If you’re planning a 2026 wedding, here are the key shifts we’re seeing and how they’re influencing the way we design, plan and celebrate!

Red & Burgundy Colour Schemes

Burgundy is having a real moment in winter 2025! And we are seeing this trend of red tones moving through into 2026 weddings, but not always in the sense of a full red palette. It’s appearing as subtle, elegant accents that add a slight nod to this colour scheme. A red ribbon tied around a napkin, a pair of burgundy shoes peeking out beneath the dress, a red lip, a raspberry cocktail garnish, a single deep crimson rose within a neutral bouquet. We are seeing red pared with pale yellow, white, green tones, and we are also seeing full red and burgundy statement flower pieces, pared with black tie outfits – even in summer! Red makes for a bold statement – we love it!

Requests for blow-drys

Bridal beauty is continuing its journey away from structured, ‘done’ looks. In 2026, a trend we are seeing is brides wanting to look like themselves, just at their very possible best. Hair worn down, half-down, or softly waved creates an effortless, romantic feel. Makeup is natural, glowing and skin-focused. The overall look is “I just look like this,” rather than “I spent 3 hours on this.” The bouncy blow-dry is most definitely in right now, with the evolution of blow dry stylers and tools, and brides are also embracing it. It’s confident, real and timeless.

Multi-Day Celebrations

A single wedding day can go by so quickly, and couples are realising that the best moments often happen around the wedding day, whether it’s at the welcome party, the late-night kitchen chat, the slow breakfast the morning after, or during their post wedding afternoon drinks. So instead of one whirlwind day, 2026 is all about multi-day celebrations. Guests arrive the day before for a relaxed welcome dinner or cocktail evening, enjoy a pool party or brunch the day after, and really settle into the experience. It gives space, joy, connection, and importantly, time to actually be with the people you love. It saves those long conversations during the wedding day when you just want to dance, and saying goodbye at the end of the evening, when you ALSO just want to dance! Pulling a couple away from enjoying their band is no mean feat!

Want to know more about multi-day weddings? Find out here: Multi Day Weddings – Why One Day Isn’t Enough!

Pool Parties and Laid-Back Brunches

As we just mentioned, weekend-style weddings are most definitely a trend right now. I feel this has come from European weddings, but for couples who still want to stay in the UK but have this full weekend experience, like you get abroad, but without the stress of flights. 

One of the most popular things we are seeing is a post wedding day event. We’re seeing relaxed poolside gatherings, Aperol spritzes under the sun, linen outfits, and playlists that feel like summer holidays. The following morning, instead of rushing off, couples host casual brunches where everyone can debrief, laugh about the dance floor moments, and enjoy pastries and iced coffees in sunglasses and comfy clothes. Couples are going all out, with a different colour scheme, think bright pinks, lime greens and lemon yellows, with bold linen and centre pieces. It’s like their creative, bold side has taken over, but they want to keep their wedding day sophisticated and timeless! Food wise, it’s all about the brunch grazing style station, with bagel and smoked salmon, alongside a good bit of bacon and of course – mimosas and bloody Marys!

Menus That Reflect The Couple

Wedding food is no longer an afterthought or something chosen simply because it’s expected. Food is emotional, cultural and nostalgic, and couples want that reflected. They also want their guests to walk away from their wedding, never forgetting how good the food was! We’re seeing trends of shared feasting platters at weddings, beautiful family-style dishes inspired by their upbringings, and menus inspired by places couples have travelled to. Couples are wanting something ‘different’ from the standard wedding caterer. Think Asian fusion, mezze feasts, pasta served in big steaming bowls, raw seafood bars, fresh wood-fired pizzas and vibrant, colourful plates. Couples want their guests to think ‘that is so them!’ Have a favourite Turkish restaurant you eat at regularly? Our couples are wanting places like this, that mean something to them, to cater for their weddings.

Top tip: although you may have a fave restaurant who are willing to cater for your wedding, make sure they do have large event/wedding catering experience as it’sa very different kettle of fish to catering at a restaurant! Having a marquee? Again, make sure they have marquee experience, as this is an even more difficult request for caterers.

Speeches from Friends

Speeches are shifting too. More couples are inviting their closest friends to speak alongside family, or instead of family altogether. Friends often know the everyday relationship stories that make people laugh and cry. I mean, friends know all our embarrassing stories, right?! The result is speeches that feel warm and deeply personal, rather than formal or traditional. It’s storytelling about you as a couple at its most genuine.

Skipping the Wedding Party

Lots of couples are choosing to not have traditional wedding parties entirely, it’s definitely a trend we are seeing for 2026! There’s much less focus on matching dresses or who stands where, and instead a more relaxed approach where friends simply support you naturally. They might still get ready with you, be part of your morning, have a group photo with you, just without the labels and responsibilities. It helps couples to not have to worry about who is having special titles, and making others feel not as important. Adding titles can also cause stress and upset. We find wedding party fall outs to be a common theme!

Furniture Trends

Furniture is definitely becoming a wedding trend in 2026. 2026 is all about thoughtful details, rather than feeling generic. Couples want are requesting lounge areas that feel like a beautifully designed living room, rather than rental pieces lined up in rows. They want lounge furniture, that is not also great for elder guests to sit on for example, but also to look great in photos. We’re talking curved sofas, rattan areas and traditional chesterfields. 

Couples are also trying to move away from the standard offering of Chiavari chairs and matching their furniture to their décor. We are even getting requests where couples are moving away from the standard round or long tables. We are talking mix matching between the two options, or some are even talking curved, caterpillar style tables, which we don’t think are always logistically the best! You definitely seat less guests – but if you want this look, it’s an option!

2026 trends are all about creating spaces that invite guests to settle in, relax and enjoy the atmosphere rather than simply pass through.

Live Music and Entertainment

Live music is back, and in the most joyful way. Brass bands that parade guests from ceremony to reception, gospel choirs creating atmosphere during drinks, saxophonists weaving through the dance floor at midnight, bands that are performing not only in the evening, but also in the daytime. Couples in 2026 want music that is immersive and emotional. These also want to leave no gap in the day without entertainment. These performances fill the air in a way no playlist ever can. 

Entertainment is also a big thing. We aren’t just seeing your garden games! We are seeing couples hire in full mini golf courses, performers such as dancers, stilt walkers, drag acts and fortune tellers. Even additions to the day such as a backdrop where you ring a bell for a prosecco and a hand pops out with your glass of bubbly! It’s all about being interactive in 2026!

The Biggest Trend of All: Couples Who Know Themselves

The most important shift we’re seeing is couples making decisions based on who they are. They’re no longer trying to impress, perform or replicate something from Instagram. They’re choosing meaningful details and investing in experiences over aesthetics. Their weddings feel grounded, joyful, thoughtful and truly personal. And honestly, it’s the most beautiful thing to witness. These are most definitely my favourite weddings!

Which 2026 wedding trends are you leaning towards having? Still not sure how to fit them into your day? We would love to help with your planning! Get in touch here.

Want to have a look back at the top wedding trends of 2025? Here is one of our predictions from last year: Wedding colour of the year 2025

The post 2026 Wedding Trends appeared first on Hannah Rose Weddings & Events LTD.

Just starting your wedding planning journey and have no idea where to begin?! Find our tips on how to start here: How To Start Wedding Planning

Your feelings are valid

People love to say “don’t worry, it’ll be fine.” “They are adults, let them get on with it”. And however much this should be true, sometimes it is. Sometimes it isn’t. Either way, anxiety doesn’t vanish because someone told you to calm down. It’s okay to acknowledge that this is making you nervous. Naming it is step one; planning for it is step two.

Tackle it early with honest, calm conversations

Awkward chats now prevent drama later. If you’re worried about how your parents (or a parent and stepparent) will be around each other, raise it well in advance, ideally together, if you can. Approaching the conversation as a couple helps you hold your boundaries and ensures you don’t minimise your own needs mid-chat. It also means your partner can step in if the conversation becomes too emotional for you, and also just to show you’re in this conversation together, especially if you feel the conversation could go down the route of your parent saying you’re being ridiculous. Two people with the same opinion is stronger that one.

Whether this is just an initial conversation to say that you are concerned, or a conversation to tell them how you want things to happen, ie. step parents involved in tradtiions, such as step dad walking you down the aisle, don’t avoid the conversation and leave it until near to the date. Speaking from experience, this will cause more negative emotions than nipping it in the bud when you start planning.

If emotions run high or a parent bristles at the topic, anchor back to the truth: it’s your wedding. You’re not accusing; you’re informing, kindly and clearly.

Boundaries in your wedding planning aren’t rude. They’re a kindness

Setting your wedding boundaries tell people how to love you well. Decide at the beginning of your wedding planning what your boundaries are with divorced parents. Be specific and proactive:

Arrival times: “We’d love you at the venue from 12:30, not before.”

Getting ready spaces: “Morning prep is just bridal party and Mum. We’ll see everyone else at the ceremony.”

Photo lists: “We’re keeping group photos short; here’s who’s included.”

Speeches: “We’re having two speeches: Best Man and Maid of Honour. No others.”

Top table/seat placement: “We’re not doing a traditional top table.”

Have these conversations, and for things like photo lists, these are great to ping out to parents before the day, more as an FYI so they know when they will need to be around, but actually, you are showing them photos that you do want to get, for example if you want a photo with biological mum and dad, without step parents or partners but know this could cause an issue on the day.

When compromise helps (and when it doesn’t)

You shouldn’t compromise on your peace or your core vision. But where you’re genuinely flexible, compromise can diffuse tension and still feel meaningful. One lovely example we’ve seen is a bride with a father and stepfather who both mattered greatly. Her solution? Dad walked her halfway, stepdad walked the rest. Not right for everyone, but a middle ground so everyone is included.

If you’re navigating “who does what,” and trying to include step parents, try explaining to your parent how much they mean to you, but also how lucky you are to have great step parents who you want to involve. If you’re trying to avoid involving step parents and partners, explain how you would love to include everyone, from best friends, to siblings, but it would be too much, so you’re keeping it simple.

Try and come up with a plan with your other half, before having the conversation you’re your parents. Involve them in the how—without surrendering the what.

Morning logistics

Wedding mornings set the tone for the day. If there are tensions, this could really affect your mindset, and you will already be feeling emotional as it is.

Hair & make-up guest list: It’s perfectly normal for this to be bridal party only. If a parent’s partner expects to join, it’s okay to say no. Perhaps offer to get a price for them to have it in their room.

Staggered timings: If you do want both mums present but they don’t get along, give them different hair & make-up slots so they don’t overlap.

Protect your location: Don’t share room numbers if you’re concerned about unplanned drop-ins. “We’ll meet you at the venue at 12:30” is enough. Make sure venues/hotel reception/co-ordinators etc are aware of who you want in the room in case of any unexpected arrivals. Don’t feel like you need to answer your phone to any calls asking you where you are – you shouldn’t be having to answer your phone on your wedding morning anyway!

Etiquette as a shield: If you need an excuse, lean on etiquette: traditionally, Dad meets you at the ceremony, not in the prep room. Get your co-ordinator to back to up if needs be and also lean on what makes the logistics easier. “It’s quite far to get from the room to the ceremony. There will be the whole bridal party around, so I will just meet you outside the ceremony doors.”

Wedding seating plans that actually reduce stress

The classic long top table can feel like a pressure cooker if you have multiple sets of parents and partners. Consider:

Sweetheart table: Just the two of you. Zero seating politics. You can circulate between courses and greet everyone.

Friends only table: Sit with your wedding party and place parents on separate tables where they’ll be comfortable.

All round tables (no long top table): Name tables instead of numbering, and skip a designated top table entirely. No hierarchy, no feelings hurt.

Long banqueting tables: Pop yourselves in the middle; seat parents further away (and apart) so no one feels sidelined, but everyone gets breathing room.

The roles question: who walks, who speaks, who sits?

Blended families create grey areas. Decide what feels authentic, then communicate it clearly.

Processional: Dad, stepdad, Mum, brother, do it on your own (that’s what I did!) There’s no single right answer. If two people are important, split the aisle or involve one in a first look and the other in the walk. 

Speeches: If giving the mic to one parent creates political fallout, consider keeping speeches to your wedding party only. Or invite both parents to share a short joint toast with time limits.

Top table: If top table politics feel fraught, don’t have one. It’s your table plan – build it around atmosphere, not obligation.

Gifts and public thank yous

Traditional “thank-you bouquets in speeches” are less common now for a reason – they can be awkward with divorced or re-partnered parents and can inflame comparisons. Quiet, private thank yous are elegant and equitable. If you’d like to give flowers, repurpose table arrangements and hand them out at the end of the wedding.

What to do if a parent digs their heels in

Some people struggle to see a different perspective, especially where pride is involved. If someone won’t budge, make sure you are reiterating your why and explaining how your decisions are what you make you happiest. Make sure you stick to your guns, or you will regret it. You are not responsible for an adult’s reaction to your boundary.

It can be painful, but your wedding day isn’t the place to test reconciliation or referee old battles. Protect your enjoyment of your day that you’ve been waiting for for a long time.

Timeline clarity = fewer collisions

Publish a clear, guest-friendly timeline on your wedding website, or even if it’s just in your parents’ WhatsApp:

• Arrival windows (not early!)
• Ceremony time and where each parent should wait/enter
• Drinks reception photo plan
• Dinner call time and seating notes
• When speeches happen
• Anything else you think could cause issues

When sticking to your guns changes relationships

Here’s the heartfelt truth: holding your boundary may disappoint someone. It may change a relationship. And still, many couples tell us they’re grateful they protected their day, and I also experienced this myself and it was the best thing I did, even though it didn’t feel it at the time. You will remember how the day felt – light, relaxed, you. That matters.

You don’t have to carry this alone. Remember to be honest and have these conversations early. Set expectations clearly, lean on logistics, and choose layouts and traditions that serve your happiness, not someone else’s ego or happiness. Blended families can absolutely coexist beautifully at a wedding; they just need thought, and kind, firm boundaries.

If you’re navigating a specific tangle (seating politics, step-parent roles, competing expectations), get in touch. We’re always happy to help you map a plan that keeps the joy front and centre. And if you’d like us to handle the wedding day management of those boundaries (and the people who test them), that’s exactly what we do. Your job is to get married. We’ll handle the rest. Find out more here.

The post Navigating Wedding Planning with Separated Parents appeared first on Hannah Rose Weddings & Events LTD.

Kew Gardens 

Kew Gardens offers stunning glasshouse settings for weddings, from the Temperate House to the Nash Conservatory that can accommodate up to 200 guests. Kew delivers year-round botanical beauty – ideal for couples after a unique visitor attraction wedding in the UK plus your mode of transport can include a golf buggy to whip you around the grounds for photos – how cool! Notably, Fearne Cotton and Jesse Wood held their wedding reception at the Orangery. 

Warwick Castle

Warwick Castle is a fairytale setting offering licensed rooms for ceremonies from 20 to around 180 guests. Options range from medieval-style chambers to outdoor marquees on castle lawns. Packages often include access to towers for photography and evening entertainment. With nearly 1,000 years of ultimate history, it’s one of the UK’s most iconic visitor-attraction wedding venues. 

Bodleian Libraries 

This venue is a firm favourite of ours, offering incredible wedding settings like Convocation House and the Divinity School – both licensed for civil ceremonies! As one of Europe’s oldest libraries, and part of the University of Oxford, the Bodleian is incredibly prestigious, and equally just such a beautiful space for a wedding, holding up to 200 guests. Your reception will then be held in the stunning Divinity school, which has such a wow factor, after a drink’s reception fit for any king or queen in the Quadrangle. The venue is even featured in the Harry Potter! What’s more to love?! It is a hugely atmospheric and one of kind wedding venue! And don’t forget those iconic wedding photos outside the Wren Door and under the Bridge Of Sighs!

Ashmolean Museum 

Britain’s first public museum, the Ashmolean offers licensed galleries, a grand staircase and rooftop or atrium spaces for weddings – not to mention the stunning exterior of this venue! Ceremony capacities vary from 70 to 150 depending on the gallery. Surrounded by pieces of priceless art and collections dating all the way back to the 1600s, it’s perfect for a culturally rich, visually striking visitor-attraction wedding. 

Natural History Museum 

Arguably one of the most famous museums in the world the Natural History Museum offers 12 licensed spaces for weddings, with ceremony/dinner capacities ranging from 100 to over 200 guests. Home to Hintze Hall where you can get married underneath the iconic blue whale! What a wow factor, hey?! Along with gallery receptions with dramatic architecture and exhibits. Built in 1881, it’s a landmark visitor attraction wedding venue for couples wanting grandeur and unforgettable photo opportunities.

 
Kensington Palace

Kensington Palace provides elegant, licensed venues like the Orangery, State Apartments and Pavilion spaces for weddings of up to 100 guests (more for receptions). Managed by Historic Royal Palaces, it combines royal history, stunning gardens and period interiors. Celebrity events are common – Nicky Hilton’s wedding to James Rothschild was held here. With in-house catering and exclusive hire options, it’s a regal choice for a central London visitor attraction wedding.

Eden Project 

The Eden Project offers weddings in their famous biomes. Licensed for ceremonies and receptions, capacities range from 160 to 500 guests depending on space. Couples can marry in the Rainforest or Mediterranean Biome with stunning dramatic, tropical visuals. It’s one of Cornwall’s top visitor attraction wedding venues — perfect for nature lovers or couples after something unconventional. This was a bucket list wedding venue for us to work at and we can’t wait for the next wedding we plan here!

Hampton Court Palace

Hampton Court Palace offers historic wedding settings like the Great Hall, Garden Room and Little Banqueting House. Licensed for civil ceremonies, the palace can host up to 200 guests for ceremonies and 220 for receptions. The Great Hall, which is Henry VIII’s former feasting chamber (!), provides dramatic photo backdrops. In September 2014, Opera singer Katherine Jenkins and American film director Andrew tied the knot at Hampton Court Palace. With Tudor and Baroque architecture, it’s one of the great visitor attraction wedding venues in the UK.

V&A (Victoria & Albert Museum)

The V&A offers large licensed spaces such as the Raphael Court (ceremonies up to 400), the Dome and John Madejski Garden. Receptions can host hundreds, with stylish, art-filled settings. With the focus on design, the V&A is a high-impact visitor-attraction wedding venue for couples who value creativity, heritage and dramatic architecture. You don’t need to do much to this venue to make it look incredible for your day!

Tower Bridge 

Tower Bridge, arguably one of the most well known attractions in London, offers licensed ceremony spaces in the North Tower Lounge (35–60 guests) and dramatic receptions on the High-Level Walkways (up to 120+ guests). With panoramic, iconic views of the Thames and exclusive evening access, it one of the most picturesque spots in London! For a visitor attraction wedding UK experience with unmistakable London flair, Tower Bridge is a perfect setting for a London wedding!

 
Cliveden House 

Cliveden is a luxurious 5 star luxury National Trust estate. Ceremonies and dinners can accommodate around 120 guests, with evening celebrations for up to 180. Known for its glamorous history (e.g. Profumo affair!!), Cliveden blends stately home charm with sweeping parkland. From the spa facilities to the majestic woods, it is known as one of the grandest visitor-attraction wedding venues in the UK.

Blickling Hall 

Blickling Hall in Norfolk offers Jacobean grandeur with multiple indoor and outdoor wedding options. Ceremony capacities range from 60 upwards depending on room choice or marquee use. Surrounded by formal gardens and historic architecture, it’s a romantic National Trust visitor-attraction wedding venue. This venue is ideal for couples who want a beautiful, heritage-rich setting while contributing to the property’s upkeep.

Highclere Castle 

If you’ve ever dreamed of a wedding with a touch of royal charm, Highclere Castle, best known as the iconic setting of Downton Abbey, offers an unforgettable backdrop. You can say “I do” in the stunning Saloon or one of the elegant state rooms, with space for everything from intimate gatherings to grand celebrations. Whether you’re a fan of the series or just love the idea of spending the day like a member of the Crawley family, Highclere brings timeless elegance and a bit of star quality to your special day.

Ardross Castle 

Ardross Castle in the Scottish Highlands, now famous as The Traitors filming location, is available for exclusive-use weddings. With dramatic interiors, estate grounds and marquee options, it’s surged in popularity. The Great Hall within the castle holds up to 130 guests for a wedding breakfast. The castle comes as is, and is hired on a dry hire basis, so you can bring your own caterer and all of your own suppliers – massive pro! You even get accommodation for up to 41 of your guests to pretend they are traitors! TV fame has made this a trending visitor-attraction wedding venue, ideal for fans of the show or those seeking a hidden gem in the Highlands. Availability is limited due to high demand, we are seeing couples book at least 2-3 years ahead for weddings at this venue!

Gretna Green 

Gretna Green remains the UK’s most famous elopement destination, offering iconic “anvil weddings” at the Famous Blacksmiths’ Shop and venues like Gretna Hall. From small, intimate ceremonies to larger celebrations, their wedding packages let you create a day that’s completely unique to your love story. You’ll also find delicious, fully bespoke wedding breakfasts to make the occasion even more special for up to 150 guests in the Famous Blacksmiths shop. The runaway wedding history and unique ceremony style make it popular with couples after a romantic and memorable visitor attraction wedding in Scotland – with a twist of tradition.

There are so many venues across the UK that your guests will think, wow, didn’t even know I could get marred there! Perhaps it’s a favourite spot that you visited back on a first date, or maybe even the location of your proposal! Looking for help planning your wedding at a UK visitor attraction? You can get in touch here.

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And that’s exactly what we’re seeing in 2025. Couples are no longer confined by the “big day” that we all know. Instead, they’re designing multi-day weddings that feel more like experiences, filled with thoughtful touches, unique events, and one-of-a-kind celebrations that reflect their personalities and values. But why a multi-day wedding, and what events can you incorporate to extend the celebrations?

Are you thinking that saying ‘wedding’ means it will cost you more?! Find out why this isn’t true: Why it costs you more to use the word wedding

Why A Multi-Day Wedding?

The joy of a multi-day wedding is all in the flexibility. When you have more than one day, you can dedicate each moment to something meaningful. A welcome dinner, setting the vibe for the weekend, a cultural ceremony that celebrates heritage and tradition, or a relaxed brunch to close the celebrations. Every moment has its time to shine.

Instead of making it a jam-packed schedule, couples can take their time. Guests can relax and enjoy the atmosphere rather than feeling rushed from one event to event. Multi-day weddings create space for connection and really embrace the celebrations. It becomes less about timelines and itineraries and more about special moments shared with the people who matter most.

It could even just be a post wedding brunch or BBQ! Most couples comment how they didn’t like to have to say bye to their guests at the end of the night – you just want to continue the party, right?! With adding this extra event the following day, you can do just that!

There are also other benefits, such as being able to spread out formalities, such as moving the speeches to the welcome party, and getting some of those family photos at the legal ceremony, instead of during the main celebrations. It’s also a great opportunity to multiple outfits!

Celebrating More Than One Culture

Couples opt for multi-day weddings is to celebrate more than one culture. When two families come together with different traditions, it can feel overwhelming (and like there isn’t enough time!) to fit everything into one day. With a multi-day approach, there’s room for each tradition to have it’s time.

We’re seeing more and more examples of this, and we love planning them! A traditional Indian wedding day filled with vibrant colour, dancing, and rituals, followed by a Western white-dress ceremony the next day. Or a town hall ceremony for the legal bits, with a separate cultural or religious celebration afterwards. They’ve both been in our 2025 diary!

Each part of a couple’s cultures can be celebrated fully and beautifully, without any sacrifices! And the guests love it too, as they get to experience the different traditions, variety of food and the amazing entertainments, and the unique ways cultures honour love and marriage. It’s so much fun bringing everyone together for the ultimate celebration!

Multiple Locations

Multi-location weddings across multiple days are becoming more popular, and we’re here for it! Eloping has always been popular, but we’re seeing couples bring in an extra step, combining a small town hall ceremony with a bigger celebration somewhere else, perhaps on the same day or on a different day.

London ceremonies are having a real moment. They’re chic, stylish, and wonderfully intimate. Also, they provide a practical purpose for many couples by making the marriage official in the UK. And let’s be honest, the photos outside those iconic doors? Timeless.

But it doesn’t stop there. Many couples are choosing to follow their town hall ceremony with something celebratory and fun, such as a private dinner with family, cocktails with friends, or even live music in a favourite restaurant surrounded by family and friends the following day. Get the legalities out of the way with a small celebration, then opt for a larger celebration on a different date!

It may also be that there are locations you really want to host your wedding at, but not everyone is able to travel, for example, so you extend your celebrations across multiple days to make the most of both locations.

Why Couples Love Multi-Day Weddings

So, why are multi-day weddings becoming so popular? For most couples, it’s about more than style or trend. It’s about time. Time to soak in the love. Time to celebrate with guests without feeling rushed. Time to create memories that will last a lifetime.

And there’s another benefit: they ease the dreaded “post-wedding blues.” That bittersweet feeling of it all being over too quickly is real! But, when your wedding lasts more than a day, you don’t have to say goodbye quite so soon. The celebrations linger, the excitement builds, and the buzz carries on long after the first dance.

You’re also making the most of your budget! Perhaps you’ve spent money on a marquee on your own land, then of course you will want to make the most of it! Or your venue may even offer a full weekend hire for you. It could be that you’re hosting your celebrations in a private house, with accommodation, and have family and friends staying in the house and nearby – may as well make the most of everyone being in a close proximity!

Yes, there are more logistics involved, but most couples agree it’s worth it. A multi-day wedding transforms the experience from a single event into a journey filled with joy, connection, and celebration. It becomes not just about one big moment, but about the many small ones in between.

Our Thoughts On Multi-Day Weddings

We absolutely love multi-day weddings! They allow for your true creativity to shine, include extras that you might just not fit into one day and really, really embrace your marriage.

After all, why limit the happiest day of your life to just one day?

Our tip for you would be to keep the same team of suppliers across the multi day wedding, whether it’s a full weekend celebration, or split across different dates, especially when it comes to your photographer, as they can then tell the full story of your celebrations. It also saves you time, and they may even sort a special price to cover all events.

Are you having a multi-day or multi-location wedding and just unsure of even where to start? Or maybe you’ve booked it already and need someone to help manage the logistics of having people in different place? Then book a planning consultation. We’d love to help make your celebration seamless, joyful, and truly unforgettable. If you’re not sure what service you need, you can read more about them here!

The post Multi-Day Weddings – Why One Day Isn’t Enough! appeared first on Hannah Rose Weddings & Events LTD.

Many couples across the UK are now wondering what British wedding traditions they should include in their celebrations, what they are, and, quite frankly, why we even do them?! While today’s weddings are often more personal and creative than ever, many couples still choose to weave in nods to British heritage, and many also just feel like it wouldn’t be a wedding without them!

Whether you’re a lover of all things classic or just curious about the origins of that silver sixpence in your shoe, this blog explores 13 (unlucky?!) of the best-known British wedding traditions, and how you might choose to honour them in a way that feels truly you.

1. Something Old, Something New…

“Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue — and a silver sixpence in your shoe.” Perhaps the most iconic British wedding tradition of all, this rhyme dates back to the Victorian era and is all about bringing good luck to the bride.

• Something old represents continuity and the connection to your past, which often comes in the form of a family heirloom, a piece of lace from your mum’s dress perhaps, or vintage jewellery.
• Something new stands for optimism and the future, this could be your dress, veil or even your new initials!
• Something borrowed is usually from a happily married friend or relative, symbolising the passing on of good fortune.
• Something blue represents fidelity, purity, and love. Think a blue ribbon stitched inside your dress, a sapphire ring, or even blue shoes.
• A silver sixpence in your shoe (the lesser-known fifth line) was traditionally placed in the bride’s left shoe to bring prosperity and wealth. Some wedding shoes already have this built in!

Many modern couples, not just brides, are finding creative, personal ways to make this tradition their own, often incorporating heritage pieces with a modern twist. Some just completely forget to even include these things, and if it doesn’t mean much to you, then we say don’t worry!

2. Not Seeing Each Other Before the Ceremony

The tradition of the couple not seeing each other before the ceremony has its roots in arranged marriages, where it was considered bad luck for the groom to see the bride before the vows were made — just in case one of them got cold feet!

Today, many couples still embrace this custom as a way of preserving the anticipation and emotion of that first look at the aisle. But there’s also a growing trend towards first look photos which gives you a private moment before the ceremony begins, often captured beautifully and naturally by the photographer. This works well for couples who are really nervous about walking down the aisle and being the centre of attention. Through conversations with couples recently, I’ve had a few say they wish they had actually stayed with their other half the night before as they would have slept better! I personally stayed with my other half for our elopement before we legally wed, and it was so nice to have a nice chilled breakfast together in the morning before getting ready.

3. Confetti and the Ceremony Exit

Throwing confetti as the couple leaves the ceremony is a really nice moment to capture, plus it’s a deeply symbolic one! Originally, guests would throw rice, grain, or petals to wish fertility and prosperity. The word “confetti” actually comes from the Italian tradition of throwing sugared almonds at parades and celebrations.

In Britain, paper confetti became popular in the 19th century, and today, we see everything from dried rose petals and lavender to biodegradable paper circles, and even bubbles instead of confetti! We absolutely love the use of paper and it’s floats so nicely! Dried petals can be a nightmare to dig out of your dress and hair… 

Top tip: Check your venue’s policy on confetti – many ask for biodegradable only, or may have designated areas where it can be used.

4. Wearing a Veil

Historically, the bridal veil symbolised modesty and purity, and in some cases, was used to ward off evil spirits. In arranged marriages, it also served a practical purpose – obscuring the bride’s face until the ceremony was complete!

Today, veils are entirely optional and often chosen as a style statement rather than a symbol. From cathedral-length showstoppers to simple tulle styles or even whimsical birdcage veils, they’re a beautiful way to add a touch of tradition while expressing personal style. 

What is a the difference between a blusher veil and a drop veil?

A blush veil has the piece which can be moved to cover the face, and a drop veil is just for the back of the head, with no face covering. It’s quite rare now that people cover their faces with a veil.

Brides tend to keep their veil on during the ceremony and drinks reception, and remove it when seated for dinner, as you may find it annoying! 

5. Walking Down the Aisle with Your Father

Traditionally, the bride is escorted down the aisle by her father and “given away” to the groom. A symbolic handover that stems from the time when women were seen as property to be passed between families.

It is still a very popular tradition for the bride to walk with her dad, but we have seen this altered on many occasions, such as walking down the aisle with both parents, a sibling, a close friend, or walking in together. Some even choose to walk in solo (like I did!). 

I think it all comes down to your beliefs, and what you feel comfortable in doing. Every family has different relationships. My advice would be to stick with what you want to do.

6. Wedding Breakfast

The term “wedding breakfast” often confuses guests, especially international ones! But the phrase doesn’t refer to the time of day; it simply means the couple’s first meal together after being married, so essentially, the wedding ‘dinner’!

Rooted in tradition, it symbolises breaking the fast after the wedding ceremony, particularly in religious services where the couple may have fasted beforehand. Today, the wedding breakfast is your reception meal — whether it’s a formal three-course menu, a relaxed sharing feast, or an alfresco BBQ, but we still seem to have adopted this title for the part of the day in the UK!

7. The Wedding Cake

British weddings have long featured a tiered cake, dating back to medieval times when guests would stack small buns on top of one another, and the couple would try to kiss over the pile without knocking it down (a sign of future prosperity! There seems to be a lot about properity and fertility in British traditions!).

The modern version, which was a multi-tiered fruitcake covered in white icing, became popular in the Victorian era. The tiers were said to represent wealth and status, with the top tier traditionally saved for the christening of the couple’s first child. The bigger the cake, the wealthier you were.

While few couples opt for fruitcake today, many couples do still opt for a wedding cake as part of their day, along with a cake cutting. We generally advise to display the cake on the dancefloor, cut it just before the first dance, and your caterer will whip it away for you to go straight into your first dance – saves you gathering all the guests twice! We generally do a little countdown into you doing the cut, then ask you to share your first slice of cake together which always makes for a fun photo! 

8. Speeches and Toasts

British wedding speeches are a tradition in themselves. Full of humour, heartfelt sentiment, and occasionally, a few nerves and dodgy stories! The traditional order is:

1. Father of the bride
2. Groom
3. Best man

But many couples now choose a more inclusive line-up (not just all men!) with speeches from the bride, maid of honour, or even a joint thank-you speech from the couple. It’s a lovely way to personalise the day and include more voices.

We would advise to still try and keep to just 3 or 4 speeches, and ask your speakers to have a time cap of 5 minutes. It’s plenty of time for a speech, as you really don’t want to go on too long!

9. First Dance

The first dance as a married couple is a romantic finale to the formal part of the day, marking the start of the partaaaay! Traditionally, the couple take to the floor alone, before being joined by parents, wedding party, and guests.

Whether it’s a carefully choreographed number or a relaxed sway to your favourite song, it’s a chance to pause, connect, and soak in the magic of the moment, and also makes for some lovely photos!

10. The Bouquet Toss

One of the most playful wedding traditions, the bouquet toss, dates back to Victorian times. Back then, it was considered lucky to touch the bride, so guests would sometimes rush at her to snag a piece of her dress or flowers for good fortune. To escape the crowd, especially for ladies, when strangers would try and get in on this tradition, brides began tossing their bouquets into the air as a distraction, and the tradition stuck! Today, it’s quite rare we see this. Many bride’s want to keep their bouquet or have it preserved, but it can be a fun moment, especially for that superstitious friend waiting to get engaged, often with lots of laughter and a little friendly competition!

11. Carrying the Bride Over the Threshold

This tradition is steeped in superstition and symbolism. In Roman times, it was believed that evil spirits lurked at the threshold of a new home and could enter through the soles of the bride’s feet. Carrying her over the threshold was a way to protect her and begin married life with good fortune. Today, it’s more of a romantic gesture!

12. The White Wedding Dress

Thanks to Queen Victoria, white wedding dresses became the ultimate symbol of bridal fashion. When she married Prince Albert in 1840 wearing a white gown (a bold move at the time), she set a trend that still dominates today. While white is often associated with purity, it originally represented wealth and status, as white fabric was expensive and difficult to maintain, so only the rich wore white. These days, it’s simply the classic bridal look—but modern couples are increasingly choosing soft pastels, bold colours, or even black for a personalised twist.

13. Exchanging Rings

This ancient tradition goes back thousands of years to the Egyptians, who believed a circular band symbolised eternity. The idea of placing it on the fourth finger of the left hand, now known as the “ring finger”, came from the belief that a vein (the vena amoris) ran directly from that finger to the heart. Today, wedding rings remain one of the most recognisable and meaningful symbols of being married, and is one that we see most from modern couples.

Honouring Tradition, Your Way

British wedding traditions offer a sense of charm, history, and ritual that many couples treasure, but the beauty of modern weddings lies in your freedom to pick and choose. Whether you embrace every tradition or just one or two that feel meaningful, it’s all about creating a day that reflects who you are as a couple, and what resonates most with you. If you aren’t going to enjoy a confetti shot, or a first dance, then don’t do them!

And if you ever need help weaving tradition into a modern wedding with elegance and intention, we’re always here to guide you! You can get in touch here.

Interested in seeing what we do? Then head over and follow us on Instagram, where we keep you in the loop of what’s happening this wedding season.

The post 13 British Wedding Traditions appeared first on Hannah Rose Weddings & Events LTD.

We believe that team building should be something people genuinely look forward to. It should feel intentional, experience-led, and aligned with your company culture (and also shouldn’t be in your employee’s free time!) Whether you’re aiming to boost morale, reward your staff, or simply get people talking across departments, the key is creating shared experiences that are all about connection and collaboration, and just celebrating your people!

Here are ten curated team building ideas that balance enjoyment with an actual  purpose – and won’t make your team roll their eyes.

1. Back To Nature

A nature themed away day is a brilliant way to shake up the routine and give your team a fresh perspective. The theme sets the tone – whether it’s a countryside escape with a day of outdoor activities or an overnight glamping experience, being in the fresh air can really help to escape daily life and routine. Think chic glamping tents, fire pit circles for team discussions with smores and some gold ole team activities! It will be just like being back at a school away trip! Oh and of course…you must include wine!

Done right, a nature retreat becomes a fully immersive experience – one that encourages creativity and genuine conversation in an inspiring setting.

2. Cook-Off Challenges

Food is something everyone loves! A group cooking session—whether a pasta-making class, a street food cook-off, or a “company bake-off”—encourages collaboration, communication, and a healthy dose of friendly competition. You can mix teams from different departments, give them time to prepare a dish, and have a panel of judges (or the whole team) vote for the winner.

It’s fun, delicious, and always sparks plenty of laughter—and let’s not underestimate the power of breaking bread together at the end of the session. This is also a great option if you just a one day, or one afternoon event. There are plenty of spots you can go to across the UK for this, or you can hire a company to come to you.

3. Outdoor Adventure Experiences

Taking your team out into the great outdoors is a powerful way to refresh minds and build trust. Activities like paddleboarding, wild swimming, hiking, or guided orienteering are ideal for encouraging confidence, resilience, and team spirit.

These types of challenges help team members learn to rely on one another and often reveal leadership qualities and problem-solving approaches in a more natural way than a boardroom ever could. Another bonus is that fresh air and movement are great for mental wellbeing too. We would advise to only opt for this if you have a team of outdoor activity lovers!

4. Creative Workshops

Creative workshops are perfect for getting teams together and doing something that they probably wouldn’t usually do in their own time. From pottery throwing and calligraphy, to floral arranging or natural candle making, there’s something deeply satisfying about getting stuck into a creative project!

These sessions work especially well when paired with good music, great coffee (or wine!), and a relaxed, welcoming space. We would recommend getting out of the office and going elsewhere for this kind of activity so there are no distractions!

5. Escape Rooms & Puzzle Experiences

If your team loves a challenge, escape rooms or problem-solving games are a brilliant option. These scenarios require critical thinking, delegation, and time management – and more often than not, some really excellent teamwork.

You can book a dedicated escape room venue or bring a mobile escape-style challenge to your office or chosen venue. Some even create custom puzzles themed to your company values or goals, which adds a nice layer of personalisation. You could even throw in a dinner afterwards!

6. Wellness & Mindfulness Days

Team building doesn’t always have to be high energy. In fact, creating space for rest, reflection, and mindful connection can be just as impactful – especially for high-performing or high-stress teams.

A wellness day might include yoga, guided breathwork, nutrition workshops, nature walks, or a spa day. There are some great health retreats around that you can take your team to for a day. It’s about reminding your team that their wellbeing matters – and giving them the time and space to truly pause.

7. Company Festivals

For some party vibes, why not host your own company festival? Picture tipis, acoustic music, fire bowls, food trucks, glitter stations, and a relaxed, celebratory atmosphere.

We love curating these as summer parties or annual kick-offs. The beauty of this format is that everyone can attend in their own way, whether they just want to stop by, or stay for the whole day/evening. You could even offer the invite out to their families too. There’s no pressure, just great vibes!

8. Volunteering & Social Impact Days

Doing good as a team can be an incredibly bonding experience. Whether it’s supporting a local charity, helping renovate a community space, or organising a fundraising event, volunteering gives people a shared sense of purpose. This could be everyone attending an event such as a fun run, or even just hosting a bake sale in the office!

It also allows your company to live its values in a meaningful, tangible way. Choose a cause your team cares about, and design a day that mixes hands-on action. This would also be great to shout about on the company’s social media to show how much the team are helping a great cause, as well as bonding between them. 

We would advise discuss the option of which charity they would like to work with.

10. Themed Party

Throwing it back to where a lot of team building started – a good ole party! Whether it’s a themed night at a local venue, or hiring your own venue to host a company party, most people will love to get involved! The down side is that not everyone may want to attend, so it’s understanding whether this would suit the people in your team.

You could even tie in an awards section to really help with team morale!

So, what’s next?

Whatever your goal, connection, creativity or just treating your employees, team building should reflect your company culture and values, and also have your team in mind. It should feel effortless on the day, and something that everyone will enjoy where possible.

Ready to plan something they’ll actually talk about? Get in touch here!

The post 10 Corporate Team Building Ideas (That Aren’t Boring!) appeared first on Hannah Rose Weddings & Events LTD.

Planning a wedding is often described as one of the happiest times in a couple’s life—but let’s be real: it can also be one of the most stressful. Between balancing budgets, pleasing families, and trying to enjoy your engagement, it’s no wonder many couples find the process overwhelming.

We believe that with the right support, planning your big day can be enjoyable and fulfilling, and that it should be! But if you’re feeling overwhelmed, you’re not alone. Let’s talk about why wedding planning can feel so intense, so you can see what to avoid, and how to manage it all. 

Why Does Wedding Planning Take So Long?

A wedding isn’t just a one-day event—it’s a carefully planned experience. From securing your perfect venue, to choosing suppliers, outfits, stationery, and managing logistics, there are hundreds of decisions to make. Most couples plan their weddings over 12–18 months, and that timeline isn’t accidental.

Here’s why:

• Venue availability: Popular venues can book up 12–24 months in advance.
• Seasonal demand: Suppliers like florists, caterers, and photographers often get booked quickly for peak dates. If you’re looking for a Saturday in summer, then there is always going to feel like there’s an urgency to book suppliers.
• Time to research: You need time to explore different styles, gather inspiration, and make decisions that feel right for you, without rushing.
• Balancing life: Most people plan a wedding around full-time jobs, family commitments, and other responsibilities. You’re not a professional wedding planner—you’re doing this on top of everything else!
• Guests: Your guests need to know in advance, to avoid having important people not in attendance due to holidays, work etc.

All of this means the planning process can stretch out, and without clear structure or help, it can start to feel endless! But trust us when we say, all of our couple’s comment on how quickly that process goes! Before you know it, the wedding day is here.

Why Wedding Planning Is Stressful

Weddings come with high expectations. Not just from Pinterest-perfect images, but also from loved ones and from yourself. The emotional weight of the day can bring up pressure you didn’t expect.

Common stressors include:

• Budget pressure: Managing costs while trying to create something beautiful is tough. Overspending or unexpected fees can cause tension.
• Suppliers: Knowing if the suppliers you are booking are actually decent, charging you the correct amount and will make what you want come to life on the day! A lot of communication with suppliers is generally through imagery and explaining what you want, so knowing that it’s going to be just how you want it can be stressful. Having a great supplier crew is so important.
• Family dynamics: Weddings often bring together people with strong opinions. Navigating input (or interference) from parents or in-laws, as well as other guests, can be tricky. Perhaps there are relationships that are difficult within your family that is making you worry about how this could affect your day.
• Decision fatigue: There are countless options for every element, from colour schemes to cutlery. Making constant decisions can be draining. Then you go onto Instagram and Pinterest and see something else you like, and worry if you’ve made the right decision on the colour scheme you’ve chosen for your wedding, or if you need to change it.
• Relationship strain: Even couples with strong foundations can find the pressure of wedding planning exposes communication gaps or different priorities.
• Other people: From friends with opinions on whether you should be allowing them to bring their children or not, to bridesmaids who can’t agree on dresses or hen party plans, other people bring the most amount of stress to the wedding planning process.

If you’re feeling the weight of it all—breathe. You’re not doing it wrong. It’s just a lot.

How to avoid wedding planning Stress?

So, we’ve spoken about WHAT can cause stress, now how to avoid it? There’s no one right way when it comes to wedding planning – what matters is agreeing upfront who is doing what, and checking in regularly to keep things feeling fair and balanced. A few pointers to avoid the stress for the above factors we spoke about during wedding planning:

• Budget pressure: Always make sure you are setting a budget before you book ANYTHING and split it down into categories. If you aren’t sure how to budget, you can download our PDF to help here.
• Suppliers: Check those reviews, get recommendations from others, check out their work on Instagram, book in video calls before signing on the dotted line. Do you due diligence first!
• Family dynamics: Remember that it is your day, and you cannot please everyone. Family should be happy that you are happy. You know your family best and how to approach them, so have the difficult conversations in advance if you are worried.
• Decision fatigue: Stop looking on social media! Once you’ve found your dress, stop trying dresses on! Avoid communities such as Facebook groups where negative comments can be made, and people can’t help themselves but make you feel like they are more organised or their wedding is better than yours.
• Relationship strain: Plan in time when you discuss the wedding, so you don’t feel like all you are doing is constantly talking about the wedding! Have a date night once a week, and write down all your questions for each other, and plan what you are going to discuss or go through before you start. This can really avoid a lot of wedding planning stress for each other!
• Other people: Remember that other people are completely out of your control. You cannot control what they say or their actions. Just remember what you want to get out of your day, and stick to your guns! Be very select when choosing wedding parties, and don’t just choose people because you feel like you have to – these tend to end up being the most difficult! Your wedding parties should be there to help and support you, not to cause more stress.

Who Is Responsible for Planning a Wedding?

Traditionally, the bride’s family took on much of the responsibility for wedding planning, but times have changed. Today, it varies hugely from couple to couple.

Usually, planning is shared between:

• The couple: Most couples take the lead in making major decisions and shaping the vision.
• Families: Often, parents or family members contribute financially or offer support—though this can come with opinions!
• Wedding planner: Hiring a planner can take the pressure off, especially for couples with demanding schedules or larger weddings.
• Bridal party or friends: These loved ones often help with smaller tasks or logistics, but shouldn’t be relied on for major coordination unless it’s been clearly agreed.

Can Wedding Planning Cause Depression?

While not everyone will experience mental health issues during wedding planning, for some, the pressure and emotional intensity can take a real toll. Anxiety, burnout, and even depression aren’t uncommon, especially when expectations become overwhelming or when there are underlying relationship or family challenges.

If you’re starting to feel persistently overwhelmed or anxious, perhaps you’re losing excitement for the wedding itself, withdrawing from friends or your partner or finding it difficult sleeping, please know that it’s OK to ask for help. Whether it’s leaning on a therapist, confiding in a friend, or working with a planner who can relieve some of the load – it doesn’t have to be this hard. Your mental health matters more than any centrepiece ever will. If you know you struggle with anxiety and depression, we would highly advise to work with a wedding planner and/or therapist to assist with your wedding planning to avoid that added stress.

Wedding planning is emotional, beautiful, and, yes, stressful. But it doesn’t have to steal your joy. With support, clear communication, and a bit of perspective, you can create a celebration that is truly you, without losing yourself in the process!

If you’re feeling the weight of it all, we’re here to help. We offer everything from full wedding planning to on-the-day coordination, so you can focus on enjoying the journey (and the champagne). Reach out for a free consultation here – we’d love to chat about how we can help!

Keep up to date with our stories over on Instagram. We’re keeping you up to date with our 2025 season, taking you behind the scenes of setups, set-downs, and general wedding day fun!

The post Why is Wedding Planning So Stressful? appeared first on Hannah Rose Weddings & Events LTD.