www.anessex.wedding MAR/APR 2022 £3.55 THE LEADING WEDDING MAGAZINE IN ESSEX! MARRIAGE MATERIAL Help is at hand Read our planning SOS guide Glorious gardens Picture-perfect wedding venues Be inspired by three Essex couples WIN! A honeymoon in St Lucia REGENCY SPLENDOUR Bridgerton-inspired styling
The French Flower Company - Small and intimate to grand and opulent, let our amazing Wedding and Events team turn your dreams and plans into reality. With a wealth of experience in Wedding and Events floristry our experts are on hand to assist your every floral requirement. To arrange a no obligation consultation or for any other information please email us - contact@thefrenchflowercompany.co.uk or call us on 01992578606 quoting Essex Wedding Magazine. www.thefrenchflowercompany.com Picture - Claridges Dec 2021 “Leann Arkell ICSF has joined us as our dedicated Wedding and Events Co-Ordinator. With over 23yrs experience and knowledge of the industry, a vision and drive for perfection and a strong team of florists beside her, beautiful things are being created!
REGULARS 6 EDITOR’S LETTER Danielle Harvey shares her inspiration this issue 9 NEARLYWED NEWS Catch up on news from around the county 13 FREEBIES & OFFERS Great giveaways and discounts up for grabs 92 HOT TOPIC Local experts offer stellar advice 97 COMPETITION Win a honeymoon to St Lucia CONTENTS MARCH/APRIL 2022 VENUES 19 NOT SO SECRET GARDENS Venues with a picture-perfect setting 25 GOING LOCAL Some top picks from Romford, Brentwood, Billericay and Basildon On the cover This issue’s gorge us cover is from a styled shoot over on page 57. It was shot by Migle Markuza of Markuza Photography (www.markuzaphoto.com). 51 19 FEATURES 51 REGENCY SPLENDOUR Fell in love with Netflix’s Bridgerton? Then you will adore this styled shoot from a team of local professionals 57 A FLORAL HAVEN This Indian-inspired shoot is a sight to behold 61 PLANNING SOS Local Essex suppliers answer your tricky wedding planning worries 66 HERE COME THE GIRLS County Wedding Magazines editor Melissa Barker shares her wedding planning journey 81 DRESSED TO IMPRESS Top styling trends for the bridal party 3
REAL WEDDINGS 33 SIMPLY AMAZING Rea and Tommy tied the knot in style at That Amazing Place 38 PURE GOLD Lucy and Adam’s nuptials at Braxted Park had a black and gold colour scheme 45 AUTUMN DREAMS Lucy and Ricky’s wedding day was an autumnal-themed extravaganza HONEYMOONS 98 HONEYMOON NEWS A round up of new openings and honeymoon essentials 100 GOURMET LOVERS PARADISE IN THE ALGARVE... With 3,000 hours of sunshine and just a threehour flight from the UK, the Algarve offers a delightful year-round destination GROOMS 94 IN THE PINK Fuchsia, watermelon, flamingo, rouge, salmon, coral, hot pink... the choices are endless when it comes to this oh-so fabulous hue! 96 GROOMS’ NEWS All the latest best buys and product launches FASHION & BEAUTY 68 FASHION FOCUS Fashion editor Claire Ridley reveals her latest bridal fashion news, buys and launches 69 AISLE STYLE From skyscraper stilettos to comfortable flats and even sliders, the new-season bridal shoe collections offer something for everyone 71 LOVELY IN LACE This classic fabric never goes out of style, whether you choose a traditional gown or a more relaxed, boho-inspired dress 74 THE FRILL OF IT Layers and ruffles adorn dresses in the newseason bridal collections 86 BEAUTY Q&A Our local professionals solve your problems 88 BEAUTY BUZZ Beauty editor Kelly Andrews reveals all the latest must-haves for the bride-to-be 90 SKINCARE SUPERHEROES Serums are the skincare essentials of the 20s, especially if you’re on the quest for a radiant big-day complexion 71 33 88 98 4
leez pRIoRy LEEZ PRIORY CHELMSFORD ESSEX info@leez-priory.co.uk 01245 362555 leez-priory.co.uk goSfielD HAll Country HousE weddings Exclusively Weddings, Exclusively Yours DUI PROSPERE PRAECLARIS COEPTIS Holmewood HAll HOLMEWOOD HALL HOLME CAMBRIDGESHIRE info@holmewood-hall.co.uk 01487 829 555 holmewood-hall.co.uk GOSFIELD HALL GOSFIELD ESSEX info@gosfield-hall.co.uk 01787 472914 gosfield-hall.co.uk
The Essex Wedding Awards Best Venue 2020 A MAG I CAL DAY The stunning grounds of Down Hall are the perfect setting for your wedding, whether lavish or intimate. t: +44 (0)1279 731 441 e: weddings@downhall.co.uk downhall.co.uk
WIN! A honeymoon in St Lucia, page 97. This March, my husband and I will be celebrating our fourth wedding anniversary! I honestly don’t know where time goes, and seeing as we had two anniversaries in lockdown we certainly lost track at one point. The traditional material is ‘linen’ for a gift this year, which works out well as we’re hoping to move house so ‘hello new bed sheets!’. With each anniversary milestone brings a little moment to reflect; thankfully we’re still in a happy marriage, there are times when life hasn’t made it easy for us, but we stuck it out and more importantly stuck together! I also look back and still wouldn’t change anything about our wedding day, we followed our hearts and planned a day that was truly us and our personalities – so it goes to show, if you do that too you won’t regret it! This issue, to help you on your wedding planning journey we have a bumper issue of Q&A specials over on pages 61 to 64, and 86, 91, and 92! If you have a burning question that hasn’t been answered here, then please do email it in to us. Ever fancied a peek inside some of Essex’s top wedding venues? Well, you’re spoilt for choice this issue as we have three of the very best hosting our real wedding couples this issue: That Amazing Place, Braxted Park and Leez Priory are all showcased on pages 33, 38 and 45 respectively. We love featuring local real weddings, so head over to www.anessex.wedding/get-involved to submit your details for an opportunity to grace the pages of An Essex Wedding. Pull up a chair, make a brew and enjoy reading this issue! Danielle Harvey, Managing Editor. Time flies I adore this image of bride Rea on her wedding day to Tommy, at That Amazing Place. Check out page 33. This Indian-inspired shoot took my breath away. Take a look on page 57. Danielle x Psst! Next issue meet your lovely new editor, Claire Muffett-Reece! Dressing the wedding party tips over on page 81. Check out Braxted Park and more venues with Glorious Gardens on pages 19 to 23. EDITOR’S LETTER 7 ISSN 1745-6541 EDITORIAL 01376 535 611 Danielle Harvey | Managing Editor danielleh@county.weding Kelly Andrews | Deputy Managing Editor and Beauty Editor Melissa Barker | Senior Editor, Grooms and Travel Editor Claire Ridley | Fashion Editor DESIGN 01376 535 616 artwork@county.wedding Graphic Designers | Sarah Hill Stephanie Hodder | Vicky O’Connor Production Assistant | Lorna Butcher Digital Marketing Coordinator Katie Laley Web Development Manager Stuart Weatherley ADVERTISING Sales & Events Director Sarah Ellis | 01376 535 602 sarahe@county.wedding Account Manager Kirsty Brindley | 01376 538 490 kirstyb@county.wedding Subscriptions 01376 514 000 subscriptions@county.wedding ACCOUNTS 01376 535 616 accounts@county.wedding Accounting Manager | Derrick James An Essex Wedding is solely owned, published and designed by KD Media Publishing. Whilst every effort was made to ensure the information in this magazine was correct at the time of going to press, the publishers cannot accept legal responsibility for any errors or omissions, nor can they accept responsibility for advert content, or of the standing of advertisers or by the editorial contributions. The views expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher. An Essex Wedding is published six times a year. Subscription rates are £18.20 per annum (incl. p+p). Cheques should be made out to KD Media Publishing and sent to An Essex Wedding, c/o KD Media Publishing, Pantile House, Newlands Drive, Witham, Essex CM8 2AP. @CountyWeddingMagazines @CountyWeddings @cwm_wedding Visit us online at county.wedding and countyweddingevents.com cwe COUNTY WEDDING EVENTS
T H E COMPA S S E S AT PAT T I SW I C K OP E N DAY 1 5 T H MAY 2 0 2 2 COMPASSES ROAD - PATTISWICK - ESSEX - CM77 8BG 01376 561322 - info@cpevents.co.uk - www.thecompassespattiswick.co.uk
NEWS Nearlywed All the latest from around the county ECO-FRIENDLY SKINCARE RANGE One of the UK’s leading tattoo artists, Essex-born Alice Nicholls, has launched: Four Tattoo Care Balms. These four skin balms were developed out of the idea that she couldn’t find any suitable cream, balm or gel that could offer real benefits to newly tattooed or inked skin and that most on offer were functional and didn’t have any real feel-good appeal. Wedding photography, and particularly expressing a couples’ individuality on their wedding day, has evolved over the last decade with many couples showing off their tattoos on the big day – essential then that they’re in the best condition! Alice researched the ingredients used in each balm wanting only to use the finest natural ingredients to have real benefit to the skin. Each of the four bespoke balms target a skin type and are suitable to be used on different areas of the body: Four Dry, Four Oily, Four Mature and Four Sensitive. Each are priced at £15 for a generous 30ml jar, available at selected outlets and at www.four-tattoo.care AWARD-WINNING SALON’S NEWS Award-winning men’s hairdresser and owner of TONI&GUY Billericay, Jim Shaw, and Premier Stylist at the TONI&GUY Billericay salon, Daisy Carter, have received the news they are finalists for the British Master Barber Awards Barber of the Year category. To enter the awards, Jim and Daisy had to submit one image of their men’s hairdressing work that showed judges their skills, creativeness and that stood out from the normal, showcasing them as the master of their craft. The judges then shortlisted hundreds of images of a very high standard down to just ten finalists. Owner Jim Shaw said, “To hear the news we have finalised for this award at the end of another challenging year with the pandemic is truly fantastic, we couldn’t be more thrilled. We are always pushing to be the best and to set ourselves apart from other men’s hairdressers and barbers and we’re delighted the awards are able to recognise this and appreciate the skill that goes into our creative work.” Visit: https://toniandguy.com/salon/billericay DESSERT HIGH ON THE AGENDA Leigh-on-Sea based vegan café Wild Health, specialising in delicious, indulgent and exciting healthy food, has made its bestselling vegan cheesecake range available to purchase nationwide. Much to the delight of it’s customer base, its also great for couples tying the knot in Essex looking to cater for their wedding guests with food intolerances and allergies. Wild Health has introduced three new indulgent vegan flavours: blueberry and white chocolate, raspberry and white chocolate, and lemon swirl. All cheesecakes available to purchase, within the direct-toconsumer range, cater to a wide range of intolerances, include no refined sugars and are bursting with healthy, natural ingredients such as dates, nuts and agave. Each cheesecake is priced at £35 (plus P&P £4.99), and are available to purchase from https://wildhealthshop.com/collections/cheesecakes LOCAL NEWS 9
ESSEX BAKER SPECIALLY SELECTED Manningtree bakery Lady BakewellPark, shared a taste of Essex with more than 600 guests at one of London’s most glittering charity events recently: The Winter Ball. The event was held in the ballroom of London’s Dorchester Hotel, raising more than £400,000 for the nominated charity Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospice. As part of the celebrations, each guest received an exclusive, luxury biscuit courtesy of Lady Bakewell-Park, decorated in bespoke marbled patterns of red, teal and grey icing. The total of 600 biscuits took a day’s work in the kitchen, with each biscuit baked and decorated by hand with an individual message featuring the Noah’s Ark logo and The Winter Ball 2021 wording. Becky Seabright-King, owner and head baker at Lady Bakewell-Park said, “It was a pleasure to play a part in The Winter Ball. Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospice is such a worthy cause, and to play a small part in raising this fantastic amount of money is a real joy. All of our biscuits are made with the extra ingredients of love, care and attention to detail, so to make something special for an occasion like this is a real joy.” Visit: www.ladybakewellpark.com EXTRA WEDDING TOUCHES AT ESSEX BARN Positioned within the picturesque village of Navestock, Essex, boutique wedding venue Old Brook Barn is a 17th-century barn set within 23 acres of English countryside. Accessed via a charming timber bridge it’s perfectly positioned alongside a natural brook. A secluded courtyard is to the front of the barn furnished with a gazebo, rustic bar area and bespoke timber furniture lovingly created to match the character of the barn. With its exposed beams, high ceilings and carved wood detailing, the barn has been lovingly restored retaining many of its original features. The team at Old Brook Barn are in the process of refurbishing a shepherd’s hut which will be available for wedding couples. Positioned opposite the wedding barn, it will have its own private meadow garden and herb garden. What’s more, the venue has reintroduced its rowing boat which couples had loved, and there are plans to start offering woodland ceremonies from the summer – watch this space! Visit: http://oldbrookbarn.co.uk NEWWEDDING OFFERINGS AT HYLANDS ESTATE With its elegant white Neoclassical façade and panoramic parkland views, Hylands House is one of the most famous wedding locations in the East of England. The venue is adding another wedding location to its considerable line-up, with outside ceremonies planned in the historic grounds for the very first time. A new outdoor wedding area will be launched in spring 2022, giving big-day couples the chance to say their vows under the graceful tree canopy of the estate’s woodland. Work is underway to create a sylvan glade for weddings just between Hylands House and the Victorian Pleasure Gardens. The area will be able to accommodate up to 100 guests, with trees providing natural cover when needed, a bespoke oak structure for purpose-built seating, and a discreet outdoor sound system will ensure guests will hear every moment. The outdoor ceremony area isn’t the only new wedding offering at Hylands. When the house was closed during the pandemic, the team pressed on with plans to transform a series of rooms on the first floor. Creating a luxurious wedding suite, it gives wedding parties space to get ready that can’t be found even in the largest hotel rooms. The Wisteria Room has huge antique mirrors to give brides a full view of their dress with hanging space to accommodate long trains and accessories; while The Rose Room has a salon-worthy beauty area and plenty of seating, and finally, the Repton Room has comfortable sofas and bespoke wardrobes with plenty of hanging space. Every room has a safe, fridges and integrated tea and coffee-making facilities, and an opulent bathroom has even been created where guests can take a shower when they arrive. Email hylands@chelmsford.gov.uk, call 01245 605 500, or visit https:// hylandsestateweddings.co.uk to find out more. PSST! DID YOU KNOW... Essex has joined in with the prestigious East of England Tourism Awards to celebrate success and excellence in the tourism and hospitality sector amidst challenging times. The awards also recognise businesses and individuals from across the East of England that have shown resilience, imagination and growth within this critical sector. With the rise in interest in staycations and more people holidaying in England in 2021, Essex tourism has enjoyed the benefits brought by first-time visitors from elsewhere in the UK as well as Essex residents going out closer to home and supporting the local economy. Four shortlisted Essex businesses: ♥ The Lion Inn at Boreham, up for the Taste of the East of England award. ♥ The English Spirit Distillery in Great Yeldham, is shortlisted for Small Visitor Attraction award. ♥ RHS Hyde Hall gardens has been shortlisted for Large Visitor Attraction award. ♥ Suenos Guesthouse (meaning ‘dreams’) has been shortlisted for the B&B award and is the only five-star luxury accommodation in Southend-on-Sea. To discover more about the East of England Tourism Awards, visit: www.tourismawards.co.uk or www.visitessex.com www.weddingsbyanesta.com www.weddingsbyanesta.com All images https://mattchungphoto.com 10
92b High Street, Rayleigh, Essex, SS6 7BY Call to make an appointment on 01268 833393 info@affinityjewellers.co.uk www.affinityjewellers.co.uk Shaped Wedding Ring Specialists Shortlisted for Bridal Jewellery Retailer of The Year 2021 Specialists in bespoke made to order Jewellery. Visit our website or store today to view our hundreds of wedding & engagement ring samples. As leaders in the shaped wedding ring market you can design your perfectly shaped wedding band for just £35! Check our socials below for many examples of previous commissions and customer feedback. facebook.com/affinityfinejewellers instagram.com/affinityjewellers BOOK NOW CALL 01277 355111 sales@ivyhi l lhotel .co.uk www. ivyhi l lhotel .co.uk F I ND US : MARGARETT I NG, CHE LMSFORD CM4 0EH FOL LOW US Ivy Hill Hotel VI C TORI AN E L E GANCE T HE PE RF E CT LOCAT I ON From £70 per person
Licensed to produce Civil Ceremonies • Wedding breakfast up to 200 people Weddings at the palace hot l, southend-on-sea A beautiful seaside venue, filled with natural light and stunning views overlooking the River Thames. Park Inn by Radisson Palace, Southend-on-Sea is the perfect location for your special day. Packages from £34 per person Book via T: +44 1702 455100 or events.southend@parkinn.com www.parkinn.co.uk/hotel-southendonsea
FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN, ENTER VIA OUR WEBSITE. Closing date 3rd June 2022. Terms and conditions apply. THE RHYTHM OF LOVE A wedding is full of beautiful moments to treasure, but why not enhance the experience even more with the addition of live music? With the amazing ability to bring people together, music can creating an emotional atmosphere while capturing the crowd and highlighting all those special moments. Situated in Hertfordshire, live singer Sammie Hicks works with couples to help create their dream wedding. Sammie started singing professionally 10 years ago and first found her passion for music aged 11. She says, “I began taking singing lessons where my love for singing grew, and it’s how I’ve always coped with emotions and difficult times.” Sammie can perform during the ceremony, throughout the drinks reception and also for the newlyweds’ first dance. She says, “My favourite part of the job is seeing people smile and how their faces light up when I play a certain song. It makes me so happy when I see people enjoying the music, singing along and dancing away.” Check out: www.sammiehicks.com Sammie Hicks is currently offering 10 per cent off all new wedding bookings when couples quote An Essex Wedding before May 1st 2022. Freebies &OFFERS Coppa Club’s The Swan at Streatley is a tranquil countryside getaway set in the Berkshire village of Streatley. Situated on the River Thames, roughly an hour from London, the 47-bedroom property has been newly refurbished and offers river-view rooms, or suites opening onto the garden lawn making it a great option for a dog-friendly getaway! The grounds include the property’s own private island, lovely walks for couples and families (and four-legged companions) and the property is also ideal for riverside weddings, seating up to 130 friends and family! Perfect for a pre- or post-wedding getaway, guests can access the property via car, boat or helicopter and have access to on-site paddle boarding, exercise classes, hotel gym and events throughout the year. You can book a Small Double Room from £80 per night, and a Medium Double Room from £100 per night. Check out www.theswanatstreatley.com County Wedding Magazines has teamed up with Coppa Club The Swan At Streatley to give readers the chance to win an overnight stay for two people with breakfast, as well as a three-course meal with a bottle of fizz! WIN AN OVERNIGHT STAY Great giveaways and discounts up for grabs FREEBIES & OFFERS 13
Pre-register for all of our events at www.countyweddingevents.com MERCEDES-BENZ WORLD, 20TH MARCH, 2022 ASCOT RACECOURSE, 24TH APRIL, 2022 THE BRENTWOOD CENTRE, 2ND OCTOBER, 2022 WEMBLEY STADIUM, DATE TO BE RELEASED X Sarah Here at County Wedding Magazines and Events HQ we’re looking forward to kickstarting our Spring wedding show season. From must-visit local fairs in some of the region’s best wedding venues, to our larger Signature Wedding Shows home to more than 100 exhibitors each, we can’t wait to welcome back our couples and help plan their wedding days. Here’s what to expect when attending one of our events... Whether you’re joyous that restrictions have passed, or are still a little hesitant, couples can rest assured our venues are continuing to maintain some of the government guidelines and measures to ensure everyone can feel comfortable and enjoy the day: • Attendees will need to pre-register to attend events • There will be allocated time slots for visitors • All venues will also have enhanced cleaning procedures, with hand washing and sanitising facilities still available • Spaces between exhibition booths will be maintained to ease congestion • Optional face masks • Anyone with symptoms must refrain from visiting Each event will boast a huge range of specialists who will be on hand to talk through your planning ideas and requirements; venues, bridal boutiques, photographers, florists, cake makers and more, there’s everything you could need to plan your wedding under one roof. On the day refreshments will be available to purchase from each of the venue’s on-site restaurants, bars and cafés, and attending our exhibitions is free! For more information on any of our exhibitions visit County Wedding Events’ website. We look forward to seeing you at one of our events. Sarah Ellis, Sales and Events Director County Wedding Events. Psst! Our pre-registered Signature Wedding Show visitors will have the chance to win a £250 gift voucher courtesy of Spabreaks.com A date for your diary... GREAT EXPECTATIONS
SPRING 2022 WEDDING SHOWS ALL EVENTS 11AM - 3PM unless otherwise stated Pre-register at www.countyweddingevents.com/registration BERKS, BUCKS & OXON LONDON ESSEX At County Wedding Events each show is professionally and meticulously run to ensure a variety of suppliers are on hand to help you plan your big day and are hosted by some of the loveliest premier venues in your area. All our shows offer you free entry and parking, a goody bag each containing gifts, and useful local information to plan your wedding. You will also have the opportunity to enter prize draw competitions and take advantage of exclusive offers and discounts on the day. RACKLEYS CHILTERN HILLS Marlow Road, Cadmore End, Bucks, HP14 3PP SUN 13 MARCH MORDEN HALL Morden Hall Road, SM4 5JD SUN 3 APRIL MARKSHALL ESTATE Coggeshall, CO6 1TG SUN 10 APRIL /CountyWeddingEvents @CountyWedEvent @countyweddingevents
/CountyWeddingEvents @CountyWedEvent @countyweddingevents As part of KD Events and Publishing Ltd, County Wedding Events (CWE) is ideally placed to offer you a wealth of experience organising events in the wedding industry. If you would like more information about either holding a wedding show at your venue or exhibiting at any of our shows, please contact us at info@countyweddingevents.com, call 01376 514000 or visit countyweddingevents.com. WORK WITH US SURREY SUSSEX EAST ANGLIA KENT GUILDFORD MANOR HOTEL & SPA Newlands Corner, Guildford, GU4 8SE SUN 15 MAY SELDEN BARNS Selden Lane, Patching, Worthing, BN13 3UL SUN 13 MARCH BRESSINGHAM HALL & HIGH BARN, Norfolk, IP22 2AA SUN 6 MARCH WEST HEATH Ashgrove Road, Sevenoaks, TN13 1SR SUN 13 MARCH CASTLE GORING Arundel Road, Worthing, BN13 3UN SUN 10 APRIL CAMBRIDGE COUNTRY CLUB Toft Road, Bourn, CB23 2TT SUN 3 APRIL HYTHE IMPERIAL HOTEL & SPA Princes Parade, Hythe, CT21 6AE SUN 6 MARCH
• Free entry • First 100 couples receive a free wedding journal keepsake • Goody bag for each couple • Up to 200 stands • Bridal fashion shows • Huge number of wedding specialists including venues • Demonstration areas • Competitions • Entertainment • Refreshments • And more... Pre-register and attend the show to have a chance to win a fabulous spa break worth £250 courtesy of Pre-register at www.countyweddingevents.com/registration London, HA9 0WS DATE TO BE ANNOUNCED SOON WEMBLEY STADIUM High Street, Berkshire, SL5 7JX SUNDAY 24 APRIL 2022 | 11AM - 3:30PM ASCOT RACECOURSE Brooklands Drive, Weybridge, KT13 0SL SUNDAY 20 MARCH 2022 | 11AM - 3:30PM MERCEDES-BENZ WORLD Sponsored by Doddinghurst Road, Brentwood, CM15 9NN SUNDAY 2 OCTOBER | 11AM - 3.30PM THE BRENTWOOD CENTRE
A luxur ious country house bespoke to you Recently extensively refurbi shed Baddow Park House, West Hanningf ield Road, Great Baddow, Chelmsford, Essex CM2 7SY 01245 473969 kel ly@baddowparkhouse.co.uk www.baddowparkhouse.co.uk Pr ivate WEDDING Venue BADDOW PARK HOUSE Fol low us Fo l l owi ng a f u l l and ex t ens i ve r e f u rb i shmen t , Baddow Pa r k House has been t r ans f ormed i n t o one o f t he mos t un i que and l uxu r i ous pr i va t e coun t r y house wedd i ng venues . Se t wi t h i n t he hea r t o f Essex , t h i s qu i n t essen t i a l l y Eng l i sh Coun t r y House has now become t he u l t ima t e exc l us i ve wedd i ng des t i na t i on . Dates sti l l avai lable
BRAXTED PARK 01621 770 855 | https://braxtedparkweddings.co.uk Pure Pride & Prejudice outside – a tree-lined drive and view of the Georgian mansion standing proud – immaculate décor and superb facilities inside, Braxted Park marries the romance of the old with the best of the new to create the perfect venue for your 21st-century wedding. The Orangery at Braxted Park is no ordinary setting for your ceremony of up to 160 loved ones. In this bright and airy exquisitely decorated room, boasting hand-painted murals and wonderful views over the garden, you have the luxury of a space large enough for family and friends to surround you and an aisle generous enough for the most gorgeous of gowns. For al fresco nuptials, behind mellow brick walls lies the Knott Garden perfect for romantic gatherings of up to 160. As beautiful as any bridal bouquet with secluded nooks and delightful surprises around every corner, it enfolds all who enter in an enchanted circle of love. Nestled so naturally within the walled garden, the Pavilion was designed to delight. Windows and doorways link it seamlessly with outdoor terraces and the green spaces beyond, while inside is contemporary comfort and state-of-the-art facilities. Yours for the whole day and into the night, the Pavilion can be whatever you want it to be with up to 350 loved ones. When tying the knot here couples benefit from a complimentary menu tasting for the bride and groom. https://samandlouise.co.uk www.stevebridgwoodphotography.co.uk https://samandlouise.co.uk https://da-photo.co.uk/ secret gardens These Essex venues have picture-perfect gardens for your wedding day NOT-SO THEMED VENUES 19
BADDOW PARK HOUSE 01245 473 969 | www.baddowparkhouse.co.uk The Baddow Park House gardens are an integral part of the venue and have been designed to provide couples the opportunity to really go to town on any al fresco elements of their wedding. Wedding parties simply flow from The Orangery and step out onto the natural stone terrace, where you start to realise the potential that these gorgeous open spaces offer for a truly unique wedding event. The versatility of spaces means the venue can accommodate any size wedding, with sumptuous textures, hidden spaces and stylish décor discovered throughout. For small cosy weddings, the Oak Room is ideal for up to 50 guests and has an open fireplace and wood panelling; or, take advantage of the incredible light Drawing Room (80) which boasts sweeping views. The venue’s recently renovated Orangery is, without doubt, an iconic and showstopping space that can be transformed to suit requirements. Seating up to 150 guests, its natural light and space can be enhanced further by opening up the wall of bi-folding doors revealing the views across the terrace to the vineyards beyond. This seamless balance between indoors and outdoors means the Orangery is the ideal for any season. Many couples make the most of the perfectly crafted pavilion for al fresco nuptials; while the Log Shed Bar provides a location for a pre- or post-ceremony cocktail and even has its own pizza oven and barbecue! Post-vows, the venue’s fully stocked bar mixes Art Deco styling with modern technology – a real talking point at any wedding – The Orangery can be turned around from day to evening with minimal fuss, meaning your guests can continue their festivities into the night with no need to relocate. It can host up to 250. Then as the sun starts to set, head into the whimsical woodland to discover a firepit, where you can toast marshmallows and sip hot chocolate and liqueurs while you share stories and create memories under the stars. When tying the knot here, couples have the benefit of using the Bridal Suite and 10 luxury bedrooms, which sleep 30 depending on the configuration of guests. Each room has been totally renovated and redecorated in keeping with its eclectic design yet respectful to the house’s heritage and history blending comfort and style. DOWN HALL HOTEL & SPA 01279 731 441 | www.downhall.co.uk As one of England’s most established country house hotels, Down Hall is situated in 110 acres of picturesque woods, parks, and landscaped gardens, complete with a stunning wedding gazebo that’s perfect for outdoor ceremonies. The impressive Italianate mansion – with ornate stone masonry and detailed architecture – provides a striking backdrop to any wedding with a truly historic setting. Connected to the 19th-century Italianate mansion house, the enhanced West Wing underwent a £1.2m refurbishment in 2019, creating a standalone space which caters for weddings for up to 220 guests. Decorated in traditional heritage colours with bright accents in classic country house-meets contemporary chic, the banqueting and ballrooms feature panoramic views over the beautiful gardens. Couple can host their vows in the Bridgeman Suite for up to 220 loved ones. This suite, with its iconic chandeliers, is the largest space decorated in a contemporary style, with an abundance of natural daylight and views across the landscaped gardens. Post-vows the suite can host 200 attendees. Alternatively, couples can opt for the Oxford/Belcamp space for the reception with up to 130 guests. Specially designed for the smaller intimate wedding, it boasts a lovely ornate fireplace with a contemporary twist. Down Hall’s recently refurbished gallery provides the perfect classical backdrop for photographs and is the perfect area for guests to relax and congregate before the ceremony. When tying the knot here, couples are given exclusive rates on treatment packages which Down Hall’s wedding coordinators can assist with. Every wedding celebration booked receives a complimentary wet spa pass for two to use either the day before or after the wedding. Newlyweds are also give the flower according to the package booked, i.e magnolia and a tree to plant in the grounds in our wedding garden. www.clairegraham.co.uk www.clairegraham.co.uk 20
A stunning 17th Century Grade II listed manor house, licensed for civil wedding ceremonies and partnerships. We offer two impressive function rooms for smaller more intimate weddings or our beautiful Garden Suite for lavish functions for up to 250 guests. Our licensed Garden Gazebo for outdoor ceremonies is sure to impress! Our wedding team can create a tailor-made package to suit your requirements. With onsite spa facilities and 39 luxurious bedrooms, Greenwoods is the perfect venue for your dream wedding day. Greenwoods Hotel and Spa Images supplied by Matt Wing Photography, Boutique Films, Gavin Conlan Photography, Claire Kentish Photography
Houchins is an intimate and romantic wedding venue with the choice of accommodation. Exclusively yours for the day, Houchins is set in beautiful grounds just outside Coggeshall, easily accessible to Essex, Hertfordshire and London. Call our award-winning team to arrange a viewing or chat through your plans on how we can make your perfect wedding day. Houchins Wedding Venue | Coggeshall | Colchester | CO6 1RT HERITAGE MADE MODERN www.houchins.co.uk 01376 561448 Photos courtesy of Big Fish Photography, Dominika Meichowska, Emma Gosling, Farlie Photography, Julia & You Photography, Kristian Lissimore Photography & Pure Image Photography.
HOUCHINS WEDDING VENUE 01376 561 448 | www.houchins.co.uk A truly unique venue, Houchins is a lovingly restored barn set within its own peaceful, landscaped grounds boasting a gentle formality with romantic planting: roses, lavender, verbena, tulips and much more! There are a myriad of beautiful spots and hidden corners in which photographs can be taken, and the main wedding garden is where the marquee is situated and where the majority of weddings take place. Designed in a unique modern style, the zinc and cedar shingle barn nestles in the wedding garden with huge folding glass double doors opening onto an expansive west-facing terrace. It’s the perfect setting for reception drinks set in the landscaped gardens. There are three interconnecting barns which allow the wedding to flow from reception drinks to wedding breakfast, then dance the night away in the aptly named Dance Barn! For the all important ‘I dos’, the Foundry seats up to 130, The Grainstore 150 and for more intimate weddings the wood-panelled drawing room in the house seats 30. Outside, the marquee and loggia provides seating for up to 150 guests, while the rustic woodland wedding area can also seat 150 friends and family. Post-vows, The Grainstore is the perfect setting for the wedding breakfast and reception seating up to 150 and adjoins the bar area and the dance barn; it features a 35ft high ceiling, open fireplace and mezzanine gallery. IVY HILL HOTEL 01277 355 111 | https://ivyhillhotel.co.uk Dating back to 1891, traditional family values still lay at the core of Ivy Hill Hotel. A lovingly converted, Victorian, 31-bedroom boutique hotel country house, it’s also known as the ‘spectacle house’ ‒ due to some quirky windows! The hotel is set within five acres of beautiful gardens, giving a relaxing atmosphere, whilst being in a superb location situated within easy access of all major routes. The patio and landscaped gardens, have delightful features such as the wishing well, gazebo and ponds, all forming a stunning backdrop for reception drinks and photographs. Ceremonies take place within the Ingatestone Room and Ivy Suite, seating anything from an intimate 10 guests or with all rooms combined up to 120 guests. These rooms overlook the patio and extend down onto the gardens, where the reception drinks and canapés are served. After the ‘I dos’ the Margaretting Suite is an elegant and sophisticated setting for the wedding breakfast, with its own entrance from the gardens. It benefits from plenty of windows giving ample natural daylight and boasts a refined neutral décor. There is ample room for this suite to seat up to 160 guests throughout. It has a spacious polished oak dancefloor and integral mirrored elegant bar. The smaller of the two venues is the Ivy Suite, sited in the main body of the hotel and able to seat a maximum of 70 guests, with doors that extend out to the patio and gardens. With its interconnecting Margaretting Suite, Ingatestone Room and Ivy Suite, plus Orangery, as your party grows throughout the day the function rooms can expand with you, giving a rare opportunity to build the exact venue that works for you. When tying the knot here, couples benefit from a free tasting to all couples that book a Heavenly Weddings package. https://angelswithdirtyfacesphotography.com https://angelswithdirtyfacesphotography.com 23 THEMED VENUES
Amazing Events C O M P A N Y To help make your event less stressful, we offer most items you need without having to deal with lots of suppliers, we also offer payment plans to make things easier as well as great deals on packages. • LOVE LETTERS • PHOTOBOOTHS • DANCEFLOORS • DJS • LED CURTAINS • UPLIGHTERS and more... T: 07925 097835 E: amazingeventscompany@gmail.com www.facebook.com/amazingeventscompany Let us make your special occasion an AMAZING EVENT ! Quote MAG10% for 10% off Pre-register at countyweddingevents.com/registration Follow us on /CountyWeddingEvents @CountyWedEvent @countyweddingevents Hosted at Mercedes-Benz World, Brooklands Drive, Weybridge, Surrey, KT13 0SL MERCEDES-BENZ WORLD, SURREY ONE OF THE LARGEST WEDDING SHOWS TO BE HELD IN THE SOUTH OF ENGLAND SUNDAY 20TH MARCH, 2022 | 11AM - 3.30PM • Free entry • Win a luxury honeymoon • Bridal fashion shows • Entertainment • Huge number of wedding specialists including venues • Refreshments • Covid-19 secure Pre-register and attend the show to have a chance to win a fabulous spa break worth £250 courtesy of IN ASSOCIATION WITH Hosted at SPONSORED BY
GOINGlocal Where to wed in Romford, Brentwood, Basildon and Billericay OLD BROOK BARN 07747 116 100 | www.oldbrookbarn.co.uk Positioned within the picturesque village of Navestock, Essex, boutique wedding venue Old Brook Barn is a 17th-century barn set within 23 acres of English countryside. Accessed via a charming timber bridge it’s perfectly positioned alongside a natural brook. A secluded courtyard is to the front of the barn furnished with a gazebo, rustic bar area and bespoke timber furniture lovingly created to match the character of the barn. With its exposed beams, high ceilings and carved wood detailing the barn has been lovingly restored retaining many of its original features. The main hall offers scenic views across the meadow whilst the Minstrels Gallery overlooks the main hall and offers a wonderful south-facing balcony. All with the added benefit of modern lighting and PA system, as well as a fully equipped bar and disabled/baby changing facilities. Couples can tie the knot al fresco in the Secret Garden (180 guests) or the Courtyard (120), both are also idyllic spaces for an outdoor canapé and drinks reception. Inside, The Barn, (96) boasts exposed beams and chandelier lighting, while the Minstrels Gallery (120) is positioned above the main hall and has stunning views across the meadow field; both, again, are fabulous choices for drinks receptions. Post-vows, the Main Hall seats up to 150 guests for a delicious wedding breakfast (lovingly created by Limeberry Catering or Stock and Bailey Catering). It has stunning views across the meadow and is furnished with round tables and chivari chairs. When tying the knot here, couples can access the barn and it’s grounds before and after their wedding day. Looking out onto the entrance of the secret garden is a wonderfully quaint Honeymoon Cottage. Providing ample space for a bride and her maids to prepare on the wedding morning as well as offering overnight facilities for the newlyweds to spend their wedding night. www.weddingsbyanesta.com www.weddingsbyanesta.com www.weddingsbyanesta.com www.weddingsbyanesta.com LOCAL VENUES 25
GREENWOODS HOTEL AND SPA 01277 829 990 | www.greenwoodshotel.co.uk Set in the Essex countryside, Greenwoods Hotel and Spa’s beautiful grounds boast a tranquil pond and fountain, a stunning licensed garden gazebo for an al fresco wedding ceremony and the setting is surrounded by acres of uninterrupted views. The hotel’s state-of-the-art Garden Suite is a purpose-built space with its own private bar, kitchens, toilets and a built-in sound and lightening system. Blending modern décor with historic architecture, it’s the perfect blank canvas to build your dream wedding day. Ceremonies take place here with up to 150 loved ones, in front of the beautiful light curtain with mood-lighting matched perfectly to wedding décor. Alternatively, head outside for an al fresco soiree with up to 150 friends and family. Set in the grounds, the Garden Gazebo is a dream space nestled within the trees, fully licensed and completely picturesque. Post-vows, the Garden Suite is where all wedding receptions take place and it can host up to 150 loved ones for a wedding breakfast and 300 for a reception. The suite benefits from beautiful original 17th-century brickwork blending the old with the new. When tying the knot here, couples receive a complimentary food tasting prior to the wedding and a complimentary bridal suite the night of – and also complimentary chair sashes to help decorate the room for the big day! INGATESTONE HALL 01277 353 010 | www.ingatestonehall.com Ingatestone Hall is a 16th-century manor house that has been used as a private residence by the same family since it was built in 1540. It still mostly retains its original Tudor features high chimneys, brick-mullioned windows, turrets and crow-stepped gables – a picture-perfect backdrop for wedding photos. The house is in a completely rural setting about a mile from Ingatestone Village and is surrounded by 12 acres of grounds boasting lawns, shrubberies, stew pond, walled garden and woodland. Inside, its principal rooms are mostly oak-panelled containing furniture and family pictures accumulated over the centuries. The house is normally furnished for private occupation but can be rearranged to suit the needs of a particular event. The Stone Hall, which can host 80 day guests and 100 reception attendees, features oak-panelled walls, flagstone floors, and hung with portraits, principally of Stuart royalty. Alternatively, the Summer Parlour, the former ballroom, is a delightful space hosting up to 80 day and 100 evening guests. It features plaster walls, maple floor, and hung with family portraits. For an intimate, ceremony only option, the Dining Room can host 40 loved ones and has oak-panelled walls with 17th-century tapestries. Current regulations also allow for outdoor ceremonies for which there are a number of suitable locations in which tents, pavilions or gazebos can be erected – also providing unlimited guest numbers. A standout feature of the property is the outer courtyard with entrance arch, surmounted by an unusual one-handed clock. Neil Fortescue Photography, Matt Wing Photography Neil Fortescue Photography, Matt Wing Photography 26
Hutton Hall is a beautiful, exclusive, newly-renovated wedding venue located in the village of Hutton, just outside Brentwood in Essex. Hutton Hall is a stunning grade II* listed georgian manor house nestling in historic, partially moated, tree lined grounds surrounded by beautiful rolling countryside. Located just two miles from Brentwood there is no more romantic or idyllic setting in which to celebrate your perfect wedding. Hutton Hall, Hutton Village, Brentwood, Essex, CM13 1RX | 07976 280 288 | 07976 845760 | info@huttonhall.co.uk | www.huttonhall.co.uk www.pontlandsparkhotel.co.uk T: 01245 476444 Set in the Essex Countryside resides Pontlands Park, a Victorian house sympathetically extended into a beautiful wedding venue with 35 bedrooms. With a choice of indoor and outdoor ceremony facilities and various function rooms, along with a marquee with its own internal private bar, Pontlands is the perfect venue for intimate or larger weddings. The Dream Wedding packages start from as little as £59.50pp, which includes a 3-course wedding breakfast, reception drink and canapes*, half a bottle of wine and a glass of fizz for the toast plus an evening buffet. Contact the team for further information on 01245 476444 or email sales@pontlandsparkhotel.co.uk WEST HANNINGFIELD ROAD, GREAT BADDOW, CHELMSFORD, ESSEX CM2 8HR
More Than Just AVenue EXCLUSIVE USE MANOR HOUSE WITH WEDDING COTTAGE & 14 ROOMS SLEEPING 31 GUESTS Hubbards Hall Drive, Off Churchgate Street, Old Harlow, Essex, CM17 0NH For more information please contact 01279 354455 enquiries@thatamazingplace.co.uk www.thatamazingplace.co.uk
HUTTON HALL 01277 402 992 | www.huttonhall.co.uk Hutton Hall is a Georgian Manor house with a very interesting history. On arrival, a sweeping driveway will lead you through the beautiful gardens, past the duck pond to the front door of the hall. The Grade II* listed 300-year-old house boasts many historic features such as the large Jacobean fireplace and listed grand staircase in the hall. Now a luxurious wedding venue that has been completely refurbished creating a fabulous blend of traditional elegance and modern styles. The panoramic marquee situated in eight acres of manicured gardens overlooks the fountain and the Rose Garden providing a stunning backdrop on your wedding day. The gardens are particularly beautiful in spring, summer and early autumn with flower beds filled with stunning flowers, perfect rolling lawns, trees and a partial historic moat with a bridge leading to the village church. The gazebo for outdoor weddings stands on the lawn in a beautiful position to the side of the Rose Garden. Ceremonies take place in the panelled Blue Room for up to 100 people, al fresco under the rustic gazebo situated on the rear lawn for up to 120 people, or couples can choose the village church situated on Church Lane 150 yards from the hall to the side of the moat. Post-vows, the Blue Room, the Grand Hall, the Library and the Piano Room are all stunning reception rooms; what’s more, afternoon drinks receptions can be hosted in the Rose Garden directly to the rear of the marquee. Wedding breakfast can be held for up to 120 people and the evening reception 150. When tying the knot here, one feature that couples absolutely fall in love with is the stunning two-storey Bridal Preparation Room on the first floor. Included in packages is an overnight stay in the Bridal Suite for the couple on the night of their wedding. THE MAGIC MUSHROOM RESTAURANT 01268 289 963 | https://magicmushroomrestaurant.co.uk The Magic Mushroom Restaurant is set on Barleylands Road on the edge of Barleylands in Billericay – offering a tranquil setting. The front of the restaurant has pretty floral borders and the car park is just opposite the restaurant. Its Wedding Function Rooms have been designed with a contemporary and modern look with charming wooden beams providing a bright and airy space perfect for your special day. The décor is neutral to allow you to decorate with your own colour theme. When tying the knot here, couples have the following options; the Private Dining Room is a modern, bright and charming room which can accommodate between 4 to 50 people for vows, and 16 to 35 for the wedding breakfast and up to 55 loved ones for the reception. The room has wooden beams and a light neutral décor, benefiting from its own entrance, bar and toilets. Alternatively, Back Restaurant is a beamed, bright and airy room with one side of glass windows to allow in lots of light. The restaurant can accommodate between 30 to 100 guests for your nuptials, sit-down meal and evening do. By hiring the Back Restaurant, you also have the Private Dining Room which has its own entrance, bar and toilets, as the two rooms are joined by bi-folding doors. Being one of the best fine dining restaurants in Essex, couples can rest assured its team of highly talented chefs can put together a bespoke, exquisite menu for the wedding breakfast and reception using only the best fresh ingredients. www.dayandknightphotography.co.uk LOCAL VENUES 29
An indescribably romantic setting for your perfect day, Markshall Estate is the venue you’ve been looking for… Found in 2,350 acres of serene Essex countryside Located less than an hour from London Three memorable wedding locations to choose from Weddings at Markshall Estate The experience From the moment you arrive at Markshall Estate to the very last dance, the team are on hand. The expert wedding coordinator will tour the venue with you and create your perfect day. With a fantastic list of recommended suppliers, you can rest assured that no detail will go unchecked. This is your special day, and the team are with you every step of the way. On the day of the wedding, you’ll get ready in style as you and your closest friends and family have access to your own private preparation suite, which is just minutes from the Coach House. Take advantage of the hair and make-up bar and enjoy specially selected canapés from the dedicated team, while your guests make their way through this beautiful landscape to your ceremony destination. After your first kiss as a married couple, you can have your wedding photographs taken in a number of stunning locations throughout the Arboretum and Walled Garden. Stroll hand-in-hand by the lakes, surround yourselves with gorgeous blooms in the gardens or get back to nature in the ancient woodlands. There’s even a buggy on site to easily transport you to each location. Mulled
THE WOODLAND Where nature meets romance Imagine a romantic woodland wedding set under a canopy of ancient trees. After saying “I do,” you wander over to your magical tipi in a picturesque meadow for your delicious wedding breakfast and speeches, before dancing the night away under the stars. Ready to begin? Contact the team: 01376 565 420 | weddings@markshall.org.uk | www.markshall.org.uk THE FORMAL GARDEN A floral haven Just a few steps from the historic Coach House is the beautiful Parterre Garden. Get married surrounded by delicate blooms, scented borders and majestic trees; it’s the ideal location for a summer wedding. Afterwards, enjoy your sumptuous wedding breakfast in the Coach House and celebrate with your family and friends. THE COACH HOUSE A modern twist on a historic setting Step into the grand yet intimate 18th-century Coach House, which overlooks the Arboretum and lakes. Hold your ceremony and wedding breakfast in this historic red brick and timber-framed masterpiece. With rustic beams, beautiful details and a private terrace, you can have the day of your dreams in this romantic setting. The venues Whatever your vision, we have the experience to bring it to life.
ASCOT RACECOURSE, BERKSHIRE ONE OF THE LARGEST WEDDING SHOWS TO BE HELD IN THE SOUTH OF ENGLAND SUNDAY 24TH APRIL 2022 | 11AM TO 3.30PM • Free entry • Win a luxury honeymoon • Huge number of wedding specialists including venues • Bridal fashion shows • Entertainment • Refreshments • Covid-19 secure Pre-register and attend the show to have a chance to win a fabulous spa break worth £250 courtesy of Pre-register at countyweddingevents.com/registration Follow us on /CountyWeddingEvents @CountyWedEvent @countyweddingevents Hosted at Ascot Racecourse, High Street Ascot, Berkshire SL5 7JX IN ASSOCIATION WITH Set in three acres of beautifully manicured gardens, The Lawn is a truly enchanting, award-winning Manor House wedding venue with a stunning Orangery, galleried Grand Hall and delightful gazebo. Perfect for any size wedding, for any season. The Lawn Wedding Fair Sunday 20th March 2022 10.30am - 3.30pm Free entry and ample free parking Refreshments available to purchase on the day To find out why we remain one of the most sought after and best reviewed venues in Essex, contact us to arrange a viewing or visit www.thelawn.co.uk and let us put together a tailored online quotation based on your precise requirements. Hall Road, Rochford, Essex SS4 1PL 01702 203669 | www.thelawn.co.uk
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