Your East Midlands Wedding news and ideas from around the region

Stapleford Park is the perfect wedding venue in Leicestershire

Nestled in the Leicestershire countryside and surrounded by 500 acres of unspoilt parkland, Stapleford Park is the ultimate location for special events. As couples travel down the picturesque driveway through the tranquil landscape, they'll discover grandeur at every turn. The Grade I listed property has plenty of historical features to discover, with remnants of Tudor and Victorian architecture combined with 21st- century touches – pairs will love the photographic backdrops!

Want to say 'no' to being a maid-of-honour? Here’s how!

Being a maid-of-honour or even a bridesmaid can be hugely exciting and a big honour, however, it takes responsibility, a lot of time, money and energy, all dedicated to making someone else happy. So if you really don't want to be a bridesmaid, plucking up the courage to turn down an invite might seem like a nightmare. A new survey from Ginger Ray which seeks to answer some of weddings' trickiest questions reveals that almost two-thirds (63%) of Brits think it was acceptable to say no to being a member of the wedding party based on the financial burden and additional responsibilities it poses.

Real Life by Robyn announces new wedding offer

Based in Boston, Real Life by Robyn is offering readers a free engagement shoot when they book one of the company's wedding packages and quote Your East Midlands Wedding to the team. The business started in 2020, and its owner Robyn Dalton specialises in unposed, natural photography. She focuses on the beauty of those in-between moments and genuine smiles while capturing photos without guests even realising.

Browns launch champagne bottomless brunch

This month, Browns Restaurants will be adding a Champagne bottomless brunch to their signature weekend menus, as part of this year's festivities to celebrate the group's 50th anniversary. From Friday to Sunday until 2pm, guests can enjoy free-flowing Moët & Chandon Impérial Champagne, alongside signature brunch dishes such as Browns Lobster Benedict, a satisfying stack of Pancetta Buttermilk Pancakes, Smoked Salmon, Smashed Avocado, Garlic Mushrooms on Sourdough and a variety of classic egg dishes. Alternatively, opt for more substantial dishes, like the Browns Burger and Chargrilled Chicken & Bacon Club.

David’s Bridal commences ‘everything must go’ closing down sale

Bridal store chain, David's Bridal has confirmed that all UK stores are launching a closing down sale, with dramatic reductions across wedding dresses, bridesmaid dresses and more. Following its administration announcement last month, David's Bridal is closing all four of it's UK stores, with all stock discounted. David's Bridal's extensive closing down sale will commence with at least 40% off everything in-store.

Check out the latest offer at Barnsdale Gardens

Barnsdale Gardens is offering 25 per cent off venue hire for the last remaining 2023 wedding dates. Tucked away in the heart of Rutland, the stunning property provides a dream setting for al fresco events. Couples have multiple backdrops to discover, with 38 individual gardens offering something special, no matter the weather. The dedicated and experienced team works with couples to bring their dream day to life. They understand each wedding is special and keep the packages flexible to meet different requirements. The staff also ensure the spaces are kept to a high standard to create picture- perfect backdrops.

One4all Gift Cards expands partnerships

Popular wedding gifting brand leading multi-store gift card, One4all Gift Cards, has announced two exciting new partnerships with global fashion retailer, ASOS, and premium e-commerce marketplace, Secret Sales - making it an even more appealing choice for wedding day gifting. ASOS, one of the largest international e-commerce retailers, is now accepting the One4all Gift Card for all online purchases, meaning customers can access all their favourite brands at the touch of a button. With over 850 brands to choose from as well as their own ASOS ranges, which include Collusion and Topshop, shoppers will be spoilt for choice. As a forward-thinking brand, ASOS interpret the latest trends into more than 30 different sizes, allowing all customers to find something they love. As well as the chance to shop for clothing, accessories and beauty products from a variety of brands.

Sherwood Glade is our wedding venue of the week

Situated on 25 acres of private woodland, Sherwood Glade creates the ideal location for weddings. Located in Sherwood Forest, famously associated with the legend of Robin Hood, the woods are home to incredible wildlife and ancient oak trees. There are many trails for romantic strolls under the tree canopies and picture-perfect spaces to capture showstopping images. Whether couples are looking for relaxed or informal weddings with barbecues, glamorous events or something a bit different – the venue is the perfect option.

South Of England wins battle of the spas reveals Spabreaks.com

Spabreaks.com 2022 booking data has revealed that spas in the South totalled 57.4% of all bookings made in 2022, winning the battle of the spas against the north of England. The UK spa industry has a lot to offer, whether you're looking to escape to the countryside or fancy break in the city. Whether it's in the north or south, there's a place in the UK that will accommodate whatever spa break you're looking for.

Weddings in 2023: Make sure your big day is protected

A wedding is a special day for a couple, but it can also be an expensive one. Between venues, caterers, photographers, dresses, and entertainment, the costs can add up and even run into the tens of thousands. And with the current cost of living, couples will also be navigating rising costs. For those planning a wedding, it's important you insure yourself against anything that could go awry just before, or on the big day. For those aiming to tie the knot this year, Alex Cross, Insurance Director at Tesco Bank shares his top tips on things to consider for your wedding day and make sure you're covered so things can run as smoothly as possible.

Travel Chaps will help you plan the perfect honeymoon

There is so much to do when planning your wedding, but your honeymoon shouldn't be a cause of stress; travel consultants Travel Chaps excel at making the whole process as simple and easy as possible.

Travel Chaps pride themselves on being fabulous travel consultants that specialise in booking honeymoons. Based in Lincoln, Lincolnshire, this dynamic duo will do all the leg work for you and present to you the dream honeymoon you may not have known you dreamt of. Bringing fantasy to reality, they spend their time curating all the small details to ensure your honeymoon really is a once in a lifetime trip and more than you could have imagined.

Mental Health Awareness Week 15th-21st May

Planning a wedding can certainly be an exciting time, from picking the cake to choosing the entertainment, it's full of fun tasks to check off a to-do list. However, wedding planning can also come with a host of negativities such as worrying about money and feeling anxiety about family politics on the big day. Increasing evidence shows that gardens and green spaces are associated with better physical, social and mental health.

The Goldcrest Weddings team celebrate the company's eighth anniversary

To help couples create dream weddings, the team at Goldcrest Weddings and Events are offering eight per cent off all decorating and favour services to celebrate their eighth anniversary. The Nottingham-based business serves the East Midlands and beyond. Founded in 2015, the company has evolved and knows all the latest wedding trends. Enjoy a free consultation to discuss décor needs, and the experienced team will make dream weddings a reality. From chair sashes and centrepieces to bespoke favours, they'll guide couples every step of the way

Maileg Wedding Mice back at Bluebell's Burrow

Award-winning, family-run toy business, Bluebell's Burrow, is one of the UK's leading stockists of Maileg toys. These super-stylish, picture-perfect collectable toys are loved by both children and adults. With the wedding season fast-approaching, Maileg Wedding Mice Set (priced at £64) comes in a pretty presentation box, which opens up to reveal the bride and groom on their wedding day. Their clothes and accessories are removable, providing dress-up opportunities and imaginative play for children.

Bizarre wedding traditions: The Eurovision edition

Wedding traditions are dramatically different around the world. From the type of cake served to the attire of the bride, you'll be amazed at what happens on wedding days around the continent. To celebrate Eurovision 2023 taking place in the vibrant city of Liverpool, engagement and wedding ring experts at Steven Stone have rounded up some of the most bizarre traditions from participating countries – including the Big 5.

The do's and don'ts of having pets at weddings

Are you considering including your dog in your wedding festivities? While it can be a lovely way to honour your furry best friend, there are some important considerations to remember to ensure that everything goes smoothly. Dog Behaviourist at Pooch & Mutt Dr Emma Scales-Theobald, PhD, shares the do's and don'ts of including your dog in your wedding, from making sure your dog is properly trained and socialised to creating a comfortable and safe space for them during the event. These tips will help ensure your dog is happy, healthy, and well-behaved throughout the celebration...

Perfect Silhouette Hairdressing wins another wedding award

Lincoln's Perfect Silhouette Hairdressing has won National Wedding Hair Stylist at The Wedding Industry Awards 2023. After winning the Regional Wedding Hair Stylist of the Year in the East Midlands category, owner Robyn Wood went on to win at the national stage after being judged by a panel of industry experts. She comments, "This award has been a career goal of mine for several years. To be the national winner and be recognised at such a high level is a dream come true and a real pinch-me moment!"

Introducing Story Locker’s wedding podcast

With the ever growing popularity of podcasting, welcome to the next big thing which makes podcasting accessible. Story Locker, a one of a kind in the UK podcast recording service that lets participants create a personal podcast based on their life story or to celebrate other special moments in life. The couple can choose to either record their podcast before their wedding day and recall the journey of their love story – from when they first met & the engagement (how it all happened!) to setting the date, the planning and build up to the big day or record their podcast after their wedding day to include memories of the big day too!

Discover weddings at Bondhay Golf Club in Nottinghamshire

Nestled in Dukeries, Bondhay Golf Club provides the perfect settings for memorable weddings with endless charm and character. As couples travel down the long driveway with two golf courses on either side, they arrive at the family-owned venue and will fall in love with the spaces. The stunning grounds and gardens provide a picturesque backdrop to memorable photographs. Couples will discover the immaculately tended fairways, blooming flowers, lush greenery, charming walkways and peaceful ponds – perfect for romantic walks. The dedicated team works with couples to ensure they receive their dream wedding while tailoring the day to their needs and requirements.

Why Champagne is the number one choice for weddings and celebrations

Champagne naturally goes hand in hand at weddings and there is no shortage of creative ways to share the pinnacle of sparkling wine. The Champagne Bureau UK*, has included useful tips below on how to best serve Champagne at a wedding and help select the right style for the occasion. Using the correct glassware: whilst trends come and go and flutes have commonly been thought of as the crème de la crème - a tall, rounded, tulip-shaped glass is the perfect choice and expertly shows off your Champagne's aromas and bubbles.