Your Kent Wedding news and ideas from around the county

New research reveals biggest wedding trends of 2024, and some will surprise you

The wedding themes of 2024? Expect them to be smaller and more intimate, more informal and just generally more fun! That's according to a new study which was commissioned by high street jewellers, F.Hinds. They asked 2,000 UK couples for their thoughts on which wedding traditions are still important (and which aren't), and what new trends will be incorporated into wedding day plans for 2024. They also spoke to a wedding expert for her views. Their research revealed that the 'big day' traditions that remain in favour include the bride walking walked down the aisle (53%), having wedding rings (52%), cutting the cake (49%), having a best man (44%), and the bride being given away by a family member (43%).

County Wedding Events comes to Selden Barns, Worthing, Sussex

If you're newlyweds-to-be embarking on your wedding planning journey, pop along to the County Wedding Events wedding show at Selden Barns, Worthing, Sussex for some much-needed inspiration on Sunday 28th April, 2023! 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.

Countdown to the County Wedding Events Signature Wedding Show at Mercedes-Benz World, Surrey

We live and breathe weddings at County Wedding Magazines and Events, so we can't wait for our Signature Wedding Show at Mercedes-Benz World, Surrey on Sunday 28th April, 2024! It's one of our biggest wedding shows of the spring wedding show season. 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.

County Wedding Events coming to Old Essex Barn, Essex!

If you're newlyweds-to-be embarking on your wedding planning journey, pop along to the County Wedding Events wedding show at Old Essex Barn Essex, for inspiration on Sunday 28th April 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. Old Essex Barn is a simply stunning renovated barn from the 15th century, located on the outskirts of the quiet village of Kelvedon. The barn oozes character with beautiful historic oak timbers and vaulted ceilings, it truly is a special place to say 'I do'.

Mercure Tunbridge Wells is a charming four-star hotel

Built around the original Georgian Dower House, Mercure Tunbridge Wells is a charming four-star hotel showcasing the perfect combination of traditional and modern. The Oast House provides a grand entrance for you and your guests while the original Georgian House and terrace provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

All of its function rooms are neutral, providing the perfect backdrop for any theme. The Parkside Suite hosts up to 150 day and evening guests; located on the ground floor, it's fully accessible and has its own private function bar inside the room, toilets and direct access to its own private garden – this means your guests have everything they need all in one place.

Having a multicultural wedding? Make sure everyone is include with these tips from Speechy

'The Speech Surgery' with Heidi Ellert McDermott, Founder of Speechy & author of The Modern Couple's Guide to Wedding Speeches. My groom's family is Italian and some of them don't speak any English. How do we ensure they feel included during the speeches? This is becoming an issue for more and more couples as relationships become increasingly international. Bringing two cultures together at a wedding can be wonderful but it's not without its challenges, the prime example being the speeches.

Meet the De Vere Horsley Estate wedding team

De Vere Horsley Estate, located in East Horsley, Surrey, is a picture-perfect setting for nuptials. Celebrate your wedding day with family and friends in total privacy as you are the Royal Household of your very own 'castle' for the day. Exclusive hire of the Towers gives you this 19th-century ancestral home to the Lovelace family, with your very own lake, croquet lawn, cloisters and ornamental chapel... perfect for the photo album! Your guests can relax at the end of your special day in one of the venue's fabulous Towers Mansion House bedrooms. The best room in the house is already reserved for you, with another four Junior Suites, three Family Rooms and 20 Deluxe Double rooms available to be reserved by your guests.

County Wedding Events coming to Channels Golf Club, Essex!

If you're newlyweds-to-be embarking on your wedding planning journey, pop along to the County Wedding Events wedding show at Channels Golf Club, Essex, for inspiration on Sunday 21st April 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. The beautifully restored, 17th-century, thatched Essex Barn is an idyllic wedding venue for your special day. Tie the knot with your soulmate in surroundings full of character with up to 100 of your loved ones there to share the moment.

County Wedding Events coming to Lympne Castle, Kent!

If you're newlyweds-to-be embarking on your wedding planning journey, pop along to the County Wedding Events wedding show at Lympne Castle, Kent, for inspiration on Sunday 21st April 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.

Top tips on moving in together for the first time

Making the big decision to move in together can be an exciting, yet daunting time! Whether you've been living apart due to distance, financial constraints or other circumstances, deciding to take the next step in your relationship can help strengthen your bond and progress it further. Whilst being around each other 24/7 has its benefits, it's important not to overlook the potential issues that could arise as a result. Property experts at Essential Living have teamed up with Dr Becky Spelman, Psychologist and Founder at Private Therapy Clinic to reveal some of the issues the couples might experience and her top tips on what to keep in mind before taking the big step.

AJ Pyrotechnics is offering our readers an exclusive discount

Folkestone-based AJ Pyrotechnics was born out of the love and thrill of seeing fireworks. All of the team are passionate about what they do and deliver individually designed firework displays for any occasion, creating fantastic effects and innovative designs around your personal requirements.

Your Kent Wedding has teamed up with AJ Pyrotechnics to offer readers 10% discount on the below experiences when added to their professional firework display booking. Experiences include:

Photographic opportunity: This will include two large golden fountains as a backdrop, so the photographer can then capture a personal moment with the happy couple. Outdoor use only.

Cold sparks: Enhance the wedding breakfast entrance or the first dance with columns of silver fountains, creating a magical atmosphere and another great photo opportunity. For indoor or outdoor use.

Chat to videography specialist Wedding Film Guy at County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show

Wayne O'Connor, from Wedding Film Guy, will be exhibiting at County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Mercedes-Benz World on Sunday 28th April, and is on hand to answer all of your wedding videography questions. "Hey! I'm Wayne, a UK-based professional wedding videographer. I specialise in crafting cinematic wedding films that capture every moment of your special day. With numerous five-star reviews, I've also won an award this year and was a finalist in The Wedding Industry Awards - I'm dedicated to creating your dream wedding video.

County Wedding Events launches new Signature Wedding Show at Bluewater, Kent

Sister company to County Wedding Magazines, County Wedding Events has some exciting news – it's now in partnership with Bluewater Shopping Centre! This iconic Kent destination is going to be the backdrop to one of County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Shows. The go-to event for couples tying the knot in Kent, visitors can expect to meet a whole host of big-day suppliers, from photography to entertainment, cake makers to florists, you can plan your whole wedding under one roof! Set to take place on 6th October 2024, 11am - 3pm, you can re-register now.

Renowned bridal hairstylist at County Wedding Events' Mercedes-Benz World Signature Show

Amanda Flory Bridal was established with a vision to deliver a premium hair service to the contemporary bride. The team will be at County Wedding Event's Signature Wedding Show at Mercedes-Benz World on Sunday 28th April to talk through your dream bridal look. "Our focus lies in making your special day flow. Ensuring your relaxation, and above all, enhancing your natural beauty to make you feel confident, radiant, in fact the best version of yourself possible on your big day," shares Amanda. Amanda brings more than 20 years' expertise in hairdressing, having worked alongside some of the finest artists from all over the world. A bridal specialist who enjoys creating soft boho waves, hair up, as well being an expert with curly hair.

Wedding menu guide from Papier

A wedding day is an unparalleled occasion, filled with unforgettable moments and cherished memories. Best-selling British stationery brand Papier understand the importance of every detail on this special day, especially when it comes to creating a memorable dining experience for the happy couple and their guests. Food is a huge part of your wedding day. Whether it's a meal guests have chosen or a set menu, informing your loved ones about what's ahead gets them excited to sit down and tuck in

The Historic Dockyard Chatham has 80 acres of historic architecture

The Historic Dockyard Chatham has stunning scenery, ranging from majestic ships to the towering red brick buildings. As you arrive at this private gated estate, you're greeted by 80 acres of historic architecture and a collection of lovely buildings. The garden provides a picturesque setting of secluded spots and a striking greenhouse.

Nestled in the heart of the dockyard, the beautiful Georgian manor house, Commissioner's House, exudes an aura of romance and offers an array of spacious rooms. The ballroom features stunning crown mouldings and has picturesque views. Boasting a dancefloor and fully stocked bar, it can host 70 day guests and leads out onto the patio and gardens, and conveniently connects to the marquee with twinkling fairylights.

Worried about your dad's wedding speech? Here's some top advice from Speechy

'The Speech Surgery' with Heidi Ellert McDermott, founder of Speechy & author of 'The Modern Couple's Guide to Wedding Speeches. At Speechy, we believe that all great speeches have good story-telling at the heart of them. So instead of hunting down one-liners, encourage your dad to simply tell his favourite stories. Remind him that he can call on your mum or siblings for help with content and constructive feedback, and send him links to lots of various speech examples to get his brain thinking.

Wedding décor suppliers By Emerald Events, excited to be showcasing at Mercedes-Benz World

Husband and wife team behind By Emerald Events, Tom and Steph, will be on hand at County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Mercedes-Benz World on Sunday 28th April to talk about all-things venue styling. The company's new Surrey-based showroom is the perfect place for you to pop along and turn your vision into a reality. "We understand how important every aspect of your special day is. We cover all your wedding essentials, from chair cover, sashes, centrepieces to backdrops, LED letters, sweet carts and much more. As a new wedding and events company, we are offering large discounts to help build our portfolio. Come and take advantage of everything we have to offer and let's create unforgettable memories together."

Personalised wedding gifts from Mrs D

Whether you are newly engaged, arranging a hen party or getting ready to walk down the aisle, Mrs D has a statement piece for you - whatever the occasion! From sweatshirts and t-shirts for the bridal party, to beach bags and shorts for the newlyweds to take on honeymoon, each item can be personalised to suit your style and personality! Owner and designer Cheryl says, "When I was planning my own wedding, I really struggled to find unique, good quality, non-mass-produced statement pieces for myself and my lovelies, so I started creating my own. I now spend my days making beautiful, personalised items to order be it with pearls or crystals in clear, champagne or rainbow hues. Each bespoke item is made by hand, from design and production to packing and posting, it's all done with care, attention to detail and most of all love."

Find handmade venue styling extras from Oak and Ward at one of our Signature Wedding Shows

Oak and Ward, supplier of exquisite handmade furniture are exhibiting at County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Mercedes-Benz World on Sunday 28th April, where you can see its designs and creations first-hand. "Our beautifully solid oak or pine rustic trestle tables will help you create the perfect look for your wedding reception. We hand make all the furniture in our Oxfordshire workshop using materials from sustainable sources, where possible." share Nick. "They don't require a cloth and are, as far as we are aware, unique in the industry, offering attractive and sturdy folding metal legs to complete the look and engineered to be totally wobble free.