Your South Wales Wedding news and ideas from around the area

Norton House Hotel has won an award

Norton House Hotel, a Georgian seaside retreat, has won Best Boutique Venue 2025 (South and Central Region) at the Welsh National Wedding Awards – congratulations! The hotel offers the perfect blend of history, comfort, and culinary delight. Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway, a relaxing break, or a base for exploring the coastal region, Norton House Hotel provides an unforgettable experience.

The team shared their excitement about the win: "We are absolutely bursting with pride to announce that we won. This award genuinely means the world to the entire team. It's a true testament to the dedication, passion, and love we pour into every single wedding hosted here. Thank you to every single person who voted – your support means more than we could ever put into words. This one is for our amazing couples."

What’s next for weddings? The Wedding Shop reveals all

Multi-award-winning gift list service, The Wedding Shop has revealed new data, showing the trends that are shaping weddings and couples' gift lists for 2026. Based on information from over 80,000 couples gathered since 2019, the leading personal gift service has looked at changes in how couples are choosing to celebrate, and how their dearest and nearest are gifting them to mark their special day with some surprising results.

Local supplier spotlight: DJ Sound & Lighting

DJ Sound & Lighting is a much-loved Welsh wedding entertainment company built on one simple idea: create nights people never forget. The team's reputation has been repeatedly recognised, earning Best Wedding DJ in Wales not only in 2025 but also in 2024, along with Best Regional Wedding DJ for an impressive eight consecutive years. In 2025, they celebrated two major wins at the Welsh National Wedding Awards – Best Regional Wedding DJ and the overall Best Wedding DJ in Wales.

"These awards matter so much because they're voted for by the couples, venues, and suppliers we're lucky enough to work with," says founder Darren Tipples. "It's their trust that keeps us growing."

Getting married soon? Sort finances before saying 'I do'

A wedding is a promise of a shared future, but concerningly, especially when it comes to retirement, many couples delay discussion of how they'll plan for their future finances. Mapping out your finances to track life's milestone moments long before the big day is important to ensure both partners feel confident and prepared - from the prospect of taking a possible career break, to job loss, potential illness and being comfortably affording retirement.

Amy Mair Couture is hosting a showcase in London

Amy Mair Couture is hosting a showcase in London from 20th–23rd March 2026, highlighting Amy's range of beautiful dresses. The brand specialises in couture wedding gowns that are handmade with precision and artistry. Each dress reflects the individuality and unique style of its brides, offering a bespoke experience that elevates wedding fashion.

Based in Barry, brides begin their experience with an initial consultation, where they discuss their vision and inspirations for the gown. This is followed by the selection of fabrics, laces, and embellishments, before multiple fittings ensure a flawless look.

The UK Hen & Stag Destinations Everyone’s Booking for 2026

Once dominated by big nights out and budget flights abroad, hen and stag parties in the UK are having a rethink, and things are now looking very different. Research suggests that pre-wedding celebrations could be completely sober as early as 2040, with groups instead embracing alcohol-free celebrations that they're more likely to remember. Also, rising travel costs, tighter schedules and a growing appetite for wellness experiences are pushing more groups to stay closer to home.

Local supplier spotlight: Canada Lodge and Lake

Tucked away in the lush Welsh countryside, Canada Lodge and Lake offers an enchanting lakeside setting where natural beauty meets timeless elegance. Whether you're planning an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, this stunning venue promises a wedding day to cherish forever. With plenty of picturesque spots perfect for photographs – from the large tree swing and serene lake dotted with adorable ducks to a canopy of beautiful trees – every moment feels storybook-perfect. Just minutes from Cardiff City Centre, the lakeside venues and accommodation provide a tranquil escape.

To mark 25 years of Canada Lodge and Lake, the team is offering £2,500 in complimentary updates to elevate your special day. Available on full-day bookings, this generous offer includes a tasting evening for the happy couple and two nights in the venue's Executive Cabin.

More Welsh couples are choosing to get married in a castle

Car hire specialists Avis analysed social media trends and found a 23 per cent increase in couples searching for castle weddings. To identify Europe's most magical castles, they compiled a shortlist of 50 locations and created a "Secluded Score," with higher scores indicating greater remoteness and a more peaceful experience. Caernarfon Castle ranked among the most secluded, with a score of 46.

Cerys Keneally from South Wales embraced this trend, bringing her fairytale to life with a dream castle wedding at Craig Y Nos Castle.

Tall Johns House is nestled in the heart of the idyllic Brecon Beacons

Nestled in the heart of the idyllic Brecon Beacons, Tall Johns House offers a unique opportunity to create the wedding of your dreams.

Hire the magical Welsh barn to create a one-of-a-kind wedding day — your day, exactly the way you want it. Totally personal. Completely individual. Down to the tiniest detail. The barn is an entirely blank canvas: a space you can take full control of and use exactly as you wish. From the moment you book, the team will be there to advise and support you every step of the way.

Enjoy your first glass of champagne as a married couple in the beauty of the walled garden or on the stunning lawns of Tall Johns House.

Local supplier spotlight: Norton House Hotel

This Georgian seaside hotel offers the perfect blend of history, comfort, and culinary delight; full of character and with a modern twist, all within the walls of one stunning venue. The grand manor is beautifully maintained; making its classic features and clean look really stand out. The venue is also the perfect scene for the signature confetti shot – our favourite in any wedding album. The garden room is a naturally lit, airy space, featuring charm and period details for a truly romantic atmosphere; while the outdoor space is a true gem, with a beautifully landscaped garden, you'll feel as though you're marrying in the lap of luxury.

You can also bask in the warmth of the sunny terrace, providing an idyllic setting with the stately house as your backdrop. Being tucked away in an intimate woodland area, you get the benefit of a private escape, perfect to capture those cherished moments between the newlyweds. The ceremony room has a maximum capacity of 90 loved ones; and is a serene space, designed to feel both grand and intimate. The abundant natural light creates a beautiful, uplifting atmosphere for your ceremony and lights your path to newlywed bliss.

The philosophy of white - Pantone's Colour of the Year

White has always been more than a colour; it is the quiet space between thought and form, the light-filled pause where the eye rests and the mind find clarity. Today, in a world buzzing with distraction, white takes on renewed significance. Pantone's selection of PANTONE 11-4201 Cloud Dancer as the Colour of the Year 2026 celebrates this very essence - a lofty, aerated white that whispers calm and serenity into a frenetic society. At James Cropper, the historic British papermaker, white is not just a conceptual ideal - it is a craft, a product, and a philosophy...

Wedding Flower Trends Set to Bloom in 2026

As couples begin planning their nuptials for the year ahead, 2026 wedding trends are already coming into bloom. Drawing inspiration from the likes of Bridgerton and regency-era romance, Lucy Hook, Floral Lead at Bloom & Wild, shares how brides and grooms can embrace these tones through their floral choices creating looks that feel understated yet refined, moving away from bold brights toward something more subtle, romantic and dreamlike.

E&W Couture unveils its new collection

Designed in-house in their Cardiff-based studio, New Archive features 24 distinct bridal looks, with made-to-order sizing available from 4 up to 28 and consisting of 14 bridal dresses, as well as 10 separates, including tops, skirts, trousers and detachable sleeves. The pieces are made using locally sourced vegan-certified materials and recycled fabrics such as silk chiffon, satin, tulle and lace. The collection ties the knot between re-interpreted versions of E&W Couture's most popular designs and newly introduced styles, demonstrating E&W Couture's commitment to grow with its Brides-to-Be whilst staying true to their ethos of slow, considered fashion that celebrates individuality and stands the test of time.

Local supplier spotlight: Vale Resort

Step inside Hensol Castle and discover timeless elegance; grand staircases, opulent chandeliers, and historic features blend beautifully with luxurious modern touches. From intimate oak-panelled rooms to a breathtaking banqueting hall, every corner offers romance and charm. Bathed in natural light and steeped in history, it's the perfect setting for an unforgettable wedding day. Hensol Castle's exterior is the epitome of fairytale romance; its grand 17th-century stone façade - complete with castellated towers, arched windows, and elegant detailing – exudes historic charm and timeless beauty. Set against a backdrop of mature trees and a tranquil lake, the castle offers a truly majestic setting for your wedding day; unforgettable from the very first glance. Surrounded by rolling countryside, Hensol Castle's gardens and grounds offer a peaceful, picturesque escape. Manicured lawns, a serene lake with a romantic jetty, and ancient trees provide the perfect backdrop for outdoor ceremonies and stunning photos. With sweeping views and tranquil walkways, the grounds are a dream setting for couples seeking natural beauty and timeless elegance. Exchange vows under the elegant bandstand, surrounded by nature and overlooking the serene lake. With space for 150 and a seamless indoor option if it rains, it's the perfect blend of style, flexibility, and timeless charm. Inside, say 'I do' in the romantic Oak Room, seating up to 100 guests beneath ornate ceilings and historic wood panelling.

Hen Party Trends for 2026

Hen parties in 2026 are shaping up to be even more expressive, more personal and far more adventurous than the familiar nights out of the past decade, according to hen party experts Book a Party. Brides and their friends are leaning into weekends that feel curated rather than copied. There is a clear move toward experiences that tell a story about the bride and the group. People want something that feels fresh and clever but still relaxed enough that everyone can enjoy themselves without pressure.

Festive fun and savings at Bridgend Designer Outlet this December

McArthurGlen Designer Outlet Bridgend has announced its transformation into a vibrant hub of savings, community, and Christmas magic this holiday season, offering a packed program of activities and experiences for visitors of all ages.

Shoppers can immerse themselves in the festive spirit by strolling through beautifully decorated Centre, capturing memorable moments in front of a giant wreath, and indulging in seasonal treats from over 15 food and drink locations.

Expert Reveals Why Winter Weddings Are Making a Big Comeback in the UK

Once considered the "off-season" of the wedding world, winter is now becoming one of the most sought-after seasons for UK couples tying the knot. Industry experts say the trend is more than a passing phase, but rather it's the start of a long-term shift in how Brits envision their perfect day. To understand why couples are turning to crisp days, cosy settings, and festive flair, we spoke with Nick Bramer from Country House Weddings, who says winter weddings are not only more romantic, but strategically smart.

SK:N Clinics has launched its newest clinic in the heart of Swansea

SK:N Clinics, one of the UK's leading skin and dermatology specialists, is delighted to announce the launch of its newest clinic in the heart of Swansea. The Swansea clinic marks the latest step in SK:N's continued expansion, bringing skin health and dermatological expertise to South Wales. With a mission to make skin confidence accessible to all, the new clinic will offer a comprehensive range of treatments delivered by qualified medical practitioners and skin experts. These treatments are designed to rejuvenate, refresh, and restore skin health, offering solutions for concerns such as dullness, pigmentation, texture, and congestion.

From early in the new year, the Swansea clinic will expand its services with a full medical and aesthetic dermatology programme led by Dr. Simon Harris and Dr. Amna Mukhtar.

‘Tis the season to say ‘I Do’ - but don’t forget this crucial step, warns expert

December is the most popular month to get engaged, accounting for more than 11% of proposals¹. But, as peak proposal season approaches, new research from MoneySuperMarket reveals that many couples could be putting their engagement rings - and their wallets - at risk. The research* revealed that two-thirds (66%) of engaged or married couples don't have their rings covered under their home insurance and more than a quarter (27%) don't have any insurance at all. The data highlights a growing protection gap, particularly among younger generations with over a third (38%) of 18-24 year olds having no cover, compared to 24% of 25-34 year olds.

Local supplier spotlight: Bryngarw House

Bryngarw House is nestled within the lush, historic grounds of Bryngarw Country Park in Bridgend. Surrounded by mature woodland, sweeping lawns and glorious gardens, there are plenty of places to explore and photograph, including a Japanese garden created around 1910.

The house itself combines historic country-house charm with refined modern elegance. Classically styled with bright, airy spaces, the design strikes a perfect balance between heritage and contemporary touches. Original architectural features have been carefully preserved throughout, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere that's sure to impress guests.