Winning ways Claire Hansen Cakes has been announced as a South West Regional Winner at The Wedding Industry Awards 2026 in the Wedding Cake Designer category. Regional Winners now go through to the National Final. Based on average voter scores, feedback from customers from the past 12 months and the opinion of more than 160 expert judges, the 2026 Awards saw 26,747 votes cast for 1,300 entrants. “It has been a huge honour to win and means the world to me that the award is voted for by my real wedding couples,” Claire says. “I absolutely love being a small part of their special day and bringing their creative visions to life in sugar.” Find out more about Claire Hansen Cakes at clairehansencakes.com For the GROOMS Bastion of British tailoring Gieves & Hawkes has announced its return to Bath with the opening of a new store in Shire’s Yard. Set across three floors at the heart of the city, the new store, now open, will showcase the full breadth of the brand’s offering, from ready-to-wear tailoring and refined casualwear to the made-to-measure service that’s long been a favourite among discerning clients in the region. The return of Gieves & Hawkes to Bath is a welcome one – a reconnection with a city that has embraced the house’s timeless British style for decades. So, pop along to 2, Broad Street, Bath, BA1 5LJ to discover your groom style. A LITTLE BIT AUSTEN With season four of Netflix’s Bridgerton reaching its heady conclusion, the fascination with the Regency era shows no signs of abating. In harmony with this, The Gainsborough Bath Spa will be hosting two six-day events with Strictly Jane Austen Tours taking place this spring and autumn, honouring the iconic author, synonymous with Bath. Taking place on 27th April to 2nd May and 26th to 31st October, these thoughtfully curated programmes offer guests a journey back in time through expert-led talks, guided tours, creative workshops and Regency-inspired entertainment. Prices start from £2,275 per person. Find out more at strictlyjaneausten.com/jane_austen_ celebrations2026 NEWS Nearlywed Catch up on the latest from around the region mattrockphotography.com 6
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTA0NTE=