An Essex Wedding - March/April 2026 (Issue 127)

DOWN HALL LAUNCHES NEW REFORMER PILATES RETREAT FOR 2026 Bringing a renewed focus to movement for 2026, Down Hall Hotel, Spa & Estate has unveiled a brand-new Reformer Pilates Retreat, created in exclusive partnership with neighbouring studio Rural Health & Fitness. Set in the heart of the Essex countryside, the experience combines a personalised Reformer class with an overnight stay, breakfast and guided morning yoga. Centred on mindful activity and physical reset, the retreat begins with a one-to-one Reformer Pilates session at Rural Health & Fitness, where expert instructors and a full suite of professional equipment support a tailored, technique-driven workout to enhance core strength, flexibility and postural alignment. Following the session, back at Down Hall, guests can unwind in the spa or enjoy seasonal dining in the property’s award-winning restaurant -The Garden Room. A restorative night’s rest awaits in one of the hotel’s 98 individually designed bedrooms before a freshly prepared breakfast and a rejuvenating yoga class guided by Down Hall’s wellbeing and holistic expert, Camilla Sheeley, gently easing guests into the day. As part of Down Hall’s expanding wellness programme for 2026, the Reformer Pilates retreat sits alongside a growing collection of ritual-led experiences - from ceremonial sound baths and immersive breathwork sessions - all supported by the hotel’s award-winning Eden Spa and the recently opened Barn Spa in partnership with natural British beauty and skincare brand Bramley. Priced at £135 per person (based on a double or twin room), the Reformer Pilates Retreat is 13th March and 10th April. A ROYAL VISIT TO THE SUN INN, DEDHAM On 5th February, The Sun Inn was honoured to welcome Their Majesties The King and Queen as part of a wider visit celebrating community, sustainability and local heritage. The award-winning pub-with-rooms The Sun Inn hosted a diverse group of guests invited to meet Their Majesties, including local volunteers, representatives from sustainable and regenerative businesses, members of the military, and civic dignitaries. Among those attending were Danbury Ridge Wines, Thorrington Mill Wines, and regenerative farmer Pete Thompson, reflecting a shared commitment to responsible land use, local production and community values. The Sun Inn’s owner Piers Baker said: “It was an immense honour to welcome Their Majesties to The Sun Inn and to share with them the people, produce and traditions that mean so much to us. The visit was a wonderful celebration of our team, our community, our local growers and producers, and highlighted the vital role pubs play for all communities.” Oliver Suckling Novo Studios Lucy Can’t Dance launches ‘Atomic Bloom’ Celebrated non-traditional bridal house, Lucy Can’t Dance, marks its 10-year anniversary with the launch of its most vibrant and diverse collection to date, ‘Atomic Bloom’. The new line is a joyful celebration of colour, comfort, and personality, confirming the brand’s position as a leader in alternative bridalwear. To mark the significant 10-year milestone, founder Lucy drew inspiration from the brand’s past hits, resulting in a collection that is both nostalgic and forward-looking. “We’re known for our splashes of colour here, so this 10-year special is, without doubt, our most colourful collection to date,” states the founder. “The standout piece is our first-ever full, doubleended dip dye rainbow dress, designed to celebrate every shade of a bride’s personality.” The ‘atomic bloom’ collection is an eclectic mix of wedding dresses, jumpsuits, and co-ords, ensuring every bride can find a piece that truly reflects their individual style. Visit: www.lucycantdance.com 8

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