Your East Anglian Wedding news and ideas from around the region

Hen Party Trends for 2026

Hen parties in 2026 are shaping up to be even more expressive, more personal and far more adventurous than the familiar nights out of the past decade, according to hen party experts Book a Party. Brides and their friends are leaning into weekends that feel curated rather than copied. There is a clear move toward experiences that tell a story about the bride and the group. People want something that feels fresh and clever but still relaxed enough that everyone can enjoy themselves without pressure.

Local supplier spotlight: Cley Windmill

Cley Windmill is a wonderfully romantic wedding venue dating back to the 19 century. Now cherished as a local landmark, its striking 56-foot windmill, complete with sails and fan tail, creates a dreamy backdrop for those all-important photographs. The windmill's gardens offer a beautiful setting for ceremonies, and just beyond the garden wall lies the River Glaven, flowing gently beside the windmill and surrounded by marshland and countryside.

At the windmill's base, the rounded Ceremony Room provides an intimate and truly special scene for weddings and celebrations, with its original beams and woodwork and space for up to 26 guests.

Expert Reveals Why Winter Weddings Are Making a Big Comeback in the UK

Once considered the "off-season" of the wedding world, winter is now becoming one of the most sought-after seasons for UK couples tying the knot. Industry experts say the trend is more than a passing phase, but rather it's the start of a long-term shift in how Brits envision their perfect day. To understand why couples are turning to crisp days, cosy settings, and festive flair, we spoke with Nick Bramer from Country House Weddings, who says winter weddings are not only more romantic, but strategically smart.

Bedford Lodge Hotel & Spa has welcomed a new Executive Head Chef

Bedford Lodge Hotel & Spa, a wedding venue in Newmarket, Suffolk, has welcomed a new Executive Head Chef, Robert Newall, to its award-winning, two AA Rosette Squires Restaurant. With a passion for seasonality, sustainability, and the finest local ingredients, Robert brings a fresh vision to the hotel's dining experience – one that celebrates the very best of British cuisine and Suffolk's exceptional produce.

Robert tells us more: "Seasonality and locality are at the heart of everything I do. My menus are built on local, sustainable produce – from Suffolk blue cheese and high-welfare Suffolk chicken and pork to the incredible range of vegetables grown right here in the region. Suffolk offers some of the finest ingredients in the country, and I'm proud to showcase them on our menus."

‘Tis the season to say ‘I Do’ - but don’t forget this crucial step, warns expert

December is the most popular month to get engaged, accounting for more than 11% of proposals¹. But, as peak proposal season approaches, new research from MoneySuperMarket reveals that many couples could be putting their engagement rings - and their wallets - at risk. The research* revealed that two-thirds (66%) of engaged or married couples don't have their rings covered under their home insurance and more than a quarter (27%) don't have any insurance at all. The data highlights a growing protection gap, particularly among younger generations with over a third (38%) of 18-24 year olds having no cover, compared to 24% of 25-34 year olds.

Wedding Song of 2025

The Post Barn, the award-winning Berkshire venue, is delighted to announce its Wedding Song of the Year 2025, as chosen by their 2025 wedding couples. Topping the list is "West Coast" by Lana Del Rey, capturing hearts with its dreamy, cinematic vibe. Following closely are: We Found Love – Sydnee Carter; You Make My Dreams – Alex Francis; No Judgement – Niall Horan; Perfect – Ed Sheeran. In total, The Post Barn played an impressive 9,092 songs for their wedding guests throughout the year. The average listening age of these tunes? A youthful 26, reflecting a vibrant, contemporary taste among couples celebrating their special day.

Local supplier spotlight: Hardesty Event Design

Hardesty Event Design is a luxury wedding and event planning company based in Norfolk and London, led by UK planner and coordinator Emily Hardesty. Specialising in full-service wedding planning, on the day coordination, elegant venue styling, corporate events, and private celebrations, Emily and her team bring meticulous design and heartfelt care to events across the UK and beyond.

Emily shares: "At the heart of Hardesty Event Design is a creative partnership with you. I promise to truly listen, understand your vision, and work tirelessly to bring it to life. My Bespoke Planning service is crafted for couples who want to stay hands-on, yet value expert guidance to make their celebration everything they dream of. My goal is to ensure you feel supported and stress-free while we thoughtfully curate every detail of your day."

Braxted Park Estate 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 Braxted Park Estate, Essex, for inspiration on Sunday 15th February, 2026! The 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.

Why you should have a wedding rehearsal

We spoke to Heather Bartsch from Your Choice Ceremonies and asked for her advice on having a wedding rehearsal.

As an Independent Celebrant, I believe a wedding rehearsal is one of the most valuable elements of wedding preparation. That's why it's included in my package—it ensures your ceremony feels effortless and joyful. Here's why I strongly recommend it.

Even though most people have attended a wedding in the past, not everyone has played a key role in one. Standing in front of guests, reading aloud, or walking down the aisle can feel daunting. A rehearsal helps everyone feel confident and prepared.

2026 wedding trends that are set to dominate your feed

As wedding-related searches such as 'dream wedding' and 'wedding décor inspo' are up 10,000% year-on-year according to Pinterest trends, it's clear that couples are turning their attention to the finer details of their nuptials. To guide couples through 2026 wedding planning, Jess Levick, Assistant Buyer at Suit Direct, and Lucy Hook, Floral Lead at Bloom & Wild, reveal the key wedding trends shaping celebrations next year, covering regency romance, natural colour palettes and hyper-personalised celebrations.

Caley Hall Hotel has unveiled its new wedding brochure

Exciting news for couples planning their special day: Caley Hall Hotel in Norfolk has unveiled its new wedding brochure, along with a refreshed selection of menus designed to make every celebration unforgettable.

The updated brochure showcases the timeless elegance and charm of Caley Hall Hotel as a wedding destination. From intimate gatherings to grand receptions, it highlights a wide range of spaces, each with its own distinctive character.

What are Prenup and Postnup Agreements?

Nuptial agreements have seen a rise in popularity in the UK, with high profile divorces highlighting the risks of not having a prenup or postnup in place. In addition, people now tend to get married later in life when they have accumulated more wealth and therefore have more assets to protect. Claire Porter, partner within the family team at leading Cheshire-based law firm SAS Daniels, discusses nuptial agreements for pre and post-marriage...

County Wedding Events coming Kimberley Hall, Norfolk!

If you're newlyweds-to-be embarking on your wedding planning journey, pop along to the County Wedding Events wedding show at Kimberley Hall, Norfolk, for inspiration on Sunday 8th February 2026! Sister company to County Wedding Magazines, the event brings couples face-to-face 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. Built in 1712 during the reign of Queen Anne, Kimberley sits at the centre of a 700 acre park laid out in 1778. The house boasts spectacular views past grazing cattle and Norfolk's greatest concentration of ancient oaks, to a large lake at the bottom of the River Tiffey valley. Centrally located in Norfolk, 9 miles west of Norwich and close to arterial road, rail and air links (plus a private airstrip), Kimberley is ideally positioned.

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 8th February 2026! 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.

Local supplier spotlight: Bayfield Catering

Bayfield Catering, a wedding caterer based in Holt, Norfolk, attended The Wedding Industry Awards at the end of November as nominees for a prestigious category. This nomination is a testament to the outstanding service the company has provided to brides and grooms throughout the year.

Owner Emma Boubaker shares her story: "I am a local girl from the North Norfolk Coast, born in Blakeney, and I have worked in the catering industry all my life. I trained at Norwich City College, where I achieved my Catering City & Guilds Diploma. My first job was under Galton Blackiston at Morston Hall, where I trained for a couple of years. I continued my career in various local establishments along the Norfolk coast, gaining experience in different working environments.

Be inspired by Pantone's Colour of the Year 2026 for your nuptials

Pantone, the global colour authority and provider of professional colour language standards and digital solutions for the design community, today introduced PANTONE 11-4201 Cloud Dancer, a billowy white imbued with a feeling of serenity as the Pantone Colour of the Year selection for 2026. An ethereal white hue, PANTONE 11-4201 Cloud Dancer serves as a symbol of calming influence in a frenetic society rediscovering the value of measured consideration and quiet reflection. At first, you'd be forgiven for thinking 'well it's a white tone, and there is a lot of white at a wedding already - so what's new?'.

Riverhills launches 'Invest in You' workshops and spa days

Ipswich's Riverhills Health Club & Day Spa is unveiling a new experience for the new year: the Riverhills Invest in You Days (£380 per person). Designed to help you recharge and refocus, these immersive one-day retreats combine inspiring workshops from leading wellbeing experts, with a restorative spa experience, delicious two-course lunch, and valuable personal reflection time.

The first Invest in You Days will take place in early 2026: Friday 23rd January – "Food as Fuel" with Health & Wellness Coach Clair Mackenzie. Friday 13th March – "How to Awaken Refreshed" with Wellbeing Consultant Kate Pigeon-Owen

Expert Reveals: The Biggest Wedding Trends for 2026

You've found the love of your life, and you're happily engaged. It's finally time for your main-character moment, your wedding, and we're here for it. Whether you're just getting started on planning or you've been swimming in tulle for months, one thing's clear: 2026 is the year of "I do, my way." According to Nick Bramer, Co-owner & Marketing Director at Country House Weddings, "2026 is shaping up to be the year of personality-driven weddings. Couples are blending tradition with innovation to create days that feel unapologetically 'them'." Below, Nick shares the biggest wedding trends set to define 2026.

Easy self-care ideas from The Spa at Bedford Lodge

As the festive season approaches, calendars quickly fill with shopping trips, wedding planning, celebrations, and family gatherings - often leaving little time for rest and rejuvenation. At Bedford Lodge Hotel & Spa, the team believes that self-care is essential, especially at this busy time of year. Even small restorative moments can make a big difference in how people experience the joy and magic of the season.

Carla Belmonte, Spa Manager at Bedford Lodge Hotel & Spa, shares her top self-care recommendations to help guests feel calm, centred, and resilient throughout the holidays:

The colder months and festive indulgences can take a toll on the body. Carla encourages guests to focus on nutrition that supports wellbeing and immunity. "Looking after your body from the inside helps you feel more energised, alert, and ready to enjoy the festive season," says Carla.

April Dace Jewellery is hosting Christmas workshops

Christmas is just around the corner and April Dace Jewellery, a jewel in Dereham, Norfolk, is hosting a range of Christmas workshops.

April tells us: "There's something extra magical about being in the workshop at this time of year... the tools on the bench, the cosy environment and that warm, festive buzz as everyone creates something meaningful with their own hands. If you'd love to enjoy a creative moment this December (or gift the experience to someone who'd love it), I have a handful of workshop dates available up until Christmas. 'll be releasing 2026 workshop dates very soon, and I can't wait to share what's coming. Keep an eye on your inbox for brand-new workshops too, including Wax Carve A Ring and Silver Bangle Making!"