Your North West Wedding news and ideas from around the region

7 ways to ask your friends to be bridesmaids

Bridesmaid proposals are a special moment in any friendship so it's natural to want to put some thought behind popping the question. Personalising gifts such as photo frames or pyjamas are a great way to give friends something they can keep forever. The glass experts at MeandMyGlass.co.uk have shared some of the best bridesmaid proposal ideas to make the occasion memorable.John Cutts, founder of MeandMyGlass said, "Asking your friends and family to be bridesmaids is a special moment and should be done in a special way. "You can't go wrong with a personal touch which is why things like photo frames and pyjamas are a great way to show appreciation to your bridesmaids and you know they'll keep their gift.

Netherby Hall is offering personalised staycations on limited dates this summer

Netherby Hall in Cumbria is offering personalised staycations on limited dates this summer. During your stay, you can enjoy carriage rides through Netherby Hall's 36 acres of gardens and grounds and get an insight into the history of this Grade II* listed mansion on a private tour.

Gerald Smith, who owns and runs Netherby Hall with his wife Margo, said: "We aim to bring together the best of Netherby Hall to allow visitors to find out more about its past and present and enjoy the beauty of the house and its gardens. The packages are designed to enable people to create their bespoke break by adding exclusive tours and experiences to their stay, including dining at the Michelin-starred Pentonbridge Inn. Our aim is for guests to have an unforgettable experience while staying with us, which they will treasure for years to come."

Wedding fragrance suggestions

Floral, citrus, or woody - and everything in between - wedding scents are becoming more popular as couples incorporate them into their day. They can provide an ideal way to remember the occasion, the trigger of a special memory when you come across that fragrance connected to it. What's more, key scents can also help control emotions according to psychologists. Yasmin Sharp, essential oils expert at Nikura, says, "With more than 12 million hashtag views on TikTok, wedding scents (#weddingscent) are becoming more and more popular

West Tower is a romantic wedding venue in Lancashire

Boasting uninterrupted views of the Lancashire countryside, West Tower is home to 27 beautifully-decorated bedrooms, a luxurious bridal suite, a state-of-the-art dressing room, a glass skylight, a wooden staircase, an apex-covered entrance and a secluded patio and terrace.

Weddings of up to 145 day and 250 evening guests take place in The Ballroom. Full of natural light, this space has wooden floors, PA facilities, striking views and an elegant décor throughout.

Wedding ring mistakes to avoid!

Aimee Howlett, jewellery expert at Diamonds Factory, has shared how to choose and clean your wedding band. 'When choosing your wedding band, it's important to consider your lifestyle and daily activities. If you're someone with an active lifestyle you might want to go for a more durable material like platinum or tungsten that can withstand potential scratches and avoid a ring that has diamonds. With this in mind, it's worth visiting a jewellery store and trying on different styles of wedding bands, which can be really fun! Pay attention to comfort, fit, and how well it pairs with your engagement ring (if you have one).

Wedding gift inspiration from L'OR

Coffee brand L'OR provides the perfect machine which will ensure you capture the heart of any coffee-loving couple, whilst also providing a useful gift that lasts! With a unique double-spouted design that offers flexibility to adapt to different coffee preferences, the L'OR BARISTA is powered by Phillips technology and has become a much-loved coffee machine since its launch. What's more, the machine is not only compatible with L'OR pods, but also a wide range of alternative branded coffee capsules on the market*, providing maximum flexibility and choice.

L'OR BARISTA Sublime Coffee Machine (£104.99*) is available in Piano Noir, Satin Blanc and Sunset Rubis, while the L'OR BARISTA Original Latte Machines (£164.99*) is available in Piano Noir and includes built-in milk frother.

7 topics all couples should cover in a prenup

While a prenuptial agreement is unlikely to be on many people's wedding checklist, a family lawyer has urged couples who will be tying the knot in the coming months to consider making it a key priority. With research by the law firm revealing that Google searches for terms related to prenups including 'what is a prenup?', 'meaning of prenups' and 'prenups in the UK' have increased by 21% in the last three months compared to the three months previous, it is clear they are growing in popularity.

Manchester Gin is relaunching its Tied the Knot Gin

Crafted by founders of Manchester Gin, Seb and Jen, to celebrate their own wedding in 2022, Tied the Knot gin is relaunching in time for wedding season as part of the distillery's core range. The gin contains 11 botanicals in perfect harmony. Like most of the Manchester Gin range, this special edition also celebrates the delicate summer flavours of elderflower and hibiscus, which work beautifully with bright lemon and grapefruit.

The gin has been well received by wedding venues across the North West, and makes the perfect spirit for reception drinks, wedding presents, or favours.

Garden wedding ideas for the big day

Co-founder of Togather.com, Hugo Campbell, unveils garden wedding ideas for the big day. As wedding trends evolve, couples may be seeking unique ways to celebrate their special day. For those looking to embrace a laid-back atmosphere and the shabby chic aesthetic, from Ottolenghi-style dining and Aperol carts, to enchanting fairylights and the perfect venue. A festival theme: Many couples are looking for maximum flexibility and the ability to perfectly match their food to the vibe of the day. This summer Togather.com is seeing many couples opting for a festival feel for their food, hiring multiple different street food trucks and allowing their guests a choice of handheld food rather than a sit-down meal. This means they can cater to all sorts of dietary requirements and preferences as well as give their guests a more relaxed feel.

Fivefourstudios is a former warehouse transformed into a state-of-the-art studio and events venue

Built in the1970s, fivefourstudios is a former warehouse transformed into a state-of-the-art studio and events venue. Renovated and reopened by acclaimed fashion and beauty photographer David Oldham, the property features three fully serviced photographic studios, including a drive-in studio, a daylight studio, an elegant club bar and a private lounge. Restoring much of the original industrial features and adding a touch of decadence, the result is an elegant mix of styles.

The first floor is the true heart of the building; the luxuriously appointed lounge bar features plush furnishings and subdued lighting, providing a sumptuous spot for guests to enjoy a drink. The private courtyard, situated at the rear of the building, features tree-lined black brick walls and can be accessed via double barn-doors, making it the perfect spot for indoor and outdoor entertainment.

How Brits are spending and saving on weddings in 2023

New data from Barclays reveals how macro trends such as the cost-of-living crisis, inflation, and social media pressures are impacting weddings in 2023. The report combines proprietary spending data with a survey of 1,000 newlyweds and people engaged to be married to determine this year's top wedding trends and cost-saving behaviours. Two fifths (38 per cent) of newlyweds, and brides- and grooms-to-be are going over budget on their special day, with most of these couples citing the rising cost-of-living (51 per cent) and suppliers being more expensive than they anticipated (44 per cent) as the reasons for this increased spend.

Meet local magician ACMAGIC

Andrew Cooper from ACMAGIC has been entertaining audiences for over 10 years. "I want to deliver a fun and different experience for people who are looking to hire a magician for their wedding, special occasion, or corporate event," says Andrew. "How many people can say they get to do something they love every day? Well, I can say with my hand on my heart that I do, and I want you to feel that passion when you hire me for your event. My amazing magic will wow your guests and leave them in awe with a blend of jaw-dropping close-up magic and humour. Tailored specifically to your wedding or event."

Phenomenal Fireworks Ltd create spectacular fireworks displays

Phenomenal Fireworks Ltd. provides spectacular fireworks displays that create unforgettable moments for couples and their guests. With years of experience and expertise, the company curate bespoke firework displays that reflect each couple's unique love story.

"Whether it's an intimate gathering or a grand affair, we ensure a mesmerising experience that will leave a lasting impression," says Andrew Slinn, the operations and displays director. "Our commitment to safety, quality, and innovation sets us apart. We adhere to the highest industry standards and regulations, delivering flawlessly executed displays with the utmost care. Using state-of-the-art fireworks and cutting-edge technology, we create breathtaking visual effects and synchronised musical displays, immersing guests in a truly magical experience."

Embark on a new culinary adventure with the newly opened Firin in Manchester

Embark on a new culinary adventure with the newly opened Firin, a modern Turkish restaurant, bringing a taste of Eastern Mediterranean cuisine to jet-setters and locals alike in Manchester.

Located inside the new Holiday Inn Manchester Airport, an IHG Hotel & Resort, food enthusiasts from the city and visitors from all around the world can experience Firin's elevated take on the classic tastes of the Mediterranean.

The perfect way to start your mini-moon or honeymoon, Firin embodies a modern vision of the traditional Istanbul salon. The laid-back luxury interior is centred around the theatre kitchen - boasting an impressive oven - where guests can watch the chefs at work.

Truffle Tablescapes Launches Luxury Tableware Rental Range

Truffle Tablescapes, a leading UK-based online tablescaping boutique, has launched its first range of rental tableware and accessories that is aimed at those wanting to decorate their lunch and supper parties, events or small weddings. Truffle has been helping at-home entertainers elevate their dinner party looks since it launched during the first lockdown in 2020. Founded by tablescaping expert and interiors lover Kate Fairlie, the brand has expanded again by launching an extensive, yet carefully curated, rental collection of luxury table linens and accessories.

Armathwaite Hall Hotel & Spa is a 17th-century property situated near Keswick

Armathwaite Hall Hotel & Spa is a 17th-century property situated near Keswick on the shores of Bassenthwaite Lake. This four-star former stately home is set in the secluded splendour of 400 acres of deer park and woodland and is framed by the dramatic Skiddaw Mountain and Lake District Fells. As you arrive at this privately owned hotel, you will receive a warm welcome within the grand surroundings. Explorers will find luxurious wood-panelled lounges complete with roaring fires, elaborately framed paintings, luxurious bedrooms and an award-winning spa.

On the grounds, there are Meet the Hawk and Alpaca Experiences and the Lake District Wildlife Park, home to hundreds of rare and endangered animals, reptiles, and birds of prey, is close by.

Sentimental gift ideas from Heads & Tails Jewellery

Heads & Tails Jewellery has been making personalised, beautifully designed jewellery for more than 10 years. The brand's innovative products can be treasured by your loved ones for years to come, making them ideal for wedding day gifting. Every handcrafted gift uses high-quality materials and is presented in a luxury gift bag or luxury gift box and comes with a 12 month warranty. Emma Pearson, owner of Heads & Tails Jewellery, shares her top advice for wedding day gifting.

Weatherproofing your UK Wedding

Outdoor weddings can create truly magical experiences, from fairytale forests to Bridgerton-style countryside escapes, being surrounded by the natural world, the sound of birdsong and a gentle breeze is a perfect day for some. We wish that were always the case, but no matter how meticulously you plan your wedding, the one thing that will always be beyond your control is the notoriously unpredictable Great British weather. Fulton Umbrellas have come up with a handy guide on how you can weatherproof your wedding.

Attending a wedding this summer - save on travel costs

Now that wedding season is upon us, a recent survey by Railcard has revealed that wedding guests spend on average a whopping £402.90 on each wedding they attend. With 31% of Brits having attended between one and three weddings in the past two years, these sometimes-overlooked expenses can quickly rack up. In fact, 59% of those surveyed admit that they would decline a wedding invitation if the costs of attending were too high, showing that cost-savings to any wedding expense can really make the difference for those who RSVP 'Yes' or a regretful 'No'.

Leighton Hall is celebrating summer with delightful new wedding locations

The historic Leighton Hall in Carnforth, Lancashire, is celebrating summer with delightful new wedding locations. Romance and weddings have been in abundance for 35 years at this historic hall, which has five indoor and outdoor wedding ceremony sites designed to sweep you and your guests off your feet. From the moment you arrive in front of the dramatic Gothic façade to saying 'I do' in historic splendour and dancing the night away under the magical Victorian glass, the friendly team will work with you to shape your party and bring your ideas to life.

Thanks to expert-sensitive restoration, the newly refurbished Victorian Conservatory is a truly special location for you and your loved ones to enjoy. Comfortably hosting up to 50 guests for ceremonies and receptions, it's the perfect way to bring the stunning outside in while keeping you feeling snug and serene.