A NEW business, which aims to take the stress and pressure out of organising weddings, has been launched in County Durham.

Bridalways is now open for business in Middleton St George, near Darlington.

Jacky Cooper and Maureen Ferguson, who between them have 35 years of hotel experience, have decided to give up their full-time employment and concentrate on developing their personal wedding service.

The idea is that the family of the bride and groom will arrive with a budget and an outline of what kind of wedding they are looking for.

Bridalways can then suggest a wide variety of venues, bridal wear, photographers, car hire, florists and everything connected with the big day. The company will then make arrangements for everything that goes to make a perfect wedding day, but the final decision always rests with the family.

Jacky said: "We are really working on behalf of the family by taking on the work of the parents, while keeping them in control.

"We liaise with them every step of the way to make sure they are completely aware of what we are doing for them - they have the final say in everything."

Bridalways say the service would be particularly helpful for university students, or couples who live and work away from where they want to get married.

To mark the launch of the business, the first couple to make a booking will be offered free service.

Bridalways can be contacted on (01325) 333404.