Your Cheshire and Merseyside Wedding news and ideas from around the area

Wedding fragrance suggestions

Floral, citrus, or woody - and everything in between - wedding scents are becoming more popular as couples incorporate them into their day. They can provide an ideal way to remember the occasion, the trigger of a special memory when you come across that fragrance connected to it. What's more, key scents can also help control emotions according to psychologists. Yasmin Sharp, essential oils expert at Nikura, says, "With more than 12 million hashtag views on TikTok, wedding scents (#weddingscent) are becoming more and more popular

My Funny Valentine's biggest ever sample sale comes to Chester!

My Funny Valentine Bridal, based in Chester, will be hosting its biggest ever sample sale the weekend of 1st to 3rd September, 2023. All of the stunning dresses will be priced below £999 and ready to take away that same day, so you're sure to uncover a bargain. The boutique will be including gowns for any and every bride in the sale, from a wealth of incredible designers including Pronovias, Evie Young, Madi Lane, Luna Novias, Madison James and Abella. Don't miss out! Bookings can be made via the boutique's website at www.mfvbridal.com or by emailing the team at hello@mfvbridal.com.

Wedding ring mistakes to avoid!

Aimee Howlett, jewellery expert at Diamonds Factory, has shared how to choose and clean your wedding band. 'When choosing your wedding band, it's important to consider your lifestyle and daily activities. If you're someone with an active lifestyle you might want to go for a more durable material like platinum or tungsten that can withstand potential scratches and avoid a ring that has diamonds. With this in mind, it's worth visiting a jewellery store and trying on different styles of wedding bands, which can be really fun! Pay attention to comfort, fit, and how well it pairs with your engagement ring (if you have one).

Wedding gift inspiration from L'OR

Coffee brand L'OR provides the perfect machine which will ensure you capture the heart of any coffee-loving couple, whilst also providing a useful gift that lasts! With a unique double-spouted design that offers flexibility to adapt to different coffee preferences, the L'OR BARISTA is powered by Phillips technology and has become a much-loved coffee machine since its launch. What's more, the machine is not only compatible with L'OR pods, but also a wide range of alternative branded coffee capsules on the market*, providing maximum flexibility and choice.

L'OR BARISTA Sublime Coffee Machine (£104.99*) is available in Piano Noir, Satin Blanc and Sunset Rubis, while the L'OR BARISTA Original Latte Machines (£164.99*) is available in Piano Noir and includes built-in milk frother.

7 topics all couples should cover in a prenup

While a prenuptial agreement is unlikely to be on many people's wedding checklist, a family lawyer has urged couples who will be tying the knot in the coming months to consider making it a key priority. With research by the law firm revealing that Google searches for terms related to prenups including 'what is a prenup?', 'meaning of prenups' and 'prenups in the UK' have increased by 21% in the last three months compared to the three months previous, it is clear they are growing in popularity.

Jacqui O Flowers offers top tips on al fresco wedding florals

This issue we asked the region's experts for their top tips on planning an al fresco wedding. Here, Jacqui Owen of Jacqui O Flowers shares her ideas for tailoring your big-day blooms. To create enchanting wedding florals for an outdoor wedding that not only look beautiful and memorable but also wow your guests creating an unforgettable experience as you say "I do," why not consider the following? Style. Consider the theme and style of your wedding to help you choose the right colour palette, flower varieties, and arrangements that complement the décor. Location. The landscape, surroundings, and setting of the venue can influence your flower arrangement choices.

Garden wedding ideas for the big day

Co-founder of Togather.com, Hugo Campbell, unveils garden wedding ideas for the big day. As wedding trends evolve, couples may be seeking unique ways to celebrate their special day. For those looking to embrace a laid-back atmosphere and the shabby chic aesthetic, from Ottolenghi-style dining and Aperol carts, to enchanting fairylights and the perfect venue. A festival theme: Many couples are looking for maximum flexibility and the ability to perfectly match their food to the vibe of the day. This summer Togather.com is seeing many couples opting for a festival feel for their food, hiring multiple different street food trucks and allowing their guests a choice of handheld food rather than a sit-down meal. This means they can cater to all sorts of dietary requirements and preferences as well as give their guests a more relaxed feel.

Keep your cool with al fresco wedding cakes

This issue we asked our experts for their top tips on planning and outdoor wedding, here Clare Deary from Cake On The Lake (www.cakeonthelake.com) tells us what to consider when it comes to your big-day bake. Wedding cakes are fragile as one of the main ingredients is butter, which doesn't go well with heat. So, if you're planning a summer wedding there are a few things you need to consider. Summer heat can't be controlled, but you can control how you manage it. If you have your heart set on a rustic, naked style bake, the best course of action is to have it brought out after the ceremony. Having it sit out for hours in the heat isn't ideal unless you want a melting mess.

How Brits are spending and saving on weddings in 2023

New data from Barclays reveals how macro trends such as the cost-of-living crisis, inflation, and social media pressures are impacting weddings in 2023. The report combines proprietary spending data with a survey of 1,000 newlyweds and people engaged to be married to determine this year's top wedding trends and cost-saving behaviours. Two fifths (38 per cent) of newlyweds, and brides- and grooms-to-be are going over budget on their special day, with most of these couples citing the rising cost-of-living (51 per cent) and suppliers being more expensive than they anticipated (44 per cent) as the reasons for this increased spend.

Phenomenal Fireworks Ltd create spectacular fireworks displays

Phenomenal Fireworks Ltd. provides spectacular fireworks displays that create unforgettable moments for couples and their guests. With years of experience and expertise, the company curate bespoke firework displays that reflect each couple's unique love story.

"Whether it's an intimate gathering or a grand affair, we ensure a mesmerising experience that will leave a lasting impression," says Andrew Slinn, the operations and displays director. "Our commitment to safety, quality, and innovation sets us apart. We adhere to the highest industry standards and regulations, delivering flawlessly executed displays with the utmost care. Using state-of-the-art fireworks and cutting-edge technology, we create breathtaking visual effects and synchronised musical displays, immersing guests in a truly magical experience."

1950s museum in North Wales wins English hearts

The 1950s Museum - at Denbigh, North Wales - is attracting increasing visitor numbers to explore its captivating home, fashion, style and motor exhibits from the 1950s and beyond with many making the trip over the border from Liverpool and other areas of the North West. Curated by Sparrow Harrison MBE – and a band of trusty volunteers - the museum got off to a flying start to the 2023 season and is welcoming fame and notoriety as a 'throwback' in time. Popular with both the young and the young at heart, visitors from England are describing it as one of the 'gems' of North Wales.

Truffle Tablescapes Launches Luxury Tableware Rental Range

Truffle Tablescapes, a leading UK-based online tablescaping boutique, has launched its first range of rental tableware and accessories that is aimed at those wanting to decorate their lunch and supper parties, events or small weddings. Truffle has been helping at-home entertainers elevate their dinner party looks since it launched during the first lockdown in 2020. Founded by tablescaping expert and interiors lover Kate Fairlie, the brand has expanded again by launching an extensive, yet carefully curated, rental collection of luxury table linens and accessories.

Andy Boyle Photography discusses the challenges of capturing an al fresco big day

This issue we asked our experts for their top tips when it comes to tying the knot al fresco. Here, Karen Boyle from Andy Boyle Photography discusses the challenges of capturing an open-air wedding. Summer is here bringing with it the chance to have your wedding ceremony outdoors. Beautiful gardens or natural woodland, fresh air, sunshine and the birds serenading you as you take your vows. Perfect! From springtime until autumn, many venues offer the option of celebrating outdoors. But, this is Britain, so always have a plan B, as no one wants a wet wedding dress and soggy guests. Most venues keep a keen eye on the skies right up until the last moment in case you have to opt for indoors.

Sentimental gift ideas from Heads & Tails Jewellery

Heads & Tails Jewellery has been making personalised, beautifully designed jewellery for more than 10 years. The brand's innovative products can be treasured by your loved ones for years to come, making them ideal for wedding day gifting. Every handcrafted gift uses high-quality materials and is presented in a luxury gift bag or luxury gift box and comes with a 12 month warranty. Emma Pearson, owner of Heads & Tails Jewellery, shares her top advice for wedding day gifting.

Weatherproofing your UK Wedding

Outdoor weddings can create truly magical experiences, from fairytale forests to Bridgerton-style countryside escapes, being surrounded by the natural world, the sound of birdsong and a gentle breeze is a perfect day for some. We wish that were always the case, but no matter how meticulously you plan your wedding, the one thing that will always be beyond your control is the notoriously unpredictable Great British weather. Fulton Umbrellas have come up with a handy guide on how you can weatherproof your wedding.

Attending a wedding this summer - save on travel costs

Now that wedding season is upon us, a recent survey by Railcard has revealed that wedding guests spend on average a whopping £402.90 on each wedding they attend. With 31% of Brits having attended between one and three weddings in the past two years, these sometimes-overlooked expenses can quickly rack up. In fact, 59% of those surveyed admit that they would decline a wedding invitation if the costs of attending were too high, showing that cost-savings to any wedding expense can really make the difference for those who RSVP 'Yes' or a regretful 'No'.

Happy birthday to Churchtown Wedding Cars!

Churchtown Wedding Cars is currently celebrating its 30th anniversary. The company was established in 1993, and in 2015 current owners Steven and Laura bought the business from founders Roy and Pat. The pair initially took on their beautiful silver Beaufort Tourer, but having expanded the fleet since then, they can now also offer two Imperial Landaulettes and a 1975 VW Camper. Laura says, "We're a small family-run business and we're so proud to reach this milestone. We'd like to thank all of our brides and grooms, past and present, for letting CWC be part of their wedding days, and we hope to continue delivering our fantastic service for many more years to come. It's an honour to work alongside so many other like-minded wedding industry professionals and like them, we thrive on our reputation and word-of-mouth recommendations."

Wedding speech pressure: top tips to nail it!

Whether the best man, the bride or a family member, giving a speech at a wedding naturally comes with pressure to perform. In fact Dr Chris Hartley, a sport and performance psychologist working with Insure4Sport, has likened it to the pressure faced by professional sportspeople in a major event like a penalty kick or break point. Here, he shares top tips on how to cope with the weight of expectation, fear of failure when giving a wedding speech, using sport psychology techniques he employs when working with top athletes.

Check out Talhenbont Hall's three-day wedding package

If you're not looking to wait the standard 18 months to two years to tie the knot, help is on hand at the gorgeous Talhenbont Hall in North Wales. The venue's three-day wedding celebration package is currently available exclusively for all remaining dates in 2023, February 2024 and March 2024, and is priced at £14,999.The package includes all the essentials across your three-day hire of the venue including a bar night before the wedding in the beautiful Coach House. Everyone will be well fed and watered as the price includes a food and drinks package for 70 guests with a glass of prosecco for the drinks reception, a glass of house white for the wedding breakfast, and a further glass of prosecco for the toasts; a three-course wedding breakfast (from menu one); and evening food from the hot batch menu.

Should more women taking the wedding speech spotlight

More women should be taking the spotlight at big events, according to new research from learning and development company Good Shout. However, according to a new poll, conducted in partnership with YouGov, the very prospect fills two thirds of women (67%) with dread. Of those women in the UK who would refuse to give speeches at a wedding, 50% said that it was the "cringe factor" that held them back, i.e. being too self-conscious or feeling too awkward or uncomfortable in the situation.