An Essex Wedding - November/December 2020 (Issue 95)

HEDINGHAM CASTLE 01787 460 261 | www.hedinghamcastle.co.uk What can you expect? The impressive drive through an avenue of trees takes guests through classical sweeping landscape past mature trees, clipped hedges and the lake, which allows reflections across the water to the castle and house. Hedingham has the best of both worlds, from the imposing Norman keep on top of the hill with its romantic Tudor bridge, to the grand Georgian house surrounded by formal gardens. Let’s celebrate! The magnificent Banqueting Hall (130 guests) or The Tapestry Room (100 guests) in the Castle offer an atmospheric ceremony location surrounded by intriguing history and flickering candlelight. More intimate ceremonies are held in The Ashurst Room (40 guests) in the house. Couples can then choose to dine and dance in the elegant halls of the Georgian house and the stunning tulip marquee (up to 200 guests), or within the majestic walls of the castle (70 guests). We love… The venue fee includes a beautiful Bridal Cottage within a private orchard, as well as a driver to take nearlyweds to and from the house. BLAKE HALL WEDDINGS 01277 366 687 | www.blakehall.co.uk What can you expect? Blake Hall and its glorious exclusive-use barns are nestled within 60 acres of beautifully maintained gardens and parkland. The stunning rose garden, ancient trees and formal lawns are just a short walk from the venue and provide a tranquil spot for intimate wedding photographs. The magnificent 17 th -century Essex Barn, Saddlery and recently restored Hay Barn sit adjacent to one another, with a lawn and terrace in between. Inside, all the barns have been sympathetically restored to provide modern comforts without losing their original charm. Let’s celebrate! After bridal prep in the luxurious Coach House, ceremonies can take place for up to 150 guests in two spaces: under the canopy of the old Saddlery or inside the Hay Barn with its pretty picture window. After the formalities, the congregation can spill on to the lawn and terrace for drinks, or stay inside the Hay Barn when it’s chilly outside. The Essex Barn is ideal for wedding breakfasts and receptions as it offers the convenience of a banqueting area, dancefloor and licensed bar. We love… When the party’s over, brides and grooms can head to The Stable Cottage. Available exclusively to wedding couples, this honeymoon cottage is tucked away in the grounds of Blake Hall. www.farr ies-photography.co.uk http://lissim orephoto.co.uk www.dav idmichaelphotography.co.uk www.davi dmichaelphotography.co.uk 26