Sara and Ollie said their vows at their dream wedding venue, Usk Castle
“Ollie was living with his parents, near my nan’s farm,” says Sara. “We had never met as we went to different schools, and Ollie initially thought that I was older, so never took the opportunity to approach me, but in his own words, it was love at first sight.”
Ollie tells us all about his proposal plans. “I took my parents to the spot where Sara and I often stopped while walking the dogs,” shares Ollie. “We met harpist Kathryn Anne Rees at the clearing and hung ribbon from the branches, littered the floor with rose petals and set up a picnic blanket complete with champagne, chocolate and strawberries. Sara was completely oblivious! For all she knew, we were just walking the dogs, but as we got closer, she could hear the harp. She looked at me puzzled, and as we walked a little further, we could see the decorations and Kathryn playing. Sara took my hand and pulled me back and said ‘babe she must be making a music video’ and I said ‘no this is for you.’ It was perfect! I could barely get my words out, and neither could she. We were so happy sitting on the blanket in the dappled sunshine listening to Kathryn. It was magical and more than I ever wished or dreamed it could be.”
Celebrate Afternoon Tea week in Snowdonia in Wales
Celebrate Afternoon Tea Week in luxury in Wales this week. Taking place until the 18th of August, diners can enjoy a delicious afternoon tea overlooking Snowdonia at Penmaenuchaf. Located within the breathtaking surroundings of Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park, Penmaenuchaf, is a refined country house hotel that offers guests a peaceful escape with spectacular mountain and estuary views. Steeped in history and recently refreshed with a design-led refurbishment by Nicola Harding, the hotel blends timeless character with contemporary comfort. It's the perfect base for walkers, cyclists, and explorers discovering the beauty of North Wales, with highlights including the ascent of Cadair Idris, the forest trails of Coed y Brenin, and the heritage-rich market towns of Betws-y-Coed and Conwy.
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Entering your marriage era? Forget wedding favours; McDonald’s launches Limited Edition ‘Wedding Flavours’
The nation's brides and grooms can live happily ever after, as prayers are answered with personalised McDonald's sauces for their Big Day. With some of the biggest celebrities making their way down the aisle this summer, it's safe to say 2026 has been the year of saying "I do" – and now McDonald's is bringing the flavour to the wedding season. How many epic weddings end with guests making a grand finale pit stop at a Maccies en route home? Well now you won't have to detour, McDonald's is going to literally bring the ceremonial rite of passage to the actual wedding party.
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Bye Bye Sweet Caroline: The Classic Anthems BANNED From UK Weddings
The era of the predictable wedding singalong is officially dead, according to new data from entertainment agency Jonny Ross Music. New figures have revealed that Britain's couples are ruthlessly blacklisting the nation's favourite party anthems from their big days. A shocking analysis of playlist requests shows that legendary floor-fillers are being banished to the 'Do Not Play' list. Modern couples are ordering DJs to completely snub overplayed staples like 'Uptown Funk' and 'Mr Brightside'. But Brits are not turning their backs on the dancefloor. Instead of relying on default reception cheese, millennial newlyweds are demanding authentic club vibes that replicate a proper night out.
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Chepstow Racecourse hosting Family Fun Day this August Bank Holiday
The school summer holidays are here, and finding new ways to entertain your family without breaking the bank can be a challenge. But this bank holiday weekend on Monday 31st August, Chepstow Racecourse opens its gates once again to offer an absolutely incredible family day out, with its best-ever value offers. In addition to seven thrilling flat races in action on the course, visitors will be treated to free family entertainment designed to keep your little tribe busy. Whether watching the Paw Patrol Live Show, enjoying the meet and greet with their favourite Paw Patrol characters, dancing along to the K-POP Superstars or taking advantage of the unlimited fairground rides, one thing is for sure, children will certainly be well entertained!
