CITY businesses are gearing up for a bumper long weekend as Nottingham celebrates the royal wedding on April 29.
At John Lewis, in the Victoria Centre, employees will be able to share in the marriage of William and Kate, even if they are at work.
The store will be adjusting its opening hours to allow the majority of its employees to watch the wedding at home.
Those coming in before the 1pm opening time can watch the action from Westminster Abbey on large screens
Sean Parker, who works as a head chef at the store's restaurant, said: "I can remember watching Charles and Diana get married back in 1981 and there's no way I would miss watching this.
"I'm pretty fond of the royals, and it's a massive event for the whole country so it's good to be a part of it in some way.
Leisure complex the Cornerhouse, in Burton Street, will join radio station Capital FM to give punters "royal hen and stag" nights.
Applicants can apply for a Capital FM competition, where they will be phoned and required to answer questions about the royals.
The winners will be treated to a hen or stag night event on April 14 at the Slug and Lettuce inside the centre, where they can enjoy free champagne and other treats.
In West Bridgford, the Asda store will hold an event on the theme of Prince William and Kate Middleton's big day, though exact plans are currently unconfirmed.
Wayne Brown, a staff member responsible for arranging such events, said: "We will be celebrating it one way or another.
"It's just a question of how."
The store will also sell memorabilia, including a replica of the bride's engagement ring.
Ikea Nottingham will lend people furniture on the big day for their royal wedding celebrations.
And in Pelham Street, Nottingham, Homemade Cafe is planning a British tea party on the day.
People will be able to enjoy cucumber sandwiches and wedding cake as they watch the event on screen.
But not all retailers are getting involved.
HMV is selling wedding-related products but no stores are holding events.
Gennaro Castaldo, press officer for the chain, said: "Companies are just conscious of not looking like they are cashing in and doing it for the sake of it."
At the Broadmarsh shopping centre, building work has put organisers off the idea of an event.
One employee said: "We would have looked into doing something but, because of the ongoing works, we can't commit to anything at the moment."
Jon Smart, of the Derbyshire & Notts Chamber of Commerce, said: "It's a hard one to call. I imagine some people will do family get-togethers.
"I think the places that are going to benefit are the pubs and clubs and restaurants, not retailers.
"A lot of businesses are going to be closing for the day."
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