Your Hampshire and Dorset Wedding - March/April 2024 (Issue 103)

EAST AFTON FARMHOUSE 01983 758 729 https://tapnellfarm.com/gather/east-afton-farmhouse Surrounded by rolling countryside on the beautiful Isle of Wight, East Afton Farmhouse offers the most idyllic setting for celebrations with beautiful beaches, coastal scenery and vast countryside. The grounds never disappoint, with many beautiful backdrops all year round. The gardens change from white roses and blossom blushes in the spring to warm tones and rich vibrant flowers in the summer. Sunset red fields of grass and crunchy amber leaves can be seen in the autumn, and the crisp light bounces off cool greens in winter, which complements the dusky purple sky. Why not use the grounds to host party games, reception drinks, canapés or formal photos? There are three spaces licensed for weddings! The Stone Barn is a converted stable that can host 120 people, which oozes character with thick stone walls, original beams, carved wooden chandeliers and flagstone floor tiles. The open three-sided barn with rollup sides suits summer ceremonies as well as winter celebrations, complete with fur throws and blankets. For al fresco dining experiences, create a Mediterranean vibe with banquet trestles and spill onto the courtyard to party with 80 people. The Coach House is the smallest barn that provides a blank canvas to suit any colour scheme. It’s heated so warm and cosy in the winter, or peel back the bifold doors for a more open space in the summer surrounded by 90 loved ones for the vows. The space is also ideal for intimate receptions with 50 guests seated or 100 standing. There are toilets and a decked platform with festoon lighting, perfect for watching the sun go down. The Black Events Barn is the largest space purposely built and heated, providing plenty of space for wedding ceremonies. The large glass windows allow for plenty of natural lighting and the brick detailing creates the perfect backdrop for 180 guests. The space can be utilised for receptions across two floors or 130 on the ground floor. Guests will find a large bar, underfloor heating, wagon wheel chandeliers, a fairylight wall, a commercial kitchen and toilet facilities. The 18th-century main farmhouse and country annexe are full of character, charm and a contemporary twist with space for 20 people. The neighbouring sister farm, Tapnell Farm, is only a two-minute drive away for extra accommodation. BALMER LAWN HOTEL & SPA 01590 625 779 | www.balmerlawnhotel.com For couples looking for a romantic postcard setting, Balmer Lawn Hotel & Spa is a must-see space. Set back behind a cricket pitch, the iconic venue has the perfect mixture of traditional and contemporary styles. With sun-drenched terraces and beautiful gardens, lovebirds will be spoilt for choice when it comes to stunning backdrops. Looking out over the lawn, the impressive building boasts a fascinating past and has been used as everything from a hunting lodge and a field hospital to an army staff college and coaching inn. As an award-winning destination for weddings, pairs can exchange vows in the garden’s oak-beamed Sylvan Pavilion. Or, why not opt for the Beaulieu Suit with 140 loved ones? Set back from the main Hotel with its own entrance and facilities, the suite includes the refurbished Beaulieu Room, the Hamble space with a bar and dancefloor as well as the Avon area for extra seating. There’s access to three outdoor terrace areas as well, including the hotel gardens. In the evenings, newlyweds can party the night away with up to 220 family and friends. We love… the beautiful high-ceilinged Savernake Room, the light and airy space with a private decked terrace is ideal for intimate weddings or post-vows drinks. www.adamjervisphotography.com www.jesslyonphotography.com http://kimberleygarrod.co.uk RUSTIC VENUYES 31

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