Jess and Jamie shared their vows at St. Mary Magdalene Church
Jess and Jamie met like most modern couples, online. “We both swiped right on Tinder more than six years ago,” says Jess. “We talked for a few months before deciding to meet in Swansea, which was halfway between where we both lived. We instantly clicked and ended up taking for hours while we walked the length of Swansea marina and bay.”
Jamie popped the question on New Year’s Day in 2019. “He had asked for my mother’s blessing the summer before and had managed to keep it secret for a while,” shares the bride. “It nearly wasn’t a surprise as Jamie accidentally messaged my family group chat that morning to say he was about to propose! Luckily I didn’t see the message, so he quickly deleted it after my mum pointed out that I was in the group chat. He dressed up in a tux and covered it with a trench coat, so I wouldn’t notice, and we went for a walk to Porthcawl Common. We sat on the beach, and he asked me to take a photo of him and our dog, Odin. He walked to the cliff’s edge and put a white collar and bow tie on Odin to match his tux, then took his coat off and walked towards me. Much to my surprise, he got down on one knee and asked me to marry him.”
Swansea Bay is emerging as one of the UK's most rewarding cultural escapes, home to the birthplace of literary legend Dylan Thomas, award-winning museums and galleries, and a thriving arts scene. Next year will mark a landmark moment for Swansea's cultural scene as the city welcomes the British Art Show 10: A Chorus of Strangers for the first time. As the only Welsh destination selected to host the UK's largest recurring exhibition of contemporary art, Swansea will join a prestigious line-up of cities that have staged the nationally renowned showcase. Running from 12th February to 16th May 2027, the exhibition will bring works by some of the UK's most exciting contemporary artists to venues across the city.
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ALDI launches new wick-ed £4.99 confetti Halloween candles
Aldi is getting into the Halloween spirit with its new Hotel Collection Halloween Confetti Candles, priced at just £4.99 each. The 180g candles feature colourful confetti patterns and come in three designs: Ghost, Pumpkin and Black Cat. Each candle offers an approximate burn time of 34 hours, making them an affordable way to add an autumnal touch to the home. Shoppers can choose from three seasonal fragrances, each with its own distinctive blend of notes.
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Looking ahead to wedding trends for hens and stags in 2027
Hen Dos Stay Home While Stags Head Abroad, Chillisauce Data Reveals: Hen parties are increasingly choosing UK destinations, while stag groups are becoming more likely to head overseas, according to booking data from Chillisauce, which suggests the divide could widen further in 2027. The company's figures show that the proportion of hen bookings taking place in the UK rose from 69% in 2024 to 76% in 2026. Over the same period, the share of stag dos abroad increased from 59% to 68%. Robyn Davis, Head of Stag and Hen at Chillisauce, says affordability and accessibility are helping to shape hen party plans.
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Sleep Like A Traitor
The Traitors is back! And with Britons fully embracing their inner detectives, the allure of a suspense-soaked countryside escape complete with shadowy hallways, crackling fires and the irresistible question of "who's hiding what?" is stronger than ever. Groups can immerse themselves in their very own plot twist this winter thanks to Rural Retreats. From atmospheric farmhouses to sprawling manors perfect for plotting and sleuthing, the scene is set for the ultimate Great British Whodunnit Weekend.
