Your South Wales Wedding news and ideas from around the area

SGDJ Weddings has won an award

Taking place in Cardiff earlier this year, the sixth Welsh Wedding Awards celebrated the elite wedding specialists and businesses that continuously create magical moments that turn into lasting memories. They recognise and reward those within the wedding industry that work towards making the big day as perfect as possible, including the caterers that provide delicious reception meals, decorators that take care of the wedding venues and add the glam in the room, or florists that know how to make any wedding flourish.

SGDJ Weddings was one of the finalists in the Entertainment Category. The competition was fierce, but they received recognition and took the trophy home.

Originating as a charming country house, Llechwen Hall first became a hotel in 1990

Llechwen, a traditional Welsh word, translates as white slate and it is thought that at some point in Llechwen Hall's long history, the building's roof was constructed with white slate, hence the name. Originating as a charming country house, Llechwen Hall first became a hotel in 1990, but in previous years the hall has had a variety of uses, from being a farm house to a private Welsh longhouse and even a small primary school.

The luxurious country house hotel has 44 luxurious and charmingly appointed bedrooms, which offer the perfect retreat after a long day of activities. All of the rooms are en suite with shower and bath facilities and each offers views across the splendid Welsh countryside.

In the restaurant, you'll find relaxed yet charming interiors paired with a warm welcome and sumptuous food, creating an intimate experience.

Spring Bank Holiday weekend is set to host second highest number of weddings for 2024

The team at hampers.com, who strive to bring joy and wholehearted togetherness through gifting, recently undertook a study to determine the most popular dates for weddings in 2024, surveying almost 2,300 UK adults who were set to get married this year. When asked what date they were getting married on, the most popular dates were found to be were these here...

Need a helping hand with your groom's speech? Check out these top tips from Speechy

'The Speech Surgery' with Heidi Ellert McDermott, founder of Speechy & author of The Modern Couple's Guide to Wedding Speeches'. My groom isn't naturally romantic. How can I help him with his speech without actually writing it for him? Well, no one will be expecting him to be reciting sonnets and he doesn't need to have a personality transplant, but it would be nice if he managed to deliver at least a few suitably sweet lines in his speech! Send him a few good blog posts (including this one) and encourage him to get the advice & feedback from his friends (ideally, married ones who have been through the speechwriting process before).

Indulge in Vera Wang x Chopin vodka this wedding season

With the 2024 wedding season fast approaching, brides and grooms-to-be are looking for ways to impart luxury to their special day. From elevating their drink offering with expertly crafted cocktails to creating a sophisticated monochrome look, the Vera Wang x Chopin vodka has all the assets to make one's celebration stylish and memorable. Vera Wang x Chopin vodka comes from a unique partnership blending the refined style of iconic fashion designer Vera Wang with the unparalleled craftsmanship of Chopin.

The UK’s top stately homes for Bridgerton-themed weddings

A recent study has revealed the UK's highest-rated stately homes for Bridgerton-themed weddings, with Pembroke Lodge, Surrey named the best. The research, conducted by photo wall art creator StoryBoards, analysed user-generated review data from a popular wedding planning site to identify the UK regions with the highest quantity of top-rated stately homes by creating an overall rating score. The study has revealed that Pembroke Lodge is the nation's most highly rated stately home. Located in Surrey, the grand wedding venue has over 1,100 five-star ratings and an overall perfect score of 10 out of 10.

The Whitebrook Restaurant with Rooms has been awarded a Green Michelin Star

The Whitebrook Restaurant with Rooms in Monmouthshire is celebrating a decade with one Michelin star and the team has recently been awarded a Green Michelin Star.

Sustainability has been at the core of chef Chris Harrod's ethos since he launched the restaurant in 2013. He and his team were recognised for this dedication by the prestigious Michelin Guide and were one of just six restaurants to be awarded a Green Star.

New research reveals biggest wedding trends of 2024, and some will surprise you

The wedding themes of 2024? Expect them to be smaller and more intimate, more informal and just generally more fun! That's according to a new study which was commissioned by high street jewellers, F.Hinds. They asked 2,000 UK couples for their thoughts on which wedding traditions are still important (and which aren't), and what new trends will be incorporated into wedding day plans for 2024. They also spoke to a wedding expert for her views. Their research revealed that the 'big day' traditions that remain in favour include the bride walking walked down the aisle (53%), having wedding rings (52%), cutting the cake (49%), having a best man (44%), and the bride being given away by a family member (43%).

The Pocket Bakery has shared some ideas for your wedding cake

With wedding season now in full swing Sharon Brace from The Pocket Bakery in Crick has shared some ideas for your wedding cake.

This pastel-hued beauty is perfect for a spring or summer wedding, with handmade sugar flowers that you can keep as a reminder of your beautiful wedding bouquet. Touches of silver leaf catch the light and add a subtle sparkle to your cake. You can choose to display the cake on one of our stands to ensure your cake is the centrepiece.

Craig Y Nos Castle is a romantic wedding venue in the upper Swansea Valley

Located in the upper Swansea Valley on the edge of the Brecon Beacons, Craig Y Nos Castle is a romantic venue that would make a grand backdrop for any celebration. There are plenty of places to explore and take photographs both inside and out, such as the breathtaking grounds and ceremony spaces.

Those of you looking to stay the night will love the 36 en suite bedrooms; there's also an on-site gym with high-quality apparatus and a private lounge with a hot tub.

Having a multicultural wedding? Make sure everyone is include with these tips from Speechy

'The Speech Surgery' with Heidi Ellert McDermott, Founder of Speechy & author of The Modern Couple's Guide to Wedding Speeches. My groom's family is Italian and some of them don't speak any English. How do we ensure they feel included during the speeches? This is becoming an issue for more and more couples as relationships become increasingly international. Bringing two cultures together at a wedding can be wonderful but it's not without its challenges, the prime example being the speeches.

Top tips on moving in together for the first time

Making the big decision to move in together can be an exciting, yet daunting time! Whether you've been living apart due to distance, financial constraints or other circumstances, deciding to take the next step in your relationship can help strengthen your bond and progress it further. Whilst being around each other 24/7 has its benefits, it's important not to overlook the potential issues that could arise as a result. Property experts at Essential Living have teamed up with Dr Becky Spelman, Psychologist and Founder at Private Therapy Clinic to reveal some of the issues the couples might experience and her top tips on what to keep in mind before taking the big step.

Wales Cottage Holidays has revealed some of the most romantic cottages in Wales

Wales Cottage Holidays has revealed some of the most romantic cottages in Wales, perfect for mini-moons or a pre-wedding getaway. Relax, unwind and enjoy each other's company without real-world distractions. Combine these magical escapes with awe-inspiring views, majestic mountains, dreamy waterfalls, and tranquil lakes, making Wales one of the most desirable destinations for a romantic holiday, just for the two of you.

Treat yourself to a tranquil escape in wonderful Carmarthen in Cwch Gwenyn. Enjoy the eclectic interiors of this wonderful, hand-built shepherd's hut. Dogs will love exploring the amazing countryside as much as you do. Relax in the gorgeous, enclosed garden that features a quaint summerhouse, pretty ponds, whimsical features and a cute patio area with furniture and views of rolling hills.

Wedding menu guide from Papier

A wedding day is an unparalleled occasion, filled with unforgettable moments and cherished memories. Best-selling British stationery brand Papier understand the importance of every detail on this special day, especially when it comes to creating a memorable dining experience for the happy couple and their guests. Food is a huge part of your wedding day. Whether it's a meal guests have chosen or a set menu, informing your loved ones about what's ahead gets them excited to sit down and tuck in

The Parkgate Hotel epitomises style, sophistication and elegance

With its mixture of bygone glamour and contemporary luxury, The Parkgate Hotel epitomises style, sophistication and elegance. From an intimate gathering to a grand affair, this historic wedding venue in Cardiff offers exquisite settings and exceptional dining in the heart of the city, making your special day the occasion of a lifetime. Whether you're looking for an elegant atmosphere echoing the hotel's grandeur at The Parkgate Hotel's largest function space, The Postmaster Suite, or something a bit more personal in the private dining space of The Telegraph Room, the property has something to suit.

Worried about your dad's wedding speech? Here's some top advice from Speechy

'The Speech Surgery' with Heidi Ellert McDermott, founder of Speechy & author of 'The Modern Couple's Guide to Wedding Speeches. At Speechy, we believe that all great speeches have good story-telling at the heart of them. So instead of hunting down one-liners, encourage your dad to simply tell his favourite stories. Remind him that he can call on your mum or siblings for help with content and constructive feedback, and send him links to lots of various speech examples to get his brain thinking.

Neil Rayment Goldsmiths has launched its latest collection

Neil Rayment Goldsmiths has announced the launch of its latest collection, the Santes Dwynwen Collection. Named after the Welsh patron saint of lovers, this collection is a testament to the exquisite craftsmanship that defines Neil Rayment Goldsmiths.

The collection's centrepiece is the Dragon Tail Heart series, which features intricately designed hearts crafted in sterling silver. These hearts symbolise love, resilience, and Welsh heritage, making each piece a wearable work of art.

The best place in the UK for a springtime wedding

A new study has revealed the areas in the UK with the best vendors and venues for spring wedding ceremonies, with Essex being crowned top for both. The research conducted by photo wall art creator StoryBoards analyzed data from a popular wedding planning site, to identify the UK regions with the highest quantity of top-rated vendors and venues, including vineyards, cake companies, and stationery brands. Most brides and grooms will agree that planning a wedding is stressful, as trying to pull off an event that feels unique to the couple while managing expectations, budget, and family can be difficult at times. Thankfully, beautiful venues exist to help make the whole process easier.

Norton House Hotel is a country house with plenty of period charm

Boasting elegant windows, 17 individually designed bedrooms and an impressive entrance, Norton House Hotel is an independent country house with plenty of period charm. Recently announced as regional winners for 'Best Boutique Venue' at the Welsh National Wedding Awards, the property has been renovated to a high standard with home comforts that don't compromise the historic features. This Grade II-listed venue has been thoroughly refurbished with weddings in mind. The private grounds, which include a secluded lawn, an original raised patio, and wide stone steps, look stunning in photographs.

Does your mum need help with her wedding speech? Read these tips from Speechy

The Speech Surgery with Heidi Ellert McDermott, founder of Speechy & author of The Modern Couple's Guide to Wedding Speeches. Firstly, reassure your mum that we work with lots of mothers (both of the bride, and increasingly, the groom's) so it's no longer unusual to see a mum on the mic. Whether your mum is standing in for your father, speaking in addition to him or your dad isn't part of the picture, we generally find mothers have a lot to say! In terms of getting your mum excited at the prospect of delivering a speech, rather than dreading it, send her a few blog posts to show her how simple writing her speech can be.