Your Yorkshire Wedding news and ideas from around the county

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.

The Samuel Worth Chapel offers fine architecture set against a wooded hillside

The Samuel Worth Chapel is a beautiful and intimate venue set in the heart of a nature reserve. Designed by Samuel Worth in 1836, the building was completely restored in 2016 winning a Georgian Group Award. Its grand entrance leads you into a simple and elegant interior, flooded with natural light. What's more, the fine architecture set against the wooded hillside provides a stunning backdrop for those all-important photos. Hire of this venue supports the work of Sheffield General Cemetery Trust who look after the site for everyone to enjoy. The Chapel is surrounded by the picture-perfect meandering wilderness of Sheffield General Cemetery, a historical Georgian garden cemetery designed by Robert Marnock.

The Garrison Hotel is a former military guardhouse

The Garrison Hotel Sheffield is a Grade II listed building, most noteworthy as a former military guardhouse and ammunition base completed in 1854. Located within Hillsborough Barracks, the Garrison is steeped in more than 160 years of history and is bursting with unique features. Forged in the Victorian era, the grounds still hold many of their original walls, turret towers and arch keystones due to their listed status. Lying in wait throughout the grounds are a wealth of wonderful photo opportunities to make the most of, including the beautiful courtyard, roof terrace and historical turret house.

Data reveals staggering cost increases for stag and hen dos

New research by Adventure Connections, a leading provider of group adventure experiences, reveals a staggering increase in the cost of stag and hen weekends, with prices skyrocketing in recent years. The data, based on bookings between 2016 and 2024, highlights a significant financial burden for those celebrating upcoming nuptials. The average cost of a stag weekend has surged by 136% since 2016, rising from £2,018 to £4,759 in 2024. This represents a substantial increase of approximately 11.32% per year, far outpacing the rate of inflation during the same period. Similarly, hen do expenses have climbed by 130%, increasing from £1,752 to £4,022 over the same period, with an average annual increase of around 11%. This is based just on UK staycation trips alone.

Tie the knot at Yorkshire Lavender

Across the grounds, different varieties of lavender bloom from mid-June until the end of August, while specialist areas such as the sensory garden, Mediterranean garden and wildflower meadow provide beautiful splashes of colour and stunning photo opportunities throughout your special day. Yorkshire Lavender wedding packages include the use of giant tipis set up overlooking the beautiful panoramic views. All the key inclusions you could need plus exclusive use of the grounds offer you a picture-perfect setting for your celebrations.

Lip service

I never wear lipstick, but I'm worried my look might feel unfinished without on my wedding day... What advice can you offer me for feeling comfortable while wearing lippy? Anna Dickes from MAY – Make-up Artists Yorkshire (www.makeupartistsyorkshire.com) says: Make-up trials are an excellent way to try out new things and determine what works best for you. A skilled make-up artist can select shades that complement your complexion, achieving a natural yet defined look that still feels authentically you. Understanding your skin's undertone is crucial for maintaining a natural look. Here's a quick method to determine your undertone: if your veins appear greenish, you likely have warm undertones.

Steel City Chapel, the ultimate Vegas-inspired elopement chapel venue!

Welcome to one of Sheffield's newest venues, which opened in 2023: Steel City Chapel, the ultimate Vegas-inspired elopement chapel venue! Nestled in the heart of Kelham Island, this funky and vibrant space is where dreams become reality and love takes centre stage. Whether you're looking for an intimate ceremony or a lively vow renewal, this oh-so cool space has you covered. So, step into a world of glitz, glamour and electric energy, where the spirit of Sin City meets the undeniable charm of Yorkshire's very own Sheffield. Get ready to say "I do" accompanied by 16 of your nearest and dearest in a place where every moment is a celebration.

Brits say yes to dogs at weddings - but on your honeymoon?

As more Brits include their furry friends in significant life events like weddings, this trend is beginning to extend beyond the big day - many couples are now choosing to bring their dogs along on their honeymoons as well. With searches for 'minimoon destinations' rising 150% in the last 90 days, many are opting for UK-based getaways that include their canine companions, as highlighted in a recent viral TikTok. The recent TikTok video by Tasmin (@maybetamsin), which currently has over 70k views and 8k likes, shows her experience of traveling with her dog on her honeymoon. In the video, Tasmin shares how she brought her dog, Rhubarb, along on their UK staycation 'minimoon,' offering a glimpse into a dog-friendly getaway after their wedding, where Rhubarb also made a special appearance.

The beautifully rustic Whirlow Hall Farm could be the venue for you

Whirlow Hall Farm is a small working farm on the outskirts of Sheffield. Indeed, this tranquil countryside setting is a mere 15-minute drive from the city centre, making it easily accessible for guests from all over. If you envision your special day with a relaxed and informal vibe with a rustic feel, this could be the place for you. The Farm is an educational charity, existing to support some of Sheffield's most vulnerable children and young people. Behind the scenes, Monday to Friday, the team support students facing a complex combination of difficulties including mental health conditions, learning needs and disabilities, and heartbreaking personal circumstances. Weddings held at the Farm directly contribute to supporting this work.

Healing Summit 2024 comes to Yorkshire

Broughton Sanctuary in Yorkshire, has met the exacting standards of Healing Hotels of the World, earning recognition as the only accredited Healing Hotel in the UK. This accolade celebrates Broughton Sanctuary's dedication to the healing power of wellbeing through activities and retreats, innovative rewilding initiatives, and sustainability. Situated within 3,000 acres of beautiful historical landscape, Broughton Sanctuary provides the perfect setting for transformative experiences that heal body, mind and spirit. It hosts an ever-changing selection of weekly residential retreats and self-guided programmes, enabling visitors to personalise their healing journey. Outdoor activities such as meditation labyrinths, moon bathing, cold water immersion, forest bathing, mountain biking and walking trails as well as woodland saunas, and a hot tub provide immersive experiences in England's inspiring nature recovery project.

The OEC is a must-see for anyone visiting Sheffield

The OEC takes centre stage between two of Sheffield's most iconic leisure and entertainment venues, Owlerton Stadium and Napoleon's Casino and is a must-see for anyone visiting the city. A stunning facade welcomes guests to the fully accessible venue with room to accommodate up to 500 guests. What's more, with talented in-house chefs and the finest Yorkshire hospitality, the OEC ticks all the boxes. A convenient 15-minute drive from Sheffield railway station your guests will have no problem reaching you here. There are several transport links nearby making their journey as easy as possible with plenty of options available. Should they wish to travel by car though, they'll find over 400 free car parking spaces, including disabled parking and access.

Finding a make-up artist when you're a 50s and fabulous bride

I'm a more mature bride in my late 50s and am feeling a little anxious about choosing a look and make-up artist for my big day. What advice do you have for me? Pacha Marshall from Makeup by Pacha (www.instagram.com/makeupbypacha) says: As a make-up artist with 18 years' experience, my advice would be to do your research. Ask around to see if anyone you know has used a make-up artist and what they thought of the finished look. Visit social media; does the MUA's page show a variety of ages and make-up styles? Read their reviews; have their clients been communicated with well? Were they happy? Did the make-up last?

Platinum Spas interviews Love Island star Amy Hart

Platinum Spas caught up with Series 5 Love Islander Amy Hart to discuss her well-being routines; from fitness and wedding goals to diet plans, as well as her average screen time, and how she switches off with just a month to go until she gets married. Starting with well-being and fitness, what are your current go-to fitness routines? "So, I'm obviously getting married in September, I'm currently shredding for the wedding, but I just had that awful viral cough that was going around, so I haven't been able to go to the gym for 6 weeks, but I actually went back today for my first PT session back. I did a bit of legs, and I'm working with a PT, I'm also trying to get out walking every day with my little boy in the pram, and then I've got this app called Sweat with Kayla – I've had it for years.

Labour's plan to legalise humanist weddings

We are deep in the midst of wedding season. Whether you're attending as a guest, or planning your own, you will probably be taking note of the special moments, and how each couple make their wedding truly their own, and reflective of their relationship. Joanna Newton is a Partner at Stowe Family Law and explains what the proposal in law changes could mean... Over the past two decades, humanist wedding ceremonies (which is a wedding that is non-religious ceremony) have soared in popularity. The most recent statistics from 2020 are from Humanists UK and reveal that humanist weddings have increased by a huge 266% since 2004.

From big celebrations to budget savvy: the changing face of UK weddings

At a time of rising costs and changing perspectives, is the sound of wedding bells as tempting as it once was? To find out, Legal & General polled more than 2,000 married and engaged couples to see if they opted for a big wedding – or a big rethink. A 2024 survey revealed the average cost of a UK wedding has risen to £20,700, marking a 12.5% increase from £18,400 in 2022. Despite this, our survey found that couples typically budget much less, with the average amount set aside being just under £9,000 (£8,997.32). There was also a stark difference in wedding budgets across generations. Younger couples, particularly those aged 16-24, budget an average of £14,937 for their special day, while those over 55 set aside £4,614.

Top tips to get to sleep before your wedding

Pre-wedding jitters cause a large number of brides and grooms to struggle to get to sleep. Upcoming nuptials, even if a positive stress, can be a leading cause of sleepless nights. Sleep expert Dr Deborah Lee gives advice to those Brides- to- be who are struggling in the lead- up to their big day, and gives top tips on how to improve their sleep. As a bride, you face an immense amount of stress, especially in the final days that countdown to your wedding. With plenty of last minute preparations that are trying to please everyone, it's easy to let yourself get swept up and forget to prioritise your sleep. Sleep expert Dr Deborah Lee from Doctor Fox, has partnered with Get Laid Beds to share FIVE expert tips to ensure you wake up on your wedding day like a princess, feeling refreshed and radiant, and not like a bridezilla.

Alcohol-free options for weddings with Mocktails

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! 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. Mockarita - A zesty twist on the classic Margarita. Notes of lime, quinine and acacia flower with a refreshingly tart finish. Here at County Wedding Magazines HQ we're finding it hard to choose our favourite... Mocksow Mule anyone?

Autumnal fragrances from Woodwick and Yankee Candle

Connect to nature with scents and colours drawn from the breathtaking outdoors with the cosy new Autumn collection from Yankee Candle®, Cottage Getaway. Inspired by the nostalgic roots of outdoor adventures, and the natural beauty of our world, the collection seeks to spark creativity and inspiration, whilst bringing family and friends together. Launching in August 2024, the collection includes three warming fragrances, Woodland Weekend Memories, Pumpkin Cinnamon Swirl, and Afternoon Scrapbooking. This comforting selection of candles is perfect for reliving cherished moments at home as the late summer falls away and the new season settles n. Relax into Autumn with fragrances that ignite the senses, whilst the bright greens fade from the leaves and dusk draws in earlier by the day.

CWM partnership with Maya Deluxe and Dower & Hall for an exciting prize giveaway!

County Wedding Magazines has teamed up with Maya Deluxe and Dower & Hall for an exciting prize giveaway for our reader and social media followers! If you like or follow all three brands on either Facebook or Instagram, you'll be in with a chance of winning a £350 Dower & Hall gift voucher which can be redeemed online, as well as a £250 gift voucher for Maya Deluxe – that's jewellery and bridesmaids sorted for your wedding day leaving you more time and more budget to crack on with the rest of the wedding planning. Read on to find out more details about the brands and how to enter!