An Essex Wedding - July/August 2024 (Issue 117)

WIVENHOE HOUSE HOTEL 01206 863 666 | www.wivenhoehouse.co.uk/wedding-venue Wivenhoe House is based in Wivenhoe Park, on the grounds of the University of Essex. The gazebo is located on the Sunken Lawn, perfect for both intimate and large summer ceremonies or drinks receptions and overlooks the historic parkland and the magnificent cork oak trees brought back to the Wivenhoe Park Estate by General Rebow over 200 years ago. A beautiful 18th century, Grade II listed, four-star country house hotel with a contemporary twist on the Essex/Suffolk border. It was originally built in 1759 by Thomas Reynolds for the first owner Isaac Rebow and immortalised in canvas by renowned British artist John Constable, when he was commissioned by the then owner Major-General Francis Slater Rebow in 1816. Time to celebrate! The Drawing Room and Signatures Room in the main house are traditionally used for the wedding ceremony or intimate breakfast. With large bay windows offering spectacular views over the parkland, the historic rooms have an impressive fireplace and period features. The contemporary Garden Suite is made up of three rooms with removable partition walls and boasts a private bar, dancefloor and private courtyard. We love! The beauty of a manor house with historic rooms are the bay windows, high ceilings, overall elegance and views of the grounds. Couples often love the fact that they can do the entire wedding day all under one roof. COLCHESTER TOWN HALL 01206 506 905 | https://colchester-weddings.co.uk The Town Hall is a jewel in Colchester’s crown. From its prominent city centre location, this magnificent Baroque structure, with its Victorian tower and statue of St Helena – Colchester’s patron saint – dominates the surrounding area. Bursting with Edwardian glamour, the Hall represents the most romantic and historic of venues. The building boasts a rich heritage, and couples are guaranteed to make a grand red-carpet entrance from the moment they step inside. Time to celebrate Couples can choose from a variety of function rooms to wed in, all of which are fully licensed for ceremonies and receptions. Moot Hall is the largest and most popular of spaces – its high-arched ceiling and tall stained-glass windows create the perfect setting for up to 250 guests. There’s also the Council Chamber – ideal for an intimate wedding ceremony of up to 80; the Mayoral Suite, which comprises the Grand Jury and West Committee Rooms for up to 110; and the Old Library, a fully self-contained suite with reception, kitchen and cloakroom, again for up to 80. Receptions are then held in Moot Hall or the Old Library, during which the newlyweds can take a stroll to Castle Park for photographs. We love! You’re spoilt for choice with photo opportunities. Aerial shots of your ceremony can even be captured by your wedding photographer from the chamber balcony. LOCAL VENUES 21

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