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

Balmer Lawn Hotel & Spa is the ideal setting for weddings

Balmer Lawn Hotel & Spa is a must-see space. Set back behind a cricket pitch, the iconic venue has the perfect mixture of traditional and contemporary styles. With sun-drenched terraces and beautiful gardens, lovebirds will be spoilt for choice when it comes to stunning backdrops. Looking out over the lawn, the impressive building boasts a fascinating past and has been used as everything from a hunting lodge and a field hospital to an army staff college and coaching inn. As an award-winning destination for weddings, pairs can exchange vows in the garden's oak-beamed Sylvan Pavilion. Or, why not opt for the Beaulieu Suit with 140 loved ones?

Worried about your dad's wedding speech? Here's some top advice from Speechy

'The Speech Surgery' with Heidi Ellert McDermott, founder of Speechy & author of 'The Modern Couple's Guide to Wedding Speeches. At Speechy, we believe that all great speeches have good story-telling at the heart of them. So instead of hunting down one-liners, encourage your dad to simply tell his favourite stories. Remind him that he can call on your mum or siblings for help with content and constructive feedback, and send him links to lots of various speech examples to get his brain thinking.

Looking for floral wedding inspiration? Pop along to Mercedes-Benz World's Signature Wedding Show

Tracy and Leah from Fleurs Amanda are looking forward to meeting you at County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Mercedes-Benz World on Sunday the 28th April. "We both enjoy wedding floristry and have had many years' experience. We would love to plan your bouquets and arrangements to make your day complete and memorable." shares the duo. Pre-register your attendance on the County Wedding Events' website.

Find handmade venue styling extras from Oak and Ward at one of our Signature Wedding Shows

Oak and Ward, supplier of exquisite handmade furniture are exhibiting at County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Mercedes-Benz World on Sunday 28th April, where you can see its designs and creations first-hand. "Our beautifully solid oak or pine rustic trestle tables will help you create the perfect look for your wedding reception. We hand make all the furniture in our Oxfordshire workshop using materials from sustainable sources, where possible." share Nick. "They don't require a cloth and are, as far as we are aware, unique in the industry, offering attractive and sturdy folding metal legs to complete the look and engineered to be totally wobble free.

Meet Toastmaster & MC Joe at Mercedes-Benz World's wedding fair

Joe Gallagher is an experienced and professionally trained Master of Ceremonies and his expertise lies in seamlessly integrating all of the key elements of your wedding day. He will of course respect the formalities but works with you, your guests and the venue team to create a relaxed, organized and fun atmosphere. The role of an MC & Toastmaster involves so much more than just making announcements on the day and Joe will help remove the stress on the day ensuring you can relax more and really enjoy your special day. Joe really focuses on making the announcements at key times very special and engaging creating a great experience for all. Here is a testimonial to support the difference Joe can make at your wedding.

Escape to the picturesque Dorset countryside and snuggle up in a cosy hideaway at Outbuildings

This family-run converted farm sleeps two to six people in each of its seven (soon nine) beautifully appointed lodges, each converted from traditional barns and farm buildings. Adults only and dog friendly, it's a place to escape the rat run and immerse in quiet indulgence. Think Champagne in the woodland outdoor hot tub, cuddling up in the Hay Barn Cinema with hot chocolate, pizza and naughty treats on tap, ordering delicious cocktails and cooking up a storm with the Breakfast Bites Hamper. The team is excited to announce two new lodges opening in February 2024, located in 'The Byre'. Both will have outdoor copper baths, showers with a view, and big beds that look out of glass walls. Local chef Mark Kick, formerly of The Ivy, whips a delicious menu of local seasonal produce three times a week in The Cart Shed. Alternatively, enjoy home-cooked 'ready meals' in your lodge or the Baaaa. Whatever the weather, Outbuildings is designed for checking in and checking out, whether couples want to explore the local coastline and countryside or snuggle up in a fluffy robe by the log burner with Netflix and a hot chocolate. Discover: www.holidayoutbuildings.com

The best place in the UK for a springtime wedding

A new study has revealed the areas in the UK with the best vendors and venues for spring wedding ceremonies, with Essex being crowned top for both. The research conducted by photo wall art creator StoryBoards analyzed data from a popular wedding planning site, to identify the UK regions with the highest quantity of top-rated vendors and venues, including vineyards, cake companies, and stationery 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.

Surrey wedding cake supplier on hand at County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show

Lake Thomas Cakes is located in New Malden, SW London/Surrey and has been established since 2007. The business is run by Shenaz Lake-Thomas who creates and makes all the cakes and who will be on hand at the County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Mercedes-Benz World on Sunday 28th April to talk about your wedding cake ideas. "We offer a variety of wedding cakes, anything from traditional to quirky designs with a selection of flavours to choose from, as well as cupcakes and sweets for the discerning customer," shares Shenaz. "Our cakes are made to order and we work closely with the clients leading up to their special day and ensure they receive a beautiful quality and a tasty cake. We offer a complimentary consultation where you have the opportunity to sample some of our delights and assist creating your designed cake into reality. If you would like to see previous examples of my work then please have a look at my website.

Tie the knot at Leweston School

Leweston School is a secluded setting with unique rooms, stunning gardens and an alluring atmosphere. Steeped in more than 1,000 years of history, the manor house is set in 46 acres of beautiful Dorset parkland just three miles south of the Abbey town of Sherborne. Built in the Palladian style in the late 18th-century, the interior celebrates the Art Deco period of the 1930s. The architect, Maxwell Ayrton, was also responsible for the original iconic Wembley Stadium and the house features the artwork of famed artist George Sheringham. The venue provides various wedding spaces, including the light and airy Drawing Room that can host 80 people comfortably for the vows and receptions.

Does your mum need help with her wedding speech? Read these tips from Speechy

The Speech Surgery with Heidi Ellert McDermott, founder of Speechy & author of The Modern Couple's Guide to Wedding Speeches. Firstly, reassure your mum that we work with lots of mothers (both of the bride, and increasingly, the groom's) so it's no longer unusual to see a mum on the mic. Whether your mum is standing in for your father, speaking in addition to him or your dad isn't part of the picture, we generally find mothers have a lot to say! In terms of getting your mum excited at the prospect of delivering a speech, rather than dreading it, send her a few blog posts to show her how simple writing her speech can be.

Your ultimate hen do survival guide by SilkFred

With April being the most popular month for hen do's, and online fashion destination SilkFred finding that 625 people will be attending at least one hen do this 'hen do season' (with 93 of respondents attending 3+ hen do's)*, we've sat down with Georgie Mitchell, Wedding Planner, Coordinator and Wedding Expert at Silkfred and Head Stylist Megan Watkins, who have shared their ultimate 'Hen Do Survival Hacks' to manage everything from budgets and schedules to styling tips and mastering the art of saying "no".

Five myths about Champagne

For centuries, great occasions in life have been punctuated with Champagne. However, there are several myths surrounding the drinking, storing and essence of Champagne. As a result, the Champagne Bureau UK* wanted to bust those myths to separate fact from fiction and demonstrate how best to enjoy the pinnacle of sparkling wine, as well as ensure that you aren't fooled by some of the most common Champagne myths. Myth: Pop the cork and spray Champagne in times of celebrations. The blunt pop of the cork and the fizz of the fine bubbles – instantly reminiscent of celebration – is a sparkling start to any special occasion.

Find your big-day venue with County Wedding Events

The team from Hampshire's Audleys Wood Hotel will be on hand at the County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Shows at Ascot Racecourse and Mercedes-Benz World to discuss your big-day requirements. When you arrive at Audleys Wood Hotel, you'll be captivated by the ornate stonework and beautiful stained glass windows of this Victorian mansion. This historic venue is set in the heart of the Hampshire countryside, surrounded by picturesque private grounds. Its gardens provide an ideal setting for your outdoor wedding ceremony, reception drinks and even your evening party in the Garden Pavilion.

Always and Forever Bridal Studio exhibiting with County Wedding Events

Every bride deserves to feel like royalty on her wedding day, and Always and Forever Bridal Studio is dedicated to making that dream a reality. The brand will be exhibiting at County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Ascot Racecourse on Sunday 7th April. With boutique locations in both London and Melbourne, Always and Forever Bridal Studio offers a curated collection of exquisite bridal gowns and personalized service that ensures every bride finds her perfect dress.Founded on the belief that every bride deserves to feel confident, beautiful, and cherished on her special day, Always and Forever Bridal Studio has become a beacon of elegance and sophistication in the bridal industry. With a commitment to quality craftsmanship, exquisite designs, and size inclusivity, the studio caters to brides of all shapes, sizes, and styles.

Powering your celebrations with Gofer

Gofer offers a complete power management service of reliable and sustainable generators and power equipment. Enabling you to hold your wedding in the remote location of your dreams. With over 35 years' experience, our qualified team work directly with clients or with the event or marquee companies to power your wedding. Our team have a strong understanding and connections with different wedding suppliers. Enabling your wedding tor run effectively and efficiently, with the highest quality of power provision.

Discover Victoria Ann Bridal's new collection for weddings

The team at Victoria Ann Bridal are excited to announce its new collections in store from Jennifer Wren and Louisa Jackson Bridal! Both designers are known for their showstopping styles. Jennifer Wren symbolises elegance through selected fabrics, styles and colours, all chosen with the utmost care. Louisa Jackson's newest collection features florals, feminine floaty fabrics and fabulous appliqués for their stunning gowns, which are put together to bring beauty and versatility to brides of all shapes and sizes. The Victoria Ann Bridal team has been attending the Bridal Fairs showcasing the above collections as well as the Romantica Pure collection. Located in the heart of the beautiful seaside town of Weymouth, the boutique offers brides a warm and friendly reception from the first moment they walk through the door to the moment they step down the aisle. The boutique also offers attire for mothers-of-brides/grooms, bridesmaids, flowergirls and young ladies preparing for their prom.

Dream dresses at Signature Wedding Shows

Bespoke dress and bridalwear designer, Tanya Dimitrova, founder of London-based Mia La Vida Bridal, will be on hand to talk through your dream wedding dress ideas at our Signature Wedding Show at Mercedes-Benz World, April 28th. With a vision and passion to create timeless wedding and evening pieces, and to fulfil a lifelong dream of making a defiant mark on the high-end world of couture bridalwear, Tanya listens to her clients' requirements to design and make a creation you'll never want to take off!

Book your 2024 wedding for £2,024 - find out more at Mercedes-Benz World

Pop along to the County Wedding Events' Signature Show at Mercedes-Benz World to chat to the team about what's new at this exciting wedding venue - what's more, Brooklands Hotel sits opposite Mercedes-Benz World so you can also visit and see for yourself! The venue's currently shouting about a great offer - book your 2024 wedding for £2,024 - so click on the link to find out more! Additionally, the venue's announced new spa facilities and new Glasshouse restaurant opening on 1st May.

Moonpig reveals weddings cards are the hardest to write

Greeting cards have been a popular way to express celebrations and affection for our loved ones. We're used to purchasing cards for milestones from birthdays, weddings, new jobs and more, but how often do we struggle with what to write in a card? With the recent growth in popularity of AI models like ChatGPT, Moonpig has launched its "Smart Text" tool, a feature which uses generative AI as a writing assistant for customers who need help in those moments where they don't know what to put in a card to their loved ones.

Plan your wedding to perfection with Styled by Lulabelles

Unsure how to approach the wedding planning, or how best to style and theme your day? Head to the County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Ascot Racecourse on Sunday 7th April and chat to Emma, of Styled by Lulabelles. Owner and stylist Emma says, "At Styled By Lulabelles our style is timeless elegance, specialising in silk florals which is largely driven to make luxury affordable for our couples. We believe you should be able to look back at your wedding in 20+ years time, and it still is timelessly beautiful.