An Essex Wedding - Jul/Aug 2019 (Issue 87)

THE PERFECT KEEPSAKE After your special day, you may find yourself drowning in engagement and wedding cards that you can’t bear to throw away. Luckily, Essex-based Butterfly Art has the answer with its new range of wedding card keepsakes. Instead of storing your cards in a box in the loft, you can send them to the company to be transformed into a piece of art. Carefully chosen for their colour and design, butterflies are cut from each of the cards. Any embellishments will be meticulously removed and reattached, before the butterflies are assembled into a heart shape, mounted on to pearlescent textured card and framed. The piece can also be personalised with names and dates. For more information, visit facebook.com/butterflyart77 A grand affair After visiting Down Hall in May, all we can say is ‘wow!’ Local brides are in for a real treat with the new-look venue. The 18-month refurbishment project has seen the stunning Ballroom have an opulent makeover, the introduction of incredible accommodation, a new tranquil garden setting and a fabulous lounge for pre-wedding prep. What’s more, couples will now be able to hire the 98-bedroom hotel on an exclusive-use basis. Head to the website to find out more, downhall.co.uk THE KEY TO A GREAT TIME The Clockwork Hotel in Burnham-on-Crouch has launched a fabulous new concept that combines fun and luxury for the ultimate hen or stag celebration. Formerly The Railway Hotel, the historical building has been transformed under new ownership to create an immersive overnight experience, which sees guests finding their own keys to unlock a memorable stay. Grab your best girls or guys and work your way through the rooms while cracking codes and locating clues to earn yourself a luxury stay. The rewards soon follow: bubbly, a three-course catered meal, bespoke cocktails and a soak in the hot tub. From the owners of the renowned Creeksea Barns, Emily and Harry Wilsdon wanted to create a new experience in hospitality, and have certainly delivered this along with a gorgeously rural yet accessible location. Available for exclusive hire, just find 16 to 22 of your most adventurous pals to get involved! Visit clockworkhotel.co.uk A PLACE TO REST YOUR HEAD The Warren Estate near Maldon revealed its new on-site accommodation in June, ideal for wedding parties. Consisting of eight bedrooms, including a beautiful bridal suite, the new rooms promise luxurious facilities for a well-earned night’s rest before regrouping with your loved ones the following morning for an indulgent full English breakfast. The newly married couple get first dibs on the Rose Suite. With a dedicated vanity area, spacious en suite with roll-top bath and skylight, delightful window seat and king-size bed, you won’t want to leave. To find out more, head to thewarrenestate.co.uk Make sure you check out the amazing wedding shows we’re organising this autumn! Go to countyweddingevents.com 10