NEWS Nearlywed Catch up on the latest from around the county RAISE YOUR GLASS Kent’s newest toastmaster David Mote has had a busy year. Since qualifying as a Fellow of the Guild of International Professional Toastmasters just 12 months ago, former Mayor of Dartford David has acted as master of ceremonies at an average of three weddings or civic ceremonies per month, and is now looking forward to a hectic festive season. Based in Dartford, David’s proximity to the M25 and A2 has meant he’s been able to support events on both sides of the Thames and throughout Kent. Speaking of his early success David explains, “I’ve been very lucky and think my clients appreciate my light-hearted and flexible approach to making their event both successful and memorable for all the right reasons.” Check out www.toastmastermote.co.uk DATE FOR THE DIARY Chapel House Estate in Minster is hosting an open week from Saturday 7th January until Sunday 15th January, 2023 inclusive. The new venue will be open from 10am until the last show around at 4pm. Offering intimate, relaxed and modern weddings Monday to Wednesday for up to 30 people, along with larger traditional black-tie nuptials for up to 150 reception and 200 evening guests Monday to Sunday, Chapel House Estate is a must-see if you’re on the hunt for your dream venue. With the sympathetically converted rustic Old Malt Granary Barn for your indoor “I dos” or the gorgeous Wild Apple Orchard for your al fresco ceremony, we think you’ll be hooked! There’s even on-site accommodation, sleeping up to 34 guests. Paired with modern technology aplenty and carefully designed bars, this Kent wedding venue seamlessly blends the old with the modern making it a worthy of a spot on your list of venues to visit. To register visit www.chapelhouseestate.co.uk HISTORY IN THE MAKING Rochester Corn Exchange has been named a finalist in the Heritage Venue of the Year category at the prestigious Kent Wedding Awards. Built in 1706 by the rather fabulously named Sir Cloudesley Shovell, this 18th-century gem is located a stone’s throw from Rochester’s Castle and Cathedral, and in 2024 it will be celebrating 100 years as one of Medway’s premier venues for weddings and events. The venue is one of a collection of historical buildings in Medway, available for wedding hire. Other showstopping locations include Upnor Castle, a 16th-century riverside fort built to protect the Royal Dockyard from attack; The Guildhall, built in 1687; and Eastgate House, mentioned in two of Charles Dickens’ works. Dee O’Rourke, Medway Council’s assistant director of culture and community says, “Rochester Corn Exchange with its fine facade, grand staircase, high ceilings and chandeliers has provided a stunning backdrop for wedding days and events for almost a century. The venue team do everything possible to ensure couples enjoy their big days in our historical settings so being named a finalist at the Kent Wedding Awards is a wonderful recognition of the dedication they put into creating the perfect day.” The winners will be announced soon at a black tie, Oscar-themed award evening at the Mercure Maidstone Great Danes Hotel, so watch this space. We’re sure you’ll join us in wishing the team the very best of luck! Find out more at www.therochestercornexchange.co.uk http://fleurchallisphotography.com 10
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