An Essex Wedding - Page number 29 - May/June 2021 (Issue 98)

www.ivor ywhitephotography.com Historic venues with a story to tell LAYER MARNEY TOWER 01206 330 784 | www.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, guests 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) or the oak-panelled Hall of the Gatehouse (18 guests). Most receptions are held in the Long Gallery (140 guests), with its impressive Jacobean fireplace and oak flooring offering a wonderful blank canvas. For smaller parties, the Corsellis Room is also available for receptions (50 guests). The Medieval Barn is currently being renovated to launch later in 2021. This reception space will retain its rustic charm while benefitting from under-floor heating. 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. DOWN HALL HOTEL & 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 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 say their vows in the Oxford Suite. Seamlessly blending modern and traditional features, the room has plenty of natural daylight, pretty vistas and neutral décor. 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… Couples can take advantage of a free menu tasting, 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. THEMED VENUES Venue capacities may change amid the coronavirus pandemic al l time A LOVE FOR www.ivor ywhitephotography.com www.visio nsofview.co.uk 29