Your Somerset Glos and Wilts Wedding news and ideas from around the county

Discover a romantic Cotswold winter walk or a Christmas outing with valley views at Newark Park

Embrace the fresh air this winter with a scenic seasonal walk at the National Trust's Newark Park in Gloucestershire. Set within 700 acres of stunning countryside, Newark Park offers beautiful winter walking trails with breathtaking views across the Ozleworth Valley. Visitors can enjoy improved pathways for easier access, with all-terrain trampers available to hire for an inclusive outdoor experience. Discover winter wildlife, frosty landscapes, vibrant berries and birds such as redwings and fieldfares, before warming up with a hot drink at the tea pavilion. With festive Christmas house decorations on select dates and plenty of natural beauty to explore, Newark Park is the perfect winter day out for families, walkers and nature lovers.

‘Til death us do part: making plans for beyond your future.

On 16th May 2025 the Law Commission published its recommendations on wills and proposed a new statute. This is the first significant reconsideration since the Wills Act 1837 which is still effective today. Life was quite different in 1837. Queen Victoria ascended the throne aged 18 years old. Any property owned by a women on marriage was transferred automatically to her husband. It would be 40 years before Thomas Edison lit up the first electric lightbulb.

Artemis Becomes First UK Venue Group to Achieve Sustainable Wedding Alliance Accreditation

Artemis, a leading UK wedding venue group, whose head office is based in North Wales, is delighted to announce that it has been awarded accreditation by the Sustainable Wedding Alliance (SWA). This prestigious recognition, a culmination of a partnership that began in September 2023, marks Artemis as the first venue group in the UK to be officially accredited by the SWA. The partnership focused on embedding robust, sustainable practices throughout Artemis's head office operations, setting a benchmark for environmental and social responsibility within the wedding industry. The Sustainable Wedding Alliance is a respected organisation dedicated to promoting genuine sustainability throughout the wedding sector. Their rigorous accreditation programme recognises businesses that demonstrate a strong commitment to ethical practices, social inclusion, and a reduced environmental impact.

Bridebox - the bridal subscription box for DIY brides

Each beautifully presented box contains everything needed to create stunning wedding crafts and personalised keepsakes, alongside thoughtful self-care treats designed to help you pause and truly enjoy your engagement journey. With clear, friendly instructions and all materials included, Bridebox takes the guesswork out of adding personal touches to your big day, allowing you to experience the satisfaction of creating something meaningful while taking precious moments for yourself amidst the planning whirlwind. More than just crafts, each Bridebox offers an opportunity to learn new skills, experiment with different ideas before committing to larger wedding projects, and perhaps most importantly, provides that perfect excuse to set aside the to-do list, brew a cuppa, and reconnect with the joy that should always be at the heart of your wedding planning adventure.

Cake International returns for 2025

The world's premier cake decorating and baking show, Cake International, is back for 2025 and it's bringing even more flavour with it. Co-located with the ever-popular Bake International, this year's show promises to be the most spectacular yet, with new features, industry-leading exhibitors, hands-on workshops, and a landmark celebration to launch the Cake & Bake International Awards. Find out more here.

Bramble and Wild moves to a new home

Beloved independent florist Bramble & Wild has embarked on an exciting new chapter, relocating from Frome to Jordans Courtyard in Ilminster, where the new shop officially opened on 30th September 2025. Founded by Grace Salter Haskins and her talented team—the Bramblefam—the florist is renowned for its romantic, rustic floral designs, wedding flowers, and thoughtfully curated gifts. The move also coincides with the launch of Bramble & Wild's own flower farm, which will supply the shop with sustainable, British-grown blooms throughout the year. The new Ilminster space will be the creative hub for wedding and event floristry, while continuing to offer the full range of fresh and dried flowers, plants, and unique gifts customers adore.

Wedding reforms: Freedom, flexibility… or fancy-dress farce?

Following a recent announcement of major reforms to the wedding laws in England and Wales, Kate Van Rol, barrister at 4PB advises what these changes could mean... The government's latest plan to reform weddings has been met with excitement, curiosity, and the occasional raised eyebrow from the vicarage. Ministers promise to liberate love from the clutches of red tape – simplifying the marriage process and allowing couples to wed in a manner that truly reflects their beliefs, personalities, and (let's be honest) Instagram aesthetic. Under these proposals, couples will no longer be bound by the old rulebook of marrying only in a church or registry office. Instead, weddings could take place almost anywhere – in gardens, on beaches, aboard boats, or even in a back garden with a barbecue and a borrowed gazebo. Religious and non-religious groups alike would be able to conduct legally binding ceremonies. It's marriage law for the modern age — simple, flexible, and tailor-made for a society that's allergic to formality. But as with all government reforms that sound too good to be true, there's a catch or two lurking beneath the confetti.

Light up your life at Pooky, Gloucestershire

If you're searching for inspiration to elevate your interiors or event styling, a visit to Pooky's brand-new Gloucester showroom is a must. Opened in early 2025, this stunning flagship space replaces their former, smaller display area—offering visitors a far more immersive design experience. Here, you can discover an extensive range of rechargeable lights (perfect for wedding tablescapes), table lamps, lampshades, chandeliers, mirrors, and outdoor lighting. The showroom also showcases exciting collaborations with Matthew Williamson, GP&J Baker, Morris & Co., Ellen Merchant, and more. For those seeking beautiful bargains, a curated selection of seconds is available at irresistible prices. Find Pooky's new lighting haven at Barnwood Point, Corinium Avenue, Barnwood, Gloucester, GL4 3HX.

Would you like to win your hen do?

GoHen.com, one of the UK's leading hen party planners, are giving one lucky bride-to-be the chance to win her entire hen weekend for free. Yep, one lucky group will win an unforgettable GoHen weekend for 10 friends worth £2,000 – for free! With 70+ amazing destinations across the UK and Europe, and 1,000s of activities and accommodation options to choose from, you can make your send-off exactly how you imagined it – whether that's spa days and cocktails or beach clubs and bottomless brunches.

A meaningful Christmas gift

Knowing what to get your loved ones a Christmas seems to get harder every year. What to get people who seemingly want nothing but have everything? This year, gift them mindfulness with Myind Map MY Journal. created by Rosemary Ikpeme, this journal takes users on a 90-day journey of self-discovery and mindfulness activities. This journal blends productivity tools with mindset practices, combining visualisation, the law of attraction, and colour therapy illustrations to support reflection and manifestation.

Meet, greet and plan

Planning your wedding should be exciting—not stressful—and The Word on Weddings is here to make it effortless and inspiring. With over 13 years of experience, this trusted organiser has been connecting couples with their perfect venues and suppliers through vibrant, welcoming wedding fairs across the region. Don't miss one of their biggest upcoming events at UWE Bristol on 26th October 2025, featuring over 80 expert exhibitors ready to help bring your wedding vision to life. Enjoy a relaxed, fun-filled day meeting venues and suppliers face-to-face, discovering new ideas, and gathering inspiration—all with free entry. For tickets, visit Eventbrite, and follow @TheWordOnWeddings for updates and inspiration.

The 3 Golden Rules for Choosing the Right Wedding Jewellery

With Married at First Sight dominating our screens from Sunday to Thursday, it's hard not to be inspired by the stunning bridal looks, sparkling jewellery, and dreamy hairstyles on display. Whether you're planning your own big day or simply daydreaming about it, finding the right accessories is key to creating a look that feels uniquely yours. From statement earrings to delicate hairpieces, the perfect finishing touches can elevate your ensemble from beautiful to unforgettable. Experts at Abbott Lyon have revealed how to choose wedding accessories that balance timeless elegance with your personal style.

Date for the diary

Planning your dream wedding? Step into timeless elegance at the Pittville Pump Room Wedding Show on Sunday 2nd November 2025, from 10am to 4pm. Explore the venue's breathtaking main hall, complete with glittering chandeliers and historic charm, while discovering a handpicked selection of talented wedding suppliers ready to inspire every detail of your big day. Meet the dedicated wedding and events team, who will be on hand with expert advice and creative ideas to help you plan your perfect celebration. Enjoy refreshing mimosas, delectable canapés from the in-house chefs, and soak up the romantic atmosphere as you gather everything you need to turn your wedding dreams into reality.

A luxurious hamper with an added personal touch

For anyone looking for an outstanding wedding gift, a luxurious hamper with an added personal touch is an ideal option. Top Hampers was born from the belief that gifts should mark an occasion in a way that is meaningful and memorable, to enable you to give gifts that are thoughtful and personalised, showing just how much you care. They have used their expertise to create a range of ready-to-go wedding hampers. These are perfect if you are short on time ahead of the wedding, as you can rely on Top Hampers for quality and the personal touch, while knowing the hampers can be delivered the next working day.

One in three Brits skip weddings over sky-high guest costs

Despite being one of the biggest factors in long-term relationship success, money is still a taboo topic for most couples. New research from HSBC UK reveals that three in four Brits (75%) consider financial compatibility essential. The nationwide survey of 2,000 adults explored how modern couples navigate finances - from dating apps to wedding vows - and the pressures, expectations and unspoken rules that come with spending in relationships. The impact of this silence is clear, with 58% of couples having argued about money.

Holly Miller's cakes are the height of fashion!

When Temperley London invited Cake Design by Holly Miller to create a showstopping centrepiece for their bridal open day, Holly knew the cake had to embody more than elegance—it had to reflect the spirit of couture. Drawing inspiration from Temperley's Toledo gown in almond mix, Holly designed a cake that mirrored the intricate details, bold colours, and craftsmanship of the dress. From stencilled fondant mimicking delicate netting to vibrant sugar flowers echoing embroidered motifs, each tier was a tribute to artistry. "It needed to celebrate creativity, couture and craftsmanship," she says—principles at the heart of her design philosophy.

Local wedding photographer named on of the Most Inspiring Photographers to watch in 2025

Crewkerne-based wedding photographer Victoria Welton has been named one of the Most Inspiring Photographers to Watch in 2025 by MSN—a huge honour that highlights her creative talent and unique journey. After careers in relocation, recruitment, and even driving instruction, Victoria discovered her passion for photography in her mid-40s. Combining storytelling, people skills, and artistic flair, she now specialises in vibrant, timeless wedding photography across Somerset and beyond. A four-time winner of South West Wedding Photographer of the Year by the Prestige Awards, Victoria is also a pioneer—one of the first in the UK to incorporate augmented reality into wedding imagery. "I'm so grateful to be trusted with capturing people's memories," she says.

Changing your name after the wedding

When the confetti settles and you're left with a shiny new name, the natural panic starts to set in "what documents do I need to change?" An aspect many don't consider until they have to, is the seemingly endless list of documents that now need updating. Below is a list of all the official bits you'll need to look at, now that you're embarking on newlywed bliss.

Titcombe Bespoke Jewellery wins Bespoke Business Award

Titcombe Bespoke Jewellery, with boutiques in Bristol and Cirencester, is proudly celebrating a major industry win after being awarded the prestigious Bespoke Business trophy as part of the Inspiring Independents initiative. Curated annually by Retail Jeweller magazine, the list recognises the top 150 independent jewellers across the UK and Ireland. From this elite group, only five businesses are selected for special recognition, and Titcombe stood out for its exceptional craftsmanship, heritage, and commitment to creating custom-made, handmade jewellery. As a family-owned business with a rich history and a passion for personal service, this award solidifies Titcombe's reputation as one of the leading names in bespoke jewellery nationwide.

FINDING YOUR SEASON

Whilst a summer wedding is traditionally considered the most popular time to tie the knot, there are many reasons why couples choose other seasons for their celebrations. For many, choosing a date comes down to a mix of budget, venue availability, work schedules and personal preferences. Whether you adore autumn's vibrant colours, the blossoms of early spring, or heartwarming winter celebrations, each season has unique charms to inspire your wedding plans. From selecting sun-kissed summer cakes and bespoke gifts, to arranging autumnal barn dances or finding local caterers with seasonal produce; this guide helps you host a wedding for all the seasons