10 Best Wedding Photos of 2017

Well what a year it’s been! We’ve seen oodles of happy couples choose to tie the knot in beautiful locations and with it, we’ve gazed in awe at some of the incredible wedding photographs we’ve seen shared online.

If you’re getting married next year (or if you’re just addicted to beautiful wedding photography like us) grab a cup of tea, sit back, relax and flick through our collection the best wedding photos of 2017.

It might just inspire you to check out one of these wonderful photographers or at the very least, follow them on Instagram and continue to oggle the beautiful wedding images they share.

10 of the best wedding photos of 2017

 

1. Tobiah Tayo Photography 

 

2. Eliza Claire Photography

 

3. Wetherall Photography

 

4. Amy Fanton Photography with Stunning Flowers by Bels Flowers

 

5. Johanna Rosenlew Photography

 

6. Iain Gomes Photography

 

 

7. Kitebox at Hedsor House 

 

8. First Light Weddings 

 

9. Greg Finck Photography

 

10. One of our festive favourites

 

If this list of stunning photos has left you wanting more, jingle all the way over to Bridebook.co.uk for our entire list of UK wedding photographers.

24 Stately Home Wedding Venues

Have you always envisioned a grand and dramatic wedding? Are you seeking a bit of royal wedding action in your life? These stately home wedding venues are the closest you’ll get – and they’re pretty special too!

These impressive manor wedding venues will have you begging for more as you become a King or Queen for your big day. However, if you’re looking for something a little more low-key, use Bridebook.co.uk’s Wedding Venue Search and use the filters to find your perfect setting!

 

1. Holkham, Norfolk Wedding Venues

Holkham wedding venue

One of England’s greatest estates, Holkham is a majestic Stately Home that will leave your guests in awe as they contemplate the luxurious Marble Hall, the Saloon, and the Statue Gallery along with many other outstanding rooms. Whichever space you choose, the experience will always be memorable.

2. Gosfield Hall, Essex Wedding Venues

Gosfield Hall wedding venue

Located in Essex, the exquisite Gosfield Hall has plenty of venues suited for each step of the ceremony. From the wedding breakfast in The Marquis of Buckingham’s former ballroom, to the actual ceremony in Queen Charlotte’s gallery, everything is covered for your big day.

3. Prestwold Hall, Leicestershire Wedding Venues

Prestwold Hall wedding venue

For a fairytale wedding, there is hardly a better venue than Prestwold Hall. This majestic Stately Home offers three splendid locations to tie the knot, including the church for a religious ceremony, the library inside the estate, and the gardens for an outside affair.

4. Boreham House, Essex Wedding Venues

Bridebook.co.uk Boreham House

This beautiful Grade I listed building overlooks it’s own lake and 35 acres of grounds in the picturesque Essex countryside. Boreham House offers a gorgeous oak carved ceremony room and a marble reception area, so you can experience being Lord and Lady of the Manor for your wedding day.

5. Hengrave Hall, Suffolk Wedding Venues

Bridebook.co.uk Hengrave Hall

The striking exterior of Hengrave Hall will whet the most demanding of wedding venue appetites, as this breathtaking Tudor mansion wedding venue boasts 350 acres of parkland as well as it’s very own church in which to say your vows. You won’t need much persuasion after visiting this stately home!

6. Orchardleigh House & Estate, Somerset Wedding Venues

Bridebook.co.uk Orchardleigh House & Estate

Just when you think you’d like to find the perfect stately home wedding venue in the West, we call upon Orchardleigh House & Estate! Not only is the elegant house up for grabs, but also the Italian-style Walled Garden with a gorgeous light-filled Orangery may be the ideal place for your ceremony in the spring and summer time.

7. Stonehouse Court Hotel, Gloucestershire Wedding Venues

Bridebook.co.uk Stonehouse Court Hotel

Stonehouse Court Hotel is a 17th Century stately home venue that dreams are made of! It hosts a plethora of flexible spaces in which to celebrate with your nearest and dearest, including the newly-refurbished Caroline Suite – a stunningly romantic banqueting room that backs onto the private gardens.

Could a hotel be the perfect spot for you and your beau to tie the knot? Check out our top picks for hotel wedding venues in the UK!

8. Port Eliot Estate, Cornwall Wedding Venues

Bridebook.co.uk Port Eliot Estate

Port Eliot will blow you away with it’s breath-taking Georgian Orangery, it’s elegant Boathouse on the river banks, and it’s traditional reception rooms oozing with charm. As the historic seat of the Earl and Countess of St Germans, this enchanting stately home truly is a fairy-tale setting.

9. Lartington Hall, Country Durham Wedding Venues

Bridebook.co.uk Lartington Hall

Gorgeous high ceilings and elegant decor welcome you as soon as you walk into Lartington Hall. On offer is 75 acres of parkland, a stunning Chapel space and the heavenly Ballroom, creating a magical setting for your grand wedding.

10. Ashridge House, Hertfordshire Wedding Venues

Bridebook.co.uk Ashridge House

Hertfordshire’s Ashridge House is a rather royal affair, as it was once home to Henry VIII and Queen Elizabeth I. On it’s own 190-acre estate, this manor wedding venue boasts high ceilings, exquisite decor and the grand staircase as a gorgeous focal point.

11. Brocket Hall Estate, Hertfordshire Wedding Venues

Brocket Hall Estate

Dating back to 1760, Brocket Hall Estate is set in picturesque countryside and boasts three fairytale venues for your stately home wedding. The Ballroom is at the heart of this stunning venue – the opulent ceiling was painted by Sir Francis Wheatley, and it was the first place in England to be introduced to the Waltz. How romantic!

12. Irnham Hall, Lincolnshire Wedding Venues

Bridebook.co.uk Irnham Hall

Irnham Hall‘s spacious Orangery and it’s very own Church are perfect settings for your ceremony, followed by a glass of bubbly in the Walled Garden. Continue your celebrations in the stunning Summer House before retiring to the onsite luxury cottages with your nearest and dearest.

If you’re looking for country wedding venues in the UK, check out this list!

13. Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire Wedding Venues

Bridebook.co.uk Blenheim Palace

What a choice you have with the breath-taking Blenheim Palace, where you can choose between several different settings. Literature lovers – here’s The Long Library, complete with grand organ and 10,000 books, or there’s The Saloon, a French-decorated State Dining Room. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg!

14. Cambo Estate, Fife Wedding Venues

Bridebook.co.uk Cambo Estate

Bringing together a stunning stately home, a rustic barn venue in the woods and dramatic parkland backdrops, Cambo Estate really does suit all tastes! This Scottish oasis oozes charm and tradition to create the wedding day of your dreams.

15. Allerton Castle, North Yorkshire Wedding Venues

Bridebook.co.uk Allerton Castle

This gothic revival castle will really sweep you off your feet! Allerton Castle is a jaw-dropping setting, some key features including the Grand Staircase on which to utilise for a dramatic bridal entrance – amazing photo opportunity right there!

Check the out the 20 best UK castle wedding venues.

16. Belchamp Hall, Suffolk Wedding Venues

Bridebook.co.uk Belchamp Hall

Suffolk’s gem of a venue Belchamp Hall is a gorgeous red-brick structure with a long sweeping driveway, stunning stained glass windows and a nearby church in which to say your vows. It’s a must-see.

17. Kimberley Hall, Norfolk Wedding Venues

Bridebook.co.uk Kimberley Hall

Looking for a stately home wedding venue with a modern twist? Kimberley Hall is the place for you – a historic house including a stylish West Wing with chic decor and state-of-the-art-lighting. This venue will light up your life!

18. Penshurst Place, Kent Wedding Venues

Bridebook.co.uk Penshurst Place

Penshurst Place and Gardens is a one-of-a-kind stately home venue that lies in a glorious village in Kent. This enchanting Medieval house offers three unique banqueting rooms, not to mention the perfectly manicured gardens where you can take a romantic walk after you tie the knot.

19. Stoneleigh Abbey, Warwickshire Wedding Venues

Bridebook.co.uk Stoneleigh Abbey

The spectacular lake-fronted Stoneleigh Abbey is an impressive mansion wedding venue with a rich history. Choose from a range of banquet halls, reception rooms and timeless settings in which to host your wedding day – all with stunning views over parkland.

20. Leigh Court, Somerset Wedding Venues

Bridebook.co.uk Leigh Court

Leigh Court‘s Great Hall is truly the heart of this venue – with it’s surrounding double staircase and striking pipe organ, there isn’t a better place to have your ceremony. And if you haven’t fallen in love with it yet, the rest of the 19th Century Greek-style decor throughout the rest of the building won’t disappoint!

21. Holdenby House, Northamptonshire Wedding Venues

Bridebook.co.uk Holdenby House

With 20 acres of luscious gardens and surrounded by endless Northamptonshire countryside, Holdenby House is one to remember. The state rooms of this traditional setting scream grand and romantic – what more could you want?!

See our favourite UK rustic wedding venues here!

22. Capesthorne Hall, Cheshire Wedding Venues

Bridebook.co.uk Capesthorne Hall

No fairytale wedding is complete without the backdrop of Capesthorne Hall! As one of the most prestigious venues within Cheshire, this Jacobean-style building combines history, grandeur, and a touch of contemporary charm too.

23. Plas Dinam Country House, Powys Wedding Venues

Bridebook.co.uk Plas Dinam Country House

The magical Welsh venue of Plas Dinam Country House makes the ideal setting for your grand wedding. Float through this beautiful Grade II mansion, have drinks in the wildflower meadow, and feast like Kings and Queens in the glass-roofed Old Stables. Lush!

24. Sennowe Park, Norfolk Wedding Venues

Bridebook.co.uk Sennowe Park

Sennowe Park is Norfolk’s delight, offering the stunning Long Room or the Winter Garden for your bespoke ceremony. With a luxury marquee on the grounds and gorgeous views across the land, you can party the night away at this grand stately home venue.

Haven’t found the venue for you? Use Bridebook.co.uk’s Wedding Venue Search and click the filter for ‘stately home’ if you would like a grand wedding day!

Or if you’ve already found your dream venue, you can still use Bridebook to help you with the rest of your essential planning, including your wedding guest list, wedding budget, wedding checklist and shortlisting your wedding suppliers!

Happy planning!

Supplier Stories: RSA House shares the Importance of Communication and Bespoke weddings.

Welcome to this week’s Supplier Story! ‘Supplier Stories’ is an original Bridebook Business article series, where we go behind-the-scenes and into the wedding world through those that know it best – the experienced and talented venues and suppliers across the UK.

So whether this is your first story or 10th, enjoy as we look into the industry as a whole, and celebrate a true story in itself! Who says couples have all the fun?

RSA House’s Supplier Story: 

Photo Credit: Guy Collier

 

This week we’re shining the spotlight on Rosalind Craven, Wedding Co-ordinator at RSA House. Set amidst the daily hustle and bustle of of London’s West End, RSA House is a hidden gem in all its Georgian  splendour. Each room is completely unique with its own tale, making it a remarkable place to say ‘i do’ on your very special day. 

So without further ado, Rosalind over to you!

 

1. Tell us a little bit about yourself?

I still sometimes cannot believe my luck that I have fallen into the wedding world as it has always been a dream to work in such a creative and diverse industry, and the perfectionist in me loves nothing more than a flawlessly planned event!

Asides from wedding planning and marketing, I enjoy discovering new places to eat with friends, spending time in the countryside or by the coast, listening to all sorts of music and a new hobby this year has been practising calligraphy – which comes in handy when couples are missing a placecard or two on the big day!

 

2. Share the story of yourself and RSA House.

Since starting in the events industry I have worked in many different types of venues and organised over 150 weddings. Having tried working in the corporate events sector, I found myself coming back to weddings because I missed the more personal relationships you build with people and the creativity and challenges involved in planning such intricate events. Working at RSA House particularly appealed to me because in addition to having such a fascinating history, all of the profits from the events go back into supporting the brilliant work that the charity does.

 

3. What do you see as the biggest challenge for couples planning their wedding?

I would undoubtedly say that the biggest challenge for couples these days is the overwhelming amount of choice that there is in the wedding market. Then on top of all these decisions to make, people often tell me that they get pulled in every direction by family members and friends who want to help. The most important thing to remember is that it is YOUR day. The final decision lies with you so remember that you don’t have to please everyone!

 

4. What wedding venue trends are you seeing in the industry?

One trend that I am particularly loving for winter weddings at the moment is a move towards choosing more homely, filling and charmingly simple dishes for the wedding banquet. Our last wedding at RSA House requested a bespoke dish for their main course of ‘Bangers and Mash’, which went down a treat with their guests on a cold December day! It was such a lovely, relaxed atmosphere and everyone really enjoyed the food.

 

5. What advice would you give to a couple who is just starting to plan their wedding?

The first step is to find the venue and pick a date! Once the venue is secured, then you can ask your wedding coordinator to give you lots of advice about the best suppliers to use in that area. Venue coordinators will be able to help you in lots of areas, not just related to the venue and catering.

 

6. How do you feel technology is changing the industry?

Although the amount of choice that technology has generated for couples these days can seem a little daunting at first, it is hard to imagine how people used to plan a wedding without Pinterest! All of the information you could possibly need is right at your fingertips and couples have access to a wealth of advice and support from industry experts along the way. Forums are also a wonderful way to be able to chat to other newly engaged couples who might be going through the same experiences as you.

 

7. How do you get to know your couples before the big day?

As I look after each wedding we have here at RSA House, it is lovely to be able to see every wedding through from the very first enquiry to the day itself. During the planning process couples are welcome to organise the day via email or in person – whatever suits them best. I often work with a lot of couples who live abroad so even if they cannot visit us in person, I can get to know them and what’s important to them over the phone or Skype.

 

8. What do you think makes RSA House unique? 

The thing I love most about how we work at RSA House is that in addition to personally looking after every couple that books with us, I am also there on the day to ensure that every little detail we have discussed throughout the planning is always carried through to fruition. Having worked in several different venues, many may offer a coordinator to help you plan the day but there will be a different person present on the wedding day itself. Having that consistency of communication is such a crucial part of creating the perfect wedding day.

 

9. What do you think makes for an unforgettable wedding?

The best weddings I have seen are when the couple really put their personal stamp on the day. Letting your personality shine through things like the decorations, music, entertainment and food is one way to make your wedding day truly unique. It doesn’t have to cost a fortune, and often it’s the smaller touches like personal family traditions that make the day memorable for everyone.

 

10. What’s your favourite wedding memory?

It would be impossible to name just one favourite memory from the weddings I have organised. However, the best feeling is when you see the couple truly relax and enjoy their day. Nearly all couples say that their wedding day goes by so quickly, so the last thing you want is for them to still be worrying about timings and logistics. It is the most rewarding feeling when they wholly put their trust in you and just enjoy every moment of their day.

 

11. What do you love about Bridebook?

There is such an overload of information available about weddings these days that it can be overwhelming for newly engaged couples who don’t know where to start. Bridebook is a fantastic way to keep all of your planning in one place and get helpful suggestions on how you can take things step by step.  

 

A huge thank you to Rosalind for sharing her Supplier Story. See the stunning RSA House  in their Bridebook profile.

 

Want to feature in your own Supplier Story? Get in touch with Beth at beth@bridebook.co.uk. 

Bridebook Business Hub

Bridebook Business Hub

 

Welcome to the Bridebook Business Hub.  

Bridebook Business Hub has been created for you, the wedding industry professional. We want to make sure you have the skills and resources you need to build a strong digital presence and market your wedding business with confidence. From couple insights and trends to social media and lead generation (and much more), the Bridebook Business Hub is a one-stop shop for the all the latest news and top tips to power your wedding business.

As well as this, we look to provide supportive and educational insight into the industry. We do this by working with our Bridebook data scientists and by partnering with leading experts, inspirational thinkers, and thought generators. 

 

Be Good To Yourself:

  1. 3 New Year’s Resolutions for every wedding professional
  2. Your bedtime routine could be wrecking your wedding business
  3. 23 Motivational Quotes to help Inspire Wedding Professionals
  4. 3 Ways to Stay Motivated as a Wedding Professional
  5. TED tips for building creative confidence as a wedding professional

 

Bridebook Business Account & Profile

  1. The New Face of Bridebook Enquiries for Wedding Industry Professionals.
  2. Your 2018 Engagement Season Checklist
  3. 5 improvements to your Bridebook Business Profile that will help grow your wedding business!
  4. Why successful wedding suppliers spend more time choosing the right profile pictures
  5. As Featured On: Personalised Bridebook Business Badges For Your Business.

 

Business Advice and Top Tips

  1. Do’s and dont’s of coronavirus for wedding venues
  2. 10 Essential Wedding Photography Tips from a Famed Photographer
  3. How to become a winning wedding supplier in 2018
  4. 10 Essential Wedding Photography Tips from a Famed Photographer
  5. Why every wedding supplier website needs an FAQ page
  6. Essential questions you should be asking your couples in 2018
  7. 9 of the Best Free Tools To Help Grow Your Wedding Business
  8. Is your wedding website deemed ‘relatable’ by couples of today?
  9. 10 things brides hate about you…
  10. The Wedding Supplier’s Guide to Reducing a Couple’s Planning Anxiety with Mind Marriage
  11. 5 ways wedding pro’s can deliver big impact with a small team
  12. 12 Tips of Christmas for festive wedding professionals

 

Marketing for Wedding Professionals

  1. UK wedding venues have discovered the secret to free marketing and more bookings
  2. The importance of ‘email’ in the UK wedding industry today
  3. Does featuring on B2B wedding directories defeat the point of having your own wedding website?
  4. 5 tips to guaranteeing wedding show success
  5. Wedding Venues and Photographers – a match made in marketing heaven
  6. Dog-friendly weddings and the marketing opportunities they present
  7. Bridebook Business: Confidence In Marketing Your Wedding Business.
  8. Bridebook Business: Self Promoting Your Wedding Business

 

Miscellaneous:

  1. How wedding suppliers get into the world of wedding industry awards
  2. UK wedding supplier events 2017 / 2018

 

Networking:

  1. How to network with wedding suppliers 
  2. A professionals guide to Networking in the Wedding Industry with Engage Weddings
  3. Why Targeted Accounts are the wedding industry game changer of 2018

 

Public Relations:

  1. How wedding businesses like yours are using PR to bag bookings
  2. How wedding suppliers get published in PR

 

Pricing:

  1. Why it’s more important than ever to be transparent with your pricing
  2. How wedding pro’s play the pricing game

 

Reviews & Testimonials:

  1. How reviews help wedding photographers generate bookings
  2. How reviews help wedding planners generate bookings
  3. How reviews help wedding food suppliers generate bookings
  4. How reviews help wedding dress, makeup and accessories suppliers generate bookings
  5. Why reviews and recommendations are a wedding suppliers best friend
  6. How to use your reviews
  7. An idiot’s guide to making reviews work for your wedding business
  8. Bridebook Business Live: How To Make The Most Of Reviews.
  9. Are reviews important sales tools for wedding venues?

 

Successful Sales:

  1. From enquiry to booked: 10 top tips to increase your wedding venue bookings this Engagement Season
  2. 3 places wedding suppliers must be to never need bookings again
  3. How to stand out in the wedding industry and win new business
  4. Wedding Industry Insights: where do quality enquiries come from?
  5. How wedding suppliers impress couples at the first meeting
  6. What couples want from a wedding venue in 2018
  7. 7 things Wedding Venues can clarify upfront to help secure bookings

 

Seasonal Saviours:

  1. How UK Wedding Suppliers can get the most out of Engagement Season
  2. 5 easy ways to prepare your wedding business for the slow season during peak season
  3. 3 Tips to Help You Survive the Wedding Season 2017
  4. How to make more time for yourself during peak wedding season

 

SEO: 

  1. 5 ways to fail or nail SEO in 2018
  2. 4 Killer SEO Content Tips for Wedding Professionals
  3. Using local SEO to attract local brides and grooms
  4. Bridebook Business Live: How Bridebook.co.uk grew to 350,000 social media followers in 12 months.

 

Social Media: 

  1. How Savvy Wedding Suppliers use Instagram to get Bookings in 2017
  2. How wedding suppliers can generate interest from Pinterest in 2017
  3. 5 ways Wedding Venues can use Facebook to boost bookings this summer
  4. Should we – as Wedding Suppliers – embrace social media at weddings or discourage it?

 

Supplier Stories: 

  1. The Do’s and Don’ts of Hosting a Wedding Showcase Event
  2. Inspiring Stories – an interview with successful start-up wedding business, Barnutopia
  3. How Penton Park transformed into a wedding venue
  4. John Nassari – the story behind the man, the photographer and the artist
  5. Wedding Stylists Hattie & Flora on Creativity and Collaboration in the Industry
  6. Insights from Award-Winning Wedding Florist and Blogger Thoughts of You Flowers
  7. Wedding Personalisation And Insights From Wedding Venue Woodhill Hall
  8. Wedding Trends and Insights with Historic Ashridge House
  9. Industry Insights From Wedding Stylist, The Vintage House That Could
  10. Industry Insights From Wedding Cake Designer, Blushing Cook.
  11. Iona Thomas’ Journey from Professional Concert Player to Wedding Musician
  12. London Wedding Venue Queen Mary University London Shares Insights on Staying Unique in a Changing Industry
  13. Wedding Venue Blenheim Palace on Tradition, Millennials and the Wedding Industry
  14. Woodhall Spa Manor On Helping Couples Keep Wedding Costs Low
  15. Heaton House and the Importance of Reviews in the Wedding Industry

 

Top Trends

  1. How wedding venues can work 2018 trends into any space
  2. Visual trends influencing wedding photography in 2018
  3. Hot wedding trend 2018 – let the purple reign
  4. Predicted: wedding industry technology trends 2018

 

Wedding Industry Insights:

  1. 7 trends wedding suppliers need to know about Millennial couples in 2018.
  2. Bridebook Marriage Report 2017
  3. Are We In The Midst of a Wedding Revolution?
  4. How to deliver personalised weddings in an impersonal online world.
  5. 4 wedding traditions that are getting ditched when couples get hitched.
  6. REVEALED: how millennial couples planned their weddings in 2017.
  7. Weekday wedding bookings overtake weekends at South Farm – and it’s not difficult to see why.

Is there a Business topic you’d like to be discussed or a business concern you currently have? Pop Beth an email at beth@bridebook.co.uk and she will give you a helping hand. 

 

Bridebook Business Hub

Your 2018 Engagement Season Checklist

Get ready for the surge of new couple business by completing your  Bridebook Profile Checklist.

Head to business.bridebook.co.uk to update your Bridebook profile and complete your checklist to-dos now.

Download and print your own Bridebook Profile Checklist by pressing the link below.

Let’s get ticking.

Please contact Beth at beth@bridebook.co.uk if you have any questions regarding updating your Bridebook profile, the Christmas engagement season or Bridebook Business.

Have a very Merry Christmas! 

5 tips to help you decide where your wedding venue should be

Do you stay close to home where your family and friends are? Do you both have family and friends from the same area or are your loved ones spread across the country?

Do you choose to stay in the UK or do you search for a wedding venue overseas?

 

Finding the answers to these kinds of questions can prove quite stressful and it’s at this early stage of your wedding planning journey that you’ll soon learn that you can’t please everybody – and you shouldn’t have to!

It is up to you and your partner to choose a wedding venue location that you both love. And trust us; the people closest to you will travel wherever they can to be there.

Here are five tips to help you both choose where to have your wedding, whether you’ve been dreaming about this day all your life or if it’s all new to you.

 

Five tips to help you choose where to wed

 

1. In the UK or abroad?

The first thing you’ll need to decide as a couple is whether you want to get married in the UK or abroad.

If you both picture your wedding day on a beach in beautiful sunshine, it’s safe to assume an overseas wedding might be best to avoid disappointment!

In contrast, those wishing to get married in a church will most probably need to stay in the UK.

It’s also worth considering which of your guests may not be able to travel before deciding to wed abroad. It may be that elderly grandparents or very young children would have to stay home.

Ultimately, it’s about where you both envisage saying your “I do’s”. There will always be compromises to make along the way.

 

2. If in the UK, do you stay close to home or marry further afield?

If you’ve decided the UK is where you’ll be saying your nuptials the next thing to consider is whether you’ll get married close to home or further afield.

Many couples will choose somewhere that means something to them; so close to where they grew up or somewhere they’ve been as a couple that holds wonderful memories.

Others might just love the idea of a particular place they currently don’t know much about.

There’s no right or wrong way to decide on where to choose a wedding venue, just do your research. Find out what accommodation and local amenities are close to the areas you like so that the decision is practical as well as emotional.

 

3. What does your ideal wedding venue look like?

Although choosing a wedding venue location can be tough, most couples will have a good idea as to the type of wedding venue they want.

Do you dream of a stately home in the Cotswolds or a chic hotel wedding venue in the centre of busy London?

Perhaps you’ve always wanted a rustic barn wedding or love the idea of getting married outside.

By pinpointing a particular type of venue you both adore you can more easily choose and rule out locations that won’t suit.

 

4. What style of wedding do you dream of?

How formal or informal do you want your wedding day to be?

It’s helpful to know whether you’re seeking out opulent grandeur to host a more formal, black tie wedding breakfast or whether you’re looking to create a relaxed affair. Are you thinking five course sit down dinner or a help yourself buffet?

What is your usual style as a couple? If you’d label yourselves as a sophisticated pair it makes sense that your wedding day would reflect this about you. If you’re a more casual couple, you’d probably hate nothing more than a formal wedding.

 

5. DIY or all inclusive

Many wedding venues will help you plan your entire wedding day and will have a list of pre approved wedding suppliers for you to use.

Some wedding venues will offer a much more DIY approach and offer couples the chance to find their own suppliers and arrange the setup of their wedding day themselves.

Most UK wedding venues will offer a bit of both; offering wedding planning support to those who need it and offering a degree of flexibility in allowing you to build your dream day as you wish.

It’s important to understand how much flexibility and support is available to you when visiting your shortlisted venues.

 

“It doesn’t matter where you’re going; it’s who you have beside you that really matters”

 

Choosing where to get married should be a fun and exciting experience, and ultimately, you know that wherever you choose will be perfect because it’s yours…both of yours.

One Aldwych: London Luxury for Weddings with WOW factor

One Aldwych is a luxury 5-star boutique hotel and wedding venue situated in the heart of Covent Garden; one of London’s most vibrant and upmarket areas.

Wedding Venue In Covent Garden

 

For those in search of a stylish city wedding at a venue bursting with history and character, and effortlessly exuding a sophisticated atmosphere and charm, One Aldwych could be The One for you.

An architectural showstopper boasting breathtaking interiors adorned with fine art and exquisite ornamental design pieces, this wedding venue is something very special. One Aldwych is best suited to couples who are really looking to go the extra mile and create an unforgettable wedding day that guests will be talking about for years to come.

Step into the light and bright contemporary entrance hall and prepare to begin your journey – both in marriage and in the exploration of one of London’s most prestigious wedding venues.

 

One Aldwych Hotel Entrance Hall

 

Exploring One Aldwych Hotel as a wedding venue

Invite your wedding guests to gather in the Lounge at One for welcome drinks, where contemporary artwork will undoubtedly make prevalent talking points.

Allow guests time to peruse the collections whilst you finish getting ready in the elegant and stylish bridal suite. Take a breath; you’re about to marry the One in your picture perfect wedding venue in one of the most fabulous cities in the world.

Take your final, ‘single person’ steps as you wind your way through the beautiful, art-adorned halls and corridors towards the Adelphi and Novello rooms; the most romantic setting in which to take your vows in front of family and friends.

Stylish wedding ceremony at One Aldwych Hotel

 

Surrounded by contemporary art and large windows, say “I do” in style against the backdrop of busy London life.

Take each other’s hands and head over to Eneko at One to celebrate your nuptials in style – the hotel’s modern basque restaurant run by acclaimed, three Michelin-starred chef Eneko Atxa. This space is relaxed and inviting yet sophisticated; minimalist design prevails, and it feels distinctly ‘London’ through the achievement of a contemporary-cool atmosphere.

In fact, this beautiful restaurant was recently awarded the ‘Best Restaurant or Bar Design 2017” at the annual Restaurant and Bar Design Awards 2017 for its innovative and modern design.

The Dome Suite at One Aldwych Hotel

 

With the help of award-winning in-house florist, Mark Siredzuk, you’ll dress this contemporary space with bold floral arrangements that transform Eneko at One from restaurant to wedding venue in a floral flash.

Marvel at the floating mezzanine wine bar as you sample a selection of wines from chef Eneko’s very own family winery near Bilbao; posing for photos and catching up with your guests.

Available for exclusive hire and seating up to 110 guests, you’ll make your way to the exquisitely dressed tables and can sit back and relax knowing you’re about to experience some of the best food London has to offer. Your guests will be in awe as they enjoy Eneko Atxa’s Signature Menu to the sound of your chosen wedding music.

Flower arrangement by Flowers at One

 

Invite evening guests to join you (up to 150 guests in total) as the tables are abandoned in favour of the dance floor, and take a moment; look around and realise what you’ve achieved. A five star London wedding planned to perfection and executed flawlessly thanks to you, and the expert wedding planning team at One Aldwych.

 

Building your dream wedding at One Aldwych

The dedicated events team at One Aldwych Hotel can help you plan as much or as little as you’d like for your special day.

World-class chefs will work with you to build exceptional seasonal menus and they’ll ensure that you and all of your guests are taken care of – irrespective of dietary requirements.

Table decoration at One Aldwych Hotel

 

Award-winning in-house florist, Mark Siredzuk, is on hand to design beautiful bespoke floral arrangements that will really bring your wedding space to life. His pieces can be found throughout the hotel, within The Lobby Bar and in each of the hotel’s luxurious bedrooms.  

 

Additional spaces available for wedding hire include:

  • The Dome Suite – suitable for very intimate weddings only, The Dome Suite is an elegant, top floor sitting room with stunning rooftop views of London. It offers the option to seat 12 for a wedding breakfast or 25 for a wedding ceremony.
  • The Lyceum Room – a contemporary space filled with beautiful artwork, ideal for an intimate wedding reception or wedding breakfast.

Bouquet at One Aldwych Hotel

 

Key Features:

  • Catering for weddings of up to 110 people
  • Central London location in vibrant Covent Garden
  • Licenced for civil weddings and partnerships by The Westminster Register Office
  • Houses 350 pieces of unique art
  • Professional wedding planning support
  • Bespoke weddings
  • Food to meet your dietary requirements (including dairy and gluten-free) 
  • Packages start at £180 per person

One Aldwych makes for a truly spectacular London wedding venue. Is this The One for you?

Find out more about One Aldwych on their Bridebook profile and start your wedding journey today.

Our Favourite Country House Wedding Venues in the West of England

Are you still looking for that utterly breathtaking country house venue in the West of the UK? We’ve simplified your search by choosing 15 of the best country houses in the area that will make your jaw drop.

If you want to find more, use Bridebook’s Venue Search and click ‘country house’ in the filters for more stunning venues like these!

1.Elmore Court, Gloucestershire

Bridebook.co.uk Elmore Court

With modern and luxurious amenities combined with a 750-year-old structure oozing grandeur, Elmore Court is the ultimate country house in the West. Luscious views over the Cotswolds will sweep you off your feet!

2. Shilstone, Devon

Shilstone Wedding Venue, Devon

This newly restored Georgian country house with stunning Devon surroundings is a versatile venue for your big day. Shilstone offers plenty of indoor and outdoor spaces, all of which are truly romantic.

3. Huntsham Court, Devon

Bridebook.co.uk Huntsham Court

In the midst of the Devon countryside stands Huntsham Court, a truly spectacular venue with striking looks. It takes advantage of 5 unique and spacious reception rooms so that you can enjoy the banquet of your dreams in this manor house setting.

4. Pennard House, Somerset

The Big House Co

Pennard House has a unique country house environment where you can enjoy the experience of a lifetime with your nearest and dearest. Picture an elegant outdoor ceremony followed by the ultimate wedding party – all with a postcard picture backdrop.

5. Bridwell Park Estate, Devon

Bridwell Park Estate

At Bridwell Park Estate there is plenty to explore, as it’s set in 100 acres of dramatic parkland. Not only does it offer the house for exclusive use, but also a chapel, orangery and stables so you can host the most spectacular wedding day in a venue with a difference.

6. St Audries Park, Somerset

St Audries Park Wedding Venue

Overlooking Somerset’s Quantock Hills and gorgeous landscaped gardens, St Audries Park is a fairytale manor house that dreams are made of! Sweeping staircases, breathtaking high ceilings and an airy Victorian orangery makes it one of the most sought after manor houses in the West of the UK.

7. Manor By The Lake, Gloucestershire

Bridebook.co.uk Manor By The Lake

7 acres of perfectly manicured gardens is home to Manor By The Lake, a charming structure with an unspoken quirk. Utilise this stunning building as the backdrop to your special day, before settling down in one of the 12 individually designed bedrooms that scream chic luxury. You’re welcome!

8. Berwick Lodge Hotel, Gloucestershire

Berwick Lodge Hotel

On the border of Bristol lies this one-of-a-kind Victorian country house with 18 enchanting acres of garden. Berwick Lodge is a boutique hotel full of elegant and stylish decor, not to mention the impressive water fountain in the courtyard.

9. Smedmore House, Dorset

Smedmore House

Smedmore House is a seaside manor house on the Jurassic Coast resonates Georgian beauty at its finest. Say your vows in the stunning summer house, enjoy drinks in front of roaring fires, and get awesome photo opportunities on the nearby beach.

10. Lucknam Park Hotel & Spa, Wiltshire

Lucknam Park Hotel and Spa

A combination of heritage and luxury meet to form the opulent Lucknam Park – the retreat you deserve on your wedding week! Distinguished bedrooms, fine dining, a relaxing spa and a close attention to detail make this country house venue the experience of a lifetime.

11. Ballyscullion Park, Londonderry

Ballyscullion Park

The striking coach house and walled gardens of Ballyscullion Park is situated in a picturesque setting in Northern Ireland. Venture into the 18th Century stable block, where you will find classical function rooms to be your blank canvas. Don’t forget the luxurious marquee for more extravagant wedding receptions, too!

12. Sparth House Hotel, Lancashire

Bridebook.co.uk Sparth House Hotel

The family-run Sparth House Hotel is a truly romantic backdrop for your wedding. Surrounded by glorious woodland in the Lancashire countryside, your guests’ jaws will drop as you float through your wedding day in this spectacular venue.

13. Nanny Brow, Cumbria

Nanny Brow

The cosy yet stunning Nanny Brow is the perfect country house for an intimate wedding. Views over rolling hills will take your breath away while you indulge in the finest foods, to create the most memorable and personal celebration you could hope for.

14. Porthmawr Country House, Powys

Bridebook.co.uk Pothmawr Country House

In the heart of the Brecon Beacons, this Regency Mansion is home to a charming dining room and a Celtic-style banquet room, however is just one of the two fairytale wedding venues on offer. Otherwise, take advantage of the Medieval Gatehouse with 530 years of history, which makes a dramatic compliment to the main structure at Porthmawr Country House.

15. Denton Hall, West Yorkshire

Denton Hall

Denton Hall is an 18th Century manor house in the idyllic setting of rural Yorkshire. Rich history is combined with luxurious chandeliers and sweeping staircases to create romantic grandeur for those pursuing an outstanding country house in the West.

Didn’t find the country house venue you’re hunting for? Are you looking elsewhere in the UK? Simply search for a venue on Bridebook.co.uk by typing in your preferred location and clicking ‘country house’ in the filters.

Remember, you can use Bridebook.co.uk to help you with all the other parts of wedding planning including your wedding budget and wedding guest list.

Happy planning!

A professionals guide to networking in the wedding industry

We asked wedding and networking expert Becca Pountney to share her top tips on how to triple your business by simply saying hello.

 

Becca started her journey as a stylish Wedding Videographer and worked her way through networking to create Engage Weddings – now hosting many supplier events across the UK. Find out how you can also meet with your local suppliers and grab every opportunity that comes your way!

So without further ado,  Becca over to you. 

(Photo credit to Becky Harley Photography)

 

 

‘It’s not about what you know, but who you know.’ This is true in so many areas of life and when you run your own business it’s a fundamental truth.  As wedding business owners it’s too easy to spend long periods of time in front of the computer expecting opportunities to come our way. That can be a lonely place. Doors to new opportunities rarely open on their own, yet if you give them a little push there can be huge benefits.

 

One of the fastest ways to grow your wedding business is to grow your network. Networking online using email or social media can be great tools, but nothing beats getting out there and meeting people face to face. People buy from people they know, like and trust so get out of your comfort zone and start building those relationships.

As wedding suppliers, we are in a unique position to work together and collaborate. A bride and groom will be looking for a variety of different businesses to create their dream wedding. Brides will often look to suppliers as a trusted source, and will ask them for their recommendations. If you build up a network of contacts who are recommending you to their clients, you are going to see some great results.

 

How do I get started?

Find a local networking group that you can go along to and book a place. If you can, find a group that is specifically for the wedding industry as it will mean you meet very relevant contacts. There are groups like this meeting across the country. If you can’t find one near you, why not set one up yourself? I did just that and that is how Engage Weddings began. Having moved my videography business from Bristol to rural Bedfordshire I realised I needed to make new local wedding connections. Having failed to find an existing network I asked around at a wedding fayre to see if any suppliers would be interested in meeting up for a drink. 25 suppliers attended the first meet up and the events have been growing ever since. If I can do it, you can do it too.

 

Be confident

Networking can feel much scarier than it really is. Arrive armed with your business cards and your head held high. Everyone is there for the same reason as you and will be really willing to chat. Find a small group of people and say hello.

 

Don’t reel off a sales pitch

People are there to meet people, not to be sold to. Ask questions and listen to the people that you are talking to, wait for them to ask what you do before you tell them, if they ask they are genuinely interested in connecting.

 

Speak with as many people as possible

Try to move around and talk to as many people in the room as you can, you never know who you may be able to collaborate with. Remember you are not only networking with the person in front of you but their whole network of contacts. They may not have a need for your services right now, but they may know somebody who does.

 

Collaboration not competition

If you meet someone who has a similar business to yours, don’t see it as competition. You may be able to share tips and advice with one another, you may even be able to pass work on to them if you are already fully booked.

 

Follow up after the event

In the days following the event send out emails to people you have met, perhaps even try and meet them for a coffee. The more people who know about you and your business, the more opportunities will come your way.

Now get out of your comfort zone and get out there and start meeting new people. Be open, honest and approachable and people will be happy to work with you. New opportunities are behind the doors – now just go and give them a push.

Becca Pountney

www.engageweddings.co.uk

 

 

Bridebook Business Hub

Bridebook Business Hub is here to make sure you have the information you need to build a strong digital presence and grow a successful business in the wedding industry.

Head to Bridebook Business Hub now for more wedding industry insights and top tips.

 

The Lady Elizabeth Wing – Holkham Hall’s exclusive wedding space

Set in the grounds of the beautiful Holkham Estate and adjacent to the stately home of Holkham Hall, The Lady Elizabeth Wing is a wedding venue in its own right; offering couples a light and modern wedding space with stunning panoramic views.

Your bespoke wedding venue in Norfolk - The Lady Elizabeth Wing

 

The Lady Elizabeth Wing is a wedding venue that truly offers the best of both. A modern contemporary building situated against the backdrop of the historical hall and just a stone’s throw from the glorious north Norfolk coast.

Holkham Hall is an exquisite 18th century Palladian house set in 25,000 acres of parkland. Steeped in history, this grandiose Hall is recognised as being in the top ten most magnificent houses, palaces, and castles in England today. 

The Lady Elizabeth wing boasts its own private, secluded courtyard; meaning that this is a space ideal for couples who’re looking for a beautiful, contemporary wedding venue with indoor and outdoor entertainment options, suitable for both small and large wedding parties.

For couples looking to escape the city and celebrate their love at a sophisticated wedding venue set in a breathtaking setting, come join us as we explore The Lady Elizabeth Wing.

 

Weddings at The Lady Elizabeth Wing

The Lady Elizabeth Wing is Norfolk’s best kept secret and it is ideal for couples searching for an elegant  and spacious venue that boast views, character and authenticity – traits that one might associate with a wedding at Holkham Hall itself.

bridebook.co.uk lady elizabeth wing

 

Picture this.

The Lady Elizabeth Wing and private courtyard will be exclusively yours for the day and you’ll have complete control over how you want your wedding to look and feel. 

Guests arrive at the private, secluded courtyard which offers glorious views of the romantic venue with its large arched windows – perfect for photographs. Perhaps you’ll provide entertainment on the lawn in the form of a musician and a welcome glass of bubbly.

Bridebook Top Tip: Get married on a weekday. Holkham offers a luxury wedding package with everything you need for your special day at Holkham – getting married on a weekday can save you a pretty penny or two and you’ll still have exactly the same experience as you would at the weekend at this beautiful, exclusive venue. Plus, your guests will probably want an excuse to make a long weekend out of their trip to your Norfolk wedding! 

We love the idea of reception drinks and canapes served in the courtyard to really maximise the photo opportunities this incredible space presents. Choose live musicians to play your favourite romantic songs as you mingle with guests as newlyweds against this superb backdrop.

 

After the reception, invite guests inside the light and airy venue for your three-course wedding breakfast and we guarantee you’ll see all eyes widen as guests take in the beautiful airy space and pitched ceilings – decorated exactly as you want them; whether you opt for romantic chiffon drapes or more contemporary white paper lanterns.

Choosing a hand-picked, luxury wedding package at The Lady Elizabeth Wing means you’ll have everything you need for an unforgettable day; from canapes and a three-course wedding breakfast, light evening food and three-tier wedding cake, to a DJ, floral arrangements, wedding organiser, staff and bar facilities.

Watch your very own personalised wedding space transform into the perfect party venue after dinner, as the lights dim, the bar opens and guests hit the dance floor or filter outside to admire the starry sky.

 

For couples looking to escape the city and celebrate their love in a sophisticated wedding venue on the glorious north Norfolk-coast, choose to book your wedding at The Lady Elizabeth Wing.

It’s time to create unforgettable memories.

 

Key features:

  • Very reasonable prices with mid-week, out of season wedding packages starting from just £9,975 which includes day and evening use
  • Catering for weddings of up to 80 guests, additional guests are charged for numbers over 80
  • Use of indoor and outdoor space
  • Excellent photo opportunities
  • In-house Wedding Coordinator and wedding planning

Weddings at Queen Mary: London’s East-End Oasis Venue

We’re all secretly looking for that special venue to blow all other weddings out of the water – and Weddings at QMUL might just be ‘the one’. With irresistible historic charm and stunning 360-photo opportunities, this is a venue not to be missed (especially if you have that fairytale happily ever after in mind). 

 

Walking up to the grand exterior of the iconic Queen’s building, prepare yourself as you enter this unforgettable venue.  You will be captivated by the decadence of the Grade II listed building as you proceed to tie the knot in the white-walled, Senior Common Room which overlooks the grand Victorian Clocktower and the Queens’ Lawn.

Your special day continues as you head to the gorgeous Octagon, where dramatic domed ceilings and multi-coloured literature-lined shelves dominate the space. You and your beloved guests can indulge in a sit-down dinner or luxury hot fork buffet from the talented in-house caterer, and truly wine and dine in style!

And the party doesn’t stop there! Head onto the dancefloor with the Tale As Old As Time-esque backdrop surrounding you and experience a first dance and celebration like no other – surrounded by those you love. 

 

Key Features:

  • Weddings at QMUL is an exclusive use venue for a minimum of 100 guests.
  • Situated in the heart of East London, it can be easily accessed by public transport. The venue is conveniently located between Stepney Green and Mile End stations. 
  • Weddings at QMUL have excellent facilities for bridal changing, exquisite in-house catering, and on-site parking.
  • The venue offers totally bespoke packages so you can have your wedding your way!
  • Limited ensuite bedrooms may be available on site. Otherwise, there are plenty of accommodation alternatives local to the venue.

 

Saran Deb, Sales Executive at Queen Mary notes; “It’s a really exciting time for us at Queen Mary, as we take Weddings at QMUL to the next level by introducing a new ‘dry  hire’ package. We have a great partnership with Greenleaf Event and Catering Management and together we offer couples complete flexibility for their perfect day!”

 

Weddings at QMUL can cater for up to 220 guests at your sit-down dinner in The Octagon. To hire the venue only, prices start at £5,000 and packages start from £72 per head.

 

Fallen in love with this venue? We have! Head to their Bridebook profile and book a show-round today.

Happy planning!

Dukes Hotel: The Capital’s Iconic Boutique Venue

Just a 5 minute walk from Buckingham Palace lies DUKES HOTEL – which could be your very own palace for the day. This timeless boutique venue is dripping with English heritage and has been recently renovated for an extra touch of deluxe. Could it be your British beauty of a wedding venue? 

 

The iconic venue was Ian Flemming’s inspiration for James Bond’s ‘Shaken not stirred’ martini, and sitting within an empire of British history, this charming building offers the most quintessentially romantic London experience.

With your very own private entrance from Little St James’s Street, you and up to 60 of your guests can enter as VIP’s into the elegance of the ceremony room – St James’s Suite. This stunning room lined with antique mirrors and cosy uplighting is the epitomy of luxury as you say your vows.

Moving onto the drinks reception, you will proceed into the spectacular Drawing Room which is beautifully furnished with a cosy fireplace and sophisticated British decor. Leading into the conservatory and Courtyard Garden, you can roam wherever you please as you clink glasses with loved ones.

 

Return to St James Suite for your intimate wedding breakfast, where you’ll be wined and dined with three delicious courses. Expect to receive the best service at DUKES LONDON, because the dedicated family-like team here pride themselves on their attention to detail.

The icing on the cake comes in the form of your evening reception, where a DJ and dancefloor can be set up ready for you to celebrate into the night! Or should you wish to have a more low-key gathering, take advantage of your own private bar set up and try out the iconic martini! Who could ask for more?

 

Key Features:

  • DUKES HOTEL is an exclusive use venue, ideal for your bespoke intimate wedding package.
  • Situated inbetween Mayfair and St James’s in the capital, this venue is close by to a variety of transport links.
  • DUKES LONDON has excellent facilities for bridal changing, a relaxing on-site spa, and sumptuous in-house catering – not to mention a wide array of fine wines!
  • There are 90 luxury bedrooms and suites in the hotel for you and your guests to enjoy after your celebrations, including DUKES and Duchess rooms

“We at DUKES LONDON want to work with you to make your Wedding day as memorable as possible; it is important to us that we remain as flexible as possible to create the day of your dreams, the way YOU want it. Our five star service will remain true from the moment you contact us to the moment you depart. We look forward to warmly welcoming you to DUKES LONDON.”

DUKES HOTEL can cater for a capacity of between 12-60 guests and package prices start from £130 per head for your bespoke intimate wedding.

Are you head over heels with DUKES LONDON?! Visit their Bridebook profile and book a visit today – prepare to be wowed!

Happy planning!

 

Holkham Hall – your very own little piece of history for your ‘i do’s’

Standing tall within a vast deer park fringed by woodland and next to a romantic glassy lake lies Holkham Hall – the perfect place for you and your partner to say “I do” in true regal fashion.

 

We can guarantee you won’t find another wedding venue quite like Holkham Hall.

This exquisite 18th century Palladian house is set in 25,000 acres of parkland and is steeped in history. In fact, Holkham Hall is classified as being in the top ten most magnificent palaces, houses and castles in England today.

And this one-of-a-kind wedding venue could be all yours for your wedding day.

There are many indoor and outdoor options to choose from when it comes to deciding where you want each part of your big day to take place at Holkham Hall. But our dream wedding at Holkham looks a little something like this…

 

A dream wedding at Holkham Hall

You approach the magnificent Holkham Hall in a traditional horse and carriage and it’s every bit as spectacular as you remember it. Inside, you know your wedding is waiting to take place.

You step down from the carriage and approach the arched doorway of the great Marble Hall. You pause and compose yourself…

What will you notice first; your guests all turning to face you; your partner standing at the end of the altar before a cascading staircase beautifully illuminated with natural light from the huge arch windows, or will you simply be awed by the abundance of magnificent architecture?

 

Main Hall at Holkham Hall in Norfolk

 

You step into The Marble Hall and are instantly blown away by the enormous, fifty feet high vaulted ceiling, inspired by none other than the Pantheon in Rome. Marble pillars frame this incredible hall; only adding to its grandeur and opulence. Your partner and your guests share in your splendour and are noticeably enamoured by the incredible place you’re graced to be in.

Probably one of the grandest entrance halls in Europe, the Marble Hall delivers a sensory explosion that is bound to leave a lasting impression on both of you and your guests.

Despite the enormity of its beauty and its ability to seat large wedding parties (142 people on the ground floor and 170 people if the side balconies are used) The Marble Hall somehow feels intimate and incredibly private.

You reach your partner and smile; it’s time to speak your vows. Once you’ve sealed your future together with a kiss, it’s time to allow guests the opportunity to say all the things they’ve wanted to say about the venue they’re in.

You decide to hold your wedding reception in The Marble Hall too because this is a space you don’t want to rush out of.

The experienced wedding coordination team have set up trestle tables and ensured champagne is poured and the canapes plated up in time for the reception, so that guests can rise from their seats, collect refreshments and mingle – all without you and your partner even noticing the transition.

Norfolk Wedding Venue Holkham Hall - a disney-like dream

 

After a period of congratulations and chatter about how magnificent Holkham Hall really is, you gather your guests and urge them to move on to the next show-stopping part of your day – promising them it will be worth it.

Your guests are led to the wedding breakfast which is held in the walled garden; a mid-eighteenth century garden boasting a manicured lawn and colourful plant borders – within which you have a glorious marquee designed completely to your taste.

 

Just so you know…the experienced team of wedding planners at Holkham will recommend the best suppliers to ensure you can find and secure stunning marquees, delicious food, perfect flowers and talented photographers. You design your day exactly as you wish.

Guests step into the beautiful marquee which is twinkling with fairy lights and chandeliers and take a seat in preparation for the bespoke feast you’ve created for them; awaiting the speeches that are bound to make you all laugh and cry.

Just so you know…The Holkham wedding planning team works with several experienced and professional caterers who have been carefully selected for the quality of their food, competitive pricing and friendly and helpful service. You can work with them to build a menu that suits you and your ideas for your big day.

When everyone is suitably full (and probably a little merry) you’ll catch up with friends and family as the wedding breakfast is cleared away; making way for the big wedding party. Night falls and guests begin to find their way to the bar and dancefloor as the DJ or band bring the party to life.

 

Weddings at Holkham Hall are truly like no other and it’s wonderful to know you’ve stamped your own little piece of history on the place.

Key Features:

  • Tons of great spaces available for exclusive hire to ensure you have the perfect setting for your wedding.
  • A historical gem set in beautiful grounds – ideal for photographs.
  • The support of an experienced team of wedding planners who will recommend the best suppliers to ensure you can find and secure stunning marquees, delicious food, perfect flowers and talented photographers.
  • Ability to design your day exactly as you wish.
  • Options for guests to stay nearby in Holkham Village (the estate-owned Victoria Inn is perfectly located on the coast road close to the venue)
  • Licensed for civil weddings and partnerships with the added option of getting married at the local church.
  • Wedding package prices start at £9,975 for out of season weddings based on 80 adult day guests.

 

Additional spaces available for wedding hire include:

  • The Saloon can accommodate up to 80 seated guests for a wedding ceremony.
  • The North State Dining Room – a classical space for a wedding ceremony with up to 50 guests.
  • The Statue Gallery – contains the most complete collection of classical statuary and can seat up to 100 people.
  • The Temple – tucked away in the woods and offering indoor ceremonies for up to
    25 guests or outside under the portico for larger numbers.
  • The Lady Elizabeth Wing – an exclusive and contemporary reception space catering for up to 250 dinner guests and 360 evening guests.
  • The Park – utilise some of the vast parkland with views of Holkham Hall; great for very large weddings.

Top 10 Tips For Choosing Your Dream Wedding Venue

If you’ve started planning your wedding, you’ll already know that finding your perfect venue is one of the most important decisions you’ll need to make. So with that in mind, here’s our expert guide on how to find the right venue for you.

If you don’t know where to start, have a scroll through Bridebook’s Venue Search. We’ve got the biggest and best wedding venue directory in the UK, so it’s a sure-fire way to find “the one”!

The wedding planning video course: finding your dream venue

In this video, Bridebook founder (and qualified wedding planner!) Hamish Shephard gives his tips on finding your wedding venue in three easy steps. Whether you’re after initial wedding venue ideas or wondering what questions to ask your wedding venue, this is the video for you.

1. Think about what you both want

This day is about you and your partner, and your venue should reflect that! Work together to find a venue that suits both of your tastes. Whether you choose a modern loft, a beach wedding or a grand country house (like Elmore Court, below), make sure it’s what you both want.

Country House Wedding Venue
Elmore Court, Buckinghamshire

2. Stick to your budget

We know, it’s not our most romantic advice – but it is important. And we promise, you can find a gorgeous venue, even on the tightest of budgets! Sit down with your partner and work out how much you want to spend on your venue early on so you know what you’re working with. Need somewhere to start? Your Bridebook has a handy Budget Calculator which will let you know in seconds how much of your budget to spend on your venue.

www.bridebook.co.uk Rayleigh Windmill
Rayleigh Windmill, Essex

3. Consider what locations work best

Where you get married is one of your most important decisions. Between you and your partner, it’s likely there are friends and family spread out across the country (or even the globe!) so choosing the right location is key to making sure as many people as possible can attend. Keep travel connections in mind if you’ve got people coming from far and wide. If you have elderly relatives you’d love to be there, think about how far they can reasonably travel too.

4. Think about how much space you need

How long is your guest list? Who’s on your A List and who could you do without? Do you want 300 people in attendance or would you rather just have you, your partner and ten close friends? Thinking about how many people will be there and what you want to happen on the day is key to picking the right venue. You don’t want hundreds of people crammed into a space that’s too small for them and the ten-piece band you’ve booked… But you also don’t want fifteen people spread out across an enormous hall.

www.bridebook.co.uk George Vaults
George Vaults, Kent.

5. Keep lighting in mind

One of the most frequently overlooked elements of any wedding day is the lighting – but we can’t stress how important it is. After all, there’s no point in spending thousands on a gorgeous venue if no one can see it! Make sure to check out what lighting packages the venue offers and whether it will complement the space and work with your wedding theme. If you want a few pointers, our top tip would always be to stay well away from fluorescent and ultraviolet lighting (unless you’re having a glow in the dark wedding, of course!). And if all else fails, explore options for creating your own lighting.

www.bridebook.co.uk Arnos Vale
Arnos Vale, Somerset

6. Listen to recommendations

On your big day, the number one thing you’ll want is for things to run smoothly from dawn until dusk. So do your research! Read reviews and get recommendations of potential venues to make sure you get five-star service.

7. Make a list of must-haves

Sit down with your partner and write a list of non-negotiables. These are your must-haves, the things you and your partner absolutely can’t do without on your wedding day. If you have your heart set on a particular caterer and a venue can’t accommodate that, they’re out. On the other hand, if you decide an ice sculpture is just the thing and they’re willing to make that happen, you might just have found your dream venue!

www.bridebook.co.uk Duke of York's Picturehouse
Duke of York’s Picturehouse, Brighton

8. Keep an open mind

You won’t love every venue – but it might just be the venue you least expect that takes your breath away! Even if you think you know what you want, try to keep your mind open to new ideas, themes and locations. You might be surprised at what you find in our directory and how you feel when you visit it. Ever thought about tying the knot in a riverside cabin, at the zoo or in a gorgeous picturehouse?

9. Visit more than once

We can’t stress this enough. Always go and see your top venue choices at least two or three times before you make a decision. There’s no rush to sign on the dotted line, we promise. Take your time because your choice of venue affects every other choice you’ll make.

Bridebook.co.uk Holkham Hall
Holkham House, Norfolk

10. Wait for “the feeling”!

Okay, so this is something you’ll only know when you feel it. It’s a bit like getting butterflies… It’s the moment you step inside a venue and know it’s perfect. You can see yourself walking down the aisle, you can see yourself surrounded by your loved ones… That’s “the feeling” we’re talking about! And it means you’ve found your venue.

Hopefully, that’s helped get you well on your way to finding your perfect venue! Now you know the basics, you can use Bridebook’s Venue Search to start looking for “the one.” You can filter by name, capacity, type and style, as well as location. You can also use Bridebook for the rest of your wedding planning, including managing your budget, creating your guest list and booking the rest of your wedding team

You might also like…

The 30 Best Winter Wedding Venues in the UK

Picture rolling countryside coated in a blanket of white, tiny snowflakes dancing past the window of the stately home you’ve exclusively hired.

Inside, the fire is crackling and the room is aglow. You wrap your hands around a steaming mug of mulled wine and cosy up with your partner by the hearth.

Winter weddings are truly magical and if you’ve decided that they’re for you, here are our favourite winter wedding venues in the UK that you should arrange to visit immediately, if not sooner.

Find your ideal winter venue with Bridebook’s wedding venue search!

30 of the best winter wedding venues in the UK

1. Holkham Hall – Norfolk Wedding Venues

Holkham Hall is one of the most magnificent wedding venues in the country. As you approach it, frosty parkland and frozen lakes only make Holkham Hall’s grand yet cosy interior seem all the more inviting.

Weddings can be held in any four of the staterooms within the Hall which are magnificently decorated for the winter months, or in the newly refurbished Lady Elizabeth Wing. The Marble Hall is an incredible wedding space with huge vaulted ceilings and marble pillars which have been inspired by the Pantheon in Rome. Add a little festive sparkle, and you’ve just created a winter wedding to remember.

2. Moor Park – Hertfordshire Wedding Venues

For an extremely classy winter wedding with a wow factor, Moor Park Mansion is the winter wedding venue for you.

Impress your guests as they walk into this incredibly grand 17th-century mansion. As you step inside, expect to find gold-leafed ceilings, enormous original paintings and open fireplaces twinkling with Christmas lights and draped with wreaths. It will take your breath away!

moor park

3. Hedsor House – Buckinghamshire Wedding Venues

Hedsor House is an absolute dream for lovers of winter country house weddings. The crisp, cold weather will make for stunning photographs both inside and outside of this beautiful venue.

What could be more magical than this stunning Georgian house surrounded by deep snow fir trees on its grounds dusted in white, completing the winter wonderland look? This gorgeous house with guest bedrooms could be exclusively yours for an awesome winter wedding.

4. RSA House – London Wedding Venues

A Christmas winter wedding at the RSA House in Central London is a truly magical experience, and we think one of London’s best-kept secrets.

The historic House combines Georgian splendour with high-quality contemporary design, and its stunning vaults can be exclusively hired and perfectly dressed for an intimate, romantic winter wedding.

RSA house

5. One Aldwych – London Wedding Venues

One Aldwych transforms into a winter wonderland during the cold and Christmassy months. Expect towering white Christmas trees and fairy lights with decorations complementing the contemporary interior of this beautiful Central London hotel.

One Aldwych hotel offers full-package wedding services, and their team of professional will make sure your every need in met. Have the most magical winter wedding and wake up in Covent Garden the next day… What more could you want?

One Aldwych

6. East Quay Venue – Kent Wedding Venues

If a cosy winter wedding by the sea is what you’re dreaming of, then East Quay at Whitstable Harbour could be the one you’re looking for.

Situated on the east side of Whitstable harbour, this old Oyster house has been transformed into a relaxed but beautiful wedding venue which is just begging for a little-added winter sparkle. With friendly staff and undeniable character, East Quay is perfect for couples looking for unique winter wedding venues!


7. Heaton House Farm – Cheshire Wedding Venues

These beautiful sandstone barns look simply beautiful during winter months. A cold calmness falls across the sparse fields in winter yet the barn glows with warmth and hums with activity. A perfect blend of contemporary chic and rustic charm, if you are looking for a wedding venue in Cheshire, this could be the perfect match for you.

Perhaps you’ll bring the winter wonderland theme inside your wedding venue for a more pristine affair? Check out this enchanted forest idea from a previous wedding at Heaton House Farm:

8. Notley Abbey – Buckinghamshire Wedding Venues

Winter weddings don’t get much more romantic than those held at Notley Abbey – an award-winning country house wedding venue in Buckinghamshire that exudes historic charm.

The crisp, cold weather will make for stunning photographs both inside and outside of this beautiful venue. And if you need any more reasons to indulge in this fairy-tale venue, this was Laurence Olivier’s former home… Truly a historical place to tie the knot.

notley abbey

9. Leez Priory – Essex Wedding Venues

If you’re dreaming of a winter wedding in Essex, Leez Priory should be at the top of your venue shortlist. Think intimate weddings with open fires and twinkling lights, and you will be sure to get all that you’ve imagined if you chose to tie the knot in this gorgeous venue.

This magnificent, red brick Tudor mansion is set in stunning grounds and has been voted Wedding Ideas Magazines ‘Best Wedding Venue’ award a whopping three times.

Think cosy weddings with open fires and twinkling lights.

10. Elmore Court – Gloucestershire Wedding Venues

Elmore Court is a 750-year-old, grade II listed country house. Perfect for a classic English country winter wedding.

With views of the Cotswolds and River Severn from its gardens, Elmore Court offers everything you could ever want from a wedding venue. And in winter, festive lighting and a sprinkling of snow are the only ingredients you’d need to add to achieve winter wedding perfection.

11. Dorfold Hall Cheshire Wedding Venues

 Surrounded by English countryside and landscaped gardens and filled with centuries-old history, Dorfold Hall is the perfect canvas for a winter wonderland wedding.

Covered in a thin layer of snow during the coldest winter months, this 400-year-old historic hall will make your wedding photos look postcard perfect. Leave your guests absolutely speechless as walk into this fairy-tale scenery, with 1000-year-old oak trees, a lake and enchanting gardens!

dorfold hall

12. Clearwell CastleGloucestershire Wedding Venues

Hidden in an enchanting forest in the beautiful county of Gloucestershire is your dream winter wedding venue: Clearwell Castle.

Only 45 minutes away from Bristol, this dreamlike castle is ideal for a winter wedding. Covered in a layer of white snow on the outside, and endlessly cosy on the inside, make your guests feel like they’re in a real-life Disney movie as you tie the knot with the love of your life.

clearwell castle

13. The Granary EstatesSuffolk Wedding Venues 

This 18th-century Granary Barn is the perfect choice for an intimate and relaxed winter wedding!

Cosy countryside barn meets elegance in this stunning wedding venue, ideal for the winter wedding you’ve been dreaming of. With two splendid barns linked by a glass walkway and boasting a private courtyard and an exceptional team of wedding professional helping make every one of your wishes come true, you can enjoy your wedding day to the fullest at Granary Estates!

14. Northbrook ParkHampshire Wedding Venues

This imposing 18th Century manor house in Hampshire is a classic English wedding venue, which, with a touch of snow and some Christmas decorations, can become a splendid winter wedding venue.

Look up at the stars from the reception space and dance the night away in a spacious venue decorated to your taste. This Hampshire venue is one of our favourite places to celebrate the most magical day of your life!

Northbrook Park

15. Iscoyd ParkShropshire Wedding Venues

Surrounded by beautiful 18th Century Parkland and stunning gardens, Iscoyd Park overlooks the borders of North Wales, Shropshire and Cheshire.

Though Iscoyd is an award-winning wedding venue, with enough space hold 160 people for a wedding reception, it has managed to retain the character, history and welcoming warmth of a family home. This makes Iscoyd a magical place to tie the knot and make your guests feel at home.iscoyd park

16. The Glasshouse Hotel Edinburgh Wedding Venues 

Experience the dynamism at the heart of Edinburgh with a stunning backdrop of historic Calton Hill as you celebrate your wedding day!

The Glasshouse Hotel is one of the best wedding venues in Scotland and covered in snow during the cold winter months it makes the perfect venue for a winter wedding. With a secret roof garden and an impressive 160-year old Georgian archway, this exciting venue will certainly wow your guests!

the glasshouse hotel

17. Doxford BarnsNorthumberland Wedding Venues

At the heart of coastal Northumberland lies this unique barn wedding venue, ideal for a winter wedding!

Offering one to three-day wedding packages, Doxford Barns promises to create your dream wedding day, even if strays from the norms, in a stress-free manner, which is why it is absolutely perfect for a couple looking for a bespoke winter wedding. Oh, did we forget to mention that this private venue is smack in the middle of 550-acres of green fields? Book your dream winter wedding venue in Northumberland now!

doxford barns

18. Greywalls HotelGullane Wedding Venues

Imagine getting married to the love your life in a Sun Room overlooking the most beautiful gardens dusted with snow. At Greywalls this is possible!

Your guests will be able to sip champagne as they stroll through the garden, and take in the views over the gardens and Muirfield golf course from the house. Create the perfect wedding atmosphere for you and your loved ones with bespoke packages from relaxed and intimate to formal and grand!

greywalls hotel

19. Maunsel HouseSomerset Wedding Venues

If you want to host a winter wedding in Somerset, this 13th Century Manor could be the one!

Located in Somerset, this is one of the most charismatic wedding venues in the UK and it will make you and your guests feel right at home. You can wander around the parks and visit the duck ponds and the ponies or just cosy up next to a roaring fire in the library. Bespoke to you, the perfect winter atmosphere awaits at Maunsel House!

maunsel house

20. FennesEssex Wedding Venues

This storybook winter wedding venue will be even more romantic when surrounded by a generous blanket of snow.

With its Georgian style architecture, high ceilings and beautifully landscaped gardens you’ll be able to have the wedding you always dreamed of! The venue is can host grand and intimate celebrations and they have a number of beautiful spots where you can tie the knot! What are you waiting for? Book your Somerset wedding venue!

fennes wedding venue in essex

21. Sandburn HallNorth Yorkshire Wedding Venues

Have the most unforgettable picture-perfect day at this grand country hall, set Northeast of the historic town of York!

Sandburn Hall is surrounded by an expansive golf course, fit with lakes and beautiful gardens which will look even more gorgeous covered in snow. The team will help you craft the perfect wedding day with all the special touches that will make it your own. No matter how unique you want it, have your dream winter wedding at this fantastic venue!

sandburn hall

22. South Farm Cambridgeshire Wedding Venues

Nestled in the heart of the Cambridgeshire countryside, lied one of the most enchanted venues on this list.

Travel to Royston and discover South Farm, a restored Grade II house, gorgeous Tudor barn and summerhouse, ready to be the perfect setting for your winter wedding. How could we not rhyme when we think of such a romantic place to tie the knot?

south farm

23. Warbrook HouseHampshire Wedding Venues 

If you are looking for a wedding venue that will surprise your guests, Warbrook House the perfect host.

With stunning details, such as a Versailles style canal, beautiful gardens and breath-taking architecture, this stunning Hampshire wedding venue is simply perfect for a winter wedding. Fit intimate or grand occasions, the Warbrook House team will cater to your needs and make you feel comfortable as you plan your wedding in this dream location.

warbrook house

24. Cliveden HouseBerkshire Wedding Venues 

Smack in the middle of Berkshire, overlooking the River Thames, likes Cliveden House, one of the most romantic venues on this list.

Cliveden offers excellent food, service and hospitality, in a sophisticated country house hotel which has been known for its excellent entertainment for over 300 years! Imagine this beauty lightly sprinkled with white snow and you have the winter wedding you always dreamed of!

cliveden house

25. York MazeYorkshire Wedding Venues

This Yorkshire wedding venue is the ideal for a rural winter wedding!

Perfect for a less formal wedding, this visitor attraction can be closed just for you and return to its natural farmstead state! Located south of York this venue is beautiful inside and out! No matter how bespoke you want it, the team will make sure everything looks perfect for you and your guests on your special day!

york maze

26. Carlton TowersYorkshire Wedding Venues 

Surrounded by 250 acres of stunning gardens, you and your guests will be able to enjoy the exclusive use of the Carton Towers for your wedding day.

With an impeccable reputation of hosting weddings for over 30 years, this Victorian-gothic style country house will look like a fairy-tale castle covered in white for your winter wedding!

carlton towers

27. Cambo EstateScotland Wedding Venues

One of the most beautiful wedding venues in Scotland makes it on our list! Imagine this beauty covered in white snow and you have the winder wedding from a fairy tale book.

From an intimate ceremony to a full-blown house party, Cambo Estate is flexible and offers wedding parties bespoke to you. If you are looking for a venue that won’t tell you how your wedding should be, this could be the one!

cambo estate

28. Great FostersSurrey Wedding Venues

Set in 50 acres of enchanted gardens, this 16th-century Elizabethan house is the perfect setting for a rustic winter wedding!

Want to have a picture-perfect day that you can look back on and be proud of? Step into the breath-taking gardens of Great Fosters and discover lakes, sunken rose gardens and endless natural beauty! What are you waiting for? Book your Surrey winter wedding venue today!

great fosters winter wedding

29. Botleys Mansion Surrey Wedding Venues

Only a 30-minute drive from London, set amid 56 acres of rolling Surrey parkland, you will find this magnificent country house venue, which marries history with the absolute best in modern style!

This breath-taking mansion looks incredibly gorgeous when it snows, create a dream-like backdrop for your special day. Your guests will be wowed by the beautiful outdoors and indoors of Botleys Mansion, and the team will make sure everything runs like clockwork on the day!

botleys mansion

30. Stationer’s Hall and GardenLondon Wedding Venues

Just minutes away from the iconic St. Paul’s Cathedral you will find this beautiful hall and its secret garden, where you and your loved ones can celebrate your wedding day!

This venue is ideal for anyone having a winter wedding in London, and looking for something cosy yet grand to throw the party! You can host over 200 guests if you’re throwing a big party, or under 100 guests if your wedding in the intimate kind. The options are endless at Stationer’s Hall, and we couldn’t recommend them more for your winter wedding!

stationer's hall london wedding venue

Are you dreaming of a white wedding?

If you’re considering getting married in the UK in winter, contact these incredible winter wedding venues for more information or to arrange a visit.

To search for more wedding venues near you, why not enlist the help of Bridebook – your online wedding planner complete with free, supplier search tools. 

Discover our state of the art wedding venue search and make sure you can afford your dream wedding with Bridebook’s wedding budget planner! All of this and more, on your desktop or on our free Bridebook mobile app. 

Have a browse of some incredible wedding venues all over the UK:

9 Best Christmas Wedding Venues in the UK

It really is the most wonderful time of the year isn’t it.

Crisp mornings, cosy knits and frosted fields have got us all dreaming of a white Christmas and for some, the cold snap may have ignited a desire to plan a winter wedding too – real or imaginary (we’re not here to judge).

But where are the best winter wedding venues hiding? Where in the UK could one find that film-like representation of a winter love scene? Thankfully, we’ve scoured the country to bring you a list of the most magical places.

So grab a mug of something hot and snuggle up by the fire to enjoy our 9 Christmas wedding venue favourites.

9 Christmas wedding venues you simply have to see to believe

The Granary Estates, Suffolk Wedding Venues

The Granary Estates epitomise cosy English interiors and you have the option of choosing between two stunning barns linked by a glass walkway and boasting a private courtyard.

Choosing the large barn for your wedding means that there’s space for a large Christmas tree…

Whilst choosing the smaller space makes for a more cosy, warm and intimate festive affair.

Forego the sweet table and finger food and opt to toast marshmallows over an open fire as you party into the night.

Clearwell Castle, Gloucestershire Wedding Venues

There’s something distinctly ‘Beauty and the Beast’ about Clearwell Castle…

Probably the fact that Clearwell is also a magnificent fairytale castle tucked away in an enchanting forest. Yep – that would be it.

Get lost in the snowy grounds surrounded by nature and historic beauty when you choose to have your Christmas wedding at Clearwell Castle.

Crondon Park, Essex Wedding Venues

Is this how it feels to be inside a Christmas tree?

Crondon Park’s 17th century Baronial Hall is one of Essex’s premier wedding venues and at Christmas time, it sparkles…

Woodhall Manor, Suffolk Wedding Venues

We think that the main man himself may reside here during winter months when North Pole pressures get a little too much…

Enjoy the cosiest of winter weddings at the timeless and enchanting Woodhall Manor – a quintessentially English chocolate box of a venue.

Fennes, Essex Wedding Venues

Fennes is a storybook winter wedding venue made all the more romantic when surrounded by a thick blanket of white snow.

With its Georgian style architecture, high ceilings and beautifully landscaped gardens you’ll feel privy to a grand and exclusive festive affair.

Bring twinkly stars inside for added winter wedding romance…

Nonsuch Mansion, Greater London Wedding Venues

This beautiful Georgian mansion looks magnificent dusted in snow…

With its huge sash windows and tall ceilings dripping with chandeliers, you’ll be able to enjoy a high society style wedding with views of frosted nature all around you.

Ocean Kave, Devon Wedding Venues

When we think of weddings by the sea, we don’t instantly think of winter weddings by the sea. Brrrrr!

But a Christmas wedding at Ocean Kave looks decidedly dreamy…

Ocean Kave is a luxury coastal wedding venue situated in 60 acres of countryside on the North Devon Coast.

Their intimate, all-weather ceremony venue and purpose built reception suites mean that you could get married in the warmth to the sound of crashing waves and the sight of falling snow.

Northbrook Park, Hampshire Wedding Venues

This imposing 18th Century manor house in Hampshire is light and airy yet beautifully decorated for the festive months.

Look up at the stars from the beautiful reception space – decorated exactly as you wish – and fingers crossed you’ll enjoy some snowy views too.

Somerleyton Hall, Suffolk Wedding Venues

This stunning 5,000 acre estate in Suffolk is recognised as one of the most beautiful stately homes in Britain. And it isn’t difficult to see why.

Choose a romantic Winter Garden Wedding and you’ll be able to enjoy views of this incredible manor house and its landscape gardens, and keep warm at the same time.

If this list of winter wedding venues has left you wanting more, jingle all the way over to our wedding venues search page, or have a browse of some amazing wedding venues all over the country: