An Essex Wedding - January/February 2021 (Issue 96)

HOUCHINS WEDDING VENUE 01376 561 448 | www.houchins.co.uk What can you expect? Though situated just off the A120 near Coggeshall, Houchins is hidden away and set in its own peaceful, landscaped grounds. The zinc and cedar-shingle barn is nestled in the Wedding Garden, surrounded by abundant plants and flowers. Huge glass folding double doors open on to an expansive west-facing terrace to give the feeling of bringing the outside in, and for loved ones to enjoy views over the elegant marquee and pond. Let’s celebrate! There are several options for ceremonies for up to 150 people. The Foundry and Grainstore are the biggest indoor spaces, while the wood-panelled drawing room in the house is a more intimate setting. Outside, couples can tie the knot in the marquee or the recently launched Woodland Wedding area, which is tucked away behind a moat in the woods. For post-vow celebrations, couples will love that the restored Wedding Barn has three interconnecting spaces, which allows the day to flow seamlessly from reception drinks in the bar and terrace, to the wedding breakfast in the dining area with its 35ft-high ceiling, fireplace and mezzanine before ending in the dance barn. We love… The Grade II* listed farmhouse sleeps up to 16 guests before and after the big day, and there’s also a separate Honeymoon Lodge for the newlyweds. RICHWILL FARM 01255 870 700 | www.richwill.co.uk What can you expect? Richwill Farm is an exclusive venue set in several acres of secluded countryside among fields and meadows. The grounds boast plenty of beautiful photo opportunities from the rose-arch entrance and enclosed courtyard to the natural pond and rustic rope swing. There are a choice of restored barns here all with original exposed beams and rustic charm alongside modern facilities. There’s also a converted outdoor trailer bar available. Let’s celebrate! Couples will find three spots for celebrations. The Grand Hall in the Main Barn (150 seated ceremony guests and 300 evening guests) is a 19 th -century Essex barn with a reception area, lodge-style bar and a cosy private gallery floor. The Courtyard Barn (75 guests) is for more intimate gatherings and features stable doors and charming views across the pond. The Courtyard Gazebo (150 guests) is great for the summer months. The venue offers a complimentary wedding planning service and a free wine tasting to help brides and grooms choose their big-day tipples. We love… Couples getting married from January 2021 will be able to book the new bridal suite in the Cartlodge. http://lissimorephoto.co.uk https://dominikamiechowska.co.uk THEMED VENUES 29