space to go for a spin throughout the holiday season and into the New Year. So, what are you waiting for - get your skates on with family and friends!

Last few days for 20 per cent off sale!

Moments Like This Weddings is currently running a special offer. Book your 2025 wedding package with wedding coordinator Joanne before 31st December 2024 and receive 20 per cent off *subject to availability. Moments Like This Weddings believe that your wedding should be a true reflection of you – your quirks, your style, and the moments that brought you together. That's why Joanne starts with a blank canvas, designing celebrations that elevate your story into an unforgettable experience.

Down Hall unveils new 2025 retreats

Wellness tourism is well and truly on the rise, evolving from a luxury niche into a mainstream phenomenon, and recently renovated, AA Hotel of the Year England - Down Hall Hotel, Spa & Estate - is fully embracing holistic health experiences with its new wellness weekend retreats for 2025. Promising the ultimate getaway to escape the stresses of modern living and taking place against 110-acres of stunning greenery in the heart of the Essex countryside, the Wellness Sound Bath Weekend (17th January) and Breathwork Weekend (Friday 21st February) are the perfect idyllic breaks to switch off, reset and dedicate some well-needed zen time.

Pinterest Predicts 2025

Pinterest Predicts 2025 - the much anticipated annual future-gazing report which reveals the biggest wedding trends that will shape the year ahead! Next year, expect to see weddings and parties take inspiration from the post-Baroque period as Rococo Revival puts an opulent and ultra-feminine spin on celebrations. Corsets gowns, luxe accessories and ornate table decorations will take over. In 2025, hosts will think outside of the box as Surreal Soirees take centre-stage; curvy candlesticks, fantastical flowers and out-of-this-world tablescapes will prove popular the wackier, the better! Rococo Revival. All frills, no chill. This year, weddings, parties and aesthetics will draw inspiration from the Rococo era - a post-Baroque period that was both opulent and ultra-feminine. Gen Z and Boomers are driving this trend toward classical corset gowns, luxe accessories and ornate tablescapes.