Your Bristol and Somerset Wedding news and ideas from around the county

Luxury pre-wedding get together - the British Grand Prix

Be closer to the action while enjoying more access, more entertainment and more style than ever before with MATCH Hospitality's FORMULA 1® official hospitality offering. MATCH Hospitality offers an incomparable combination of first-class facilities, unrivalled viewing and seamless service worthy of this breathtaking sport. For the first time, Hilton Garden Inn (the world's first Grand Prix start/finish line hotel – owned by Bricks Group) Silverstone is offering an exclusive hospitality package designed with flexible group sizes in mind, including unforgettable views of the track accompanied by incredible hospitality.

New book launch helps couples speak from the heart

From the ceremony to the speeches, there are elements of a wedding day that require a few special words, whether that's from the couple themselves of perhaps a loved one. If you struggle with putting in to words exactly how you feel, then using an existing quote, reading or poem could help convey your sentiment; step forward 10 Poems for a Wedding, selected and introduced by Kathryn Bevis.

People in Bristol invited to Walk for Parkinson’s

People in Bristol are invited to join Parkinson's UK at Blaise Castle on Sunday 9 July for a fundraising walk to help fund vital research to find better treatments and a cure for Parkinson's. Walk for Parkinson's is the charity's national community fundraising series, and everyone is encouraged to get involved to get active, meet new people, and help fund life changing research. The Walk for Parkinson's event offers distances to suit everyone where you can explore 400 acres of pretty parkland and woodland around the Blaise Castle Estate.

Give newlyweds the gift of luxury

Across the world, wedding gifts have become a tradition for family, friends and loved ones to show their appreciation to the happy couple and to wish them all the best. A wedding gift is a celebration of their marriage, and to provide them with gifts they may need – or want - to start their new lives together. Although many people still choose to give tangible tokens, many are looking to gift the happy couple an experience that they can enjoy together. PoB Hotels, a collection of carefully curated rooms, the finest restaurants and spas, and the most authentic regional experiences across the British Isles, offers the perfect solution – a Gift Voucher.

Celebrate in style with picture-perfect table decor

Engagement parties and rehearsal dinners are a great way to kick start your big day celebrations, with many people now opting to host these at home for a more intimate experience. So, how do you make your table stand out? Iconic Rayware brands, Viners and Mason Cash are synonymous with weddings and recognised nationally for their classic tableware products. Read on to discover the top styling trends from Viners and Mason Cash that aren't to be overlooked this wedding season!

Expert tips for creating a unique wedding menu

The traditional three-course wedding breakfast doesn't have to be boring. In this article Nidhi Verma, head of food & founder of The Cookaway, shares a few ideas for alternative food menus for wedding guests. Getting involved with the putting together of your wedding menu can allow you to focus on what's important to you, whether that's only using local produce and seasonal ingredients, incorporating foods you and your partner really like, making sure there are plenty of fun elements, or serving with the utmost style. But if standing out is your priority, how can you ensure your menu is unique? If you're wondering how you can make your special day a little more individual, below are a few ideas to get you started.

The 20 most iconic marryoke songs for a perfect wedding

Are you a couple looking for songs for your wedding this summer? Searches for 'wedding songs karaoke' up +40% and 'best karaoke songs 2023' increasing by +300%, and thortful has put together a list of the most iconic marryoke songs for 2023. The top 20 karaoke songs for your wedding this year Taking the top spot is the absolute belt-it-out classic that is Summer of '69 by Bryan Adams. Given that it has remained a popular song after pretty much four decades, we'd say the score is well-deserved. Just behind in second place is a song that any '90s kid could sing in their sleep – the girl power megahit Wannabe by the Spice Girls.

The Ethicurean is the perfect sunshine dining destination this summer

Set within the rolling hills of the Mendips in the Bristol countryside, the Michelin Green starred 'The Ethicurean', co-owned by Matthew Pennington with Chef Mark McCabe is one of the most picturesque and tranquil dining experiences in the UK and the most perfect sunshine dining destination. On warmer days, guests can look over the sun-drenched walled garden whilst basking in the beautifully bright converted greenhouse that is the restaurant itself.

Want to say 'no' to being a maid-of-honour? Here’s how!

Being a maid-of-honour or even a bridesmaid can be hugely exciting and a big honour, however, it takes responsibility, a lot of time, money and energy, all dedicated to making someone else happy. So if you really don't want to be a bridesmaid, plucking up the courage to turn down an invite might seem like a nightmare. A new survey from Ginger Ray which seeks to answer some of weddings' trickiest questions reveals that almost two-thirds (63%) of Brits think it was acceptable to say no to being a member of the wedding party based on the financial burden and additional responsibilities it poses.

Steeped in history, The Bishop’s Palace and Gardens sits in the heart of Wells

Steeped in history, The Bishop's Palace and Gardens sits at the heart of the Medieval city of Wells, Somerset. Whether your arrival is by car or a relaxed stroll across the drawbridge, you'll be greeted with breathtaking views of the stunning, 800-year-old Medieval building. The venue offers 14 acres of perfectly-kept gardens to enjoy, and there's something quite magical about them. With the moat surrounding the Palace offering the tranquil sounds of flowing water, the stunning backdrop of Wells Cathedral, picturesque willow bridge and seasonal flowers and plants all year round, this is a beautiful place for you and your loved ones to gather after the "I dos" elsewhere.

Browns launch champagne bottomless brunch

This month, Browns Restaurants will be adding a Champagne bottomless brunch to their signature weekend menus, as part of this year's festivities to celebrate the group's 50th anniversary. From Friday to Sunday until 2pm, guests can enjoy free-flowing Moët & Chandon Impérial Champagne, alongside signature brunch dishes such as Browns Lobster Benedict, a satisfying stack of Pancetta Buttermilk Pancakes, Smoked Salmon, Smashed Avocado, Garlic Mushrooms on Sourdough and a variety of classic egg dishes. Alternatively, opt for more substantial dishes, like the Browns Burger and Chargrilled Chicken & Bacon Club.

David’s Bridal commences ‘everything must go’ closing down sale

Bridal store chain, David's Bridal has confirmed that all UK stores are launching a closing down sale, with dramatic reductions across wedding dresses, bridesmaid dresses and more. Following its administration announcement last month, David's Bridal is closing all four of it's UK stores, with all stock discounted. David's Bridal's extensive closing down sale will commence with at least 40% off everything in-store.

Events, art and alternative activities this May half term in Bristol

There is so much going on in Bristol this May half term. So check out Visit Bristol's round-up of adventures, art, music, festivals, theatre, outdoors fun and alternative activities, all listed below.

One4all Gift Cards expands partnerships

Popular wedding gifting brand leading multi-store gift card, One4all Gift Cards, has announced two exciting new partnerships with global fashion retailer, ASOS, and premium e-commerce marketplace, Secret Sales - making it an even more appealing choice for wedding day gifting. ASOS, one of the largest international e-commerce retailers, is now accepting the One4all Gift Card for all online purchases, meaning customers can access all their favourite brands at the touch of a button. With over 850 brands to choose from as well as their own ASOS ranges, which include Collusion and Topshop, shoppers will be spoilt for choice. As a forward-thinking brand, ASOS interpret the latest trends into more than 30 different sizes, allowing all customers to find something they love. As well as the chance to shop for clothing, accessories and beauty products from a variety of brands.

Fireflower Tipis provide the perfect pick for a summer wedding

Fireflower Tipis based in Stow-on-the-Wold in Gloucestershire offer nationwide hire of their magical tipi tents that offer rustic charm and a blank canvas for year-round weddings. Summer celebrations can make the most of the great outdoors with garden games, al fresco drinks, hay bales and firepits. During the colder months, the interior of the tipis looks cosy dressed with fairylights, sheepskin rugs and blankets.

South Of England wins battle of the spas reveals Spabreaks.com

Spabreaks.com 2022 booking data has revealed that spas in the South totalled 57.4% of all bookings made in 2022, winning the battle of the spas against the north of England. The UK spa industry has a lot to offer, whether you're looking to escape to the countryside or fancy break in the city. Whether it's in the north or south, there's a place in the UK that will accommodate whatever spa break you're looking for.

Weddings in 2023: Make sure your big day is protected

A wedding is a special day for a couple, but it can also be an expensive one. Between venues, caterers, photographers, dresses, and entertainment, the costs can add up and even run into the tens of thousands. And with the current cost of living, couples will also be navigating rising costs. For those planning a wedding, it's important you insure 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.

Crosstown opens its doors in Bristol

Crosstown has recently opened the doors to its fourth permanent location outside of London, at 21 Queens Street, Bristol. Best known for creating the world's fi rst sourdough doughnuts, Crosstown has established itself as an award-winning premium sweet treat destination. Having recently sampled some of its delicious bakes here at CWM HQ, we can see how. The even more exciting news, if that's possible, is that Crosstown Bristol will be offering a wedding catering service. Options include such joys as a freestanding doughnut wall capable of holding 260 of the delicious bakes, a tabletop display holding 100 or its towers, available in three sizes of three, five and seven tiers holding between 12 and 80 doughnuts. You also have the option to customise your desserts with personalised packing and decoration, from edible ink toppers to gift boxes featuring your guests' names or wedding motif.

Mental Health Awareness Week 15th-21st May

Planning a wedding can certainly be an exciting time, from picking the cake to choosing the entertainment, it's full of fun tasks to check off a to-do list. However, wedding planning can also come with a host of negativities such as worrying about money and feeling anxiety about family politics on the big day. Increasing evidence shows that gardens and green spaces are associated with better physical, social and mental health.

Sage and Belle Styling: new in town

After 15 years of styling gorgeous weddings in the Midlands, Sage and Belle Styling has relocated to Somerset and is now offering its venue styling and décor services to couples tying the knot in and around Somerset. Head stylist Vickie is excited to announce the opening of the new styling showroom, just five minutes from the Bath and West Showground. Visits are by appointment only, so you're sure to get the VIP treatment while you're there.