Your London Wedding news and ideas from around the capital

Ceremony inspiration with celebrant Amanda

Leigh-On-Sea-based celebrant Amanda Wheal will be on hand at County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Mercedes-Benz World on Sunday 13th of October to discuss all of your wedding planning needs. Are you looking for a unique wedding ceremony, written just for you? Amanda says, "Come and say hello and find out how together we'll create your personalised ceremony, amazing, unforgettable and totally feelgood. Whether it's traditional, formal, modern, relaxed or a mix I guarantee it'll exceed your expectations, and totally captivate your guests. I can clarify all the legalities like giving notice to marry and I'll talk you through each of my ceremony packages You'll be amazed at what I can do with ribbons, sand and candles, and find out why I have a broomstick! So, come and say hello, you'll be pleasantly surprised at what you discover!

The lowdown from formalwear expert Stephen Bishop Suiting

Regular show favourite Stephen Bishop from Woking-based formal menswear store Stephen Bishop Suiting shares his top advice for choosing your big-day attire. What's more, Stephen will be on hand, at County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Ascot Racecourse, on 27th October and also Mercedes-Benz World on 13th October - here he can answer all of your wedding day questions and will have a huge selection of his suits and coordinating accessories on display. Established in 2013, Stephen Bishop Suiting opened specifically to offer men a higher-end, one-stop-shop for formal wear, specifically with weddings in mind. I'm a multi-award-winning formal wear specialist with more than 30 years of experience.

Alma Makes joins County Wedding Events for the first time

We're excited to announce that Alma Makes will be joining the upcoming County Wedding Events team for the first time at the Mercedes-Benz World Signature Wedding Show! Alma Makes specialises in bespoke flower preservation and personalised memorial keepsakes in Surrey; transforming cherished memories into timeless pieces of art, preserving the beauty of wedding bouquets, memorial flowers, and pet tributes in resin. "We're also pleased to invite you to visit us at the upcoming County Wedding Events' show," shares Alma. "We'll be showcasing our latest creations and offering special promotions exclusively for event attendees.

Meet Maki's Cakes at Mercedes-Benz World for the first time

Maki's Cakes is excited to be showcasing its work for the first time at the upcoming, County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Mercedes-Benz Wedding on Sunday 13th October! Meet the designer, Makiko Searle and explore its bespoke wedding cakes, custom designs and delicious treats, all crafted with precision and creativity. "We look forward to seeing you at the show!" says award-winning cake designer Makiko.

Find out more about this new venue

Anna's Garden Parties' events are lovingly tailored to meet your event's needs, and the team will be on hand to chat at the County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Mercedes-Benz World on Sunday 13th October. Anna's Garden Parties's offers a beautiful garden venue to host wedding receptions; the space is completely immersed in flowers, woodland, and lawn with a private pond for a truly outdoor experience, coupled with unique features to make the day down-to-earth, fun and gorgeous all round.

"Perfect space for smaller, intimate, down to earth and outdoor events - even micro- weddings - we offer a beautiful space and great food at a competitive and reasonable price," says Anna

Showstopping cars from Ultimate Classic Car Hire

Tony Allen began turning his teenage passion for collecting classic motor vehicles to good use by lending his cars for friends' weddings. Then, way back in 1990, as the collection grew, he established his classic car hire business: Ultimate Classic Car Hire. The company, and some of its fleet will be at the County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Mercedes-Benz World on Sunday 13th October, 2024. Since then, the collection has grown exponentially into one of the most impressive in the South East of England. Ultimate Classic Car Hire, based in Send, Surrey, now offers a remarkable selection of over 35 classic, vintage and luxury cars.

Wedding flower inspiration from floral designer Dawn Jennings

Pop along to the County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Mercedes-Benz World on Sunday 13th October to meet floral designer Dawn Jennings who will be exhibiting at the event. "Myself and the team are all qualified and professional florists and pride ourselves in being outstanding creatives and visual storytellers - always making dazzling fresh floral designs that are individually unique as every one of our couples!

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.

In awe of magic? Meet magician Adam at Bluewater

Adam Smith is a phenomenal magician who will leave your guests in awe during your drinks reception, wedding breakfast, or evening celebration. You can see him in action at the County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Bluewater on Sunday 6th October 2024. With more then 21 years' of experience, Adam has built an outstanding reputation not only for his incredible magic but also for his engaging personality and unique charm, he truly is the complete package and he is one of the most in demand magicians in the South East.

£20 off a bespoke, personalised, wedding or anniversary cushions

Claire, creator of Treasured Textiles, makes bespoke, handmade wedding and celebration cushions, will be at the County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Bluewater on Sunday 6th October. Her personalised cushions can be treasured forever and are all individually handmade, based on your wedding photos. Her cushions make a perfect gift and keepsake for the couple themselves, or as a perfect 'Thank You' to parents, bridesmaids, or even flowergirls, that helped make your big day truly special. They would make an excellent 1st anniversary, 10 year or even 50th Golden Wedding anniversary presents! Claire also offers personalised ring cushions for the big day itself!

Award-winning wedding band The Redfords to Exhibit at Bluewater Signature Wedding Show

Award-winning wedding band The Redfords to Exhibit at Bluewater Signature Wedding Show on 6th October 2024! Couples, along with family and friends, are warmly invited to visit their stand and discover how The Redfords can transform your special day into an incredible celebration. At the show, you'll have the chance to meet and chat with band members, request your favourite songs, and learn how they can create the party of a lifetime at your wedding! With a reputation built since 2006, The Redfords are celebrated for their ability to keep dancefloors packed with a dynamic mix of classic hits and contemporary favourites across genres like rock, pop, indie, soul, disco, and Motown.

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.

Discover Light Bar's new Sunday menu

Light Bar, a prominent fixture in East London's dining scene, has unveiled its new Sunday Sessions menu, showcasing an array of Sunday roast-inspired dishes. Crafted by the talented Head Chef Ali Borer, formerly of the Smoking Goat, the menu pairs Asian flavours with the finest British produce. Promising a dining experience infused with vibrant fl avours and innovative techniques, Ali draws upon his experiences and passion for Malaysian and Southeast Asian cuisines. With a commitment to sustainability at its core, the menu showcases a 'head to tail' approach, ensuring that every ingredient is thoughtfully utilised to minimise waste and maximise flavour.

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.

Searching for the one? Head to Bluewater's wedding fair

Little White Dress, an exciting bridal outlet in the heart of Gravesend's Heritage Quarter, is exhibiting at the County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Bluewater on Sunday 6th October. A family-run business, proud to have helped thousands of brides to be in finding their perfect dress, its team work hard to source some of the most beautiful gowns and the bridal experience is reflected in its daily five-star reviews across social media. A very warm welcome awaits you, whatever your budget. Bridal outlet offering designer gowns up to 75% off RRP plus additional discounts for NHS, Military and Emergency Service personnel

Meet renowned photographer at TWO Signature Shows

Renowned London-based photographer, Richard Payne Photography, is exhibiting at not one, but two County Wedding Events Signature Wedding Shows: Bluewater and Ascot Racecourse! "Commissioned worldwide for more than 15 years my unique use of film and digital cameras, alongside my handmade prints and books, has been catching the eye of hundreds of couples on the lookout for something unique and special for their big day. Come to my stand and see first hand what I can offer for your special day," says Richard.

15% discount on all photography packages

Natalie Chiverton Photography is exhibiting at County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Bluewater, and has some exciting discounts for couples visiting on the day that you're not going to want to miss out on! "I'm looking forward to meeting you at the Bluewater Wedding Show," says Natalie. "Say hello and receive a 15% discount on all my packages. Choose between the all-inclusive, straightforward packages or the flexible, timeless collections that best fit your needs.

Show special: free Aerial Drone! Value £499 with every Premium Package.

Award-winning filming, photography and content creation, why settle for a wedding video when you can have a cinematic experience with Kent-based Video UK. Show Special: Free Aerial Drone! Value £499 with every Premium Package. Owner Mike says: "Let's Meet! Choosing your suppliers can be very daunting, if you can't make the fair I invite you to visit my Hempstead studio where we can discuss your wedding plans over a coffee and get to know each other. Examples of my work are readily available and you are never pressurised to make a decision there and then, I always agree to hold the date for you to have enough time to make up your mind.

"Choose from our BESPOKE DESIGNED SERVICE, our EXCLUSIVE PREMIUM EXPERIENCE or our budget ESSENTIAL PACKAGE. What's more....

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.

Meet Hair by Linzi at the Bluewater Wedding Fair

Clips and Twists Wedding Hair by Linzi is exhibiting at the County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Bluewater on Sunday October 6th 2024! "Hello, I'm Linzi the passionate artist behind clips and twists wedding hair by linzi. With a heart full of creativity and a keen eye for detail, I've been dedicated to the art of bridal hair for over 20 years. "My journey began with a deep love for making brides feel their absolute best on one of the most important days of their lives. I specialize in creating stunning, personalized bridal hairstyles that perfectly complement your vision for your big day. With a deep passion for beauty and a keen eye for detail, my experienced styles work closely with you to craft a look that enhances your natural beauty and harmonizes with your wedding theme.