Your Herts and Beds Wedding news and ideas from around the area

Wedding traditions which are falling out of favour with younger generations

Researchers surveyed Gen Z couples and found many traditional wedding and proposal traditions which are falling out of favour with younger generations. But it's good news for the father-of-the-bride, as 54 percent said expecting parents to cough up for the big day was no longer necessary. Other things which are likely to fall out of favour are asking the bride's father for permission to propose (43 percent), sleeping apart the night before the wedding (38 percent) and the bride taking their partner's name (35 percent).

Of the 2,000 18- to 27-year-olds, surveyed by Churchill, as many as 86 percent believe the traditional stereotype of men proposing to women is old hat – and women should be able to pop the question too.

A third (29 percent) think that being given away is no longer necessary, while 27 percent say that tossing the bouquet is out of style. Being carried over the threshold (26 percent), promising to obey in the vows (25 percent) and wearing a veil (19 percent) are also falling out of favour.

Thinking about a bespoke dress? Talk to Eloise Rose at Ascot Racecourse

Bespoke bridalwear designer Eloise Rose, will be exhibiting at Ascot Racecourse Signature Wedding Show hosted by County Wedding Events on 7th April 2024. "I can't wait to meet brides, grooms and their entourages at Ascot Racecourse! I'll be offering mini-consultations on designs for wedding dresses, outfits and accessories, demonstrating how they can have one-of-a-kind outfits, within their budget. On the day they deserve to look their very best!" shares Eloise.

Exchange vows at Woburn Safari Park in Bedfordshire

Ever dreamed of getting married on Safari? Well, now couples can do so without having to leave the UK! The Safari Lodge at Woburn Safari Park in Bedfordshire is a delightful and charming alternative to a traditional wedding venue. Nestled at the heart of Woburn Safari Park, home to magnificent wild animals including lions, giraffes, tigers, elephants and bears, The Safari Lodge now provides an exceptional location for weddings and receptions. With a large south-facing veranda that offers indoor and outdoor ceremony space and panoramic views overlooking the park's Swan Lake and the Desert Springs enclosures, it provides an out-of-the-ordinary backdrop for events.

9 in 10 newlyweds say budgeting is the biggest wedding stress

New research of newlyweds has revealed that 9 in 10 newlyweds find budgeting to be the biggest wedding stress. Queensmith's research surveyed 1,000 recently married couples throughout the UK, exploring the most and least enjoyable aspects, as well as the most stressful moments, leading up to their weddings and during the day itself. Weddings take a lot of time to plan in order to make them fabulous, but they also cost a pretty hefty sum of money too. Looking at the most stressful aspects of wedding, a whopping 93% of respondents said budgeting was the most stressful part of planning a wedding.

Stunning event flowers on display at County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show

Pinstripes & Peonies believe that being a part of your wedding is a privilege, and the team from this renowned event floristry company will be on hand at the show to discuss your big-day floral needs. "From your initial enquiry, you will have a dedicated Wedding Designer with your every step of the way, through to delivering your flowers on the big day. All of our proposals are created entirely bespoke, blooming with ideas specifically with you in mind. Our design process is simple and collaborative; whilst we lead with creative design based on seasonality and floral artistry, we value your input to ensure we have wedding flowers perfectly befitting to you."

County Wedding Events coming to Swynford Manor, Cambridgeshire!

If you're newlyweds-to-be embarking on your wedding planning journey, pop along to the County Wedding Events wedding show at Swynford Manor, Cambridgeshire, for inspiration on Sunday 17th March 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.

Hassle-free wood-fired pizza catering tailored to your special day with The Pizza Post

After the perfect catering match for your wedding? The Pizza Post is a family run, mobile wood-fired pizza caterer specialising in stress-free, delicious solutions designed to make your special day unforgettable. Named The Best Wedding Pizza Van Vendor in the Hitched Awards 2023, The Pizza Post's stylish and professional mobile vans are able to cater at any location, any time, and for any dietary needs. Come along to County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Ascot Racecourse to meet The Pizza Post team, ask any questions about their unique catering experience and sample their wood-fired delights!

The Little Vintage Teacup launches afternoon teas

The Little Vintage Teacup team is excited to announce the recent launch of the Feast & Drink Tea, a tasty experience! The company has partnered with an excellent local caterer to offer lovebirds a choice of three delicious options, perfect for any occasion. The Classic, Deluxe, and Luxury Afternoon Tea menus are all served on beautiful vintage china, and the packages include setting up, a two-hour tea and coffee service, and clearing down so pairs can relax with loved ones. The team will work closely with couples every step of the way to bring their vision to life and create truly unique and memorable experiences. Further details and the full range of services offered can be found here: www.littlevintageteacup.co.uk

Booked your honeymoon yet? If not, you can do this with County Wedding Events

Planned the wedding and now need to think about your honeymoon? Seek out the advice of Jenn Shaer - Not just Travel, at County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Ascot Racecourse this April. Jenn adds, "I plan everything! All you need to worry about is soaking up every second in paradise. And guess what? My planning service won't cost you a penny extra - yes really! I love crafting perfect holidays and making travel dreams come true, whether it's a tropical escape or a city adventure, I specialise in tailor-made travel just for you."

Golden Ticket Entertainment are delighted to be exhibiting at the Ascot Racecourse Signature Wedding Show!

Having provided entertainment for weddings and events for more than 10 years, Mark and Luke, directors of Golden Ticket Entertainment, know that planning a wedding can be a daunting task. However, when it comes to programming your music, there doesn't need to be any stress at all! They'll be on hand to chat through the soundtrack to your day, offering their ideas, expertise, and passion for all things music.Whether you'd like to rock out to some Queen or Oasis with our show stopping rock-pop group, The Party Pilots, or you can't imagine your ceremony concluding in any other way than with a Love Actually-style brass "flash-mob" from The Oomparty Band, Golden Ticket Entertainment can cater for each important aspect of your big day with a host of difference options and bespoke wedding packages.

Have you considered renting flowers or having your own personalised neon light?

WildJar will be exhibiting at the County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Ascot Racecourse. Owner, Jess says, "We work with our couples to create beautiful dried and artificial floral arrangements perfect for those boho and rustic weddings! We offer services from ceremony flower arches, photo flower backdrops, table centrepieces, rigged pampas clouds, personalised Neon lights and so much more - pop along to the fair to take a look

Hen party dos and don'ts according to brides

Planning a hen party can be a stressful task, and with more and more brides opting for weekends over one last night of single life, there's even more pressure to get it right. To help you create the perfect celebration, Amy Greenshields, party planning expert at cardfactory spoke to 10 recent brides and bride-to-bes, unveiling their hen party dos and don'ts. Using this insight, Amy shares her top tips for 'kissing the miss goodbye' in style.

Must-see refurbishment at Pennyhill Park

Surrey-based Pennyhill Park Hotel & Spa is exhibiting at County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Ascot Racecourse on Sunday 7th April and Mercedes-Benz World on 28th April; the team will be on hand to discuss your big day, as well highlight the venue's stunning new refurbishment. Newly refurbished and opened in Summer 2023, the venue's Wedding Terrace is a beautiful space offering both indoor and outdoor opportunities for couples. The whole of the terrace wing will be dedicated to you and your wedding, including the newly renovated and refurbished Parkview Suite and Water Lily Suite. Taking your pick of The Library for indoor ceremonies or the Pavilion for outdoor ceremonies, your wedding will flow seamlessly inside and out with the beautiful backdrop of the ivy-clad main house. You'll also have the rooms located in the terrace wing for your wedding party, so there isn't far to go at the end of the celebrations.

Different entertainment you ask? Poldark is the answer!

If you and your partner are looking for something unique for your wedding celebration entertainment, to create life long memories and to share amazing stories for decades to come, then Poldark is what you wouldn't have thought of, but what you are looking for. Your wedding celebrations are probably one of the most memorable times of your lives; a time to share your love with one another, a time to celebrate with those close to you and a time to look back and remember each and every moment.

Say 'I Do' to your dream smile: Transform your wedding smile within three hours!

Specialising in dental aesthetics, Smiles and Smiles will be exhibiting at County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Ascot Racecourse on Sunday 7th April, and Mercedes-Benz World on Sunday 28th April, where the team will be on hand to answer all of your questions. Are you envisioning your perfect wedding day, ready to dazzle everyone with the most radiant, picture-perfect smile? At Smiles and Smiles, with its state-of-the-art AI and 3D design technology, expert dentistry, and exceptional customer service, they will collaborate with you to craft your uniquely perfect smile. "We ensure that the results will leave you with newfound joy and a confidence boost for your special day," shares the team. "We're also thrilled to offer you a chance to win a smile transformation worth up to £3,000 when you visit us at our stand!* Don't miss out on this opportunity to turn your dream smile into reality!"

Effortless Events provide high-quality, stylish photo booths for weddings and events

Effortless Events, a luxury photo booth hire company supplying Vintage Photo Booth, Selfie Photo Booth and Retro Magic Mirror to Buckinghamshire, Berkshire, Hertfordshire, Surrey and London, is exhibiting at County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Ascot Racecourse. Owner, Stephanie says, "Our unique selection of high-quality Photo Booths are made by trusted UK and US based suppliers. We use high spec Canon DSLR cameras and high speed printers, to provide instant sharp prints for you and your guests. "We understand the challenges and effort that come with planning an event and coordinating with multiple suppliers. This is why we believe that transparent pricing and a simple online photo booth booking process are an absolute must. Above all else, we are here to "let the good times and the camera roll..."

Find your big-day photographer at Ascot Racecourse's Signature Wedding Show

Based in Oxford, Oxfordshire and South Devon Matthew Ellacott Photography specialises in natural, authentic photography. Matt is not simply a photographer, but is a storyteller dedicated to capturing the essence of your wedding day for you. Matt thrives on capturing the joy of your celebration, his collections are focussed on the people and moments, that you will love to look back on, complemented with a few special signature portraits. With a warm, relaxed approach and unobtrusive style, Matt ensures your moments remain authentic, and unscripted. If you are a little photo-shy, he also has a talent for making you feel comfortable in front of the camera.

A spiritual wedding journey with Connected Collective

Bring the esoteric to your love journey by incorporating tarot in to your wedding day with exhibitor, Claire Laveaux of Connected Collective; showcasing her Psychic, Spiritual and Tarot work at Ascot Racecourse and Mercedes-Benz World Signature Wedding Shows, hosted by County Wedding Events. Intertwine Tarot with your Love story. Gain clarity and calmness during planning your big day. Connect deeply with each other through learning how to read Tarot for each other. A Couple's Journey is tailored to celebrate this magical moment, offering profoundly meaningful connections to the energies that surround you and your partner. Let Tarot reveal the beauty and wisdom that await in your union.

Music and entertainment ticked off the list at Ascot Racecourse's wedding fair

Insanity Strings is exhibiting at County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Ascot Racecourse on Sunday 7th April 2024. An international music agency that provides exceptional string musicians for a diverse range of events and occasions, the company is your premier destination for top-tier string musicians to elevate any occasion - whether you're planning a wedding, corporate event, a recording session or an intimate gathering. Its diverse musicians, with a wide spectrum of talents, have graced some of the world's most iconic stages, from grand concert halls to intimate and majestic wedding venues around the world; ensuring their performances resonate with audiences across genres and cultures.

Expert advice on how to plan a wedding in 2024

Georgie Mitchell, Wedding Planner and Wedding Expert for online fashion destination Silkfred, shares her expert insight on how to plan a wedding in 2024. "Figure out your goals! Every wedding starts very differently and couples want different things. Sit together and decide what is the most important part of your wedding day - are you looking for a big party? Therefore drink and music may be key. Alternatively, if the look of everything is the most important thing, then this is where your money will be spent. Ensure you then allocate the budget and start with these suppliers."