Weddings are a big business. In the US, couples spend half a year's income on their special day, while the UK industry is worth £10 billion a year. And for many women, it's all about the dress. But in response to couples tightening the purse strings, brands are appealing to brides on a budget.

When the Olympics roll around every four years, the 16-day extravaganza unites the world in a celebration of sport. But with two cities withdrawing their bids for 2024, the event’s prestige is in doubt. Can reconnecting with its core values make the Olympics – and its sponsors – more appealing?

With the UK’s regional press in decline and new hyperlocal offerings from tech giants including Google and Facebook, the way people discover news from their community is transforming. Canvas8 spoke to 20 Britons to understand how they keep up with current affairs in their local area.

House parties are a cornerstone of Western adolescence, defined by kitchen congregations and red plastic cups. But in Japan, where homes are small and hosting comes with high stakes, they’re an alien concept. The Home Party Association aims to change that with its courses on throwing a party.