An Essex Wedding - Mar/Apr 2019 (Issue 85)

24 FIVE LAKES RESORT Setting? Contemporary and grand. Exterior? A private driveway through landscaped gardens and golf courses leads up to the impressive venue. The countless floor- to-ceiling windows give the exterior of the hotel a modern look. Interior? Five Lakes Resort is a contemporary hotel with real wow factor. The gardens? The venue is surrounded by 320 acres of beautiful grounds, including many lakes, and the team takes great pride in ensuring that there are blooming flowers and plants on display all year round. Tie the knot in... the recently refurbished Mersea Suite or The Rushley 2 Suite, which can accommodate between 20 and 100 people. The room has direct access to the wrap-around balcony and floor-to-ceiling glass doors. Celebrate in... the Mersea Suite. It benefits from fabulous mood lighting, a private bar and direct access to the patios, which are perfect for al fresco drinks and canapés. The room size is adaptable and therefore great for guest lists of between 70 and 300 people. The Rushley 1 Suite is one of the most popular spaces in the venue and has a capacity of up to 100 loved ones. The oval- shaped room is surrounded by an extensive balcony with stunning views over the grounds. Licensed for ceremonies? Yes. Accommodation? The resort offers many additional benefits such as ample accommodation, a large spa, and extensive leisure facilities for guests. We love... The Arena, which can comfortably host 2,500 friends and family for larger soirées. More information? 08714 234 821 | fivelakes.co.uk happydaysphoto.co.uk happydaysphoto.co.uk LAYER MARNEY TOWER Setting? Characterful and intimate. Exterior? The striking Tudor Tower is the perfect backdrop for couple portraits, while the York-stone steps, separating the upper and lower gardens, are ideal for group shots. Interior? The tall ceilings, outstanding Tudor woodwork and the oak floors not only look magnificent but are great for dancing on too. The gardens? The gardens of Layer Marney Tower combine formal areas with beautiful and colourful borders, all set within parkland that is grazed by sheep, deer and horses. Tie the knot in... the hall of the tower, a small panelled room that leads straight into the gardens and is ideal for 18 witnesses. The Tuke’s Chamber can accommodate 50 friends and family and The Corsellis Room can seat 120 guests. The Parish Church of St Mary the Virgin is also situated in the grounds and, subject to the approval of the parish priest, is available for religious weddings with up to 140 people. Celebrate in... the intimate Tuke’s Chamber with a wedding breakfast of 30 of your nearest and dearest. Or alternatively, The Corsellis Room can comfortably host 60 loved ones. Meanwhile the Long Gallery is a marvellous space with oak panelling, sprung flooring and a magnificent Jacobean fireplace, and is perfect for 140 evening revellers. Licensed for ceremonies? Yes. Accommodation? Yes – the use of the Bridal Suite is included in the price of the reception. We love... the venue’s transport options, which include a 1931 and 1961 Rolls Royce, and a red London Transport Routemaster Bus. More information? 01206 330 784 | layermarneytowerweddings.co.uk