Your East Anglian Wedding - October/November 2019 (Issue 39)

All the latest from around the region EDITOR LOVES As a gin lover myself, I was excited to learn of Pinkster Gin’s latest launch. Their new Hedgepig Gin Liqueurs are not only a must for the Christmas drinks cabinet and a great addition to the big-day bar, they’re helping to preserve our prickly friends too. Made by Cambridgeshire- based Pinkster using fruit from local orchards or foraged from the region’s hedgerows, 50 pence is being donated to the British Hedgehog Preservation Society for every bottle sold. Available in four deliciously fruity flavours they can be served with cheese, desserts or topped up with prosecco as a cocktail. Visit the website fruityhedgepig.com Nearlywed NEWS CONGRATULATIONS! While we’re on the subject of great local tipples, a big high-five to Flint Vineyard in Bungay, winners of the Pride of Norfolk title in this year’s Norfolk Food & Drink Awards. Recognising the company’s flair for creating, developing and delivering a distinctive, first-class product, the accolade is another feather in the vineyard’s hat. Based in the sunny and sheltered Waveney Valley, winemaker Ben Witchell is dedicated to combining innovation and tradition in crafting their wines. He said, “We’re delighted to have received this latest award, particularly because it’s for our sparkling Charmat Rosé, the first wine of its kind to be made in the UK.” To see, and taste, for yourself, tours of the vineyard are available with the extra option of their 15-mile lunch; a foodie treat including fresh local produce all made within 15 miles of the vineyard – great for a chilled hen or stag celebration. Visit flintvineyard.com to find out more. SUITE DREAMS On the hunt for a historic wedding venue full of character and charm with 21 st -century comforts to boot? The Maids Head Hotel, Norwich offers all this and more. Following a £2.5 million investment the independent four-star silver hotel has recently undergone a luxury makeover. Set in the historic heart of Norwich, all the hotel’s 84 bedrooms have been completely refurbished, including the popular Paston Suite; perfect for the wedding night. The Katherine of Aragon is a brand new suite and, as well as luxurious rooms, there are two new Bentleys, ready to whisk newlyweds off for a chauffeur-driven spin around Norwich; great for stunning photos. There’s even a new electric launch, complete with skipper and room for up to 12 guests, just in case you fancy a trip on the river. Visit maidsheadhotel.co.uk Norfolk wedding venue Caley Hall Hotel has a super new website. Designed to be more user-friendly and informative, lots of call-to-action buttons and image galleries have been added; you can even enjoy a virtual tour of the hotel. Newlyweds-to-be can also get a real feel for how weddings look at the hotel with the 360-degree image viewer. Check it out at caleyhallhotel.co.uk YOUR ESSENTIALS 9