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

Chat to the experts at Ascot Racecourse about your venue styling needs

Bellissima Days is a bespoke service that provides all your styling and floristry needs, a one-stop shop for everything pretty, the team will be on hand at Ascot Racecourse's Signature Wedding Show, hosted by County Wedding Events, with some of examples of their work. Attention to detail is the key to the company's success, Danielle and Isabelle, CEO and co-founders work with clients to design and create bespoke events that will hold special memories for everyone involved.

Tie the knot at The Royal Maritime Hotel

Tie the knot at this one-of-a-kind venue and immerse in the atmosphere of the maritime city. Situated in Old Portsmouth, close to the historic dockyard and Gunwharf Quays, The Royal Maritime Hotel is steeped in history and provides an original setting for weddings with a difference. With naval artefacts and memorabilia around every corner, each function room is individually decorated to reflect the club's history. Ceremonies and receptions can occur at this venue, and with 90 comfy en suite bedrooms for the wedding party, why not make a weekend of it and explore the city the next day? Fully licensed for weddings, pairs can exchange vows in the Trafalgar Ballroom, the property's largest function space, and celebrate in style afterwards.

Bespoke jewellery with exhibitor Initialled

What better way to celebrate your big day than with unique, hand-stamped, personalised initial jewellery? You'll find a stunning selection at County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Ascot Racecourse, courtesy of exhibitor: Initialled. With pieces you and your bridal party can keep, wear again and cherish forever, it offers a range of options and price points from 24k gold/silver plated, waterproof and tarnish-free stainless steel to the longer lasting sterling silver and gold vermeil.

Close-up magic with Tommy Knight at two of County Wedding Events' Signature shows

Want to hear the 'oohs' and 'aahs' from excited guests on your wedding day? Why not hire a magician? Pop along to the County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Ascot Racecourse on Sunday the 7th April, and Mercedes-Benz World on 28th April, and meet magician Tommy Knight. "I'm a professional close-up and stage magician, recently becoming Surrey's 'Stage Magician of the year', and I'm really excited to meet you all at the show! I'm offering a 15% discount to anyone who books me after visiting my stand - so come and say hi!"

Sax & The City will be sharing its floor-filling music with you all at Ascot!

Sax & The City, London's hottest new DJ/Sax Duo is showcasing their amazing set at County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Ascot Racecourse this April! This incredible DJ Live act is perfect for corporate and private events alike, with their adaptable sets lending them perfectly to smaller and larger gigs. With music being a community experience, Sax & The City work closely with their clients to tailor playlists that are event specific, ensuring the atmosphere is perfect for everyone involved, all the time.

Bearwood Lakes, in Wokingham, is exhibiting at the Signature Wedding Show at Ascot Racecourse

Wokingham-based Bearwood Lakes, will be exhibiting at County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Ascot Racecourse on 7th April, and will have its team on hand to answer any questions couples have about planning their wedding day. Bearwood Lakes holds a limited number of weddings each year, meaning every wedding is unique and they mark a special place in the history of the venue. The team are passionate about making your wedding dreams a reality and your very own dedicated wedding planner, Mandy, will be on hand at every moment during your wedding planning process, ensuring that the build-up is seamless and the big day itself is everything you could wish for and more.

Investment deal set to shake up the stag and hen industry

Brighton-based tour operator The Stag Company has announced an exciting investment deal whereby Danish travel company Awesome Adventures Group has secured a significant shareholding in the company. The partnership will facilitate growth for both businesses within the stag and hen market, acting as a springboard for more competitive pricing and product portfolio expansion. The deal positions Awesome Adventures as the go-to ground agent for The Stag Company customers, which means they will be welcomed into resort via an infrastructure of teams in location, thereby elevating the customer experience.

Thinking of having fireworks at your wedding? Check out this supplier

Berkshire-based Best Fireworks, is exhibiting at County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Ascot Racecourse on Sunday 7th of April. If you've been considering having fireworks at your wedding, it's a great time to speak to the specialists! Managing director, Daniel Hounsome, adds, "We're looking forward to meeting attendees at our first wedding fair, and are offering a very generous 10% discount off our displays for any bookings on the day of the show or after by quoting 'Ascot Wedding Fair'."

Find your dream bespoke stationery suite with County Wedding Events

Finding those finishing touches for your wedding day is one of the most exciting parts of wedding planning, and you can find everything from your save the dates, to your place settings with Surrey's Simply Laura Calligraphy - exhibiting at County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Ascot Racecourse and Mercedes-Benz World this April! "If you're recently engaged and planning a wedding, firstly congratulations!" shares Laura. "When it comes to stationery designs, the possibilities are endless, from save the dates to place cards and on-the-day signage, Simply Laura Calligraphy helps bring your special day to life through print.

Expert advice from County Wedding Events' exhibitors

Find a helping hand towards saving for the big day with Utility Warehouse's Deena Chauhan who will be exhibiting at County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Ascot Racecourse on Sunday 7th April! What's more, to celebrate all things wedding, Utility Warehouse is giving one lucky couple the chance to win £20,000! "This means no matter where you are in the planning process you can benefit from this tremendous prize," says Deena. "That's not all, we can show you how to save money for your big day and how you can earn hundreds of pounds in CashBack on purchases for your wedding and beyond, such as hotels, honeymoon, rings, flowers, favours and lots more. Please come and visit us and let's talk about saving money, rather than spending it!"

The host with the most - come and meet Toastmaster John

With many years experience in organising and coordinating weddings, golfing, sports and charitable events,Toastmaster John is on hand exhibiting at the Signature Wedding Show at Ascot Racecourse, and Mercedes-Benz World hosted by County Wedding Events. "Hi I'm John Heasman. Toastmaster John. Do you need that stress buster for your big day? Come and have a chat, it will be your best investment. From welcoming your guests to announcing your first dance. My service is remembered long after my price is forgotten."

Source your big-day venue with County Wedding Events

The team from renowned wedding venue, Royal Berkshire in Sunninghill near Ascot, will be on hand and County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Ascot Racecourse. For a wedding to remember, choose the spectacular backdrop of the Royal Berkshire in Sunninghill near Ascot. Greet your guests over perfectly chilled Champagne as they wander past the hopelessly romantic fountains and congregate for canapés on the beautifully landscaped lawns. With exclusive use offerings, Royal Berkshire becomes entirely yours to celebrate with your nearest and dearest. The cosy Polo bar, luxurious lawns and standout suites make it an intimate yet lavish day – a home from home, to make your own.

Mother's Day ideas for the mother-of-the-bride

With Mother's Day just around the corner on Sunday 10th March, it's time to celebrate the unsung hero of weddings, the mother of the bride! It's time to shower her with the love and attention she deserves. From spa days to chocolates, meals out to heartfelt notes, there are countless ways to make her day special. Leading hen party company, Fizzbox dives into treating the mother of the bride this Mother's Day. Get ready for heartwarming ideas, laughter and maybe even a happy tear or two!

New data reveals the UK hotspots for wedding bliss

A new study has revealed the areas in the UK with the best vendors and venues for wedding ceremonies, with Essex being crowned top for both. The research conducted by photo wall art creator StoryBoards analyzed data, to identify the UK regions with the highest quantity of top-rated vendors and venues, including vineyards, cake companies, and stationary brands. Most brides and grooms will agree that planning a wedding is stressful, as trying to pull off an event that feels unique to the couple while managing expectations, budget, and family can be difficult at times. Thankfully, beautiful venues exist to help make the whole process easier.

Get your caffeine fix at our Signature Wedding Shows

Pop along to any County Wedding Events Signature Wedding Show and you'll discover a delicious Beanies sachet in your goody bag. "At Beanies we think life is all about flavour. So we've made a flavour coffee to suit every moment. Because sometimes it's a super Sticky Toffee kinda day. And others it's a cheeky Cherry Chocolate kinda day. You name it, we've got the full-on, all-out flavour to go with it. Every one is full to the brim with the biggest, boldest, most delicious-est tastes you can imagine. And they're sugar free and low in calories too, so it's guilt-free indulgence all the way. Whatever the occasion, we've got the flavour to match. From the moment the jar is popped open and releases the aroma, to the very last sip, we make sure that the experience is full-on and ultimately satisfying."

Memorable magic at Ascot Racecourse's Signature Wedding Show

Looking for big-day entertainment? Pop along to County Wedding Events's Signature Wedding Show at Ascot Racecourse to see magician Paul Newman in action. "I'm Paul Newman Wedding Magician, I have entertained for all sorts of events, including weddings, across the UK for the last 17 years," shares Paul. "I have performed at birthday parties, Christmas events, and corporate events, and have lots of examples of my work on YouTube. My claim to fame is I have performed for Ant & Dec, and Phillip Scofield! "I can perform lots of different types of magic right the way across the magic spectrum! Because I have performed across the UK for 17 years this means I have volumes of experience so you're guaranteed quality and a fun performance."

Find Natalie Chiverton Photography at two County Wedding Events Shows

Natalie Chiverton Photography is exhibiting at two County Wedding Events Signature Wedding Shows and has some exciting discounts for couples visiting on the day that you're not going to want to miss out on! "For couples planning to secure a photographer there will be a 20% discount across all my photography packages," shares Natalie. "Furthermore, if they confirm their booking within 14 days, they'll receive a £100 luxury wedding album gift voucher applicable towards any size album from Henley Albums. I'll have samples displayed on my table, and I'm eager to showcase the luxury album available.

There's magic in the air at Ascot Racecourse's Signature Wedding Show

Derek Oliver, a magician and professional host, will be showcasing his talents at County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Ascot Racecourse in April - and it's something you're not going to want to miss out on! "Hi, I'm Derek and I'm looking forward to meeting you at the Ascot Signature Event. What do I do and why engage me? Well, I take away your big day stresses, leading you and your guests through the biggest day of your lives. I'll elevate your special day with high class magical entertainment and act as your own red carpet contemporary Master of Ceremonies - transforming it into the event you dreamed of.

Blake Lively creates a buzz with UK launch of Betty Buzz cans in Majestic

Hollywood actress, Blake Lively today announces the launch of her new 330ml Betty Buzz cans of premium adult soft drinks in the UK, available from Majestic. The Betty Buzz range of Sparkling Lemon Lime, Sparkling Grapefruit, Ginger Beer and Meyer Lemon Sparkling Sodas are all available from 207 Majestic stores and Majestic online in the UK. Betty Buzz is a collection of healthier gourmet sparkling sodas in new stylish tall slim cans. Within just two-and-a-half years, Betty Buzz has grown to become the world's number one premium adult soft drink on Instagram, with the most followers and highest engagement of any brand in this category globally. Made with fresh ingredients, the range is free from artificial preservatives, sweeteners, colours and flavours.

Tickets are on sale now for The Photography & Video Show

Tickets are on sale now for The Photography & Video Show, the largest event of its kind in the UK and Europe which will be returning in 2024 at the NEC. Taking place between 16 – 19 March, The Photography & Video Show is the destination for photographers, filmmakers, and content creators of all levels, from beginner to advanced amateur, and all the way through to established professional.