Your wedding day is one of the most important days of your life, and your guests are an integral part of what makes the day so special. Selecting your guests is such a fun process – when else do you get a day filled with all your favourite people!? Don’t get overwhelmed by all the people you want or all the people you feel you have to invite… we’re going to help you nail your guest list, which you can then keep track of with our handy Guest List tool. You’re welcome!
Venue
Where do you want to get married? If your event is a lavish affair in a massive venue, then go crazy on numbers. If you only want your nearest and dearest at a smaller venue, then that will give you an indication of how many people you can invite. Your budget will also play a big role in the decision making process, but tricks like opting to hold a buffet or a cocktail party instead of a sit down meal will give your budget room for manoeuvre (yay!).
Divide the guest list
Set aside a cosy evening to sit down with your loved one and write down everyone you might want to invite: family, friends and optional guests. The optional guests will probably include work colleagues, distant relatives, or the potential plus ones of family or friends. The best way to decide on the optional guests is to ask yourself: would I be offended if I wasn’t invited to their wedding? If the answer is yes, then it’s best you include them on the guest list! Bonus: if you suddenly need to cut down on the guest list, you will know which group to start with! And if some of your friends and family can’t come, you can start inviting some of those optional extras.
Families
Consider how many guests you are allocating to each of the families. When previously the bride’s family paid for everything, they got the upper hand in deciding whom to invite. Now, some couples pay for their own weddings, or both families contribute, so think about how to have this conversation with your parents. Similarly, families may be expecting to bring their children along to your wedding and if this isn’t something you want, think about letting them know in advance, so that they can organise babysitters.
Timings
Play around with your timings. You could invite immediate family and friends to the ceremony and reception and then invite a load more for the food and dancing – or the other way round. Or you could invite more people after the wedding breakfast for cocktails and grooving. Play with the timings and numbers to suit you and your budget! Remember, that on average, 20% of your invited guests may decline, allowing you more room for manoeuvre. However, don’t hold out for this exact number to decline! In fact, it is always worth asking your caterer the cost of last minute changes, just in case someone turns up or drops out!
Don’t forget the bride and groom
Final point: Once you’ve made the perfect guest list, don’t forget to put your own names on the list, you would be surprised how many couples don’t do that and are amazed to find the caterer short of two plates!
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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!
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.
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!
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.
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!
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.
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.
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!
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?!
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.
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!
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!
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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!
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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!
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?
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.
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.
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”!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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?
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!
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:
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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!
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!
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.
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!
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!
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!
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!
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!
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!
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?
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.
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!
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!
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!
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!
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!
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!
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!
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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:
The greatest gift of all is love….however why shouldn’t you have some lovely new things for your home to go with all that happiness?!
Our friends at The Wedding Shop share their tried and tested tips to help you create your dream gift list.
FUTURE PROOF YOUR LIST
“When looking around your home it can be hard to see the need for a twelve piece dinner set or additional glassware. However, it’s good to remember that your gifts are bought by your loved ones to mark the start of your new married life together and will build the foundation for your future home. So, pick gifts that are going to stand the test of time and that you will cherish in years to come. You won’t regret it, even if your other half does grumble about storage space!” – Jade
ADD MORE THAN YOU THINK
“You will be so surprised at how generous your guests are, so make sure you have added enough so that your guests don’t run out of options to choose from. It is also good to pick gifts at different price points so that everyone can buy you something you’ll love, regardless of their budget.” – Alice
EMBRACE GROUP GIFTING
“Don’t be afraid to add something that you absolutely love but that comes with a large price tag, such as furniture or a piece of art. Group gifting lets your guests contribute as much as they wish towards a statement piece and if it doesn’t get fully purchased you can move your funds to make up the remaining cost.” – Lara
MAKE IT PERSONAL
“Guests like to know they are contributing to something special and personal to you. So the most important thing is to have fun choosing gifts that you absolutely love. Don’t feel you need to choose just practical gifts or gifts you think your guests want to buy. Your quirky picks are what makes your gift list completely unique to you.” – Melissa
COVER ALL BASES
“Even if you only really want cash, we suggest adding physical gifts to your list too. Guests always prefer the choice of both. Your list is the perfect opportunity to update and upgrade your tired home essentials, so there will always be something that you need. When it comes to creating your cash funds, be specific. Guest like to know exactly what their contributions are going towards and what you have planned for the cash.” – Ryma
The Bridebook.co.uk Wedding Awards 2018 are here! Whether you’re a fairytale castle or an alternative wedding dress designer, a self-trained florist or a french pastry chef, you’re all eligible to be recognised for the incredible work that you do in the British wedding industry.
The Bridebook.co.uk Wedding Awards 2018 gives all of our venues and suppliers the opportunity to win a prestigious Certificate of Excellence, and to be crowned the 2018 Winner in your respective category. The awards are free to enter. To do so, you simply need to collect reviews from your 2017 couples on your Bridebook profile. The Awards close on December 15th, so be sure to start collecting your reviews if you haven’t already! (Find your profile, under your respective category here).
Read on below for all the details you need and more…
Have any questions? Check our frequently asked questions below! If you can’t find the answer you are looking for below, you can email [email protected] directly.
FAQs:
What are the Bridebook Wedding Awards 2018?
The Bridebook Wedding Awards are our chance to shout from the rooftops about the amazing work done by Bridebook wedding venues and suppliers. From exceptional couple’s service, to jaw-dropping creativity, we’re lucky to be part of a world that just overflows with passionate and talented business owners. The annual Bridebook Wedding Awards is our way of sharing this enthusiasm!
This year’s Awards will be centered around reviews from real couples who tied the knot in 2017. Certificates of Excellence will be awarded according to the number of positive reviews for each supplier, and the Winners will be selected by a panel of expert judges from those suppliers. Read on below for the full details!
When are the Awards running?
The Awards will count all reviews made by 2017 couples or their family members up until 11:59pm on the 15th of December, after which any new reviews will not be counted.
The 2018 Certificate holders and the overall Winners will be announced on February 15th, 2018.
How can I enter the Awards?
We have good news – it’s completely FREE to take part! All registered Bridebook suppliers will be eligible to be awarded a Certificate and be considered for 2018 winner titles. By having no cost associated, we ensure that all suppliers can be represented and have the chance for recognition.
How do I get reviews?
Need a little guidance to get things started? Here’s our suggestions for the best way to gather those reviews and to move you one step closer to getting the recognition you deserve!
And don’t forget, for the reviews to count they must be made directly on your Bridebook profile.
Reflect on your 2017 and think about those couples you really connected with.
Ask your couples directly – email them, maybe starting with a personal anecdote, and explain what their support would mean to you. Don’t forget to include a link to your Bridebook profile!
Utilise the power of social media! With everyone online these days, simply sharing your profile and asking for reviews from your followers will have an impact.
Download these assets we made for easy sharing!
How are the Bridebook Certificates of Excellence awarded?
The Certificates of Excellence are designed to recognise and celebrate suppliers who have contributed to the wedding industry with exemplary service, regardless of their size or the amount of weddings they complete in a year.
Silver Bridebook Certificate of Excellence = At least 5 5-star reviews from 2017 weddings.
Gold Bridebook Certificate of Excellence = At least 15 5-star reviews from 2017 weddings.
Platinum Certificate of Excellence = At least 30 5-star reviews from 2017 weddings.
How are the supplier category winners chosen?
Each supplier category will have one 2018 Winner. (The only exception to this will be for venues, where each UK region will have one winner.)
Judging Process:
All suppliers who have qualified for a Gold or Platinum Certificate will then all automatically go through to the judging round.
Bridebook experts will choose the 2018 Winners and Highly Commended in each supplier category based on their Bridebook profiles.
The judging criteria of these profiles will include the supplier’s review score, their commitment and contributions to the greater wedding industry, and finally product quality.
The Winner Categories will be:
Wedding Venue of the Year
Wedding Photographer of the Year
Wedding Florist of the Year
Wedding Videographer of the Year
Wedding Caterer of the Year
Wedding Dress & Accessories Supplier of the Year
Wedding Music Supplier of the Year
Wedding Entertainer of the Year
Wedding Cake Maker of the Year
Wedding Stationer of the Year
Bridal Beauty of the Year
Menswear Supplier of the Year
Wedding Jeweller of the Year
Wedding Transport Supplier of the Year
Wedding Decor Supplier of the Year
Wedding Planner of the Year
Marquee Supplier of the Year
What can I win?
Certificate Winner:
If you qualify to be a recipient of one of Bridebook’s Certificates of Excellence you will be provided with a custom badge to proudly display on both your website and your Bridebook profile. Being a holder of such a badge will also boost your profile standing in the Bridebook listing. With your badge and a boosted Bridebook listing, Certificate winners can expect a lot more attention, more couples, more bookings, and more quality business leads for you! You will also receive a printable digital copy of your Certificate of Excellence to display with pride.
Venue & Supplier Category Winner:
2018 Winners will receive a personalised grand trophy to display at work or at home, a badge to display across your online channels, a boosted Bridebook listing and exclusive social media exposure to Bridebook’s 300,000+ followers!
How do you keep the awards fair?
One of our main priorities is to ensure all venues and suppliers feel that the Awards are a fair and exciting experience. Having taken on board feedback from last year’s Awards, we have decided to give the customers the say. Who better else to be the judges than the couples themselves!
Other efforts include having the Awards free and open to all venues and suppliers (not just those that pay an entry fee), just like how Bridebook is free to be listed on, ensuring all aspects of the wedding industry are fairly represented. Bridebook also has proprietary algorithms in place to check for suspicious activity on all reviews and will be implementing a thorough verification plan upon completion.
Which reviews count?
All reviews submitted by the couple or their family from a 2017 wedding up to December 15th.
All reviews submitted will be verified and posted within 24 hours.
All verified testimonials submitted by the profile owner before November 1st (the beginning date of the awards).
To ensure the authenticity of reviews, supplier-uploaded testimonials will not be counted towards the Awards after November 1st, but will still show on your profile.
How do you make sure the reviews are authentic?
Bridebook has taken a number of steps to ensure only authentic reviews are shared, including:
Proprietary algorithms in place to check for suspicious activity on all supplier reviews.
Requiring a wedding date, email address and an online authenticity agreement from all review submitters.
Reserving the right to request evidence of any feedback submitted.
Manual investigation and verification process for suspicious activity
Questions?
If your query isn’t answered in the information above, don’t hesitate to reach out to [email protected] and we’ll do our upmost to assist you!
For National Couples Day, Bridebook.co.uk, thefree wedding planning app and website, has surveyed 7,000 couples to find out what being a modern couple reallyentails. Revealing some fascinating insights demonstrating a move even further away from archaic male and female ‘roles’, the results show how the gender divide is diminishing in an apparent way right from the very beginning of a relationship through to the wedding day and beyond. Couples answered questions about their ‘emotional roles’ in relation to dating, proposals and their wedding day, and their attitude to money, socialising and day to day chores.
This study was across both same sex and straight couples, however when male/female comparisons have been made only heterosexual relationships have been considered.
THE FIRST MOVE
It is no longer always down to the man to make the first move:
62% of couples said that the man made the first move
29% of couples said that the woman made the first move
9% of couples said that neither made the first move.
SAYING ‘I LOVE YOU’
Once in a relationship, men are sharing their feelings first:
63% of couples said that the man said ‘I Love You’ first
61% of couples claimed they both say ‘I Love You’ more than twice/day
21% of couples claimed they both say ‘I Love You’ more than five times/day
58% of couples claimed they both say ‘I Love You’ to each other within three months of being together
37% of couples say the man and woman are equally romantic.
COMMITMENT
Women are not afraid of initiating taking the ‘next step’, and couples are splitting the costs of living:
63% said the man brought up becoming “official” first
43% said they initiated sharing keys at the same time (31% woman first, 27% man first)
53% of couples said the woman met the man’s family first
56% of couples believe they own half of each other’s monthly income
73% of couples split their house purchase cost equally
70% of couples split rental costs equally
67% of couples share a bank account.
PROPOSALS
Popping the question is not always left to the man, and both men and women find it hard to hide their emotions:
The man proposed in 87% of couples
The women proposed in 4% of couples
9% said neither the man/woman proposed, it was a mutual decision
88% of women admitted to crying at the proposal
19% of men admitted to crying at the proposal
WEDDINGS
Planning a wedding is no longer left to the bride, and men are becoming increasingly emotionally involved:
62% of wedding planning decisions were made by the man and woman together
77% of those surveyed who attended a wedding show went with their partner
95% of women said that they cried on their wedding day
65% of men said that they cried on their wedding day
84% of couples said they would do marriage counselling if the need arose.
DAILY LIFE & CHORES
64% of couples say the daily house chores are shared equally
42% of couples say the man is messier around the house (30% the woman, 28% equal)
32% of men claim to do more of the cooking. 48% of women claim to do more of
the cooking. 20% said they cook equally
88% of couples maintain a social life separate from their partner.
Hamish Shephard, founder of Bridebook.co.uk, says:
“The Bridebook.co.uk Couple’s Survey 2017 offers valuable insights into how couples perceive one another’s role in a relationship. The key learning is that couples are finding their own balance and their own unique way of making the relationship work best for them, from the outest.
It is fascinating to see that men and women, who once experienced social pressure to carry out certain roles in the relationship and the home, are now more open to sharing responsibilities and to showing emotions. Life is viewed as an equal playing field and a less rigid line between the parts played is making way for the ‘modern man’ and ‘modern woman’, which should be celebrated. Archaic stereotypes are factually no longer true.”
Notes To Editor:
Bridebook.co.uk is the UK’s leading wedding planning app and website with over 40,000 couples currently planning their wedding on the platform.
Launched in 2016, Bridebook.co.uk‘s state-of-the-art wedding planning toolkit with personalised Checklist, Budgeter and Guestlist manager, enables couples to plan their entire wedding from any device, anytime, anywhere, all in one place…for free. With over 70,000 venues and suppliers in its directory, Bridebook.co.uk increases the digital presence of industry professionals and connects them directly with local couples. Bridebook has also partnered with leading brands such as Mary Berry, Bobbi Brown and Jimmy Choo to provide genuine expert advice and inspiration to its couples. Bridebook.co.uk was founded by Hamish Shephard, an industry professional and recently married groom who used Bridebook.co.uk to plan his own May 2016 wedding. Visit Bridebook.co.uk online and on the iTunes App Store.
Famous for its ties with The Beatles and RMS Titanic, Liverpool is a thriving Northern city, full of personality and soul. Are you looking for the perfect venue in or around Liverpool? Look no further!
Bridebook.co.uk has hunted down 25 of the best venues from in and around the city that are totally unique! Take a look at these magnificent places, or have a gander yourself by using our Wedding Venue Search tool and selecting your city.
This dazzling venue is often among the top wedding venues in the UK – and we can see why! Its glorious glass structure is filled with unique palms that will set off your photos like no other. Sefton Park Palm House is also right in the heart of Liverpool!
Are you and your partner avid Beatles fans? This is the place for you! The Beatles Story is an iconic attraction that can be made into the backdrop for your wedding day – imagine saying your vows in the super realistic replica of the Cavern Club!
In the rolling Lancashire countryside and less than an hour away from Liverpool, West Tower sits on eight acres of stunning land. Traditional on the outside and contemporary on the inside, this impressive country house is the perfect venue to suit all tastes.
Dating back to the 15th Century, this glamorous country house and it’s beautiful gardens in the walled estate can be exclusively yours for your unique wedding day. With a rich heritage and easy access to Liverpool, Knowsley Hall is an ideal choice for a stunning backdrop.
Right in the city centre lies the undiscovered gem of Alma De Cuba. The building is a former church that has a lengthy history dating back to 1788. Now a stylish restaurant and bar, you can hire these spectacular surroundings with bespoke service for your big day!
This 16th Century barn is set on 120 acres of country estate and is just 8 miles down the road from Liverpool. Original stone walls and exposed beams provide plenty of character, and spectacular rural views are on offer for you and your guests to enjoy at Crosby Hall.
Are you a huge Titanic fan, or really interested in it’s history? 30 James Street is the home of the Titanic, and you can now have your wedding in this iconic building. Offering picturesque views across the docklands and the Pier Head, this stunning venue has a classy, opulent feel with a nautical twist.
Inglewood lies within 38 acres of immaculate grounds and spectacular views across Cheshire. This grade II listed Edwardian manor boasts beautiful architecture, and not only can it accommodate outside summer weddings, but also ceremonies in front of the roaring fire during the height of winter.
SIREN Liverpool is a unique and versatile space in the city centre that can act as a blank canvas for you to create your perfect wedding theme. Make your dreams come true with this ultimately spacious venue.
Soughton Hall Hotel welcomes you with a breathtaking walled entrance and grand driveway. This spectacular venue gives off vibes of flawless luxury, and sits about 20 miles from Liverpool just inside the Welsh border. Can you imagine your romantic day here?
The infamous stage and auditorium at the exquisite Epstein Theatre could be your wedding venue! Built in 1913 and named in honour of the Beatles manager, the stunning decor will provide the perfect backdrop as you find your inner star and say your vows on stage!
Croxteth Hall is a historic Edwardian stately home just 20 minutes from the centre of Liverpool and it boasts an elegant oak-panelled dining room among other stunning settings in which to tie the knot. As the former home of the Earl of Sefton, you can feel on top of the world with this delightful country estate building as your venue.
The top deck of the beautiful Kathleen and May Schooner commands a striking view of the famous Liverpool Waterfront. Built in 1900 and restored in 2000, this unique venue is a stunning place to hold your wedding reception in the heart of Liverpool’s Albert Dock.
Always fancied being a King and Queen for your special day? Leasowe Castle Hotel is where you can feel like it! This fairytale venue boasts impressive sea views and is a truly luxurious setting just 20 minutes away from Liverpool.
Need some land for your own DIY wedding? Clawdd Offa Farm offers large areas of beautiful farmland with picturesque rural views across the Welsh border to hold your wedding day celebrations. You can hire the farm from Friday afternoon through to Sunday, so there’s no need to rush!
If you and your partner die hard Liverpool F.C. fans, then this is the venue for you! Anfield Stadium at Liverpool Football Club is equipped with an events team, first class catering and a beautiful set up for the celebration of your dreams.
Isla Gladstone Conservatory will stun your guests as you enter the dramatic surroundings of this converted Victorian glasshouse. The sun-flooded interior nestled in between rose gardens will bring plenty of enchantment to your big day!
Adjoined to the Titanic Hotel, the Rum Warehouse is a spacious building with a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for wining and dining with your loved ones. The restored 1950’s warehouse provides an ideal romantic setting for the larger wedding party up to 500 guests!
Less than 10 miles from the city, the 19th Century Thorton Manor is set within an impressive 120 acres. It provides grand rooms with elegant decor, a secret garden and a lakeside marquee for the ultimate rural manor house experience. Wowzers!
The Chester Fields allows you to dine alfresco with your nearest and dearest while enjoying spectacular views! This unique restaurant offers delicious menus and superb service to meet all of your requirements as you begin married life!
The stunning Grade II listed red brick building of Victoria Gallery & Museum sits in a peaceful location within the city of Liverpool. Expect vaulted ceilings, tasteful landscape and Victorian splendour in this gorgeous one-of-a-kind venue.
Situated in a rural area less than an hour from the city, Charnock Farm Restaurant breathes fresh air into wedding venues across the North. An exposed brick fireplace mixed with classy and contemporary decor makes this venue stand out from the crowd!
Liverpool Philharmonic Hall sees world-class acts pass through it’s doors regularly, so how about having your wedding there? Whether you’re wanting a huge celebration in the main hall or a simple set up in the bar, this venue can do it!
In the Cheshire countryside, Abbeywood Estate is a 45-acre family home that is dedicated to making your wedding day unique. The glorious gardens and stunning decor make it a truly romantic venue where your married life can start with a bang.
This magical wedding venue is located on it’s own private island in the heart of the Delamere Forest. Nunsmere Hall Hotel allows you to enjoy a luxurious and sophisticated wedding with a charming Italian sunken garden and panoramic views across the lake.
Still not found your dream venue? Or do you live outside of Liverpool and you’d like to extend your search? Do not fear! Use Bridebook.co.uk’s Wedding Venue Search and type in your preferred location, where you are sure to find the perfect venue for you.
The limits at Bridebook are endless – did you know we can also help you with your entire wedding planning process?! Fill in your guest list, budget and use our wedding checklist to make sure you remember everything on your special day.
Looking for your dream city wedding venue and can’t decide whether you’re after a contemporary or traditional setting? RSA House may just be the place for you, as this historic hidden gem combines Georgian splendour and rustic romance for your special day.
Imagine escaping from the hustle and bustle of London as you step into the tranquil surroundings of the breathtaking RSA House. On possibly the most special day of your life, the next few moments will be the most memorable as you walk through the doors and down the aisle in a grand Georgian room.
RSA House offers a variety of stunningly decorated rooms in which to host your wedding ceremony (and reception if you choose), but the spectacularly lavish Benjamin Franklin Room is a firm favourite. With its mixture of original architecture, a contemporary ambiance and a towering chandelier inspired by the man himself, it’s an unforgettable place to say ‘i do’ and take your first steps as a married couple.
Then head up the 300-year-old staircase (and pause for a snap) to your wedding breakfast, where a world of artistic wonder awaits you and your guests. The iconic Great Hall is brought alive with its dramatic artwork. The magnificent series of paintings “Progress of Human Knowledge and Culture” by James Barry, offers plenty of historical background and will become an incredible backdrop for your big day!
Now, to the wedding reception. The Vaults, with their exposed 18th Century brickwork and rustic ambiance, are a surprising contrast to the Georgian luster of the above rooms. These up-lit underground vaults are the perfect place to kick-off your wedding evening, with a combination of romantic air and party vibes. No need to limit your evening guests either, as the vaults can cater for up to 220 people without losing out on its feeling of exclusivity. You and your guests will have fun dancing the night away knowing that you’re in the best hands with the team at RSA House.
Key Features:
Exclusive use of the venue when you book for 100 guests.
RSA House is perfectly situated between the vibrant Covent Garden and Embankment, Central London. Enjoy great transport links here!
Weddings can be bespoke. Rooms and food to suit your requirements.
Nearby luxury accommodation can be sought at The Savoy, Corinthia and The Waldorf Hilton to name but a few of the best hotels in the area.
Wedding Coordinator, Rosalind, and the RSA House team have a strong wedding ethos: “We believe every wedding should be bespoke and encourage every couple to stamp their personality on their big day.”
RSA House can cater for a capacity of up to 140 guests for your ceremony or banquet, and up to 220 for your evening wedding reception. The venue’s packages start from £145+VAT per head, with an exquisite food selection from their specialist caterer H+J by Harbour and Jones.
Love this venue as much as we do? Book a show-round today by heading to their Bridebook profile and requesting more details.Trust us, the pictures just don’t it justice!
The UK is being graced with another royal wedding this year, and despite the shared venue, it is clear Eugenie and Jack are set to make their big day special and unique. Bridebook.co.uk, the UK’s no.1 wedding planning app used by 1 in 3 UK couples, is here to call the trends we expect to be started, and the price tags along with them. With over 5,340 glasses of champagne and 1,800 glasses of wine required to keep all their guests happy, it should come as no surprise that the wedding is expected to come in at a whopping £2,820,620. Whilst £2.8 million is more than 100 times the price of the average British wedding, it pales compared to Harry and Meghan’s wedding cost of £32 million, more than 10 times Eugenie’s
Not to be outdone by the modern standard set by Harry and Meghan, Eugenie and Jack are doing what very few before them are likely to have done: having a completely plastic free wedding. If that isn’t the epitome of a millennial, environmentally conscious wedding, we don’t know what is!
Eugenie and Jack’s wedding is sure to set plenty of it’s own trends, from the outstanding decision of going completely plastic free, to the autumnal themes it is sure to embrace. But if our expert-predicted costs are anything to go by, Eugenie and Jack are sure to not be outdone either, with the costs quickly racking up despite the slightly smaller scale of this event. Explore just how much Eugenie and Jack’s tastes add up, as well as the carefully curated ways Eugenie is establishing herself as a pioneering young royal.
Venue – £85,000 – £300,000
Just like Harry and Meghan, Eugenie and Jack will get married at St. George’s chapel and then have their party on Windsor grounds. Following the afternoon reception, hosted by the Queen at the castle, the guests will move on to the Royal Lodge, where Eugenie’s father, the Duke of York lives. Although Eugenie and Jack won’t have to worry about securing a venue, or paying for it, the crisp month of October will beg for a marquee to keep the guests warm and a fully-equipped catering tent. A luxury marquee to accommodate all the guests, as well as the additional tents for catering and loos, will cost upwards of £85,000. Alternatively, if Eugenie opts for the glass marquee style as Pippa Middleton did, she should expect it to cost upwards of £300,000.
Catering – £100,000 to £151,600
Luxury catering for 350 guests doesn’t come cheap! Add 1,200 members of the public, top that with a plastic-free motif, and the numbers stack up! Those little plastic spoons and forks that hold the lamb croquettes will be a big no-no at this wedding, and replacing them with plastic-free options will add up on the bill, particularly as the plastic-free trend is only just beginning to emerge in the wedding industry. We expect Eugenie’s highly publicised decision is sure to plastic-free much more accessible to all couples in the years to come.
Drinks – £84,500
If there’s one thing Eugenie and Jack will do better than Harry and Meghan, it’s the alcohol. Jack is the UK Ambassador for George Clooney’s Casamigos tequila, a previous club-owner (which is how he and Eugenie met) and his dream is to own a chain of pubs. As for Eugenie, her favourite drink is Vodka Soda. Together with her sister and Maid of Honour, Beatrice, the two make an invincible party duo, which means this wedding is going to be a very boozey occasion. And with 5,340 glasses of champagne and 1,800 glasses of wine needed to keep their guests happy during the champagne reception and dinner, there is sure to be a hefty weight to the bill!
Dress – £230,000
One secret that has been spilt by Princess Eugenie is that, contrary to Meghan, she has chosen a British designer to create her wedding dress. An environmental activist who is having a plastic-free wedding could only go with an environmentally outspoken designer. In this case, we predict Stella McCartney is designing this Princess’ wedding dress. The price tag for a bespoke Stella McCartney gown? Somewhere around a casual £200,000.
Floristry – £100,000
An eco-friendly wedding is a perfect chance to show off the beauty of the season’s British flowers. Hundreds of thousands of fresh flowers and herbs will decorate the church, Windsor Castle and marquees, likely with the notable caveat that they can be re-planted following the wedding to ensure minimal environmental impact. This a noble, yet pricey decision.
Photography & Videography – £17,000
If you’re throwing a Royal Wedding, photography and videography need to be beyond perfect, and that doesn’t come cheap! Fashion and Celebrity Photographer Alexis Lubomirski wowed everyone with his shots of Meghan and Harry’s engagement and wedding, if Eugenie and Jack want to keep up with the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, they will need to loosen their purse strings and find an A-list photographer to capture their happiest moments. Expect to see the ever increasingly popular documentary photography style prevailing, highlighting Eugenie and Jack as a young, fun and more laid back royal couple.
Cake – £5,600
If Eugenie and Jack plan on staying environmentally friendly with their cake and feeding all of their guests at least one slice, they will need a fresh, local and seasonal fruit 6-tier creation! Claire Ptak, the famous cake-maker who made Harry and Meghan’s wedding cake, is known for working with locally sourced ingredients, so she could be the top choice for these two, otherwise locally-based Melissa Woodland is a top pick. Cakes made with fresh seasonal fruit can’t be stored overnight, and this makes them more expensive than your average wedding cake.
Stationery – £30,000
The invitations for this Royal Wedding came with a special touch, a Nelson Mandela quote which is sure to keep the guests on their toes. To top it there is come beautiful calligraphy work and the family’s badge printed in gold ink, which, although not as significant as the quote, will weigh on the final price a lot more.
The quote, seen below, only further reinforces Eugenie and Jack’s determination to make this a truly significant day, led by their values and passions.
“What counts in life is not the mere fact that we have lived. It is what difference we have made to the lives of others that will determine the significance of the life we lead.” – NELSON MANDELA
Music & Entertainment – £25,000 – £55,000
From trumpets and bell ringers to the organist and choirs in the church, DJ’s and live bands, Eugenie and Jack’s Wedding will be filled with music! Lucky for them, they have some of the best voices and entertainers in the world attending the wedding! Namely, Robbie Williams, who’s daughter will be a flower-girl, James Blunt, Ellie Goulding, Ed Sheeran and more… Their friends might throw in a free song or two, but everything else will come with a price tag. Add to that the other entertainment Eugenie and Jack are sure to provide.
Wedding Rings – £6,000
For decades, it’s been a Royal Family tradition to use Welsh gold for the wedding ring of the bride. Welsh gold is extremely rare, and only a small portion of it is kept by the Queen in the royal vaults. Although traditionally Royal Family men don’t wear rings, Jack will likely follow in Harry’s footsteps and opt to wear a wedding band, which will require a little bit more of that precious Welsh gold.
Bridesmaid Outfits – £5,000
Anyone who’s been married or been a bridesmaid knows how expensive bridesmaid dresses can be. A bridesmaid dress for the Maid of Honour, Princess Beatrice, will be designer, and though she is known for sporting curiously affordable dresses, she will want to look lavish for her little sister’s big cold! Beatrice has already expressed how much of a modern bride Eugenie is, and we can’t wait to see how this will affect the style of the whole wedding, and of course, her Maid of Honour’s dress!
Church Fees – £170
Eugenie and Jack will be getting married at St. George’s Chapel, just like Harry and Meghan, but even if you’re getting married at your family’s church, you have to pay the fee! A minuscule cost compared to the others, but nevertheless, it adds up.
Groomswear – £6,050
The groom is sure to be as dashing, particularly dressed in the royal Saville Row tailor Huntsman’s best wedding attire. A bespoke tailcoat, waistcoat and trousers are sure to cost upwards from £4,400, with new shoes costing around £900. Add to that an outfit change, as is sure to be expected for both the bride and the groom, and you have another £3000 for bespoke black tie. Our tip to Jack? Sand the bottom of your new shoes to avoid slip ups on the dancefloor!
Hair & Makeup – £2,700
We’re sure Eugenie will be having only the best makeup artists and hair stylists on hand for her big day. Even with the natural makeup look that she is sure to opt for, getting personalised beauty done on the big day for the bride and her entire wedding team costs a pretty penny.
Wedding Favours – £1000
Expect to see Eugenie and Jack opting for wedding favours that reflect their firm environmental beliefs. Perhaps an eco-friendly gift from Balmoral, or even Windsor Great Park honey. Wedding favours always work best when they are something that reflect the couple, with no need to be flashy or expensive.
Toilets – £16,000
Don’t forget the toilets! Marquee weddings tend to cost more than weddings held indoors due to all of the extra facilities that need to be covered as well. For as many guests as Eugenie and Jack are having, and for the caliber that they will be, expect only the most formal temporary toilets. Pippa Middleton’s luxury toilets cost £4,000 for 350 guests. Eugenie and Jack are having a total of 1,200 guests, so it’s easy to see how this cost would add up.
Security – £2,000,000
It’s not a Royal Wedding without the highest security measures the country can provide! Though Eugenie and Jack’s carriage ride around Windsor will be considerably shorter than Harry and Meghan’s, there will still be a substantial cost in protecting the royal couple. From sniper coverage, to the latest anti-drone technology, expect the security costs to be upwards of £2 million.
The above figures have been calculated following an analysis of over 170,000 weddings via Bridebook.co.uk‘swedding planning tools and budget calculator, and a review of over 70,000 wedding industry suppliers’ price estimates listed on Bridebook.co.uk’s wedding venue and supplier directory. Bridebook.co.uk is currently being used by 1 in 3 UK couples planning their wedding, and therefore has an unparalleled understanding of the wedding planning process, as well as relationships with brides and wedding industry suppliers across the country.
Hamish Shephard, founder of Bridebook.co.uk, the UK’s leading wedding planning app, says:
“After Meghan and Harry’s wedding was the most viewed wedding in history, a second Royal wedding at Windsor is certainly going to attract another global audience.”
“With Eugenie and Jack both attendees at Harry and Meghan’s wedding at Windsor Castle earlier in the year, they will certainly want to differentiate their day to celebrate their individuality and have their personalities demonstrated throughout the wedding details.”
“After Meghan broke tradition by walking herself down the aisle, and by having a gospel choir and her now infamous preacher, Eugenie will be delighted to have the freedom to do exactly what she wants.”
“Whilst Meghan and Harry’s wedding was an international spectacular, Eugenie and Jack will be having a more homely occasion celebrating the best of Britain, but with an equally star studded guest list.”
For further information please contact Hunt Communications:
Bridebook.co.uk is the UK’s leading wedding planning platform with over 1 in 3 UK couples currently planning their weddings on the website and app.
Launched in 2016, Bridebook.co.uk‘s state-of-the-art wedding planning toolkit with personalised Wedding Checklist, Wedding Budgeter and Wedding Guestlist Manager, enables couples to plan their entire wedding from any device, anytime, anywhere, all in one place…for free. With over 70,000 wedding venues and suppliers in its directory, Bridebook.co.uk increases the digital presence of industry professionals and connects them directly with local couples. Bridebook.co.uk has also partnered with leading experts such as Mary Berry, Bobbi Brown and Jimmy Choo to provide genuine expert advice and inspiration to its couples. Bridebook.co.uk was founded by Hamish Shephard, an industry professional and recently married groom who used Bridebook.co.uk to plan his own May 2016 wedding. Visit Bridebook.co.uk online and the Bridebook.co.uk App on the iTunes App Store and Google Play Store.
Planning your wedding?
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The ‘I do’s’. For many (we hope), the most important part of the day. That moment where you can tell your nearest and dearest why you love the person standing beside you. And yet, looking back, it seems that that moment was actually rather drab and samey. Cold churches, long ceremonies, a lack of individuality and personality.
Luckily for you, that has all changed. Here at Bridebook, we support individuality and having a wedding day the way you want it. That includes your ceremony. Introducing Jeanenne Powell, celebrant and wedding enthusiast from Inner World Outer Life. Today, Jeannene will be telling us a little more about how to create the ceremony you have always imagined.
So whether you want a ceremony in a field with bubbles, on a boat with a goat, or you want to stick to tradition and say ‘I do’ in the presence of our lord – we are here to support that decision.
Jeannene over to you…
With the modern-day softening of tradition around parents paying for a wedding seeing more spouses-to-be saving for the big day themselves, couples both young and old, first-timers and third timers are starting to take ownership of their wedding day. Drawing inspiration from wedding reality shows and social inspiration, they’re not only deciding the finest details for their reception but the actual ceremony too.
Although celebrant wedding ceremonies aren’t legally recognised in England, Wales and Ireland (but are in Scotland), there are easy to arrange provisions for the legal paperwork to be done at a registry office. This leaves you the freedom and flexibility to personalise what, where and how you celebrate your love, express your commitment and share your joy with those who matter most.
The Whats
Traditions and twists: If you want a traditional affair, that’s great. But if you want to make it your own, add a twist to it like your mum or both parents accompanying you down the aisle, or partners walking in together then a celebrant can help you achieve this. Vows too do not have to be reserved for the wedding pair, so have guests expressing their support as well. Couples are stamping their mark on old favourites and celebrants allow you the freedom to do this.
Mixing customs and cultures: Draw on your heritages to include wedding customs from various countries and cultures. Even with simple personal family traditions honouring your roots can make the ceremony a unique affair.
Spiritual or religious, a mixture or neither: If, like a vast majority of couples, you have different ways of finding meaning in life, there are ways to include both philosophies and spiritual outlooks on the day so neither are left out.
The wheres
Licensed and unlicensed locations: Any place is a possibility. Imagine exchanging rings whilst on a beach, in a woodland clearing, sailing down the river or standing under the stars. These and more all provide enchanting and stunning backdrops to your key wedding moment.
Wedding breaks: Instead of a wedding followed by a honeymoon, some couples are venturing away with friends and family for the weekend. Whether glamping, hiring a manor house or attending a festival together, these and more can all make the celebrant ceremony the highlight of a joyful, memorable and fun time shared by all.
Journeying abroad: Destination weddings are still as fashionable as ever, however, the related paperwork can be time-consuming and complex. Having the brief legalities done here, can make the overall organising far simpler. With your celebrant travelling to meet you and your guests at your destination, you can ease into having the full-blown celebration once arrived.
The hows
Have it your way: Whatever you decide to include, the ceremony can be tailored in a way to suit your style, personalities and tastes. Whether a small and intimate gathering or a large and luxurious event, a beautiful and elegant affair or unconventional and quirky occasion, what matters is that it holds significance for you both. Plus, unlike legal weddings, it can be a completely private affair.
Meet first: As with all your wedding suppliers, you get to choose who’s involved in making your ceremony special. Meeting with your potential celebrant before deciding will allow you to learn about their training, background and experience, so you’ll know if you really connect with them. This way you can feel confident they’re the right one to help design and deliver a ceremony that’s truly perfect, and unique, for the two of you.
So there you have some of the whats, wheres and hows. Having a celebrant ceremony is a really personalised thing. Not just the ceremony itself, but the whole experience of working with a professional celebrant over time, them getting to know the things which matter to you most and, on the day, having a friendly and familiar face welcome and guide you both successfully through all your nerves, anticipation and excitement.
Next time someone tells you “your day is about you”, just remember that goes for the ceremony too!
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