NEARLYWED NEWS

YOUR ESSENTIALS Nearlywed NEWS All the latest from around the region

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NEW WOODLAND CEREMONY SPACE

If you love the idea of walking up a tree-lined aisle under dappled sunshine to say ‘I do’, with birds singing in the trees overhead, this could be your dream come true. The new woodland ceremony glade at Alpheton Hall Barns in Suffolk is an idyllic spot for romantic al fresco weddings and you don’t need to worry if the weather’s bad as there’s always the beautiful Ceremony Barn as backup. The woodland glade includes a hand-crafted oak ceremony feature, completed in spring this year by owner Nic Willcocks, providing cover for the registrars, the happy couple and witnesses. There’s rustic, wooden bench seating too for 200 or more people, a ceremony table, power and sound system. Hundreds of native woodland bulbs and plants including anemones, bluebells and primroses have also been planted to create a carpet of colour in the years to come. For more information on weddings at Alpheton Hall Barns visit https://alpheton-hall-barns.co.uk and turn to our local venues feature on page 25.

CAMBRIDGE STAYCATION HOTSPOT

It’s official, Cambridge is a top destination for a weekend getaway! The university city has been named third best staycation hotspot in the UK behind York second and Oxford in first place. Great news for couples in the region looking for somewhere close to home to take time out from the wedding planning! The research, conducted by travel insurance experts Forbes Advisor, scored UK locations on key factors such as the cost of eating out, transport and attractions, to discover the best places for visitors to enjoy a memorable experience. RAISE A GLASS

Bayfield Catering (https://bayfieldcatering. co.uk) is celebrating a great year of success! The Norfolk-based business was not only runner-up in the Aylsham Show Food and Drink Hero Awards but also recently scooped the title of Best Wedding Catering Company in the SME News UK Enterprise Awards. Chef and owner Emma Boubaker said, “We cannot wait to celebrate with our staff and everyone who helped get us to where we are now.”

WITH THIS RING

Bradley Hatch Jewellers of Wroxham has recently expanded its wedding collection to include zirconium wedding bands for men. The design-led collection incorporates an extensive range of precious metals and diamonds in the masculine, elegant styles. Lightweight and highly scratch-resistant, zirconium is a popular choice for everyday wear and a modern twist on classic designs. Visit www.bradleyhatch.com

DREAM COME TRUE

After 40 years as an avid photographer, Suffolk-based Wayne Button turned his hobby into a full-time career and is now celebrating his first anniversary in the job he loves.

He says, “I took the leap of faith last October and haven’t looked back since.” Wayne developed his skills in his spare time while working in the construction industry for 36 years and now specialises in wedding photography in and around East Anglia.

“In October 2021, at the age of 55, while scraping ice off of a digger, I decided that enough was enough and it was time to turn my passion into a career,” he recalls.

To learn as much as possible, he started shadowing his long-term friend and wedding photographer Chris Smith shooting ceremonies and weddings part-time at weekends. “During that time I had been displaying my work in magazines and competitions but always believed it would simply continue as a hobby,” he explains. When he finally decided to take the plunge he was able to put his personal laid-back approach to good use creating a rapport with his clients. “A more informal kind of style helps people to relax and feel more in the moment,” he explains. “Even after all these years, I’m still developing my photography and pushing the boundaries and I welcome couples who have their own interesting ideas, as it gives me the opportunity to really let my creativity run wild.” To find out more visit www.waynebuttonphotography.com

LATEST LINES

On the hunt for your dream dress? Check out some of the latest lovelies at Pure Brides of Norwich. The award-winning, city-centre boutique has introduced some fabulous new designers including Milla Nova in-store now with collections from Wona and Monreal due to arrive in the new year. Alongside the store’s existing Evie Young, Abella, Rebecca Ingram and Allure ranges, brides-to-be will be spoilt for choice. Check out www.purebrides.co.uk

Beautiful strapless Persa gown with 3D floral details, billowing sleeves and romantic tulle overskirt.

Abri, a stunning fit and flare Milla Nova gown with long sleeves and matching detachable overskirt. HAPPY GLAMPING

Picture your wedding night under the stars? With Norfolk-based Peg & Mallet’s luxurious bridal bell tent you can sleep over in comfort and style and wake up to the sounds of nature on your first day as a married couple. Snug and romantic, it comes fully decorated including bunting and fairylights, a wooden double bed and mattress, luxury bed linen, sumptuous cushions, throws, dressing table and other home comforts. What’s more, Your East Anglian Wedding readers can claim £50 off the booking price simply by quoting the code P&M50 on enquiry. The exclusive discount is also available for The Snug bell tent, perfect as a chill-out area on the big day, it comes complete with full flooring, circular handmade table, comfy beanbags, cushions, side tables and mood lighting. To view the company’s full range visit https://pegandmallet.com