56 EVER AFTER, THE DARTMOOR WEDDING VENUE This magical, ethereal wedding venue has opened its doors for summer elopements over four dates in June for the first time, allowing couples the chance to say I do at the venue which is also open in March, April, May, September, October, November and December. Elope and have it all – there are a choice of ceremony locations, from in front of a log fire under the glass roof, to the sunken terrace or in the open-sided wedding barn. The Garden Room of the main house is another wonderful option, as is the garden itself for an al fresco celebration – all ceremonies are licensed by Devon County Council. It can be just the two of you (the team at the venue supplies two witnesses with no charge) or couples can invite guests for an additional charge per guest. During the warmer months (April, May, September & October) couples can have up to 10 guests (plus the two of them). In the colder months (March, November & December) guest numbers are strictly limited to six (plus the couple) as that’s the maximum number of seats around the fire in the evening. Elopement ceremonies are always held at the same time — midday on a Tuesday or a Thursday. If couples are exchanging wedding rings and having standard vows, a ceremony usually lasts about 20 minutes. They can write their vows in addition to the legal vows. To find out more about flowers, food and drink, wedding cake options plus accommodation, visit https://lowergrenofen.co.uk STEWARDS HOUSE AT THE LOST GARDENS OF HELIGAN Known as Europe’s largest garden restoration project, this 200-acre estate set in ancient woodland is a multi-award-winning paradise for plant, garden and wildlife lovers. Victorian gardens and a jungle take visitors on a sub-tropical journey along winding paths snaking through bamboo tunnels under majestic tree ferns. Weddings take place in a range of places including The Folly for up to 50 guests, a whimsical and elegant 20th-century garden hideaway set in the wooded area. Alternatively, the Heligan Kitchen Conservatory provides a charming barn-style space with full-length windows and a cosy wood burner, also for up to 50 loved ones. Stewards House, a renovated mid-19th century space with a bright, light-filled orangery and beautiful flower garden is another option for up to 25 guests. Small parties of up to 20 people can enjoy the walled Italian Garden with its scented borders and charming folly while intimate gatherings of just 10 people can fill Pencalenick Greenhouse which is a stunning glasshouse or the historic glass Vinery filled with succulents and vines or even the Head Gardener’s Office. Receptions take place in Stewards House, the Heligan Kitchen Conservatory or outside under a stretch tent where a barbecue can be enjoyed. Every couple who marries at the venue receives a one-year membership to The Lost Gardens of Heligan in the hope that they will continue to visit over the coming years. The team offers a 50% discount on attending a seven-course tasting menu. This is a special event run throughout the year which showcases produce from the garden and estate. It allows couples to sample the delicious food that’s on offer, and they can see the set-ups and style of service too. Dishes served are created with produce that’s mostly grown on the estate. Seasonal decorations from the gardens and estate, such as fresh flowers, herbs and foliage also help to decorate each wedding space. www.heligan.com/events/weddings-at-heligan Where else to wed in Devon Where else to wed in Cornwall
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