Your West Midlands Wedding news and ideas from around the region

Top tips for having a low waste wedding

Getting married is one of the most exciting days of your life, and you'll want it to be as special as possible. But you might also want your wedding to be kinder to the planet than the usual nuptials — indeed, a study found that British weddings create 18kg of plastic waste per event, adding up to 4,910 tonnes of plastic waste every year. Even for the biggest event of your life, this is a lot of waste to produce during a single day, and many people are increasingly looking to find ways of reducing it and have more sustainable nuptials. If you want to enjoy the big day but also make it more of an eco-friendly event, suppliers of catering equipment Alliance Online have put together some tips for you to take forward in your wedding planning. Even though getting married is a big event, you can still keep the carbon footprint small.

Proposing a prenup? A guide to practical romance this February

Some consider February to be one of the most romantic months of the year. With January finally over, we can start to look forward to Spring, and the warmer months ahead. Each leap year, the 29th of February is traditionally held as a day when the tables can turn and women are supposed to propose marriage to men, instead of the other way around. However, most obviously, February contains Valentine's Day and the celebrations of lovers up and down the country who look to St Valentine for inspiration for their friendships and romantic relationships.

Coombe Abbey Hotel has launched two new premium wedding packages

Laetitia Rattu and Balram Kandola revisited Coombe Abbey Hotel in Brinklow to launch the hotel's new 2023 premium wedding packages. The hotel stepped in to help the Birmingham-based couple, who were left devastated after their original venue went into administration and they faced the prospect of no reception venue just weeks before their wedding day. As newlyweds, they were delighted to return and be the face of the four- star historic hotel's two new wedding packages, which will run until 2024.

The 'Anything For You is Possible' luxury package includes a pre-wedding complimentary afternoon tea for two, reception drinks, a toastmaster and wedding co-ordinator, as well as a four-course wedding breakfast and an evening reception. This package also features group activities, including lawn games and a grand bedroom for the happy couple to use on the day.

Say ‘I Do’ to a Dry Wedding with Mavrik Alcohol-free Cocktails

With a growing number of people going sober or choosing to moderate their drinking, the traditional wedding 'knees up' may be a thing of the past as today's couples opt for a more sober affair - which everyone can remember! In the past, non-drinkers or designated drivers would be somewhat left out of the celebrations with access to only a sad selection of soft drinks or juices. However, now nearlyweds-to-be are putting as much effort into deciding what alcohol-free drinks to offer as they would apply to sourcing the Champagne for the toasts! Plus, not only are dry weddings a huge money saver, but they also allow guests to enjoy the day with a clear head and leave the event with all those special memories firmly in tact.

David’s Bridal unveils new collection starting from £109.95

Wedding and occasion specialist David's Bridal has curated its new luxury wedding dress collection, offering the most luxurious dresses crafted to an outstanding quality for all budgets. Ranging from £109.95 to £2399.95, the selection of both elegant and simple to intricately designed dresses are beautiful for brides seeking their dream dress at an affordable price. In the current cost of living crisis in the UK, David's Bridal aims to speak to all brides, offering 40 new luxury dresses under the £500 mark so that brides can still find the perfect look for all of life's most magical moments.

The stunning dresses are available at the four David's Bridal boutiques located in London (Stratford), Watford, Birmingham and Glasgow.

What makes Billesley Manor Hotel & Spa the perfect UK getaway

After a busy few months, I was desperate for a getaway and didn't hesitate when the opportunity arose to visit Billesley Manor Hotel & Spa – a hotel that provides the perfect setting for relaxing getaways, weddings and mini-moons. On one sunny afternoon, my mum and I set off to discover what the popular venue had to offer – spoiler alert, we were not disappointed.

Situated just outside the Medieval town of Stratford-upon-Avon, the manor is surrounded by scenic countryside and is ideally located with easy access to the M40.

Upon arriving at the 16th-century hotel and descending the long driveway, we were blown away by the charming grounds and grand exterior.

Five things that mean more to love than Valentine's gifts (and are free)

Dr Rachel Taylor is a neuropsychologist, podcast host and founder of UNBroken. She has this advice on the five things that mean more to love than Valentine's gifts (and are free). "The brain has many different circuitry mechanisms associated with feelings of love. Below are some suggestions that mean more to love than commercial gifts."To appreciate is to raise in value, so the appreciation of another is truly better than a gift. Appreciation of another triggers a part of the brain called the hypothalamus which is directly involved in controlling our circadian rhythm. We also get a dopamine hit which supports us to be more motivated to perform the same behaviour. The more we appreciate a person, the more motivated they are to carry on being the amazing person that we think they are.

5 ways to get your pooch involved in your wedding

Planning a wedding is a whirlwind of nerves and excitement, and if you have a dog, you might want to get them involved in the event too. But how? Here, Lisa Melvin from Webbox offer some ideas. Organising a wedding can be as overwhelming as it is exciting. If you have a dog, you might be wondering if you can involve them in the event too — your pooch is most definitely part of your family, and it's natural to want them to be a part of your special day. Read on to find out some ideas for how you can bring your pooch to the wedding.

The Belfry Hotel & Resort is celebrating after winning several awards

The Belfry Hotel & Resort, located in North Warwickshire, is celebrating after winning several awards. Sales director, Katie Niland, received the Unsung Hero Award at The Boutique Hotelier Awards, and Kirsten Price, head of people, took home the award for Excellence in Employee Engagement at the HR In Hospitality Awards 2022.

"It's an absolute honour to receive this prestigious industry recognition," says Katie. "It goes without saying that the support of the incredibly hardworking and passionate sales team is a testament to my success. It's exciting to be part of The Belfry's future and continue to exceed clients' expectations with our award-winning hospitality."

How to create a bespoke drinks menu for your wedding

Your wedding should be as personalised, luxurious and enjoyable as possible, and the drinks menu is no exception! Here, Steve King, managing director at the drinks retailer Bottled & Boxed, shows you how to bring together a bespoke drinks menu for your wedding. Organising a wedding is as exciting as it is overwhelming: you'll want your day to be as special as possible, and the drinks menu is no exception to this. It's becoming more and more popular to create your own personalised drinks, with Google searches for 'bespoke drinks menu' increasing 10% since the beginning of 2022.

Weston Hall is a magnificent Grade II* listed building in the Staffordshire countryside

Nestled in the heart of the Staffordshire countryside, Weston Hall is a magnificent Grade II* listed building that encompasses four large pitched roofs, a striking exterior and a mixture of modern and Elizabethan features.

The Shrewsbury Suite's impressive countryside views and original mullioned windows allow for a magical backdrop for an enchanting ceremony of up to 110 guests.

On the other hand, The Westminster Suite provides elegance and charm with its oak beams and characterful stone fireplaces. Boasting a private bar and custom-made dancefloor, The Westminster Suite is the ideal setting for up to 150 loved ones to enjoy the celebrations.

F.Hinds advises on your wedding selection

Jewellers F.Hinds, boasting more than 115 stores across England, advise on what precious metals your wedding rings could be made from... Your wedding day will be one of the biggest days of your life, and we're so happy that you're about to embark on this new chapter, no doubt you are too! With an exciting engagement comes a whole load of happiness and emotion, but with that what also comes is a never-ending list of things you need to do before the big day, and we can bet that one of them is going to be to "find the perfect wedding rings".

Valentine’s Day: 9 tips to help you spoil someone special without breaking the bank

With Valentine's Day right around the corner, it's the perfect excuse to show someone special how much they mean to you. However, the cost of living crisis means that people are more concerned than ever about money. To help, jewellery specialists, Queensmith have pulled together 9 ways to spoil your partner on a budget...1.Set a budget ahead of Valentine's Day. This is an important first step. The last thing you want is for one of you to spend double the amount of money compared to the other, and fall out over gifts on Valentine's Day.

How to choose your wedding date

You would have thought choosing the date for your wedding would be the easiest part? Simple pick a date that suits you as couple and your venue. Well, yes, that is often the case. But there will always be other factors you should consider before making the final choice. If you're hosting a marquee wedding at private residence, then you're fortunate enough to have a little more flexibility with a date than those opting for a wedding venue. However, whether a marquee or venue it's wise to take into account some of the following factors that may make deciding on the best date for your special day a little easier....

Engagement ring trends for 2023

Whether you're future-gazing about your dream proposal or just like keeping up to date with the latest styles, Lorna Haddon, head of diamonds and jewellery at Beaverbrooks, predicts the new wave of engagement ring trends that will be taking over our Instagram feeds in 2023. Here at County Wedding Magazines it's hard to pick our fav? Really, can we only choose one?

Win tickets to The National Wedding Fayre

One of the biggest and best wedding shows in the Midlands at the CBS Arena Coventry on the 18th and 19th February, 2023 The National Wedding Fayre is a hub of activity with more than 125 exhibitors. Choose the perfect cake, book your photographer, find your wedding cars, order your flowers and stationery, be inspired with ideas and lots, lots more. Enjoy watching the latest bridal and formal wear trends showcased on our very own wedding fayre catwalk. Many exhibitors offer special 'wedding fayre only' prices on selected products and services so don't miss out on the opportunity to benefit.

Heavenly Wedding Belles has won several awards

At multi-award-winning Heavenly Wedding Belles, no wedding dress costs more than £995 and each comes with a free veil and garter. So, if your budget is under £1,000, then you can choose any dress in the shop and not have to keep checking the price tag.

"We were recently announced as finalists at the 6th English Wedding Awards, which we are very excited about," says owner Deborah. "We were also crowned winners of the Prestige Awards 2022-23, winning the category of Best Bridal Boutique in Shropshire. What's more, I was also crowned Best Wedding Photographer in Shropshire at the 2022 Matrimony Awards.

The National Wedding Fayre is back for 2023

The National Wedding Fayre is back for 2023! With more than 100 exhibitors, a VIP lounge, fashion shows and the fabulous win a wedding competition, the show has everything you need to plan the wedding of your dreams. There will be hands-on advice from industry experts, luxury products, services at an affordable price and special promotions.

A VIP package is available and includes access to the stunning new lounge, a complimentary drink of your choice, an upgraded gift bag, reserved seating for the fashion show and fast track entry – what's not to love?

TDR Bridal in Birmingham will be exhibiting at The National Wedding Show (NEC)

"At TDR Bridal, we are proud to stock the biggest and best selection of wedding dresses you will find throughout Birmingham and the West Midlands, and we are one of the best-stocked boutiques in the UK," says the team at TDR Bridal. "We work hard to source gowns to suit every bride, regardless of size*, shape, age or budget. We have great relationships with the designers we partner with and we know that their dresses, combined with our experience working with 1000s of brides of the years will guarantee that you will find the dress that has been made for you. Just because we are big, it doesn't mean we aren't completely committed to helping you find your dream dress.

"To make your personal appointment with one of our amazing team, get in touch or request an appointment here."

Abroad stag and hen dos not an option due to cost of living crisis

Couples planning stag and hen festivities this year may need to think again as Brits admit they would not attend an abroad celebration. Luxury fashion retailer Fenwick, has surveyed the nation to find out opinions on stag and hen dos, including the amount they'd be willing to spend and whether they'd travel abroad. Many people now take their bridal parties or groomsmen on holiday to celebrate their big day. These trips can often end up costing a lot of money especially if heading to popular destinations such as Marbella, Budapest or even Vegas which when the majority of the UK is being squeezed by the ongoing cost of living crisis, isn't something many can afford. Of the 1,000 people surveyed, 50.70% would refuse to attend a stag do abroad, preferring to celebrate closer to home in the UK.