Your East Anglian Wedding news and ideas from around the region

The Meadow Garden is a four-acre private oasis on the edge of the historic city of Ely

The Meadow Garden is a four-acre private oasis on the edge of the historic city of Ely. This natural garden has a surrounding hedgerow, wild roses, trees, tall grasses, a wildlife pond with a bridge and a weeping willow tree, which looks stunning in photographs.

In the garden, there is a gazebo that can be used for a ceremony with rustic wooden benches for your guests. There is also a wooden moongate as an alternative choice for ceremonies or a photo backdrop framing the natural scenery. There is romantic lighting in the garden, which looks amazing by night, as well as outdoor seating. There is a toilet lodge in the garden, which provides ladies and gents toilets in a rustic chic style. Incorporated into this lodge is a family toilet with baby change facilities, which can also be used as a changing room, accessed by a ramp.

Meet local photographer Emily Tyler Photography

Emily Tyler Photography is a local photographer living in Suffolk. "I fill my days with the simple, beautiful parts of life and take time to notice the lights and shadows that dance themselves through daily life," says Emily. "I live with my musician husband and our two little humans, who all enjoy travel as much as I. I adore rummaging around vintage stores, candlelit dinners with friends, and dancing in the kitchen to vinyl records; myself and Rich bonded over a love of Bowie. I'm happiest when I can feel the sun on my skin; it'll be no surprise I adore photographing in warmer climates.

"Photography has long been a part of my daily life. I adore shooting film and digital and understanding the delicate artistry that goes into both. A box of very well-loved Polaroid photographs can be found on a shelf above my desk – unless it's out, as it often is, for me to rummage through our memories and keep adding to. There's nothing better than the feeling of looking back through old photographs and noticing all the little details in those memories; it's why I love helping you preserve yours too."

Wild With Consent has announced a new partnership with Retro Campers Norfolk

Wild With Consent has announced an exciting new partnership with Retro Campers Norfolk, bringing together the timeless charm of classic VW Campervans with off-grid camping experiences across East Anglia and beyond. Retro Campers Norfolk presents a selection of meticulously maintained vintage Campervans, including original 1975 T2 Bay models and a funky 1989 T25 Camper, all equipped to provide a comfortable and memorable adventure. Optional extras such as firepits or gas barbecues, along with camping facilities like a portable shower and pop-up tent, ensure a truly personalised and enjoyable camping experience – perfect for couples looking for something a bit different for their mini-moon.

How to Manifest Anything: practical secrets to turn all your dreams into reality

Renowned manifestation coach and author Victoria Jackson has released her highly anticipated second book, How to Manifest Anything, published on 12th September 2024 by Octopus Books.Following the success of her debut book, "Manifesting For Beginners," Victoria returns with an essential guide that answers the most pressing questions about manifestation. "How to Manifest Anything" is written with Victoria's signature 'agony aunt' concept, providing a practical, dip-in-and-out collection of the most popular and recurring questions people have about manifestation as they incorporate it into their daily lives. Whether you're wondering how to manifest your soulmate, attract financial abundance, secure your dream job, or troubleshoot delayed manifestations, this book offers the guidance you need.

Suffolk Barn is a 15th-century barn just three miles south of Bury St Edmunds

Suffolk Barn is a 15th-century barn set in ancient parkland just three miles south of Bury St Edmunds. The historic parkland surrounding the barn provides ample space to ensure your day has the privacy and intimacy to entertain your family and family. There is also plenty of space for parking, extra marquees and garden games.

The barn has a large space for receptions and a smaller area for ceremonies. You will have a choice of 5ft round tables and event chairs for up to 160 guests or 8ft long trestle tables.

The 2024 SME Ely Business Awards recently took place

The 2024 SME Ely Business Awards recently took place. The judges were looking for organisations that displayed outstanding innovation, boldness, and sustainability in Ely, as well as strong management practices throughout their business.

Damian Cummins, the awards director, commented: "We're all aware that SMEs are responsible for driving innovation and competition across the county's economic sectors. This year's entries demonstrate a commitment to impact and purpose-driven work that's here to stay. We should all be proud that such businesses choose to call Ely home."

Advice from a divorce lawyer before your wedding day

As a divorce lawyer, one of the things that Joanna Farrands, a family lawyer and partner at Moore Barlow, helps couples soon to be married with is a prenuptial agreement. Here, she shares her advice... "These are increasingly common and popular as a way of considering your finances and future ahead of the wedding. Now, these can sometimes have a bad reputation. Some people dismiss them as they aren't the most romantic gesture, but in reality, a prenuptial agreement with your partner is a sensible, practical thing, and the conversations you have when going through it can make your relationship even stronger.

Hintlesham Hall is a charming wedding venue in Suffolk with glorious gardens

Surrounded by peaceful gardens, Hintlesham Hall has an impressive Georgian frontage and an elegant Tudor feature at the back. This Suffolk gem is sure to wow your guests as they wind their way down the treelined drive and discover the impressive hall.

There's a choice of distinctive rooms where you can tie the knot, including the Georgian-style Salon, which has an impressive chandelier, an ornate gold-leaf ceiling and space for up to 100 friends and family.

Intimate ceremonies take place in The Justice on the ground floor, which overlooks the back lawns. There are three function rooms too, including The Salon, which, with the adjacent Parlour, is big enough for up to 135 of your loved ones to celebrate in style.

Goodybag collaboration with Yankee Candle - don't miss out!

For couples coming along to the County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Shows at Bluewater, Kent, Mercedes-Benz World, Surrey and Ascot Racecourse, Berkshire, they're in for a treat because in the Goodybags you'll find a Yankee Candle Votive. Yankee Candle Filled Votives come in the Signature Collection-exclusive and tried-and-true fragrances, making these tiny treats an easy (and adorable) way to try something new. Hand-illustrated labels, vibrant wax colours, and a premium soy-wax blend create an inspired addition to your home. Decided on a favourite? Arrange several of the same fragrance together to add sparkle and scent to your mantel or table.

Goodybag collaboration with Mocktails - don't miss out!

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; and when attending County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Shows at at Bluewater, Kent, Mercedes-Benz World, Surrey and Ascot Racecourse, Berkshire, you'll find a sample in your Goodybag! 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.

Dream themes

Planning a wedding is a stressful time, but allocating a theme can help by making the important decisions slightly less difficult. Here, editorial assistant Sophie Clark has created a guide to inspire you for your big day. From Regency-core to overflowing natural elements, there are plenty of themes to draw inspiration from to help you navigate your wedding planning. Not only could it narrow down a specific colour scheme from which you can arrange the bridal parties' outfits, but it can project the atmosphere you want to achieve at your dream-like wedding. This will ensure that the memories created on your special day are timeless, and that the photos will turn out absolutely divine to give you something to reminisce on.

County Wedding Events coming to Ravenwood Hall Hotel, Suffolk!

If you're newlyweds-to-be embarking on your wedding planning journey, pop along to the County Wedding Events wedding show at Ravenwood Hall Hotel, for inspiration on Sunday 6th October 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. Ravenwood Hall is the perfect setting for your dream wedding in Suffolk. The Hall, parts of which date back to Henry VIII, is conveniently located just three miles from the ancient market town of Bury St Edmunds. Set in seven acres of secluded, tranquil gardens in the lovely Suffolk countryside, the Hall makes the perfect backdrop for a country house wedding.

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.