Your Yorkshire Wedding news and ideas from around the county

It's Halloween at Spooky Towers!

It's spooky time at Carlton Towers! Bring the little ones in their best fancy dress to the Spooky Kids Disco this Halloween. Taking place on Sunday 27 October between 5pm and 7.30pm youngsters from tots to teens can show off their best dance moves during a set of classic spooky tunes. Entry per child is £10 and includes juice, chocolate, or toffee apple. Adult entry is £5 per person. Food for purchase on the evening includes Woodfired Pizza, plus a bar for the grown-ups. Carlton Towers is also hosting a Halloween Ball for over 18's on Friday 1st November. Guests can get dressed up for the witching hour and enjoy a Halloween inspired three course menu followed by dancing until midnight in the magical Gothic style state rooms.

Broughton Sanctuary to host the opening celebration of the 10th Dark Skies Festival

Broughton Sanctuary is thrilled to announce that it will host the opening celebration of the 10th Anniversary of the Yorkshire Dales National Park's Dark Skies Festival. The event next February promises to be a stellar celebration of the region's breathtaking night skies and the wonders of the cosmos. The Yorkshire Dales - a Dark Sky Reserve The Yorkshire Dales National Park is home to some of the darkest skies in the country, offering stunning views of the Milky Way, planets, meteors and even the Northern Lights. Designated a Dark Sky Reserve by DarkSky International, the park is a haven for stargazers and an area of significant scientific, educational, cultural, heritage and public value.

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.

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.

Donations instead of wedding gifts - support VOW for Girls

From unconventional venues to unique attire choices, modern couples are redefining what it means to celebrate love. But what if one of these unique touches could mean helping change the lives of millions of girls around the world? This is where VOW for Girls steps in. Founded by Princess Mabel van Orange of the Netherlands, a serial entrepreneur for social change and founder of VOW for Girls, this unique charity aims to tackle the urgent issue of child marriage through a creative and powerful funding method. Instead of the usual wedding day traditions, VOW for Girls invites couples to use their special day as a force for good. By saying 'I do,' couples can empower millions of young girls to say 'I do' to a brighter future.

Winter wedding colour trends set to dominate 2024 & 2025

The date has been set, the invitations are out. Have you planned a winter wedding for this season and are still looking for inspiration for your decorations? Trend expert Ella Citron-Thompkins from Diamonds Factory tells us which five colour schemes are ideal...Ice Princess: silver, white, blue, grey: For those who prefer classic elegance, the "Ice Princess" colour scheme is perfect. The cool colour palette of silver, white, blue and grey creates an elegant, frosty look and adds a touch of fairytale magic to your winter wedding. Crystal clear accents such as ice crystals, sparkling fairy lights and shimmering decorations fit perfectly and create a magical, almost arctic atmosphere.

New venue alert! Hotham Hall

Hotham Hall has opened its doors as Yorkshire's newest weddings and events venue. The 117-acre estate, based in the East Yorkshire village of Hotham, has been lovingly restored to its former grandeur over the last three years in a heritage-focused regeneration. The elegant Georgian Estate was built in 1720 by William Burton and became a symbol of luxury and splendour for many years. Three hundred years later in 2020 it was purchased by Hull businesswoman, Linda Kilburn and her husband, David Kilburn CBE , founders of MKM Building Suppliers, who set about bringing the home and gardens back to life together with marketing and events director, Rachel Waugh.

Howsham Hall is ready to party!

Howsham Hall in Malton, North Yorkshire has recently announced the transformation of its evening event space, and the results are magical! Unusually for such a historical property, Howsham has been kitted out with a modern bar space and separate dancefloor area, both with access onto the riverside terrace. What's more, the venue offers you the opportunity to extend your special day into a full weekend of celebrations. Whether you're planning an intimate wedding or a larger affair, a sumptuous feast of a wedding breakfast or a relaxed summer buffet, Howsham Hall is the ideal location to create your dream wedding. Find out more at www.dine.co.uk/venues/howsham-hall/weddings

Top tips for a happy marriage

Victoria Walker, family lawyer and partner at Moore Barlow gives her top tips for a happy marriage! A happy marriage is built on a foundation of effective communication, love and mutual respect. Here are my essential tips to strengthen your partnership and foster lasting happiness. Wishing you all the best for your hopefully happy ever after. Before getting married... Don't rush! Take your time to really get to know the person. Ensuring that you both share similar or complementary aspirations is key. I've encountered couples where one person desired early retirement or to work overseas while the other was not in agreement, leading to irreconcilable differences and the end of the relationship. There have also been instances where one partner was satisfied with a simple and less demanding lifestyle, while the other was not. Qualities that were initially endearing might become sources of frustration later on.

Birdsall House completes state-of-the-art renovation

One of Yorkshire's most remarkable stately homes has completed a state-of-the-art renovation to create an exclusive event and party space unlike anything else in the region. Birdsall House, home to the Willoughby family for more than 300 years, opened to the public for the first time in April 2018 for weddings and events. The Old Kitchens represent a total transformation of the building's large abandoned Victorian kitchen complex of rooms. Found in the basement of the house, they stopped being used after WWII. The project has taken more than two years to complete. Now available to hire for events and parties as a standalone space, it also provides a wonderful area for wedding receptions.

Meet local wedding photographer, Scott Antcliffe

Scott Antcliffe is a professional wedding photographer who has recently left the teaching profession where he was a primary school teacher and senior leader for the last ten years, due to increasing demand for his photography services. For the past two years Scott worked as a specialist specials needs teacher for Derbyshire County Council. Now being able to concentrate on the business fully, Scott has an increased availability to take on more bookings. Outside of weddings, Scott has recently been named Wanderlust Magazine's Travel Photographer of the Year and has since worked with the Singapore Tourism board, Malawi Tourism Board and other travel publications within the UK, including The Times, The Telegraph and others.

How to Manifest Anything: practical secrets to turn all your dreams into reality

Renowned manifestation coach and author Victoria Jackson has released her highly anticipated second book, How to Manifest Anything, published on 12th September 2024 by Octopus Books.Following the success of her debut book, "Manifesting For Beginners," Victoria returns with an essential guide that answers the most pressing questions about manifestation. "How to Manifest Anything" is written with Victoria's signature 'agony aunt' concept, providing a practical, dip-in-and-out collection of the most popular and recurring questions people have about manifestation as they incorporate it into their daily lives. Whether you're wondering how to manifest your soulmate, attract financial abundance, secure your dream job, or troubleshoot delayed manifestations, this book offers the guidance you need.

The Yorkshire Nanny Company has been busy this summer

Founder of The Yorkshire Nanny Company, Lyndsey, adopted the business in 2016 after working with children both within nurseries and private homes for more than a decade. We caught up with this local wedding childcare provider to find out what the summer has looked like for her. "It's been a very busy summer so far for wedding and event nannies at many beautiful venues across Yorkshire. These have included Grantley Hall, Swinton Park Hotel, Rudding Park, The Yorkshire Wedding Barn, Yorebridge House, Alexander Weddings and Woodsome Hall, just to name a few. All the brides, grooms and guests have been so grateful to the wonderful nannies who've kept their little guests entertained, safe and happy throughout the days and into the evenings.

Hotel Chocolat due to open new store in Ikley

Chocolate fans are in for a cocoa powered treat as Hotel Chocolat, the luxury cacao grower and chocolatier, confirms a new store in Ilkley as part of its Yorkshire expansion. The team will be able to help you find your chocolate 'Love Match' based on your preferred flavour profiles including smooth pralines, patisserie-inspired flavours or something tipsy that packs a punch. Hotel Chocolat says, "From the mellow notes of white and milk chocolate to nuanced dark, pink ruby chocolate and even vegan options, the choices for your chocolate favours are endless. Whether you're navigating your guests' dietary requirements or preferences, it's good to be able to offer an option for everyone to enjoy. Luckily, this is something you can ensure with chocolate gifts.

New luxury wellness retreat launches in Ilkley: The Old Reservoir Retreat

The Old Reservoir Retreat, a luxurious wellness sanctuary nestled in the scenic Ilkley countryside, is set to welcome its first guests this month. This extraordinary retreat promises to be the ultimate escape for those seeking relaxation, offering a seamless blend of luxury accommodation, ESPA beauty treatments, gourmet dining, and access to cutting-edge therapies like cryotherapy, ozone therapy, and thermotherapy. Guests can curate their perfect wellness journey with the help of a personalised concierge service, ensuring a unique and tailored experience. From sound baths, yoga, and pilates to breath work, fitness, and fine dining, the retreat offers an array of activities to suit every need.

Advice from a divorce lawyer before your wedding day

As a divorce lawyer, one of the things that Joanna Farrands, a family lawyer and partner at Moore Barlow, helps couples soon to be married with is a prenuptial agreement. Here, she shares her advice... "These are increasingly common and popular as a way of considering your finances and future ahead of the wedding. Now, these can sometimes have a bad reputation. Some people dismiss them as they aren't the most romantic gesture, but in reality, a prenuptial agreement with your partner is a sensible, practical thing, and the conversations you have when going through it can make your relationship even stronger.

Goodybag collaboration with Yankee Candle - don't miss out!

For couples coming along to the County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Shows at Bluewater, Kent, Mercedes-Benz World, Surrey and Ascot Racecourse, Berkshire, they're in for a treat because in the Goodybags you'll find a Yankee Candle Votive. Yankee Candle Filled Votives come in the Signature Collection-exclusive and tried-and-true fragrances, making these tiny treats an easy (and adorable) way to try something new. Hand-illustrated labels, vibrant wax colours, and a premium soy-wax blend create an inspired addition to your home. Decided on a favourite? Arrange several of the same fragrance together to add sparkle and scent to your mantel or table.

Goodybag collaboration with Mocktails - don't miss out!

For those looking for booze-free options this wedding season, Mocktails Uniquely Crafted, is the non-alcoholic premium cocktail brand perfect for big-day guests; and when attending County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Shows at at Bluewater, Kent, Mercedes-Benz World, Surrey and Ascot Racecourse, Berkshire, you'll find a sample in your Goodybag! The alcohol-free, ready-to-drink beverages are perfect for those looking to offer a range of beverages at their wedding. Mocktails showcase a delectable collection of flavours, each carefully crafted with the finest ingredients, spices, and botanicals sourced from around the world.

Dream themes

Planning a wedding is a stressful time, but allocating a theme can help by making the important decisions slightly less difficult. Here, editorial assistant Sophie Clark has created a guide to inspire you for your big day. From Regency-core to overflowing natural elements, there are plenty of themes to draw inspiration from to help you navigate your wedding planning. Not only could it narrow down a specific colour scheme from which you can arrange the bridal parties' outfits, but it can project the atmosphere you want to achieve at your dream-like wedding. This will ensure that the memories created on your special day are timeless, and that the photos will turn out absolutely divine to give you something to reminisce on.

No-shows at weddings are costing couples across the UK approximately £1.52 Billion each year

No-shows and last-minute declines at weddings are not only incredibly annoying but also can have a hefty impact on a couple's finances. Data collected by Togather, the UK's leading event booking platform, reveals that wedding no-shows are costing couples on average £6,163.36 per wedding or £1.52 billion each year. Given that, on average, 20% of guests who RSVP ultimately do not attend, the financial implications for couples are significant. By analysing customer budget data from thousands of weddings across the country, Togather has shed light on the financial strain caused by guest absences. It's revealed that the average cost of a UK wedding in 2023/24 stands at £30,816.41, with cost per guest amounting to £385.21.