Your Kent Wedding news and ideas from around the county

20% off on-the-day bookings for renowned singer

Kelly, of Kelly Pepper Weddings will be showcasing her exceptional voice at the County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Bluewater on Sunday 6th October - what's more, couples who want to book Kelly on the day will receive a 20% discount! Kelly adds, " I have been a professional singer since the age of 21 and have performed at all types of venues all over the UK and Europe from Royal Hospital Chelsea – home to the iconic Chelsea Pensioners, to performing to at festivals of 10,000 people alongside the likes of Tinie Tempah, Example, Labrinth, Pixie Lott and more. I pursued a career as a 'pop star' for several years where I had my tracks played on Capital FM, Radio 1 and music channels, as well as securing record deals in Europe and Asia and writing for up and coming talent, but ultimately I decided that career path was not for me, got married and settled down in Kent in 2017 and started a family in 2020 and now have 2 beautiful girls.

Bespoke special effects for your wedding day

If you're looking to add that wow factor to your wedding day, pop along at chat to the ForceFX team at the County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Bluewater, on Sunday 6th October, 2024. From intimate indoor gatherings to grand outdoor affairs, its team collaborates closely with you, the venue, and other suppliers to deliver an exceptional service for your special event. Big-day special effects - Colds sparks - Perfect for your first dance or cake cutting celebration, our cold spark fountains add a touch of elegance and romance to your evening.

Multi-award-winning Royal photographer at Bluewater Wedding Fair

Multi-award-winning Royal photographer and Kent-based wedding photographer Ian Jones will be exhibiting at the Bluewater Signature Wedding Show, on 6th October 2024. Ian, a former personal photographer to the late Princess Diana and current host photographer for Their Majesties The King and Queen and other members of the royal family at Buckingham Palace, Windsor Castle & St James's Palace will be exhibiting at the event and would welcome the opportunity to chat about your wedding photography requirements.

Countdown to County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Bluewater, Kent!

We live and breathe weddings at CWM towers, so we can't wait for our Signature Wedding Show at Bluewater on Sunday 6th October 2024! It's our first Signature Wedding Show of 2024's Autumn 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.

The Granary Spa has won an award

The Granary Spa in Kent has won 'Best Salon/Clinic in Kent' at the Muddy Stilettoes Awards. A peaceful retreat and the home of beauty and holistic relaxation, The Granary Spa is perfect for much- needed pre- and post- wedding relaxation.

Owner Laura McCarthy tells us: "This is my first award since becoming the owner of The Granary Spa nearly a year ago. Thank you so much for voting. We are over the moon and thrilled to have won this award. Thank you to my team, who work extremely hard every day to ensure our guests have the best experience with us. Thank you to our followers and guests for all your votes and continued support."

No-shows at weddings are costing couples across the UK approximately £1.52 Billion each year

No-shows and last-minute declines at weddings are not only incredibly annoying but also can have a hefty impact on a couple's finances. Data collected by Togather, the UK's leading event booking platform, reveals that wedding no-shows are costing couples on average £6,163.36 per wedding or £1.52 billion each year. Given that, on average, 20% of guests who RSVP ultimately do not attend, the financial implications for couples are significant. By analysing customer budget data from thousands of weddings across the country, Togather has shed light on the financial strain caused by guest absences. It's revealed that the average cost of a UK wedding in 2023/24 stands at £30,816.41, with cost per guest amounting to £385.21.

Mercure Tunbridge Wells is a four-star hotel that's perfect for weddings

Built around the original Georgian Dower House, Mercure Tunbridge Wells is a four-star hotel showcasing the perfect combination of traditional and modern décor.

The Oast House provides a grand entrance for you and your guests, while the original Georgian house and terrace provide a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

All of its function rooms have a neutral décor, 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 a private function bar inside the room, toilets and direct access to a private garden, meaning your friends and family have everything they need all in one place.

Data reveals staggering cost increases for stag and hen dos

New research by Adventure Connections, a leading provider of group adventure experiences, reveals a staggering increase in the cost of stag and hen weekends, with prices skyrocketing in recent years. The data, based on bookings between 2016 and 2024, highlights a significant financial burden for those celebrating upcoming nuptials. The average cost of a stag weekend has surged by 136% since 2016, rising from £2,018 to £4,759 in 2024. This represents a substantial increase of approximately 11.32% per year, far outpacing the rate of inflation during the same period. Similarly, hen do expenses have climbed by 130%, increasing from £1,752 to £4,022 over the same period, with an average annual increase of around 11%. This is based just on UK staycation trips alone.

Celebrant Danni Mirkovic has added Mcing to her repertoire of services

Danni Mirkovic, an award-winning wedding celebrant based in Swanley, Kent, has added MCing to her repertoire of services. "I'm less formal than a toastmaster and it's been nice for couples to have one point of contact from the start of their day all the way through to the party," says Danni. "I am a wedding celebrant who tells love stories. I am passionate about making your wedding day as memorable and personal as the rest of your big day! There are so many benefits to a celebrant-led ceremony: firstly, the freedom to hold the ceremony anywhere you wish, flexibility on time, inclusivity and cultural diversity, and a meaningful relationship with a celebrant who is with you every step of the process and actually knows you.

Brits say yes to dogs at weddings - but on your honeymoon?

As more Brits include their furry friends in significant life events like weddings, this trend is beginning to extend beyond the big day - many couples are now choosing to bring their dogs along on their honeymoons as well. With searches for 'minimoon destinations' rising 150% in the last 90 days, many are opting for UK-based getaways that include their canine companions, as highlighted in a recent viral TikTok. The recent TikTok video by Tasmin (@maybetamsin), which currently has over 70k views and 8k likes, shows her experience of traveling with her dog on her honeymoon. In the video, Tasmin shares how she brought her dog, Rhubarb, along on their UK staycation 'minimoon,' offering a glimpse into a dog-friendly getaway after their wedding, where Rhubarb also made a special appearance.

KentWedFest2024 is an event designed exclusively for wedding suppliers

KentWedFest2024 is an event designed exclusively for wedding suppliers that is being held at the Cave Hotel and Golf Resort on Wednesday 6th November. 

Attendees will be able to listen to guest experts in the wedding industry; these include Becca Pountney, a wedding business consultant and speaker; Nicola Russill-Roy, a publicist and PR consultant specialising in the wedding industry; Katie Marie Hawkins, a bridal hair and make-up specialist and educator; Jeff & Sarah Oliver, dynamic wedding photographers; and Laura McPhee, an award-winning hair artist.

Bilsington Priory is the perfect choice for couples seeking a historically significant venue

Nestled within seven acres of mature, landscaped gardens, Bilsington Priory retains its Medieval charm and is the perfect choice for those of you seeking a relaxed and historically significant venue. This striking Grade I-listed scheduled monument sits proudly overlooking the picturesque Romney Marsh in Kent and offers a blend of historical grandeur and natural beauty that looks stunning in photographs.

The light-flooded 13th-century Great Hall is located on the first floor. With large windows and an abundance of natural light, it creates the perfect ambiance for saying, 'I do.' Built in 1253, the space can seat up to 100 guests inside or outside, with ample room for a musical quartet.

Platinum Spas interviews Love Island star Amy Hart

Platinum Spas caught up with Series 5 Love Islander Amy Hart to discuss her well-being routines; from fitness and wedding goals to diet plans, as well as her average screen time, and how she switches off with just a month to go until she gets married. Starting with well-being and fitness, what are your current go-to fitness routines? "So, I'm obviously getting married in September, I'm currently shredding for the wedding, but I just had that awful viral cough that was going around, so I haven't been able to go to the gym for 6 weeks, but I actually went back today for my first PT session back. I did a bit of legs, and I'm working with a PT, I'm also trying to get out walking every day with my little boy in the pram, and then I've got this app called Sweat with Kayla – I've had it for years.

County Wedding Events coming to Prested Hall, Essex!

If you're newlyweds-to-be embarking on your wedding planning journey, pop along to the County Wedding Events wedding show at Prested Hall, Essex, for inspiration on Sunday 22nd September 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.

Cave Hotel has a new wedding package

Set within the captivating surroundings of the Cave Hotel, Firepit Weddings is a new must-see wedding package. The stylish and sophisticated restaurant-style setting features rustic wooden beams, exquisite marble tables, and Opti-Myst fires that add warmth and charm to your special day. Begin your journey by entering through the exclusive hotel entrance, taking the lift to the first floor, and crossing a beautifully constructed glass bridge, enhancing the overall guest experience.

With the ability to accommodate up to 30 cherished guests, Firepit Weddings promises an intimate and unforgettable celebration in a restaurant-style atmosphere. Additionally, the Firepit is licensed for ceremonies, providing the perfect indoor venue for your vows.

Labour's plan to legalise humanist weddings

We are deep in the midst of wedding season. Whether you're attending as a guest, or planning your own, you will probably be taking note of the special moments, and how each couple make their wedding truly their own, and reflective of their relationship. Joanna Newton is a Partner at Stowe Family Law and explains what the proposal in law changes could mean... Over the past two decades, humanist wedding ceremonies (which is a wedding that is non-religious ceremony) have soared in popularity. The most recent statistics from 2020 are from Humanists UK and reveal that humanist weddings have increased by a huge 266% since 2004.

Inn on the Lake offers breathtaking views and serene photograph opportunities

Surrounded by nature's splendour, the grounds of Inn on the Lake are a haven of tranquillity, with three enchanting lakes and sprawling woodlands. The venue offers breathtaking views and serene photographic opportunities, whether enjoying the calming waters or strolling through the picturesque surroundings.

Ceremonies can take place al fresco in the Lakeside Gazebo, which can seat up to 200 guests. Inside, the Fountain Suite, with soft drapes, warm fairylights and panoramic views of the gardens, seats 80 and has standing space for up to 130 friends and family.

From big celebrations to budget savvy: the changing face of UK weddings

At a time of rising costs and changing perspectives, is the sound of wedding bells as tempting as it once was? To find out, Legal & General polled more than 2,000 married and engaged couples to see if they opted for a big wedding – or a big rethink. A 2024 survey revealed the average cost of a UK wedding has risen to £20,700, marking a 12.5% increase from £18,400 in 2022. Despite this, our survey found that couples typically budget much less, with the average amount set aside being just under £9,000 (£8,997.32). There was also a stark difference in wedding budgets across generations. Younger couples, particularly those aged 16-24, budget an average of £14,937 for their special day, while those over 55 set aside £4,614.

Top tips to get to sleep before your wedding

Pre-wedding jitters cause a large number of brides and grooms to struggle to get to sleep. Upcoming nuptials, even if a positive stress, can be a leading cause of sleepless nights. Sleep expert Dr Deborah Lee gives advice to those Brides- to- be who are struggling in the lead- up to their big day, and gives top tips on how to improve their sleep. As a bride, you face an immense amount of stress, especially in the final days that countdown to your wedding. With plenty of last minute preparations that are trying to please everyone, it's easy to let yourself get swept up and forget to prioritise your sleep. Sleep expert Dr Deborah Lee from Doctor Fox, has partnered with Get Laid Beds to share FIVE expert tips to ensure you wake up on your wedding day like a princess, feeling refreshed and radiant, and not like a bridezilla.

Enjoy Leeds Castle’s new luxury Lakeside Lodges

Enjoy an enchanting summer escape in the new luxury Lakeside Lodges at Leeds Castle, located near Maidstone, Kent. Situated within the picturesque grounds of historic Grade I-listed Leeds Castle, steeped in over 900 years of history, the lodges offer an exclusive break surrounded by vibrant nature and serene summer tranquillity.

Nestled amidst nature, guests can soak up the sun on their private deck while appreciating the melodious bird song, offering glimpses of blue tits, robins, and goldcrests darting among the trees and swans, ducks, and wildfowl gliding along the Great Water. A picturesque scene to enjoy while having a soak in the luxurious outdoor sleek black bathtub — making it a truly idyllic summer escape.