Your Kent Wedding news and ideas from around the county

Nettlestead Place is a Medieval 13th-century manor

Nettlestead Place is a Medieval 13th-century manor surrounded by 10 acres of picturesque gardens. Set on the west side of the valley, thus affording panoramic views of the river and surrounding farmland, the gardens are on many levels leading down to the River Medway.

The property has a rich history and was even mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086. In 1921/22, the house was refurbished and enlarged and the basic structure of what is now the inner part of the gardens, including the large sunken pond and the Rose Garden, was established. The present owners, Roy and Annabel Tucker, have lived in Nettlestead Place since 1978 and, with much passion and rejuvenation, have extended the gardens and grounds. Nettlestead Place only hosts 35 weddings during the spring, summer and early autumn, so dates are limited.

Do you believe in magic? Be in awe of Liam Ball at our Signature Wedding Show

Looking for your wedding day entertainment? There's nothing better than seeing it live and that's particularly important if you're thinking of hiring a magician. At County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Shows at Bluewater you can see magician Liam Ball perform. He says, "Weddings are one of the most magical days that two people can share, and I can't wait to be a part of yours. I'm Liam. An expert wedding host and master magician. Not only will I help to make sure that your day flows smoothly and on time, I will also ensure that your guests are entertained and have the best time celebrating your special day.

Digital Video UK is offering amazing discounts on its services

Digital Video UK, a wedding filming and content creator in Kent, is offering free aerial drone footage worth £499 with all new Premium Wedding Video Packages.

Mike from Digital Video UK tells us: "Choosing your suppliers can be very daunting, which is why I invite you to visit my Hempstead studio, where we can discuss your wedding plans over coffee and get to know each other. Examples of my work are readily available, and you are never pressured to make a decision there, and then I always agree to hold the date for you to have enough time to make up your mind."

Winners of the 'Best Event Video Creators 2024' South East by SME News, Digital Video UK digitally film in 4K to provide the highest quality, delivered in HD or 4K.

Turn Your Special Moments into Lasting Art

Capturing the essence of your most cherished life events, weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, and more, Elena Priestley Life Events Art creates personalised, live artwork to remember your special event. You can chat to Elena at the County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Mercedes-Benz World, Surrey on Sunday 13th October. Elena says, "Let me transform your unforgettable moments into timeless masterpieces. As your special day unfolds, I create a stunning, live illustrations of the magic and emotion in every moment. A unique, timeless keepsake of your wedding day, personalised just for you. Book your live wedding artist today!"

Honeymoon gift-list inspo at the show

Dreaming of the perfect honeymoon but not sure how to make it happen? Travel Counsellor Tracy Goffin can plan it for you! "You don't need gifts, and asking for money isn't your style. Let me take care of it with our Gift Registry Service!" says Tracy. "Here's how it works: We'll send an email to all your guests. They click the link, write a personalised eCard, and contribute to your dream honeymoon. Simple, thoughtful, and exactly what you need! For more information, visit me at my stand."

Dream wedding dress goals found at Ascot Racecourse

Brides Walking The Runway is your premier Bridal Shop destination, offering a stunning collection of wedding, prom, special event gowns and accessories for both purchase and hire. Discover the perfect dress that will make you feel confident and beautiful on your special day. Owner Joan, who you can meet at the event, created a custom dress for a beauty pageant contestant who happens to be an NHS Surgeon, and she won! The team will be there and we would love to meet folks to answer any questions about the brand and the experience we offer.

Get linked for life with ROKK Jewellery

Say "I do" to permanent jewellery, because your love isn't the only thing that should last forever! What sets ROKK apart is the brand's passion for harnessing the power of gemstones. Each gemstone is carefully chosen for its unique healing properties, allowing you to embrace their transformative energy. Whether it's the calming influence of amethyst, the nurturing nature of rose quartz, or the protective aura of turquoise, our gemstones serve as companions on your well-being journey. ROKK designs are not only on trend but also versatile, allowing you to effortlessly incorporate them into your everyday life, and with the permanent collecting they'll always be a part of your life!

I do with The Ring Company

The Ring Company, are dedicated to helping you choose the perfect wedding ring, and will be at County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Bluewater on Sunday 6th October. At the show, you will feel as if you've gone straight to the workshop; the team can create a bespoke ring to match your engagement ring or you can choose from an extensive range on display. On ordering your rings, a small deposit of 20% will secure your item(s) with the final payment due when collecting (an interest free monthly payment plan is also available). Part of the service includes a free polish and clean of your engagement ring, so it looks brand new for your big day.

Its craftsmanship has more than 30 years' experience in the art of fine handmade rings, why not book an appointment to see where your wedding rings will be made...

Come and meet award-winning magician and professional host, Derek Oliver

Award-winning magician and professional host, Derek Oliver, provides top-class magical entertainment throughout your wedding creating memories (and photo opportunities) that'll last a lifetime. Not only that, but he is a contemporary Master of Ceremonies, and the perfect choice to flawlessly manage your big day, bringing energy and fun as he guides you and your guests with grace and charm throughout. By combining the magic and hosting, you have his unique blend of Magical Master of Ceremonies that'll elevate your wedding to the event you dreamed of. And don't leave things to chance – he's a member of the world famous Magic Circle (Associate of the Inner Magic Circle with Silver Star no less!), Equity and Professional Master of Ceremonies Association and international magical associations. His three packages are crammed with offerings to suit any wedding.

Simply Ceremonies will be exhibiting at two wedding shows this autumn

Simply Ceremonies, an award-winning celebrant team based in Kent, will be exhibiting at Lympne Castle on 15th September 2024 and at the Kent Cricket Ground on the 5th and 6th October 2024. This is the perfect chance to meet the owner, Karina O'Donnell, and discuss your big-day plans.

Karina tells us more about her business: "We are an experienced, multi- award-winning team of friendly and creative independent celebrants, based in Kent, who cover the UK. We write personal ceremonies and spend a lot of time getting to know our couples and their families. Every wedding is as important to us as it is to our couples and we want them to start their married life with a beautiful and memorable event. Our creation and presentation of each ceremony is bespoke, incorporating the couple's personal details and unique elements while giving the guests something that they will enjoy and talk about for many years to come."

Ellis Gray Weddings exhibiting at Mecedes-Benz World

Ellis Gray Weddings are a wedding videography team based in Surrey whose style is candid and romantic, with a touch of cinematic flair. You can meet the team at the County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Mercedes-Benz World on Sunday 13th October 2024. Experienced in intimate weddings, destination weddings and elopements. Pop that bottle of champagne, get cosy and watch back every moment from your special day with your very own Ellis Gray Weddings film!

Find your wedding musicians at Mercedes-Benz World

If you're still on the hunt for your wedding entertainment pop along to the County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Mercedes-Benz World on Sunday 13th October where you can see Charlotte May Vocals perform. Charlotte can't wait to meet you! As your wedding singer, she'll add the perfect musical touch to your special day, creating unforgettable memories with live music tailored just for you. Visit her at the Wedding Show to say hello and discover an exclusive discount available only at the show.

Simply Luxury Escapes can help with your honeymoon!

At Simply Luxury Escapes, we specialize in curating bespoke honeymoons featuring destinations worldwide. Each couple receives the personal attention of a dedicated coordinator who guides them through every step of their journey, ensuring a seamless and memorable experience. Plus, we offer a best price guarantee! Since 2008, we have been creating unforgettable honeymoons and destination weddings. Our expertise is reflected in the happiness of hundreds of couples, as seen in their glowing 5-star reviews. As the winner of the 'Best Travel Company for Luxury Holidays' at The British Travel Awards and recognized by the St. Lucian Tourist Board for our exceptional honeymoon services, we pride ourselves on our meticulous attention to detail and commitment to perfection.

Visit us at the show to discover why Simply Luxury Escapes is the perfect choice for a unique and personalized honeymoon experience. Plus, don't miss your chance to enter our giveaway to win a Fortnum and Mason hamper, Afternoon Tea at The Shard, and a £100 John Lewis voucher!

£20 off a bespoke, personalised, wedding or anniversary cushions

Claire, creator of Treasured Textiles, makes bespoke, handmade wedding and celebration cushions, will be at the County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Bluewater on Sunday 6th October. Her personalised cushions can be treasured forever and are all individually handmade, based on your wedding photos. Her cushions make a perfect gift and keepsake for the couple themselves, or as a perfect 'Thank You' to parents, bridesmaids, or even flowergirls, that helped make your big day truly special. They would make an excellent 1st anniversary, 10 year or even 50th Golden Wedding anniversary presents! Claire also offers personalised ring cushions for the big day itself!

Showstopping cars from Ultimate Classic Car Hire

Tony Allen began turning his teenage passion for collecting classic motor vehicles to good use by lending his cars for friends' weddings. Then, way back in 1990, as the collection grew, he established his classic car hire business: Ultimate Classic Car Hire. The company, and some of its fleet will be at the County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Mercedes-Benz World on Sunday 13th October, 2024. Since then, the collection has grown exponentially into one of the most impressive in the South East of England. Ultimate Classic Car Hire, based in Send, Surrey, now offers a remarkable selection of over 35 classic, vintage and luxury cars.

Alma Makes joins County Wedding Events for the first time

We're excited to announce that Alma Makes will be joining the upcoming County Wedding Events team for the first time at the Mercedes-Benz World Signature Wedding Show! Alma Makes specialises in bespoke flower preservation and personalised memorial keepsakes in Surrey; transforming cherished memories into timeless pieces of art, preserving the beauty of wedding bouquets, memorial flowers, and pet tributes in resin. "We're also pleased to invite you to visit us at the upcoming County Wedding Events' show," shares Alma. "We'll be showcasing our latest creations and offering special promotions exclusively for event attendees.

Meet Maki's Cakes at Mercedes-Benz World for the first time

Maki's Cakes is excited to be showcasing its work for the first time at the upcoming, County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Mercedes-Benz Wedding on Sunday 13th October! Meet the designer, Makiko Searle and explore its bespoke wedding cakes, custom designs and delicious treats, all crafted with precision and creativity. "We look forward to seeing you at the show!" says award-winning cake designer Makiko.

The lowdown from formalwear expert Stephen Bishop Suiting

Regular show favourite Stephen Bishop from Woking-based formal menswear store Stephen Bishop Suiting shares his top advice for choosing your big-day attire. What's more, Stephen will be on hand, at County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Ascot Racecourse, on 27th October and also Mercedes-Benz World on 13th October - here he can answer all of your wedding day questions and will have a huge selection of his suits and coordinating accessories on display. Established in 2013, Stephen Bishop Suiting opened specifically to offer men a higher-end, one-stop-shop for formal wear, specifically with weddings in mind. I'm a multi-award-winning formal wear specialist with more than 30 years of experience.

Find out more about this new venue

Anna's Garden Parties' events are lovingly tailored to meet your event's needs, and the team will be on hand to chat at the County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Mercedes-Benz World on Sunday 13th October. Anna's Garden Parties's offers a beautiful garden venue to host wedding receptions; the space is completely immersed in flowers, woodland, and lawn with a private pond for a truly outdoor experience, coupled with unique features to make the day down-to-earth, fun and gorgeous all round.

"Perfect space for smaller, intimate, down to earth and outdoor events - even micro- weddings - we offer a beautiful space and great food at a competitive and reasonable price," says Anna

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.