NEWS Nearlywed

AWARD-WINNING PHOTOGRAPHY

Glimmering Sparkle Weddings has been voted ‘Best Photographer in the North West’ by Hitched for the second year running. The duo have also received a LUXlife Magazine Global Wedding Award for ‘Best Contemporary Photography Team’ – congratulations!

“We think being a team is the single most significant difference between us and other photographers as both of us provide the coverage at any wedding,” says owners Kat and Greg. “We work each image individually to get the most out of each capture and although it does take a bit longer to process the footage, which is reduced down to the best 300-700 images depending on the wedding, the result is a set of images that couples will enjoy coming back to. Each wedding is different and with this in mind, we’ve looked at all the options our couples can choose from and moulded them into an instant service, which we believe to be the first of its kind offered anywhere in the UK by photographers. Much like when choosing car insurance, couples can choose what they want and submit it via our website to receive an email with their quotation. The best part is that they’re able to do it using their smart devices, in their own time, in the comfort of their own home and without having to talk to a rep.”

Visit www.glimmeringsparkle.co.uk for more information.

A Magical Performance

Wedding planning can seem endless, and as the day gets closer, many couples will be thinking about their entertainment. MagicALEXcellencE (the magic of Alex D Fisher) offers close-up and cabaret magic and has recently launched a new Wedding Hosting Service.

“Those of you looking for a wedding reception that people will recall for months to come will naturally be anxious about scheduling,” says Alex. “As your wedding host/MC, I will not only make all the announcements and introductions at the key stages of your day, but I will also bring a special blend of award-winning comedy magic to your reception. I will create a relaxed vibe that will bring your guests together and give everyone plenty of laughs as well as mind-blowing gasps. I combine my magic and MC duties to ensure a truly memorable and smooth-running day, which will allow you to relax and enjoy yourselves.”

Visit www.alexdfisher.co.uk for more information.

Nestled in Boltonby-Bowland, in the heart of the beautiful Ribble Valley, The Coach & Horses is a cosy Grade II listed Coaching Inn and is the perfect location for couples looking for an intimate setting for their big day.

With seven beautifully-decorated bedrooms, including two family rooms (sleeping four) and two dog-friendly rooms, a statement bar, and an awardwinning restaurant seating 40, wedding parties will have exclusive use of the venue on their wedding day. From getting ready in the morning with a glass of champagne and sipping a cocktail in the sunshine on the outdoor terrace, to enjoying a delicious sit-down meal and dancing the night away with loved ones, the Coach offers an idyllic setting to make memories that will last a lifetime.

The wedding breakfast is a focal part of the day, and the team will work with each couple to create a bespoke menu. Included is a meeting with head chef Ian Moss and the team to talk through dishes, any likes, dislikes, and dietary requirements, so they can build a menu tailored to the wedding party, with the option to upgrade to a tasting menu. The Coach also offers matching wines for each dish or drinks packages.

The Coach requires a minimum of 14 people for a wedding, with the option of up to 40 for a sit-down meal and up to 75 for the evening. All packages include arrival drinks and a glass of prosecco for the toasts and a two-night stay with the use of all seven bedrooms.

To find out more, contact bookings@coachandhorsesribblevalley.co.uk or visit www.coachandhorsesribblevalley.co.uk

Rest And Relaxation

Spa experience and booking agency Spabreaks.com has revealed the top five spas in Manchester.

Rena Spa at The Midland was number one. This awardwinning spa is an underground haven where you’ll be transported into a world of peace and calm with satisfyingly relaxing results. There are several impressive experiences to enjoy, such as the Caribbean Storm and Arctic Rain showers, but the piece de resistance is the relaxation areas. Here, you can choose from discovering sleep in a hanging pod cocoon, in an ergonomic sleep chamber or a sound-cancelling egg chair. See more at www.themidlandhotel.co.uk/spa.

The second most popular spa is the Mercure Norton Grange Hotel and Spa (www.nortongrangehotel.com). Only eight miles from the city centre and yet surrounded by landscaped gardens with views of the Pennine Hills, a getaway at this hotel can be whatever you want it to be. Shopping, nightlife and sightseeing are all at your fingertips, but for some real relaxation, head to the hotel’s spa and enjoy some downtime. As well as a gym, swimming pool and thermal suite, the spa has six treatment rooms where you can ease tension with a gorgeous Decleor body or facial treatment.

Third place goes to Harmony & Serenity Spa at Manchester Piccadilly Hotel (www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk/manchester), fourth is Malmaison Manchester (www.malmaison.com) and in fifth place is The Edwardian Manchester, A Radisson Collection Hotel (www.radissonhotels.com).

For more information, visit www.spabreaks.com

As Pretty As A Picture

Tom Benson Photography, a talented photographer based in Barrowford, Lancashire, is offering Your North West Wedding readers 10 per cent off any full-day wedding package. There are three packages to choose from; the Silver Package includes coverage of the bridal prep, the ceremony, couple shots, family portraits and speeches. The Gold Package covers the same but with the addition of the cake cutting and the first dance. Lastly, the Platinum Package includes all of the above, plus pictures of your evening guests, a personalised all-in-one acrylic album and a pre-wedding engagement shoot.

“It will never get old to me that people trust me with a window into their most delicate moments,” says Tom. “I have an absolute passion for capturing weddings. I’m here to capture your story, including all of the emotion, joy and laughter.”

To claim this offer, email Tom at info@tombenson.co.uk and mention the magazine. Offer ends 31st July 2023.

See more of Tom’s work at www.tombenson.co.uk

New Ceremony Spaces

The historic Leighton Hall in Carnforth, Lancashire, is celebrating summer with delightful new wedding locations. Romance and weddings have been in abundance for 35 years at this historic hall, which has five indoor and outdoor wedding ceremony sites designed to sweep you and your guests off your feet. From the moment you arrive in front of the dramatic Gothic façade to saying ‘I do’ in historic splendour and dancing the night away under the magical Victorian glass, the friendly team will work with you to shape your party and bring your ideas to life.

Thanks to expert-sensitive restoration, the newly refurbished Victorian Conservatory is a truly special location for you and your loved ones to enjoy. Comfortably hosting up to 50 guests for ceremonies and receptions, it’s the perfect way to bring the stunning outside in while keeping you feeling snug and serene.

Fancy taking it al fresco? The gardens offer more than just stunning photographs, as you can now exchange vows surrounded by nature in the historic herb garden pavilion or the regal lawn, both hosting up to 80 friends and family.

Not just for summer, the Victorian Conservatory and Hall are both fully heated with modern convenience. Warm and cosy, they are guaranteed to warm every heart through autumn’s glorious colours to a frost-glittered winter wonderland.

Visit www.leightonhall.co.uk email weddings@leightonhall.co.uk or call 01524 734 474 for more information.