Your East Anglian Wedding - August/September 2022 (Issue 56)

THE ATHENAEUM, IP33 1LU 01284 758 380 | www.athenaeumbse.co.uk More than just a wedding venue, this beautiful Grade I listed building has long been at the centre of life in Bury St Edmunds. Originally a grand private home, it has played host to society balls, readings, and lectures by such literary giants as Charles Dickens and William Thackeray. Located in the heart of the historic town, the elegant, Georgian, chandeliered ballroom is an ideal setting for wedding ceremonies and receptions. The ornate space boasts a grand, high ceiling, balcony and sweeping staircase, perfect for that fairytale entrance. A magical backdrop for those all-important photographs, it can host up to 150 guests for the reception and 250 for the evening celebration. There are three other charming ceremony rooms as well, including the first-floor Lounge and Reading Room, which can also be used for more intimate receptions and the entertainment. We love… the beautiful Abbey Gardens next door, great for standout photos, and the private Water Garden which can be hired for post-vows drinks and canapés. UPTHORPE WOOD, IP31 2FH 07862 383 049 | www.upthorpewood.co.uk On the hunt for something different for your big day? Look no further, Upthorpe Wood is the perfect setting for free-spirited couples who like to think outside the box. This intimate woodland venue is licensed for weddings inside and out and is available on a dry-hire basis so you’re free to make it your own for a truly one-of-a-kind celebration. You can tie the knot under the Cartlodge or in the Woodland Barn, both look magical lit with twinkling fairylights and are perfect for dining and the evening entertainment. Ceremonies can also take place outside in the beautiful woodland glade and with the garden and woodland reception areas, you’ll be spoilt for choice. There are lots of secret spots for your guests to discover too as they wander through. We love… the seriously cute woodland cabin, perfect for newlyweds on their wedding night. www.rosiekelly.co.uk www.jessicalilyphotography.com 26

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