Your Kent Wedding - Page number 26 - May/Jun 2021 (Issue 96)

MOUNT EPHRAIM GARDENS 01227 751 496 | www.mountephraimgardens.co.uk Owned by the Dawes family since 1695 and still run by the latest generation today, Mount Ephraim is set in 800 acres of woodland, pasture and fruit farm. The house, a red brick late-Victorian mansion boasts grand formal-pillared front steps leading onto the lawn complete with fountain. At its heart is the main hallway featuring a stunning staircase, marble flooring, pillars and plenty of natural light. The function rooms and wedding reception rooms all lead off of this impressive space. The estate is blessed with 10 acres of enchanting Edwardian gardens where terraces of fragrant roses lead to a small lake and woodland area overlooking orchards. The gardens also feature a Japanese-style rock garden with ornamental bridge, arboretum, grass maze and unusual topiary offering stunning photography opportunities. The Grand Hall has capacity for 100 for your ceremony. Its sweeping cantilevered staircase with its rich red carpet provides the most stunning entrance for brides with the vows taking place in the heart of the hallway. Also with space for 100 is the Garden Pavilion, complete with simplistic and rustic charm. Guests are seated on a large Indian sandstone patio area in the corner of the large lawn. The Billiard and Morning Rooms are decorated with antique furniture, ornaments and three large chandeliers. They’re linked with interconnecting doors, which can be opened up to accommodate larger affairs hosting 150 for your “I dos,” 100 for the wedding breakfast and 175 for the evening do. The front lawn has also played host to many a marquee reception with capacity for 350 at a sit-down meal. The venue offers ample accommodation with a five double- bedroom B&B, including the beautiful wedding suite, and the Garden Wing self-catering section, which sleeps 12. SOLTON MANOR 01304 448 844 | www.soltonmanor.com Solton Manor offers the perfect blend of a Grade II listed luxury manor house, and a stunning contemporary converted barn, all nestled amongst 10 acres of glorious gardens and grounds. The beautiful summerhouse nestled in Godric’s Garden, overlooking the Kent countryside is a wonderful spot to say “I do” al fresco accompanied by 150 guests. Alternatively, inside for receptions as well as vows, you can choose from the Tudor Room (100 guests), the Barn (150 guests), or the more intimate Bell Tower Room (50 ceremony guests and 24 dining). Complimentary use of the Dovecote Cottage is offered for your on-the-day bridal preparations. There’s also accommodation onsite for you and your guests – somewhere to rest your weary heads at the end of a wonderful, albeit tiring, day. Plus, there’ll be an experienced wedding planner on hand to answer any questions you may have and guide you along the way. https://jam esgristphotography.co.uk https://jam esgristphotography.co.uk 26