An Essex Wedding - May/June 2020 (Issue 92)

 LITTLE EASTON MANOR 01371 872 857 | www.littleeastonmanor.co.uk What can you expect? Found in the heart of the Essex countryside, Little Easton Manor estate is a precious piece of Essex history, with its 15 th -century manor house being built on the foundations of a Medieval castle and recorded in the Domesday Book. The manor and its two magnificent barns proudly sit in 66 acres of glorious grounds, with lakes, manicured lawns, ever-changing seasonal flowers and resident peacocks! Accessed through a large wrought-iron entrance and along a tree-lined driveway, the 14 th -century Barn Theatre provides a formidable focal point and is one of the finest examples of a tithe barn in the country. Its traditional black-and-white architecture strikes a wonderful contrast against the large lawn. Inside, couples will love the exposed beams, grand high ceilings and warm uplighters giving a sense of grandeur. Standing on the historical stage, they’ll be walking in the footsteps of Charlie Chaplin, Gracie Fields and George Formby. Let’s celebrate! The romantic Rafters Barn (70 guests) offers an intimate space for nuptials under original beams adorned with ivy and fairylights. For larger parties, the Barn Theatre (120 guests) can play host to a grand affair. During the summer months, the handcrafted Pagoda next to the Great Lake provides a picture- perfect spot to say “I do.” After the formalities, friends and family can enjoy a drinks reception on the manor’s terrace or on the lawn, before a warm welcome awaits in the grand Barn Theatre (180 guests) to enjoy a delicious meal and dance the night away. We love… Couples receive full and exclusive use of the venue and grounds along with the dedicated Getting Ready Room, which is nestled in the turret of the main manor house. There’s also a gorgeous bridal suite. A dedicated wedding coordinator will assist every step of the way. DOWN HALL HOTEL AND SPA 01279 731 441 | www.downhall.co.uk What can you expect? Nestled in 110 acres of woodland, parkland and meticulously landscaped gardens is this grand Italianate mansion. The grounds are full of picturesque spots including a large water fountain sitting across from a quirky folly, as well as the new Charles Garden, which is an exclusive spot designed with al fresco celebrations in mind. There’s also the terrace with its outdoor gin bar – the perfect place to while away a summer’s evening. Dating back to 1322, the ivy-clad façade and stunning colonnades contain exquisite historical interiors, ornate ceilings and fireplaces alongside contemporary luxuries. Let’s celebrate! The whole of Down Hall is licensed for ceremonies, but most couples will say their vows in the new Oxford Suite. Seamlessly blending modern and traditional features, the room has plenty of natural daylight, pretty vistas and neutral décor to complement any wedding theme. Couples will love the long aisle for a grand entrance. For those who prefer the great outdoors, the Wedding Gazebo is tucked away behind a hedged wall with the mansion as a backdrop. After the formalities, couples have the choice of a number of reception rooms for gatherings of up to 250 people. The largest is the Bridgeman Suite with its twinkling chandeliers. The Oxford Suite has a modern-luxe feel; adjacent to the West Wing Lounge it can be opened up allowing guests to make use of the whole space. We love… All couples will receive a free menu tasting, the services of a toastmaster and wedding-night accommodation in the master suite. The hotel can also hold pre-wedding dinners for guests who are travelling down the night before. M aking h istory Tie the knot in a venue with a past THEMED VENUES 25