An Essex Wedding news and ideas from around the county

ESCAPE TO DOWN HALL HOTEL, SPA & ESTATE THIS VALENTINE’S

Let love blossom with the new Romance Package at the stunning Down Hall Hotel, Spa & Estate in Essex. Set within 110 acres of sweeping countryside, this indulgent escape is designed to make hearts flutter, pairing elegant surroundings with thoughtful touches for a memorable Valentine's. Available from the 8th – 15th February and priced from £345 per couple, check in for a luxurious overnight stay and three-course dinner for two. Let Down Hall take care of all the little details with rose petals scattered across the bed, acomplimentary bottle of chilled English sparkling wine and chocolate dipped strawberries awaiting in-room.

The philosophy of white - Pantone's Colour of the Year

White has always been more than a colour; it is the quiet space between thought and form, the light-filled pause where the eye rests and the mind find clarity. Today, in a world buzzing with distraction, white takes on renewed significance. Pantone's selection of PANTONE 11-4201 Cloud Dancer as the Colour of the Year 2026 celebrates this very essence - a lofty, aerated white that whispers calm and serenity into a frenetic society. At James Cropper, the historic British papermaker, white is not just a conceptual ideal - it is a craft, a product, and a philosophy...

Wedding Flower Trends Set to Bloom in 2026

As couples begin planning their nuptials for the year ahead, 2026 wedding trends are already coming into bloom. Drawing inspiration from the likes of Bridgerton and regency-era romance, Lucy Hook, Floral Lead at Bloom & Wild, shares how brides and grooms can embrace these tones through their floral choices creating looks that feel understated yet refined, moving away from bold brights toward something more subtle, romantic and dreamlike.

Lucy Can't Dance Launches 'Atomic Bloom'

Celebrated non-traditional bridal house, Lucy Can't Dance, marks its 10-year anniversary with the launch of its most vibrant and diverse collection to date, 'Atomic Bloom'. The new line is a joyful celebration of colour, comfort, and unique personality, confirming the brand's position as a leader in alternative bridalwear. To mark the significant 10-year milestone, founder lucy drew inspiration from the brand's past hits, resulting in a collection that is both nostalgic and forward-looking.

Hen Party Trends for 2026

Hen parties in 2026 are shaping up to be even more expressive, more personal and far more adventurous than the familiar nights out of the past decade, according to hen party experts Book a Party. Brides and their friends are leaning into weekends that feel curated rather than copied. There is a clear move toward experiences that tell a story about the bride and the group. People want something that feels fresh and clever but still relaxed enough that everyone can enjoy themselves without pressure.

Expert Reveals Why Winter Weddings Are Making a Big Comeback in the UK

Once considered the "off-season" of the wedding world, winter is now becoming one of the most sought-after seasons for UK couples tying the knot. Industry experts say the trend is more than a passing phase, but rather it's the start of a long-term shift in how Brits envision their perfect day. To understand why couples are turning to crisp days, cosy settings, and festive flair, we spoke with Nick Bramer from Country House Weddings, who says winter weddings are not only more romantic, but strategically smart.

Bradbourne House 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 Bradbourne House, Kent, for inspiration on Sunday 22nd February, 2026! 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.

easyJet launches new route from London Southend

easyJet has announced the launch of a new route for summer 2026 from London Southend Airport to Jersey, with seats now on sale. Jersey, the largest of the Channel Islands, is now just a short flight away offers a wonderful mix of natural beauty, history, and culture. Customers can explore historic castles, relax on beautiful beaches, and absorb its fascinating wartime history.

‘Tis the season to say ‘I Do’ - but don’t forget this crucial step, warns expert

December is the most popular month to get engaged, accounting for more than 11% of proposals¹. But, as peak proposal season approaches, new research from MoneySuperMarket reveals that many couples could be putting their engagement rings - and their wallets - at risk. The research* revealed that two-thirds (66%) of engaged or married couples don't have their rings covered under their home insurance and more than a quarter (27%) don't have any insurance at all. The data highlights a growing protection gap, particularly among younger generations with over a third (38%) of 18-24 year olds having no cover, compared to 24% of 25-34 year olds.

Feeling festive at Bill's

Bill's is certainly feeling festive, with it's amazing Christmas offerings. Choose from festive favourites including King Prawn Cocktail, Turkey Breast with Festive Stuffing & Sticky Toffee Pudding. Whether your a table of two or 20, enjoy three delicious courses from £35.95 on the Christmas Set Menu until Tuesday 30th December. Bill's has partnered with Johnnie Walker, Casamigos Tequila, Tanqueray & Ron Santiago De Cuba to create brand NEW festive cocktails. Crafted with winter berries, warm citrus & a touch of sparkle, there's a seasonal serve waiting for you...

Wedding Song of 2025

The Post Barn, the award-winning Berkshire venue, is delighted to announce its Wedding Song of the Year 2025, as chosen by their 2025 wedding couples. Topping the list is "West Coast" by Lana Del Rey, capturing hearts with its dreamy, cinematic vibe. Following closely are: We Found Love – Sydnee Carter; You Make My Dreams – Alex Francis; No Judgement – Niall Horan; Perfect – Ed Sheeran. In total, The Post Barn played an impressive 9,092 songs for their wedding guests throughout the year. The average listening age of these tunes? A youthful 26, reflecting a vibrant, contemporary taste among couples celebrating their special day.

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 15th February, 2026! 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.

Braintree Village unveils Christmas activities for 2025

Christmas has well and truly arrived at Braintree Village, as it announces the return of its Giving Tree alongside several pop ups for the festive season. Plus, the outlet has announced exclusive offers at selected brands for ice-rink ticket holders. Braintree Village has collaborated with local charity, First Stop Centre, to give Christmas gifts to those in need within the local community. First Stop Centre aims to offer real and immediate help to members of the community who are struggling and want to improve the quality of their lives.

2026 wedding trends that are set to dominate your feed

As wedding-related searches such as 'dream wedding' and 'wedding décor inspo' are up 10,000% year-on-year according to Pinterest trends, it's clear that couples are turning their attention to the finer details of their nuptials. To guide couples through 2026 wedding planning, Jess Levick, Assistant Buyer at Suit Direct, and Lucy Hook, Floral Lead at Bloom & Wild, reveal the key wedding trends shaping celebrations next year, covering regency romance, natural colour palettes and hyper-personalised celebrations.

Crondon Park is excited to be hosting an open day Sunday 11th Jan

Crondon Park is excited to be hosting an open day on Sunday 11th January 2026. Recently announced as the number one wedding venue in the UK with the most reviews on Hitched (over 1,500!), the staff are looking forward to meeting and securing couples' special days by showing them what the venue has to offer. A premier wedding destination nestled in the heart of the picturesque Essex countryside. The barn itself exudes rustic sophistication, combining traditional features with contemporary comforts to provide an enchanting setting for any wedding.

Fee-fi-fo-fun!

Fee-fi-fo-fun! Get ready to go on a giant adventure as Jack and the Beanstalk comes to life at Braintree theatre The Institute on selected dates from 12th to 31st December. Packed with hilarious comedy, dazzling costumes, show-stopping songs and plenty of audience participation, it's the ultimate panto experience for all. Will Jack outwit the fearsome Giant? Will Dame Trott ever find a quiet moment? And just how many magic beans does it take to change their fortunes? There's only one way to find out—join us for a spectacular journey up the beanstalk and beyond!

County Wedding Events coming Kimberley Hall, Norfolk!

If you're newlyweds-to-be embarking on your wedding planning journey, pop along to the County Wedding Events wedding show at Kimberley Hall, Norfolk, for inspiration on Sunday 8th February 2026! Sister company to County Wedding Magazines, the event brings couples face-to-face 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. Built in 1712 during the reign of Queen Anne, Kimberley sits at the centre of a 700 acre park laid out in 1778. The house boasts spectacular views past grazing cattle and Norfolk's greatest concentration of ancient oaks, to a large lake at the bottom of the River Tiffey valley. Centrally located in Norfolk, 9 miles west of Norwich and close to arterial road, rail and air links (plus a private airstrip), Kimberley is ideally positioned.

What are Prenup and Postnup Agreements?

Nuptial agreements have seen a rise in popularity in the UK, with high profile divorces highlighting the risks of not having a prenup or postnup in place. In addition, people now tend to get married later in life when they have accumulated more wealth and therefore have more assets to protect. Claire Porter, partner within the family team at leading Cheshire-based law firm SAS Daniels, discusses nuptial agreements for pre and post-marriage...

Crondon 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 Crondon Park, Essex, for inspiration on Sunday 8th February 2026! 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. Set in the beautiful valley of Crondon, with stunning views across the Essex countryside and our championship golf course - Crondon Park has established an outstanding reputation as a premier venue in Essex and the UK.

DOWN HALL HOTEL, SPA & ESTATE JOINS FORCES WITH WELLNESS BRAND, BRAMLEY

Down Hall Hotel, the 110-acre country house hotel, spa and estate on the Essex/Hertfordshire border has expanded its wellness offering in partnership with British wellness brand Bramley. The collaboration brings the hotel's holistic ethos to life, with in-room amenities and exclusive spa treatments delivered solely using Bramley's sustainable, plant-based products. The estate's expansive grounds, including its kitchen garden, are home to many of the same plants, florals and botanicals that inspire Bramley's own formulations, grounding the experience in its natural surroundings.