VIRTUAL ART Alice and John at The Paint Club have been busy running hen parties over the summer, and are delighted to see everything opening up with people willing and able to meet in person once more following the Covid lockdowns of the past couple of years. Able to run their arty hen parties at any venue of your choice, John tells us, “I’ve seen some amazing AirBnBs around the country recently!” However, if there’s one thing adapting to the pandemic taught them it’s the value of the hybrid event with virtual options still offered for those friends and family who can’t get together. With this latest offering, those who can’t make it are simply sent a painting kit and they can follow along with the live instruction virtually either from one of the artists or as a pre-recorded video in cases where the whole event is virtual. So, even if you wish to invite loved ones on the other side of the world, distance needn’t be a hindrance as these hybrid painting parties still allow you all to get together and have a fab time. The perfect creative activity to add to a hen do, the team at The Paint Club will bring (or send) everything you need to paint a masterpiece, whether its in your AirBnB, home or local pub. Choose your painting or surprise the bride with a custom design and the team will take care of the rest. With your favourite drink in one hand, paint brush in the other, a professional artist will guide you through the artwork step by step. For more information visit www.thepaintclub.co.uk or email hello@thepaintclub.co.uk to book your bespoke events. HEN DO HOT SPOT Getting your nearest and dearest together for a hen party can be challenging and pairing that with a cost-of-living crisis might mean you’re looking to celebrate a little closer to home. So, hen party decoration supplier Ginger Ray has done a little digging to find you the top 19 UK cities to host your pre-wedding girls trip and it may delight you to know that you don’t have far to travel for the very best! Based on an overall ranking of cities providing the most options for a memorable stay, according to Trip Advisor data, considering everything from bottomless brunches and spa treatments to availability of the hugely popular Whispering Angel wine, our beloved Brighton came out in second place just behind Bath. With an impressive 587 group activities on offer there’ll never be a dull moment and given the strong showing in categories such as restaurants with brunch options, accessibility, spots with outdoor heating, vegan options and a good bar scene, everyone in your group should be guaranteed a fun, and above all, comfortable time. Jess Martin, decoration expert at Ginger Ray says, “It’s surprising to see how the different cities ranked, with some unexpected ones such as London and Manchester towards the bottom of the list. While the bride is the main focus of your hen party, so many people are involved in making it special so it’s really important to factor this into your planning, whether it’s dietary needs or accessibility. The index is also a great way to scope out which city suits your group’s vibe, whether it be outdoor activities or bars and restaurants. Making sure the place you visit is the best for those preferences will ensure there’s no disappointment among the group.” So, there you have it. In case there was ever any doubt, here’s the proof: Brighton is the place to be! MEET AND GREET The team at The Old Tollgate in Steyning understand that your wedding day is one of the most special days of your lives. That’s why, dedicated and experienced as they are, they’re above all passionate about providing you both with a personal and focused service. They’ll be out and about this autumn with stands at various wedding shows around the county, so if you can’t make it along to the venue, be sure to catch them for a chat at The West Sussex Wedding Fayre, Horsham on Sunday20th November. From your first point of contact through to the day itself, you’ll be able to rest assured knowing that your very own wedding coordinator will be taking care of every detail, whether you’ve opted for a traditional reception, civil ceremony or partnership. Find out more at www.oldtollgatehotel.com 10
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