Your Hampshire and Dorset Wedding news and ideas from around the area

Ties the knot at Fort Nelson in Portsmouth

Fort Nelson is a superbly restored Victorian fort that offers a range of spaces to hire for events. With world-class museum collections and a scenic position above the Solent combined, the distinctive venue provides the perfect backdrop with atmospheric rooms, private courtyards, panoramic views and unique photo locations. Fort Nelson holds a civil licence allowing weddings and partnership ceremonies in the former Officers Mess. The suite of rooms can be configured to suit different requirements, with the option of holding drinks receptions in the delightful courtyard. The team offers a range of catering options, from buffets and afternoon teas to more formal dining experiences.

You better watch out, ‘Fir Baby!’ is coming to town!

This cosy season, La Bougie is bringing some magic across the Irish Sea with Fir Baby! A decadent winter candle that will whisk you back to forgotten memories of Christmases past – when trees were real, the hands that decorated them were fragrant with the resin from the branches, and brandy-plumped currants waited patiently to be stirred into the pudding. As the cold and frosty air lingers outside, lounge by an inviting wood-burning fire, enjoying notes of fir resin, musk, and currants coming together to add the finishing touch to your festivities. Fir Baby! is not just a candle; it is a festive and sensory experience that brings the classic components of the season together in one mysterious and sexy fragrance, so different yet so familiar that you can't quite put your finger on it... in a limited-edition burgundy jar!

Gladi-Waiter in the Buff – hen do firm offer

One of the UK's leading hen party planning companies is now offering Gladi-Waiters in the Buff in honour of the new Gladiator film hitting the big screen on the 14th of November. Butlers in the Buff are a hugely popular addition to hen weekends and are often scantily clad in just a small apron and a bow tie. However, GoHen are now offering buff butlers adored in gladiator helmets, shoulder pads and gladiatorial skirts. "Buff butlers are the modern-day gladiator," said GoHen's Head of Events, Ellie Silk. "They're performers, they're in great shape and they're often forced to entertain a rowdy crowd – what's the difference, really?

Discover Dorset weddings at The Sherborne

The Sherborne is a heritage landmark situated in the thriving Dorset town of Sherborne. It has been reborn as a leading destination for the arts, events and the community. Reopened in spring 2024, the a Grade I-listed Georgian house is a unique destination home to the nationally significant Thornhill Mural and boasts beautiful sculpture gardens. After more than 30 years of unsuccessful revival attempts, the house has been lovingly restored by heritage architects and craftspeople, led by Stefan Pitman of SPASE Design. Visitors can now enjoy beautiful sculpture gardens, various exhibitions and versatile art-filled spaces for events, as well as Macready's, a restaurant and bar championing a locally sourced menu. The venue, with its rich and colourful history, is a treasure trove for history enthusiasts. From its origins as a residence built to impress the young wife of the octogenarian landowner to being the country retreat of a renowned Shakespearean actor who held literary events with guests such as Charles Dickens, the building has seen it all.

The ultimate gifting experience your friends, family - and you - will love

In today's busy world, it's not always possible to be there for every birthday, housewarming, or special occasion, but that doesn't mean you can't send a heartfelt message. That's where gift box specialist, Parcel London, comes in. Parcel London is here to offer the ultimate gifting experience - believing that the best gifts are about more than just the item – they're about the connection they represent. They're there for when you can't be. Working with a number of well-known and newly emerging independent brands, Parcel London connects you to the people who matter most through beautiful, useful, and memorable gifts. Every one of their Parcels is lovingly handpicked and carefully hand-wrapped, ensuring that each recipient feels cherished and valued. Whether you need a single gift for a special someone or thousands for a corporate event, they've got you covered

Discover New Forest weddings at Lake Farm

Celebrate weddings on the stunning 40-acre private farm at the edge of the New Forest. Enjoy rustic charm, modern amenities and top-notch services in a tranquil, picturesque setting for unforgettable events. At Lake Farm, the team is dedicated to making weddings truly unforgettable. Their passion lies in creating exquisite experiences that beautifully reflect unique love stories. With meticulous planning, keen attention to detail and a commitment to perfection, they ensure weddings become cherished celebrations of love to remember forever. Various packages and flexible options ensure weddings are exactly as imagined. Experience the perfect blend of rustic charm and elegance, alongside breathtaking views from serene lakes to scenic fields. It sets the ideal backdrop whether couples are after vintage-themed or chic countryside weddings.

Discover Katie Marie Creations and the team's new offerings

Katie Marie Creations is expanding its offerings to include stunning gold-filled and sterling silver jewellery in addition to its gold-plated collections. A thrilling new aspect of the company's service is the ability to create custom jewellery pieces, which has quickly become one of the most popular requests, thanks to numerous clients reaching out through social media. The company's website has introduced a special section, allowing couples to reach out to owner Katie Gettins to explore the creation of unique bridal pieces. Katie shares, "We've designed some stunning custom earrings and bridesmaid necklaces already. Couples can get in touch through email or schedule a brief consultation. We're excited to provide this opportunity to even more brides and their wedding parties!"

The HMS Warrior provides the perfect backdrop to weddings

The HMS Warrior creates a unique wedding backdrop in the heart of Portsmouth's Historic Dockyard, with spectacular views across Portsmouth Harbour and beyond. Ceremonies onboard the ship create captivating stories as couples embark on a new chapter in their life bathed in the grandeur of maritime history. HMS Warrior is more than a venue; she's an experience lovebirds will never forget! Surrounded by her timeless beauty, couples can say "I do" in one of the exquisite venue spaces. The Officer's Half Deck is the perfect blank canvas for ceremonies and receptions with 60 seated guests. Couples can add personal style to occasions, creating a beautifully bespoke atmosphere.

Discover Minstead Lodge in the New Forest

Minstead Lodge is thrilled to announce it's embracing a fresh, new look to showcase the stunning New Forest venue and its charitable heart. This transformation highlights the venue's timeless charm and emphasises the team's dedication to providing an exceptional experience for couples and event planners. At the heart of this new look is the unwavering support for people with learning disabilities. Each event booked at Minstead Lodge contributes to helping people with learning disabilities achieve greater independence and develop valuable skills. The Lodge is reinforcing this charitable message, reminding couples that by choosing Minstead Lodge, they're making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

Seasonal style

As seasons change, it's important to be aware of how the weather affects the wedding. Editorial Assistant Millicent Garton takes you through some suggestions of how to embrace the chill and celebrate the sun. Much like seasons, it's only natural that weddings and their themes flow and evolve with changing year. From the cake and catering to the dress and décor, all elements of the big day can be influenced by the time of year, so it's only fitting that special attention should be given to those minor details.

Make sure your wedding day is protected! 

When you're planning a wedding, getting insured is important to protect 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. Weddings can be a pricey affair, with the average cost of a UK wedding in 2024 coming in at around £20,755. Knowing the total cost of your wedding and how much you're spending on each element of your big day is crucial before choosing your insurance policy. Identifying any big-ticket expenses that you'll want covered should anything go wrong, such as venues, caterers, photographers, or dresses is also key. This can also help you decide if standard insurance policies will be enough or if you'll need something more specific or customised.

Find your big-day musicians at Ascot Racecourse

Gwenllian is an acclaimed and established Wedding harpist, ready to accommodate all your musical needs for your special day. From performances at the National Portrait Gallery to St David's Hall, Cardiff and the Barbican, London, she has toured the East Coast of America with concerts in New York and Boston. She has recorded at Abbey Road Studios and her work has been performed and recorded by Ensemble Cymru. Gwenllian is an award-winning and experienced harpist in demand for luxury events for distinguished venues such as Saddler's Hall, Vintner's Hall and Loseley Park. She is passionate about creating bespoke musical arrangements to add that personal touch to your wedding day.

With an exclusive discount for this event only, come and meet her at the Ascot Racecourse Signature Wedding Show.

How to avoid pre-nups becoming a wedding alarm bell

As one of the most popular seasons for wedding proposals approaches, couples are being reminded to factor pre-nuptials into their plans well ahead of the big day. No longer associated with the rich and famous, people from all walks of life and finance levels are entering into nuptial agreements. And often it's not the couples themselves who initiate the idea to enter into a nuptial agreement, it can often be suggested by their parents. "It's becoming more common for couples to take out an agreement because their parents have helped them financially more than perhaps, they did 5 to 10 years ago," said Sally Ward, a Senior Associate solicitor in Family Law at leading law firm, Ellisons Solicitors.

Plan your stag and hen do (or sten do) with County Wedding events

Dorset-based adventure company, Land & Wave, is exhibiting at County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Mercedes-Benz World on Sunday 13th October, and Ascot Racecourse on Sunday 27th October. Visit Tilly at the Land & Wave stand to find out about magical Hen, Stag and 'Sten' Do's in the woods. Perfect for adventurous, outdoorsy couples looking for unique experiences to share with friends. Show Offer: Pay your deposit at the show and the Stag/Hen goes FREE!

Find those finishing touches with Harper Rose at Ascot Racecourse

Berkshire-based Harper Rose Events is exhibiting at County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Ascot Racecourse on Sunday 27th October. "Delivering Stationery, Signage and Props for your event or wedding. At Harper Rose we offer not only the props, backdrops and frames for hire but also bespoke, personalised signs for hire too!," shares designer Lydia. "Meaning you don't have to pay the full purchase price for a bespoke sign and worry about where you are going to keep it afterwards. "Allow us to take your inspiration and bring it to life for your occasions, helping you design and create all the elegant touches to your event or wedding day! Come & see us for your chance to win your wedding signage for free!"

20% offer for show attendees

Anjali Ghosalkar is a wedding designer and planner and the founder of Ashford-based Let Us Do It Ltd offering event design and management. You can meet Anjali at County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Shows at Mercedes-Benz World and Ascot Racecourse this October! What's more, the company is offering 20% discount on all services booked at the show - be sure to pop along and say hi

Discover this luxury romantic venue at Ascot Racecourse

Based in Sunninghill, Ascot, the team from Royal Berkshire will be on hand at County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Ascot Racecourse on Sunday 27th October. 'Romantic, quiet luxury and homely. Royal Berkshire is the perfect place to marry and celebrate exclusively. This winter, we're offering special rates for weddings taking place from January – end of March 2025. Why not have a chat with us at the wedding show on the 27th of October to find out more? We can't wait to meet you!'

Marisska Couture exhibiting at Ascot Racecourse's Signature Wedding Show

Marisska Couture is exhibiting at the County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Ascot Racecourse on Sunday 27th October, 2024. "Welcome to Marisska Couture, where exquisite craftsmanship and personalised elegance come together. We specialise in bespoke women's couture, offering tailored garments that embody the essence of luxury. Whether you're selecting from our made-to-order collection or opting for a custom creation, each piece is meticulously crafted to perfection.

Considering a magic mirror? Pop along to our Signature Wedding Shows

Windsor's The Best Magic Mirrors will be exhibiting at County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show. If you are considering a magic mirror for your wedding day, then popping along to the wedding fair gives you the perfect opportunity to see see one for yourself and speak with owner Lauren, who's on hand to answer all of your questions. She says, "When it comes to evening entertainment at your wedding, you want something that's going to capture the memories of your special day that you can re live over and over again. That's why our Magic Mirror is the perfect choice. We take photobooth fun to a whole new level, providing a unique experience with our state of the art Magic Mirror using colourful animations and touch screen technology to give you a magical, interactive 'selfie' experience.

Amber Alice Wedding Singer - live at Ascot Racecourse this October!

Amber Alice will be singing live at the Ascot Racecourse wedding fair, hosted by County Wedding Events on Sunday 27th October, 2024. Amber graduated from the Academy of Contemporary Music with a first class honours degree in music / vocals and is now performing at events and weddings and is also a singing teacher. She recently released her debut single Stay Close and was voted on BBC Music Introducing representing best new unsigned Kent music, as best record of the week and was interviewed on radio by Callum French. Amber Alice is looking forward to meeting prospective couples at Ascot. Feel free to pop along and say hi and listen to some beautiful singing.