Your East Anglian Wedding news and ideas from around the region

Baked By Steph launches fun Valentine's Day cookie collection for every type of partner

Baked By Steph, the favourite for quirky, cute, handmade treats, has unveiled its showstopping Valentine's Day collection and we're loving it. Known for combining playful designs with impeccable flavour, Baked By Steph takes romance to a whole new level with its personalised, letterbox-friendly iced cookies. Whether you're wooing your soulmate, pleasing your partner, or reminding your vegan Valentine how special they are, these cookies are the ultimate love language this February 14th. Inspired by everyone's favourite Friends quote, this adorable set includes cookies that spell out your love in the sweetest way. Perfect for reminding your lobster how much they mean to you.

Hintlesham Hall is offering a new discount

Hintlesham Hall, a charming wedding venue in Suffolk, is offering a new discount. Couples who book their 2026 wedding will receive 2025 prices for a limited time (terms and conditions apply) – perfect for those of you planning ahead and looking for a dreamy space to tie the knot.

Surrounded by peaceful gardens, Hintlesham Hall has an impressive Georgian frontage and an elegant Tudor feature at the back. This gem is sure to wow your guests as they wind their way down the treelined drive and discover the impressive hall. There are several distinctive wedding spaces to choose from, with something to suit everyone. What's more, those of you looking to stay the night can choose from the 32 individually designed bedrooms, each offering a blend of classic charm and modern elegance.

The Red House is nestled in three acres of landscaped grounds

Nestled in three acres of beautiful landscaped grounds just 15 minutes from Cambridge, The Red House offers views across open countryside, perfect for creating unforgettable memories.

There are seven elegantly appointed guest rooms in the converted stables, where your loved ones can stay the night and enjoy a delicious breakfast together the following morning.

The exclusive venue hire accommodates up to 120 seated guests, with the option for an additional 100 evening guests, bringing your total capacity to 220.

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.

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.

Riverhills Health Club & Day Spa has launched its Winter Warming Serail Mud Chamber Experience

As the nights grow darker and the weather turns colder, Riverhills Health Club & Day Spa, located in Ipswich, invites couples to unwind and indulge in the ultimate warming spa experience. Perfect for couples or friends looking to catch up, Riverhills has introduced its exclusive Fall's Dream Spa Package (£59 per person), an interactive and deeply rejuvenating experience.

The spa experience begins with a full body scrub to remove all dead and dry skin cells, leaving the skin looking brighter and ready for the Serail Mud Chamber. Guests can then enjoy applying healing and detoxifying mud to their bodies and to each other before relaxing in the Serail Mud Chamber for around 30 minutes in the warm herbal steam.

Newnham College is a captivating venue in the heart of Cambridge

Newnham College was established in 1871 and is a captivating venue nestled in a tranquil location in the heart of Cambridge. Featuring picturesque, landscaped gardens, elegant Queen Anne-style architecture, beautiful rooms and exquisite catering, the college is the perfect setting for your special day.

At Newnham College, the possibilities for your day are diverse. Whether you envision a full-day affair, from the civil ceremony to the evening reception, or prefer to host just the wedding breakfast and evening reception, the team can accommodate your preferences.

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?

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.

Bedford Lodge Hotel & Spa has launched new twilight ceremonies

Nestled in the heart of Suffolk in the horse racing town of Newmarket, Bedford Lodge Hotel & Spa is redefining the traditional wedding experience with the launch of its enchanting new Twilight Ceremonies, a perfect choice for winter celebrations. As couples increasingly seek intimate celebrations that reflect their unique love stories, the hotel offers a magical alternative that balances romance and value without sacrificing elegance.

Designed for gatherings of 10 or more guests, these enchanting receptions allow couples to create magical moments as twilight deepens over rural Suffolk, enveloped by the warmth and elegance of the hotel's Georgian architecture and classically designed interiors.

Hungarian Hall Estate is set in the unspoilt Suffolk countryside

Hungarian Hall Estate is set in the unspoilt Suffolk countryside, just a few minutes from Woodbridge and a short drive away from the heritage coast. The venue offers couples and their guests the chance to roam freely through the large grounds, taking in the sounds and smells of a truly rural and countryside setting.

The venue is exclusive, so you and your guests will have it all to yourselves. It's extremely adaptable, with plenty of different options for both your wedding ceremony and the reception afterwards.

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.

Nogard Creations is offering our readers 15 per cent off flower preservation

Nogard Creations, a flower preservation company in Cambridgeshire, is run by husband-and-wife team Laura and Jamie McGrath. The duo works together to design and create precious keepsakes using quality materials. The company offers a range of designs, including coasters, tealight holders, paperweights and frames, with a choice of shapes available such as spheres, letters, display blocks, hearts and cubes. When booking, wedding couples will receive transparent progress updates, convenient flower drop-offs, insured postage and custom pieces.

Huntingdon Town Hall is a restored Grade II*-listed building

Built in 1745, the beautifully restored Grade II*-listed Georgian Town Hall is situated in the heart of Huntingdon on the historic Market Square. The building features authentic Georgian sash windows and a first-floor balcony surrounded by floral displays in the summer. As a former courthouse, the building is full of character and original features.

Huntingdon Town Hall boasts four licensed spaces for ceremonies, including two renovated courtrooms, great for intimate 'I dos' with up to 60 guests. For larger affairs, the Assembly Hall on the second floor is a grand ballroom with space for up to 120 family and friends. Complete with three crystal chandeliers and portraits on the walls, it oozes elegance and style. The Council Chamber can host 75 loved ones, and receptions of up to 150 guests can be catered for across the two larger rooms, while the courtrooms are also available for more intimate parties.

Dutch Flower Parade has recently hired a new installation florist

Dutch Flower Parade, a florist in Norfolk, has recently hired a new installation florist. "Her job is to organise and run big installations at weddings," shares Sarah from Dutch Flower Parade. "The company has been in operation for 19 years but has recently changed owners. Our team of talented florists brings a wealth of experience and expertise and nothing is too much trouble. Our delivery drivers cover a very large area of Norfolk and we deliver your thoughts for every occasion. Every order is unique and each one is made with care and empathy so that the recipient is delighted. If you would like to order something unusual or specific, we can, of course, fulfil your needs.

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.

Ipswich County Library is located in a Grade II-listed building in Suffolk

Ipswich County Library is located in the centre of the town in a Grade II-listed red-brick building.

The striking Northgate Room, normally used as a study and reference area, is available for weddings. With a vaulted ceiling featuring decorative plaster mouldings, old oak bookshelves, and tables, the 100-foot-long room is full of beautiful details. In celebration of Suffolk's cultural heritage, the space has coloured-glass windows that depict famous historic figures with links to the county. You can tie the knot at the end of the room between two of the stunning windows against a backdrop of oak bookcases filled with books. The room can also be used for receptions with up to 72 of your nearest and dearest.

Best dates for a wedding and honeymoon in 2025

Research from leading UK jeweller Diamonds Factory has revealed the best dates to book your wedding and honeymoon in 2025 in order to get as much time off as possible. Online searches for 2025 weddings have leapt by 916% this year, meanwhile searches for honeymoons skyrocketed by 15,247% during the same period. As couples consider weddings and honeymoons for next year, Diamonds Factory analysis has revealed the best days to book your wedding ceremony which will maximise your annual leave for the honeymoon.

10% off for wedding photography with Jane Stewart Photography

Planning your wedding is going to be so exciting. Choosing the dress to the delicate flowers, venue, entertainment and so on. It can also become strained as your budget starts to grow. Jane Stewart Photography shares some advice, "The first thing people think about when it comes to the photographer is the cost, but you may be quite surprised at the range of packages we offer, starting from only £700. We also offer wedding albums (subject to package) ranging from the traditional album through to the latest digital albums.