Your Kent Wedding news and ideas from around the county

Nicky’s Photography is running a competition

Nicky's Photography is celebrating the season of love with an exciting competition. Couples have the chance to win an engagement shoot worth £250.

The prize includes an on-location photo shoot and 30 high-resolution digital images to download. On top of this, the winning couple will also receive £100 off any full-day wedding package, making a total saving of £350!

To enter, head over to instagram.com/nphotography82. Follow the page, share the competition post, press like and comment 'LOVE'. The competition closes on 31st March 2026.

66% of engaged or married couples have uninsured rings - experts explain the risks

In the past month alone, Brits have searched for "engagement rings" more than 396,000 times, while interest in "oval" and "emerald" rings has exploded - up by 5,000%, according to Google search data. But as peak proposal season approaches, new research from MoneySuperMarket highlights a vital step many couples risk missing in the lead-up to getting engaged. The data* revealed a significant protection gap, with two-thirds (66%) of engaged or married couples failing to insure their rings under their home insurance, and more than a quarter (27%) having no insurance cover at all.

New booking data reveals Hen Do spend is up 59%

New booking data from kate & tom's reveals Hens are leading the way on forward-planning, with only 7% of Hen Dos being booked within 3 months, compared to almost a quarter of Stags leaving it to the very last minute. The way we Hen Do and Stag Do is evolving; once a crazy night out on the town is now all about creating memories with longevity. We're seeing the rise of the 'Zen Do', multi-generational getaways, 'Sten-do' joint celebrations, and a shift towards individual celebrations tailored to personal hobbies and interests that transcend the classic one-nighter.

Local supplier spotlight: Hythe Imperial Hotel

Set within meticulously maintained gardens, Hythe Imperial Hotel blends timeless elegance with modern luxury. Nestled within peaceful grounds, our landscaped lawns, vibrant flowerbeds and charming gazebo create enchanting spaces for outdoor ceremonies and romantic photography.

A striking architectural landmark on the Kent coastline, the hotel's grand exterior features elegant balconies and period detailing that beautifully complement its picturesque seaside setting. The building's classic Victorian design exudes timeless charm, providing a breathtaking backdrop for wedding photography, while its prominent seafront position offers sweeping panoramic views that are sure to captivate couples and guests alike.

Rituals has opened a new boutique in Maidstone

Luxury beauty and wellness brand Rituals has opened a new boutique in Maidstone. The boutique offers an immersive experience showcasing Rituals' signature range of luxurious bath, body, and home products, all designed to inspire moments of mindfulness and self-care in everyday life.

With an expansive portfolio spanning body care, home fragrances, natural skincare, men's grooming, and homeware, Rituals is committed to continuously improving its social and environmental impact. The brand is working towards formulas made with 90 percent natural-origin ingredients, alongside packaging that is refillable, recyclable, or made from recycled materials. Beyond its sustainability efforts, Rituals is also dedicated to making a positive impact beyond the business, pledging 10 percent of net profit towards the wellbeing of people and the planet.

The modern alternative to a traditional wedding guestbook

If your camera roll is full of moments you never look at again, Mosaic Journal offers a simple way to turn them into something you'll treasure forever. Mosaic Journal is a photo journal subscription that prints one of your favourite photos each day and delivers them to your door every month, ready to place into a beautifully crafted linen-bound book. The result is a growing collection of real, printed memories; from everyday joys to once-in-a-lifetime milestones.

Experts reveal Wedding Gifts Couples Secretly Don’t Want

In the weeks following Valentine's Day, newly engaged couples start planning their weddings and guests begin quietly doing the maths on a year full of invites. With wedding gift etiquette still causing confusion, gift-giving experts at Personalised Bee have shared their guide on which presents are best avoided and what is more likely to earn a genuine smile on the big day.

ITV Studios - Childhood Sweethearts

Are you and your partner childhood sweethearts? Are you ready to test your relationship? ITV studios are looking for childhood sweethearts aged 21+ for a new TV series. This potential life changing social experiment will give you the opportunity to rediscover who you are, reignite what brought you together and prove that absence can really make the heart grown fonder. If you and your partner are up for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, the get in touch now

Local supplier spotlight: Chilston Park Hotel in Lenham

Chilston Park Hotel is a romantic wedding venue in Lenham, set amidst 77 acres of lush Kent countryside. A striking example of Georgian country house architecture, its red-brick façade, tall sash windows, and symmetrical design exude stately charm. A serene lake, manicured gardens, and a tree-lined drive enhance its picturesque appeal, offering a tranquil, regal setting that captures the essence of English heritage.

Inside, the hotel exudes timeless elegance, blending classic Georgian architecture with rich period furnishings. Grand chandeliers illuminate oak-panelled walls, while antique portraits and plush fabrics add historic charm. The drawing rooms and library offer cosy sophistication, and each individually styled bedroom reflects traditional opulence paired with modern comfort. The result is a refined, yet welcoming atmosphere steeped in heritage.

Hall of Cakes has launched a new collection of wedding cakes

Hall of Cakes has launched a new collection of wedding cakes, available to order via its website. Offered in one, two or three tiers, each cake can be styled with your own fresh flowers or personalised with one of the company's luxury acrylic toppers. Faux tiers can also be added to create a more dramatic look without increasing the number of portions.

Established wedding cake makers, Hall of Cakes has over 18 years' experience creating and delivering wedding cakes across London, Kent, Essex and Surrey.

Best UK Venues for a Bridgerton-Style Wedding 

If your dream wedding leans into the romance, grandeur and timeless elegance of Bridgerton, then choosing the right venue is everything. Think Gothic Revival and Georgian architecture, sweeping lawns and deer-park vistas, dramatic ballrooms, and that effortless Regency charm that would make Lady Whistledown blush. Below, Nick from Country House Weddings has curated five fantastic UK venues, each perfect for a Bridgerton-inspired celebration, whether you're wanting dramatic ballrooms, actual sets from the show, or exquisite gardens for your big day.

2026 brides and groom told to remember one important thing

Couples are being warned to think ahead on possible disasters, and what they can do to protect their big day. Whether planning a destination wedding abroad or an intimate garden wedding at home, it is crucial for couples to understand the essential checklist and plan for what could go wrong. The research comes after a survey revealed 26% of those planning a wedding in the next three years would not take out wedding insurance.

Bluewater's Signature Wedding Fair hosted by County Wedding Events

We live and breathe weddings at CWM towers, so we can't wait for our Signature Wedding Show at Bluewater on Sunday 1st March 2026! It's one of our Signature Wedding Shows of 2026's Spring wedding show season; and a must-visit for all those that got engaged over the summer months. 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.

Local supplier spotlight: Majestic Atelier

Step into a world of timeless elegance with Majestic Atelier, where founder and designer Jacqueline transforms the finest timeless materials into bridal treasures. From her Kent studio, she creates extraordinary, jewelled wedding bouquets and exquisite accessories, designed to be cherished long after "I do."

At the heart of her collection are sculptural bouquets, each finished with Majestic Atelier's signature crystal-styled handles – luxurious statement pieces that beautifully embody craftsmanship and artistry. Every design is handmade in Kent, ensuring individuality and quality.

Venues in Maidstone and Medway

Set in the heart of Kent, Maidstone and Medway bring together riverside beauty, historic landmarks and elegant countryside venues, offering a wonderfully varied backdrop for weddings. From grand manor houses and castles to contemporary spaces overlooking the River Medway, this area blends heritage with modern charm. Whether you're planning a classic celebration or something more relaxed and distinctive, Maidstone and Medway provide inspiring settings for a day that feels entirely your own.

The Instagram Effect on Wedding Venues: How Social Media Is Reshaping the Industry

In an era where a single photograph can reach millions of viewers within hours, wedding venues are experiencing a seismic shift in how they attract couples and showcase their spaces. Instagram has evolved from a simple photo-sharing app into the most powerful marketing tool the wedding industry has ever seen and it's fundamentally changing what couples look for in a venue. We spoke with Nick from Country House Weddings to explore how social media, particularly Instagram and TikTok is reshaping venue selection, design, and the entire wedding experience.

Leeds Castle is offering a winter discount

Book a winter break in February 2026 in Leeds Castle's Stable Courtyard accommodation at a reduced rate of £134 per night, for two adults on a bed and breakfast basis.

Perfect for those looking for a peaceful and memorable countryside escape, Stable Courtyard offers a cosy and characterful place to stay within the heart of the estate. Each en-suite bedroom is individually designed and furnished to provide a comfortable and relaxing retreat.

Venues in Canterbury and Thanet

From medieval streets and cathedral views to big skies, chalk cliffs and seaside charm, Canterbury and Thanet offer some of Kent's most atmospheric wedding settings. Whether you're dreaming of a historic venue steeped in romance, a countryside escape surrounded by rolling fields, or a coastal celebration with the sound of the sea in the background, this corner of the county has it all. Here, timeless elegance meets relaxed coastal character, creating unforgettable backdrops for every kind of "I do."

The Wedding Music Trends Couples Are Choosing for 2026

For couples planning 2026 weddings, music has moved beyond background noise - it's now a defining, intentional part of the overall experience. Beyond the first dance or the late-night party set, couples are curating soundtracks that reflect who they are, where they come from, and how they want their guests to feel. The result? A new era of wedding music that's immersive, personal, culturally rich, and joy-led. Few people have seen this evolution up close quite like DJ China L'One, founder of We Run the World, the UK's leading Black-owned, all-female DJ agency. Having performed at hundreds of weddings and private celebrations, China has noticed a clear shift - especially for January weddings - towards upbeat, celebratory sounds, genre-blending playlists, and DJs who bring both polish and personality.

The ultimate commitment: What couples must know before buying a home

For decades, the "gold standard" of commitment was a ring. Nowadays, many are opting to get on the ladder first, before considering a bigger wedding celebration. What's important to remember however is that while a wedding is a promise to each other, a mortgage is a legal commitment with your lender or bank. You aren't just responsible for your half of the loan; you are both legally liable for every penny of it. So, if you're planning to make the ultimate commitment this Valentine's Day, Ryan Etchells, Chief Commercial Officer at Together shares his top four tips for navigating the path to co-ownership: