An Essex Wedding - Nov/Dec 2019 (Issue 89)

     WINTER WONDERLAND ’Tis the season to tie the knot LAYER MARNEY TOWER 01206 330 784 | layermarneytowerweddings.co.uk WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT? Layer Marney Tower is a stunning Tudor building set within formal gardens. The grounds flow seamlessly into oak avenues, a pond, parkland and the Blackwater Estuary in the distance. The building’s soft red brick and terracotta façade has been weathered over 500 years and is the perfect backdrop for weddings. Although magnificent – this is the tallest of all the Tudor gatehouses – it has a homely, welcoming ambience. Floodlit in the evenings, its beauty is breathtaking. Having welcomed visitors such as Henry VIII and Elizabeth I, you might expect the interior to feel imposing. In reality, its subtle tones, beautiful hangings and oak finishes create a timeless beauty, which has been brought into the 21 st century. LET’S CELEBRATE! Ceremonies normally take place in the Corsellis Room (120 guests) on the first floor. Alternatively, couples with smaller guest lists should consider Tuke’s Chamber (50 guests), which has a sparkling Christmas tree in December, or the oak-panelled Hall of the Gatehouse (18 guests). Most receptions are held in the Long Gallery (180 guests). In the winter months, it looks magical with banquet tables, flickering candles, a Christmas tree and a blazing fire. For smaller parties, the Corsellis Room is also available for receptions (50 guests). Included in the price of a wedding reception is use of the bridal suite with its stylish four-poster bed, double-ended bath and powerful shower. We love… Couples are treated to a chauffeur-driven service in the venue’s Rolls-Royce.  BADDOW PARK HOUSE 01245 473 969 | baddowparkhouse.co.uk WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT? Couples tying the knot here have a vast expanse of gardens, terraces and parkland at their disposal. The exclusive-use Baddow Park House is a stylish sanctuary allowing parties to explore their surroundings undisturbed. The quintessentially English mansion retains its original charms while offering incredibly high levels of comfort, style and attention to detail. Following an extensive refurbishment, the venue has recently reopened as a private country house venue with a sumptuous bridal suite and six well-appointed guest bedrooms, which are all elegantly furnished. LET’S CELEBRATE! For smaller weddings, couples should consider the Dining Room (40 guests). Its oak-panelled walls and bay window provide an intimate backdrop. The Drawing Room (80 guests) is beautifully light and offers stunning views across the parkland. Currently under construction, the breathtaking Orangery will hold 150 loved ones. Couples will love the sunset views over the vineyard at the rear of the house, while a fire pit will keep everyone cosy outside. We love… The venue offers whole-weekend weddings so couples can extend the celebrations. THEMED VENUES 27