Your Surrey Wedding news and ideas from around the county

Private chef, Renu Ballantine launches innovative cookbook

Private chef, food industry entrepreneur, and former corporate engineer Renu Ballantine (Chef Renu B) has released her innovative cookbook From Boardroom to Bouillabaisse. Perfect for couples looking to be inspired for their wedding catering, or to have a hobby together as a newly married couple, it boasts flavours and influences from Renu's worldwide travels, taking inspiration from her family, favourite chefs, and Indian heritage.

Introduce United Minibuses and Coaches

United Minibuses and Coaches, a premier provider of luxury car, minibus, and coach hire services, specialising in offering seamless transportation solutions tailored to the needs of event companies, ensuring your clients and guests experience the highest levels of comfort and professionalism. Its roots are deeply embedded in family values, guiding the company through over two decades of dedicated service. From its strategic location near London Gatwick Airport, the team seamlessly blend these core principles with the latest in transportation technology, ensuring a travel experience that's both personal and progressive.

County Wedding Events comes to Penshurst Place, Kent!

If you're newlyweds-to-be embarking on your wedding planning journey, pop along to the County Wedding Events wedding show at the Penshurst Place, Kent, for inspiration on Sunday 2nd February 2025! Sister company to County Wedding Magazines, the event brings couples that are desperate for face-to-face wedding planning in touch with local professionals who are on hand to help plan the wedding day. From photographers to cake makers, musicians to florists you're sure to tick a lot off of your to-do list by attending one of our County Wedding Events.

New from Yankee Candles - wedding ideas aplenty

This new candle selection from Yankee Candle features four gorgeous colours which are all perfect for wedding day colour palettes! Transport yourself to an Italian holiday with our latest collection, "Hello Italy!," where every scent captures the essence of Italy's charm and vibrancy. Inspired by the joyful gatherings with loved ones, indulgent feasts, and iconic travel experiences, this collection combines rich earthy tones and warm golden hues reminiscent of Italy's streets and countryside.

Delight in fragrances that evoke the freshness of olive groves, the zest of lemons, and the sea spray of coastal breezes. "Hello Italy!" is more than a collection, it's an invitation to savour life's beautiful moments through the essence of Italy. Bellissima!

55% of couples are together less than a year before getting engaged

British couples are rushing into marriage proposals, according to new data which found that over half (55%) are together less than a year before getting engaged. Modern relationships can come with personal, professional and financial pressures, but according to the study* by jewellery retailer Abelini, Brits are fast-tracking love and moving through milestones at a rapid pace, with a fifth spending less than a week planning the proposal, and 15% even admitting it was a spur of the moment decision. The report delves into the trials and tribulations that come with marriage proposals, considering costs and the engagement ring to proposal traditions and location. When it comes to the engagement ring, one in 10 admitted that it didn't meet their expectations, with the biggest concern (16%) being that they wished they knew their partner's ring size.

Caroline Arthur, couture bridal gown designer, launches new book

Caroline Arthur is a couture bridal gown designer and maker based near Guildford, Surrey, who's been handmaking and remodelling sustainable bespoke wedding dresses for more than 20 years. Caroline's new book, Relovable, is a luxurious new coffee table book bursting with inspirational ideas that centre on sustainability; join Caroline on an exciting journey in which she shares how to transform your gown from hanging at the back of the bedroom door, to one of your go-to and favourite wardrobe pieces. Relovable makes a perfect and considered wedding gift for any bride-to-be, or those who are keen to embrace the fun world of upcycling. Sustainably produced, for every sale of Relovable 10 percent of the cover price will be donated to the Fashion and Textile Children's Trust.

A Valentine’s Escape at Nutfield Priory Hotel and Spa

This Valentine's Day, Nutfield Priory Hotel and Spa is bringing luxury and romance closer to home. Designed to offer a unique treat this Valentine's Day, the new exclusive package features luxe Cristal Champagne, paired with the finest caviar to cater for exquisite tastes. Guests will be able to experience: Whatever your idea of an ideal romantic retreat, this specially curated package ensures that every detail is taken care of. The Hand Picked Hotels' Valentine's Day package (14th- 15th February 2025) is available to book before from Monday 23rd December at the below selected Hand Picked Hotels. Reservations for this bespoke package end on to 4th February.

Braxted Park Estate Wedding Fair hosted by County Wedding Events

If you're newlyweds-to-be embarking on your wedding planning journey, pop along to the County Wedding Events wedding show at Braxted Park Estate, Essex, for inspiration on Sunday 26th January 2025!. The sister company to County Wedding Magazines, the event brings couples that are desperate for face-to-face wedding planning in touch with local professionals who are on hand to help plan the wedding day. From photographers to cake makers, musicians to florists you're sure to tick a lot off of your to-do list by attending one of our County Wedding Events.

Latimer Estate Wedding Fair hosted by County Wedding Events

If you're newlyweds-to-be embarking on your wedding planning journey, pop along to the County Wedding Events wedding show at Latimer Estate, Buckinghamshire for inspiration on Sunday 26th January 2025! Sister company to County Wedding Magazines, the event brings couples that are desperate for face-to-face wedding planning in touch with local professionals who are on hand to help plan the wedding day. From photographers to cake makers, musicians to florists you're sure to tick a lot off of your to-do list by attending one of our County Wedding Events.

Baked By Steph launches fun Valentine's Day cookie collection for every type of partner

Baked By Steph, the favourite for quirky, cute, handmade treats, has unveiled its showstopping Valentine's Day collection and we're loving it. Known for combining playful designs with impeccable flavour, Baked By Steph takes romance to a whole new level with its personalised, letterbox-friendly iced cookies. Whether you're wooing your soulmate, pleasing your partner, or reminding your vegan Valentine how special they are, these cookies are the ultimate love language this February 14th. Inspired by everyone's favourite Friends quote, this adorable set includes cookies that spell out your love in the sweetest way. Perfect for reminding your lobster how much they mean to you.

The 50 best wedding gifts according to newlyweds 

A wedding on the calendar is always something to look forward to! But before you know it, it's time to pick out an outfit for the celebration and find the perfect gift for the soon-to-be newlyweds! With there being 643,000 searches for "wedding gifts" in the past month and an 89% increase in searches for "what do you buy for a wedding gift," online home store Wayfair UK has analysed Reddit data to uncover newlyweds' favourite wedding gifts and provide recommendations on what to consider buying if you're off to a wedding soon! The 50 best wedding gifts according to newlyweds. After analysing multiple Reddit threads discussing 'favourite wedding gifts received, Wayfair UK has revealed a list of the top 50 gifts to consider buying a soon-to-be wedded couple.

The Celebration Nanny comes to Surrey

Surrey and surrounding residents can now enhance their special occasions with the introduction of The Celebration Nanny, a bespoke childcare service dedicated to providing high-quality care during events. Run and led by Hannah and her team of current primary school teachers and degree-qualified professionals, the service ensures that children are cared for by individuals who have a genuine passion for, and extensive knowledge, of childcare. The Celebration Nanny specialises in offering personalised childcare solutions tailored to various celebrations including weddings, parties, and corporate events. Its trained staff, equipped with special needs expertise and first aid certification, is committed to creating a safe and enjoyable environment for children.

Elysium Event Planning has just launched its new venue styling packages

Elysium Event Planning has just launched its venue styling packages and would love for couples to get in touch! With a focus on creating the ultimate memorable day for you, couples even have the option to have their wedding flowers pressed as a special keepsake from the day. Founder Lucy, adds, "We will also include a candle for your house of your chosen wedding scent. This will be sent to your home and once lit, transport you back to your magical moments! Focussing on your senses, with years of experience in the industry we are here to make your day magical with sight, sense and service."

Hen party trends for 2025

If you're planning a hen party in 2025, you're in for a treat. The trends for next year are shaping up to be fresh, fun and full of personality, offering something for every type of bride and her tribe. Hen party experts Fizzbox give us a sneak peek of their predictions on what's hot for hens in 2025. Drag shows have been a hen party staple for a while but, in 2025, they're stepping firmly into the spotlight. With drag culture thriving thanks to shows like RuPaul's Drag Race and its ever-expanding global franchises, hens are falling in love with the glitz, glamour and unapologetic fun that comes with a drag-themed celebration. Expect everything from live performances at local drag bars to private workshops where the group can learn how to strut in heels, master a smoky eye or perform their own lip-sync battle. The bottomless brunch industry will continue to boom with drag brunches taking centre stage. This is a standout trend for 2025.

Take a break from the wedmin at Pennyhill Park, Surrey

Experience a cosy escape this winter and take a break from the wedmin with the Exclusive Collection. The Granary at Pennyhill Park, Surrey, offers a luxurious, stand-alone two-storey suite nestled within 120 acres of serene parkland. Perfect for honeymooners and special occasions, this exclusive retreat combines rustic charm with modern luxury. The suite features exposed roof beams and original oak flooring; upstairs, a stunning free-standing copper bath awaits, offering a perfect spot for a relaxing soak with picturesque views of the surrounding countryside.

Body Fit Training launches in Croydon

Body Fit Training continues to expand capital takeover with the launch of its third studio in Croydon. Located opposite BOXPARK, and a two-minute walk from East Croydon Station, for franchisee Chris Pook the opening marks a significant milestone in his franchising career: "I'd run my own food catering franchise for more than a decade but began to feel myself wanting a new challenge, something that truly spoke to my passions. I've always had a love for fitness so the idea of blending that with a deep appreciation for franchising sparked a sense of excitement in me – leading me to BFT."

Name change statistics after marriage in the UK

The UK Deed Poll Office, and we recently published an article with unique statistics on name changes after marriage in the UK. When it comes to marriage, one of the most recognizable traditions is changing your name. For many, adopting a spouse's surname is part of the process. But for others, the decision is more complex—some opt for a double-barrelled surname, while others keep their own. So, what does the data really say about name changes after marriage in the UK? Gender breakdown of name changes: After Marriage One of the most frequently discussed aspects of name changes is the gender breakdown. Traditionally, women have been more likely to adopt their husband's surname, but how does the data actually look?

Froyle Park Wedding Fair hosted by County Wedding Events

If you're newlyweds-to-be embarking on your wedding planning journey, pop along to the County Wedding Events wedding show at Froyle Park, Hampshire for inspiration on Sunday 12th January 2025! A must-visit for all those that got engaged over the festive months, the event brings couples that are desperate for face-to-face wedding planning in touch with local professionals who are on hand to help plan the wedding day. From photographers to cake makers, musicians to florists you're sure to tick a lot off of your to-do list by attending one of our County Wedding Events.

An idyllic 16th century manor house nestled within 80 acres of parkland on the Surrey / Hampshire border, Froyle Park is a grand exclusive-use wedding venue with the ability to host up to 300 guests.

New designs from Surrey's Lake Thomas Cakes

Lake Thomas Cakes, established since 2007, is a bespoke cake company based in New Malden, Surrey serving the county and South West London. All the cakes are handmade using the finest ingredients; and this year, designer and baker Shenaz has had some exciting new designs which you can check out on her website. From coloured creations to all-white designs, two-tiers designs to five-levelled showstoppers couples have plenty to choose from.

Award-winning jewellers celebrates nomination

Woods Jewellers, an award-winning, family-run independent jeweller established in 1948, is nestled in the heart of Coulsdon, Surrey, and has been shortlisted for Retailer of the Year at the National Jewellery Awards. With a rich heritage and an on-site workshop, its skilled team specialises in bespoke commissions and the creation of its exclusive jewellery collections. Whether you're in search of a one-of-a-kind engagement ring, a wedding band, a bridal set, or a meaningful gift for your wedding party, Woods Jewellers has you covered. Browse its extensive range of wedding ring samples and receive an accurate estimate on the spot