Your East Anglian Wedding news and ideas from around the region

Cley Windmill has welcomed an on-site chef

Cley Windmill, a beautiful wedding venue situated in North Norfolk, has welcomed an on-site chef. Wendy will prepare food for weddings at Cley Windmill; she can create three-course sit-down meals, barbecues, afternoon tea, buffets and canapés to ensure your big-day menu is perfect.

The property is surrounded by reeds and marshland with the sea in the distance, creating an idyllic setting for those in search of an original big-day backdrop. You can take over the whole windmill for your big day, with space for up to 22 people across 10 bedrooms.

No-shows at weddings are costing couples across the UK approximately £1.52 Billion each year

No-shows and last-minute declines at weddings are not only incredibly annoying but also can have a hefty impact on a couple's finances. Data collected by Togather, the UK's leading event booking platform, reveals that wedding no-shows are costing couples on average £6,163.36 per wedding or £1.52 billion each year. Given that, on average, 20% of guests who RSVP ultimately do not attend, the financial implications for couples are significant. By analysing customer budget data from thousands of weddings across the country, Togather has shed light on the financial strain caused by guest absences. It's revealed that the average cost of a UK wedding in 2023/24 stands at £30,816.41, with cost per guest amounting to £385.21.

Ravenwood Hall is situated in seven acres of luscious countryside

Ravenwood Hall has seven acres of luscious countryside to be enjoyed by guests and couples alike. Its extensive grounds, with well-kept lawns, woodland and other clearings, provide the perfect backdrop for those picture-perfect moments.

This charming country house hotel has an impressive Tudor façade and the interiors showcase its historic origins and complement the exquisite frontage.

Weddings primarily take place in the Main Hall or in the Edwardian Pavilion. The Pavilion is a popular choice for couples as it's self-contained with private gardens, restrooms, a bar and a marquee attached.

Data reveals staggering cost increases for stag and hen dos

New research by Adventure Connections, a leading provider of group adventure experiences, reveals a staggering increase in the cost of stag and hen weekends, with prices skyrocketing in recent years. The data, based on bookings between 2016 and 2024, highlights a significant financial burden for those celebrating upcoming nuptials. The average cost of a stag weekend has surged by 136% since 2016, rising from £2,018 to £4,759 in 2024. This represents a substantial increase of approximately 11.32% per year, far outpacing the rate of inflation during the same period. Similarly, hen do expenses have climbed by 130%, increasing from £1,752 to £4,022 over the same period, with an average annual increase of around 11%. This is based just on UK staycation trips alone.

The Spa at Bedford Lodge Hotel is hosting a Wellness Retreat this September

The Spa at Bedford Lodge Hotel has announced the launch of its exclusive wellness retreat, set to take place from Friday 13th September to Sunday 15th September 2024. This transformative two-night retreat promises to be the ultimate escape, offering a carefully curated experience around nutrition and sleep, designed to rejuvenate both the body and mind.

The Wellness Retreat has been meticulously crafted to help guests relax and reconnect with themselves, focusing on the essential elements of nutrition and sleep to restore inner harmony. Participants will embark on a journey of self-care, supported by a range of activities and treatments aimed at fostering holistic wellbeing, including a nutrition workshop with a leading nutritionist, a sleep focus session with an ESPA specialist, a sound bath session, yoga and pilates.

Brits say yes to dogs at weddings - but on your honeymoon?

As more Brits include their furry friends in significant life events like weddings, this trend is beginning to extend beyond the big day - many couples are now choosing to bring their dogs along on their honeymoons as well. With searches for 'minimoon destinations' rising 150% in the last 90 days, many are opting for UK-based getaways that include their canine companions, as highlighted in a recent viral TikTok. The recent TikTok video by Tasmin (@maybetamsin), which currently has over 70k views and 8k likes, shows her experience of traveling with her dog on her honeymoon. In the video, Tasmin shares how she brought her dog, Rhubarb, along on their UK staycation 'minimoon,' offering a glimpse into a dog-friendly getaway after their wedding, where Rhubarb also made a special appearance.

Mannington Estate is a hidden gem located in an idyllic spot north of Norwich

Mannington Estate is a hidden gem located in an idyllic spot north of Norwich and just eight miles from the coast. Nestled in rural surroundings, the gardens provide a picture-perfect setting, with the impressive Medieval hall in the background.

The hall is still a family home today, and although you can't get married here, there's plenty of space in the grounds for a magical marquee reception, or you can hire the tearooms for a more intimate celebration.

Platinum Spas interviews Love Island star Amy Hart

Platinum Spas caught up with Series 5 Love Islander Amy Hart to discuss her well-being routines; from fitness and wedding goals to diet plans, as well as her average screen time, and how she switches off with just a month to go until she gets married. Starting with well-being and fitness, what are your current go-to fitness routines? "So, I'm obviously getting married in September, I'm currently shredding for the wedding, but I just had that awful viral cough that was going around, so I haven't been able to go to the gym for 6 weeks, but I actually went back today for my first PT session back. I did a bit of legs, and I'm working with a PT, I'm also trying to get out walking every day with my little boy in the pram, and then I've got this app called Sweat with Kayla – I've had it for years.

Win a menu tasting for two worth £100

Bayfield Catering is a catering company based in Norfolk. The owner, Emma Boubaker, tells us: "I am a local girl from the North Norfolk Coast, born in Blakeney, and I have worked in the catering industry all of my life. I am currently operating my outside catering business with help from my family. I have a passion for food, use good produce and have great relations with local suppliers. We can help you create your special day, making sure it is as stress-free as possible. Whether you've chosen a large or small venue, we can accommodate your needs and give you advice on what will work well. We can supply a variety of hot and cold foods to suit your needs. We offer canapés, finger and fork buffets, and three-course meals with a wide range of choices to suit all budgets and taste buds."

County Wedding Events coming to Prested Hall, Essex!

If you're newlyweds-to-be embarking on your wedding planning journey, pop along to the County Wedding Events wedding show at Prested Hall, Essex, for inspiration on Sunday 22nd September 2024! 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.

Labour's plan to legalise humanist weddings

We are deep in the midst of wedding season. Whether you're attending as a guest, or planning your own, you will probably be taking note of the special moments, and how each couple make their wedding truly their own, and reflective of their relationship. Joanna Newton is a Partner at Stowe Family Law and explains what the proposal in law changes could mean... Over the past two decades, humanist wedding ceremonies (which is a wedding that is non-religious ceremony) have soared in popularity. The most recent statistics from 2020 are from Humanists UK and reveal that humanist weddings have increased by a huge 266% since 2004.

The Granary Estates is an exclusive barn wedding venue in Newmarket

The Granary Estates is an exclusive barn wedding venue set within the picturesque countryside of Woodditton, Newmarket. This carefully restored 18th-century barn is home to an award-winning luxury wedding and events venue, complete with surrounding corn fields, fully equipped accommodation, and a team of dedicated wedding planners on hand.

The venue consists of two original barns linked by an open glass walkway and a beautiful courtyard garden.

Those looking to stay the night will love the beautifully furnished cottages boasting countryside views and a special getting-ready space.

From big celebrations to budget savvy: the changing face of UK weddings

At a time of rising costs and changing perspectives, is the sound of wedding bells as tempting as it once was? To find out, Legal & General polled more than 2,000 married and engaged couples to see if they opted for a big wedding – or a big rethink. A 2024 survey revealed the average cost of a UK wedding has risen to £20,700, marking a 12.5% increase from £18,400 in 2022. Despite this, our survey found that couples typically budget much less, with the average amount set aside being just under £9,000 (£8,997.32). There was also a stark difference in wedding budgets across generations. Younger couples, particularly those aged 16-24, budget an average of £14,937 for their special day, while those over 55 set aside £4,614.

Top tips to get to sleep before your wedding

Pre-wedding jitters cause a large number of brides and grooms to struggle to get to sleep. Upcoming nuptials, even if a positive stress, can be a leading cause of sleepless nights. Sleep expert Dr Deborah Lee gives advice to those Brides- to- be who are struggling in the lead- up to their big day, and gives top tips on how to improve their sleep. As a bride, you face an immense amount of stress, especially in the final days that countdown to your wedding. With plenty of last minute preparations that are trying to please everyone, it's easy to let yourself get swept up and forget to prioritise your sleep. Sleep expert Dr Deborah Lee from Doctor Fox, has partnered with Get Laid Beds to share FIVE expert tips to ensure you wake up on your wedding day like a princess, feeling refreshed and radiant, and not like a bridezilla.

Dunston Hall Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort has launched a summer afternoon tea spa day

Dunston Hall Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort has launched a new summer afternoon tea spa day to celebrate its newly refurbished spa. Nestled in the beauty of the Norfolk countryside, Dunston Hall Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort is a historic mansion that seamlessly blends traditional splendour, timeless elegance, and modern amenities. The property promises a luxury retreat and a truly unforgettable experience for those seeking heavenly relaxation.

From the relaxing spa and the challenging golf course to the indoor swimming pool, brasserie restaurant and recently renovated bedrooms, the resort has so much to offer.

Curds Hall Barn offers uninterrupted views of the Norfolk countryside

Curds Hall Barn is set within 12 acres of luscious parkland and surrounded by uninterrupted views of the Norfolk countryside. The venue is made up of two conjoined rooms: the 17th-century Main Barn is light and airy, with whitewashed walls showcasing chequered brick and flint work, high vaulted ceilings with original beams and contemporary lighting. While the Woodshed provides a contrasting space with darker wood cladding and atmospheric lighting, creating the perfect blank canvas for a romantic and intimate wedding breakfast.

Ceremonies of up to 120 loved ones take place in The Main Barn. As previously described, it's a bright room with huge, glazed doors and underfloor heating.

For al fresco nuptials, you can tie the knot under the Old Oak Tree, positioned on the edge of the woodland, or outside on the lawn, which has an adjoining open-fronted cartshed with upright beams that can be decorated.

Alcohol-free options for weddings with Mocktails

For those looking for booze-free options this wedding season, Mocktails Uniquely Crafted, is the non-alcoholic premium cocktail brand perfect for big-day guests! The alcohol-free, ready-to-drink beverages are perfect for those looking to offer a range of beverages at their wedding. Mocktails showcase a delectable collection of flavours, each carefully crafted with the finest ingredients, spices, and botanicals sourced from around the world. Mockarita - A zesty twist on the classic Margarita. Notes of lime, quinine and acacia flower with a refreshingly tart finish. Here at County Wedding Magazines HQ we're finding it hard to choose our favourite... Mocksow Mule anyone?

Autumnal fragrances from Woodwick and Yankee Candle

Connect to nature with scents and colours drawn from the breathtaking outdoors with the cosy new Autumn collection from Yankee Candle®, Cottage Getaway. Inspired by the nostalgic roots of outdoor adventures, and the natural beauty of our world, the collection seeks to spark creativity and inspiration, whilst bringing family and friends together. Launching in August 2024, the collection includes three warming fragrances, Woodland Weekend Memories, Pumpkin Cinnamon Swirl, and Afternoon Scrapbooking. This comforting selection of candles is perfect for reliving cherished moments at home as the late summer falls away and the new season settles n. Relax into Autumn with fragrances that ignite the senses, whilst the bright greens fade from the leaves and dusk draws in earlier by the day.

CWM partnership with Maya Deluxe and Dower & Hall for an exciting prize giveaway!

County Wedding Magazines has teamed up with Maya Deluxe and Dower & Hall for an exciting prize giveaway for our reader and social media followers! If you like or follow all three brands on either Facebook or Instagram, you'll be in with a chance of winning a £350 Dower & Hall gift voucher which can be redeemed online, as well as a £250 gift voucher for Maya Deluxe – that's jewellery and bridesmaids sorted for your wedding day leaving you more time and more budget to crack on with the rest of the wedding planning. Read on to find out more details about the brands and how to enter!

The Swan at Lavenham Hotel and Spa is hosting an open day

The Swan at Lavenham Hotel and Spa is hosting an open day on Sunday 8th September to help newly engaged couples plan their dream weddings. Surrounded by lush, open countryside in the heart of Lavenham, the 15th-century hotel is a magical venue perfect for large and small celebrations all year around.

For intimate weddings, The Swan has three elegant private rooms catering between four and 40 guests. Each room will be set up with displays from wedding suppliers ranging from florists to make-up artists and photographers, as well as wedding dress and cake specialists. The McCallum room will also be dressed for a wedding breakfast, while the Woolhall will be set up for a ceremony.

Couples planning larger, more lavish affairs for up to 100 friends and family can discover more about The Swan's exclusive wedding package, where the entire hotel is reserved just for their party.