23 minute read
GLORIOUS GARDENS
Our pick of Yorkshire venues with incredible outdoor spaces
Venue capacities may change amid the coronavirus pandemic.
THE GRAND LODGE AT OAKLANDS
07809 134 138 | www.oaklandsweddings.co.uk
WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT? In the heart of rural East Yorkshire is The Grand Lodge at Oaklands. Found within 200 acres of beautiful woodland, beside a picturesque lake, it provides the most tranquil big-day setting. Crafted from locally sourced materials, The Grand Lodge, together with the outdoor and indoor ceremony areas, blend in delightfully with their natural surroundings. Inside, the decor is a mix of rustic charm with luxury elements, from jewel colours on the mezzanine floor to stylish lighting and abundant greenery. TIME TO CELEBRATE! The Pavilion (170 guests) is a versatile outdoor ceremony space, which benefits from lakeside views. Bursting with character, The Lakeside Lodge (150 guests) is a great indoor option if the weather is not kind.
The breathtaking Grand Lodge (200 guests) is the perfect postvow celebration setting, where family and friends can gather under twinkling chandeliers and relax at the stylish bar in this rustic-luxe space.
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Approximately 200 local trees were used to build The Grand Lodge, which were replaced by a new oak woodland.
https://youtu.be/gagS6JTvEak
www.dawncarolinephotography.co.uk
LOW OSGOODBY GRANGE WEDDING VENUE
07703 299 233 | www.lowosgoodbygrangeeventsvenue.com
WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT? Low Osgoodby Grange Wedding Venue is a large expanse of land nestled on a farm within 250 acres of breathtaking North Yorkshire countryside. Surrounded by the Hambleton Hills, scenic woodland and a sparkling lake, this private country setting is ready to be styled to the couple’s own taste, whether traditional or contemporary. The blankcanvas space also boasts stunning 360-degree views. TIME TO CELEBRATE! Vows are held in the picturesque woodland ceremony venue, which is fully licensed. The manicured clearing in the trees provides a secluded spot for those who’d like to get closer to nature. Alternatively, couples can choose to have a blessing in the open air next to the beautiful lake.
For receptions, the extensive grass field can house anything from a marquee or tipi to a sperry tent or big top, full of the couple’s nearest and dearest.
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Being an entirely outdoor venue, there are no restrictions on guest numbers and packages are all bespoke to suit the to-be-wed’s requirements.
www.stevenmcdonaldphotography.com https://vimeo.com/456643212
SNEATON CASTLE
01947 603 150 | www.sneatoncastle.co.uk
WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT? Sneaton Castle is an enchanting venue with a rich history. With the Sisters of the Holy Paracelete in residence for more than 100 years, the castle, priory and chapel stand in one of the most iconic buildings in the area.
New to the Whitby wedding scene, the building has undergone an extensive refurbishment, and has been transformed into a sensational wedding venue with beautifully secluded gardens making a fairytale backdrop for photos. Inside, the venue seamlessly blends original features with everything a modern couple could need. TIME TO CELEBRATE! Celebrations are held in the impressive fully licensed Norman-style Chapel. With its spectacular hand-painted domed ceiling, blossom trees and floral arches, it’s a memorable setting for up to 200 guests to enjoy the wedding breakfast, and up to 300 people for the reception.
www.instagram.com/strike_a_pose_wedding_movies
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YE OLDE BELL HOTEL & SPA
01777 705 121 | www.yeoldebell-hotel.co.uk
WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT? Surrounded by picturesque countryside, the extensive gardens at Ye Olde Bell Hotel & Spa feature the fairytale Oak Pavilion and contemporary Mediterranean-style Garden Terrace Bar. This spring also saw the launch of its new heated outdoor seating areas. Dating back to the 17th century, the venue blends classic and contemporary touches for a quintessentially English venue in every season.
The hotel combines traditional features such as oak panelling, open fires and chandeliers with contemporary finishes. There are numerous function spaces, 59 bedrooms, suites and luxury lodges, two dining venues and a luxury multi-million-pound spa. TIME TO CELEBRATE! All sizes of events are catered for here, from an intimate celebration for two to a grand affair for up to 250 people. Outside, couples can choose from the fairytale Oak Pavilion (30 guests) with its pretty boxhedge aisle or the gardens for bigger outdoor events.
The Bradgate and Wiseton Suites (180 guests) boast ornate moulded ceilings, oak panelling and fifteen twinkling chandeliers. With direct access to the gardens it brings the outdoors in. The Nielsen and Levack Suites (120 guests) are bright elegant spaces, while smaller gatherings will suit the Restaurant Bar 1650 (40 guests) or the very intimate Victoria Suite (14 guests), which is named after the young queen who visited during her reign.
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Wedding-night accommodation is complimentary for newlyweds and they’ll also receive a free 30-minute facial each.
David Williams Photography www.photographybykathryn.com
YOREBRIDGE HOUSE
01969 652 060 | www.yorebridgehouse.com
WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT? Surrounded by views of the Dales, by a beautiful bridge on the edge of the River Ure, this picture-perfect venue is set within five acres of grounds. The formal lawn and terrace make a wonderful big-day backdrop under festoon lighting and fairy-lit trees.
The former school and headmaster’s house boasts traditional Victorian architecture with its doll’s house-style shape, and is perfectly complemented by the newly built Orangery. Inside, contemporary decor blends with decorative original features to create the perfect ambience for a modern country house offering exclusive-use weddings. TIME TO CELEBRATE! Intimate ceremonies take place in the Master’s Room (25 guests), with its bay window overlooking the formal lawn. The Orangery (100 guests) allows couples to tie the knot against a backdrop of the Dales. For those wishing to get outside, the Outdoor Canopy in the Orchard seats up to 75 loved ones.
Receptions can be held across the lounges, bar and Orangery in the house (75 guests). Marquees or tipis are situated on the formal lawn to allow space for up to 120 guests, while still enjoying use of the house.
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Couples can expect a menu and wine tasting, as well as a complimentary bridal suite for the wedding night. Guests will love the individually designed bedrooms, six of which boast a private hot tub terrace.
You and me
Rio and Robbie held a beautifully intimate winter wedding – just in the nick of time!
Images courtesy of Curtis Farrier and Ola Darby
Both teachers, our newlyweds met when Rio interviewed Robbie for a teaching post at the school she works in. “At first, he thought I was quite intimidating,” Rio laughs. “We grew very close as work colleagues, before deciding to give our relationship a go during the summer holidays. We soon realised it was exactly what we both wanted.”
It was on a magical trip to New York at Christmas that Robbie popped the question in the most romantic of ways. “While walking through Central Park, I heard a guitarist playing my favourite song: Dreams by Gabrielle,” Rio says. “I noticed rose petals and framed pictures of us next to where the guitarist was playing – I then realised Robbie might be about to propose. He got down on one knee and asked me to marry him; it was a complete surprise and one of the most perfect moments in my life!” After clarifying that Robbie had asked her dad (he had!), Rio said “Yes!”
After a year of lockdowns, restrictions and guidelines, Rio and Robbie managed to tie the knot on 29th December, 2020, with 15 guests – just before the UK went into its third lockdown. We caught up with Rio to find out how they planned their beautiful winter wedding at Sneaton Castle…
THE PERFECT SETTING
Rio fell in love with Sneaton Castle in Whitby as soon as she walked into the chapel. “My sister said we couldn’t find a venue better suited to me if we tried!” Rio smiles. The intimate, cosy atmosphere was everything the couple could have wished for. “I loved that everything was neutral and white,” Rio says. “I knew instantly that this was the aisle I wanted to walk down to get married.”
MAKING THE DAY THEIR OWN
The couple chose a traditional Christmassy palette of gold and green to fit with the season. “The venue provided most of the flowers and decorations,” the bride says. “I loved the floral arch and blossom trees that were already scattered around the chapel. Forever to Hold provided a chunky Christmas garland to fit in with our theme.” The festive feel ran throughout the styling, with gold lanterns and artificial snow used to adorn the aisle and a rich green velvet tablecloth, which matched the bridesmaids’ dresses, was used for the ceremony table. The pair also treated themselves to a luxury car from Whitby Wedding Cars for transport on the day.
Located in Yorkshire and bordering the edge of the beautiful Peak District National Park, our truly unique venue, Spicer Manor, will provide an idyllic setting for your perfect day.
Spicer Manor gives you full exclusive use of the property and grounds for 1,2 or 3 nights, for you and your guests to celebrate your special day in style.
At Spicer Manor we are fully licensed for civil ceremonies and can offer you a choice of settings for your ceremony. The House is ideal for small intimate weddings of up to 50 guests. Alternatively our Coach House with a rustic finish, oak beams and 5 arched windows, looking onto the lawn and water fountain can accommodate larger weddings for up to 116 daytime guests and 160 evening guests.
Luxury accommodation to sleep 34 guests in 15 beautifully designed bedrooms all with en-suites. Spicer Manor also has a state-of-the-art cinema room, games room and twin hot tubs.
Set amongst open country fields edged with Yorkshire stone walls Spicer Manor has an amazing backdrop for capturing those special images on your wedding day.The small woodland and 2 paddocks provide the perfect space to allow children to let off some steam while you relax under the old oak trees, set up outdoor activities or even enjoy sitting around an open campfire.
Bradley’s Catering will work hand-in-hand with you through every aspect of creating your menu and can tailor a menu to your exact requirements and budgets.
After the ceremony, the pair’s 15 closest friends and family created a walkway for the newlyweds and threw artificial snow over them as confetti. “It was at that moment that I realised I was now Mrs Farrier,” Rio smiles. Restrictions meant that a reception wasn’t possible, so guests made their way home while the newlyweds travelled to the Lake District for a minimoon. “On the way we stopped for a McDonalds!” Rio says. “This was our unconventional wedding meal, but it just added to how perfect the day was.”
LOOKING THE PART
Rio knew exactly what she was looking for when it came to her dress. “I wanted a fitted style with a really long train,” she says. “I went to The Little Pearl in Pickering and tried on the Hatton Cross dress by Dando London and I fell in love. We then tried it with the longest train in the shop; it was the perfect match and everything I had dreamed of.” When the dress came in, Rio went back to the boutique to try it on with a seamstress, who created the most delicate pearl-scattered angel wings to complement the gown perfectly. “I found an elegant tiara and the look was complete,” Rio says.
The couple had four beautiful bridesmaids. Rio’s two sisters wore velvet green dresses and her two best friends wore glittery gold numbers. “I wanted Robbie to wear a green velvet suit jacket to coordinate with my sisters’ dresses,” Rio explains. “We went to Dandy Threads in Guisborough and found the perfect suit. It came in green and black, so Robbie wore the green and the other men wore black. This was complemented with a black paisley-patterned waistcoat.”
NAVIGATING THE NEW NORMAL
After changing venues, cancelling the reception and cutting the guestlist down to just 15 people, the pair had faced their fair share of stress in the lead up to the day. “A week before the wedding I was sat at home listening to the announcement of the counties going into tier four,” Rio remembers. “We just hoped and prayed that Whitby wouldn’t be added to the list. We always said that no matter what, we would get married, but we just really hoped it would stay at the 15-person guestlist, and luckily it did.”
So what would the newlyweds’ advice be to couples facing the same challenges? “If you want to get married, just do it,” Rio says. “No matter what obstacle we faced, we found a solution, and we honestly wouldn’t change a thing about our day. We got married for the right reason: love. Everything about the day was magical; it feels like a dream now.” The couple have still got much to look forward to, with a blessing and reception booked at Sneaton Castle for June 2021. “If it can’t go ahead, we’ll just push it back until it’s safe to do so,” Rio explains.
Rio’s top tip: “Don’t stress yourself. Ensure you’re well organised in advance and everything else will fall into place. Even if something doesn’t go as you expected, you’ll find a way to make it work.”
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Venue | https://sneatoncastle.co.uk Photography | www.facebook.com/curtisfarrierphotography | www.instagram.com/olagrayce Videographer | www.joecalam.co.uk Bride’s dress | www.thelittlepearlbridalboutique.co.uk Seamstress | www.instagram.com/bespokesavannah_ Make-up | www.instagram.com/bygabriellajones Hair | www.instagram.com/frankieelizabethhair Menswear | www.dandythreads.co.uk Flowers | https://forevertohold.weebly.com Transport | www.bbweddingcarhire.co.uk Accommodation | www.inncollectiongroup.com/the-stables-whitby
Ola Derby & Curtis Farrier Studio41 Scarborough Photography
AT BESPOKE SAVANNAH WE PRIDE OURSELVES ON CUSTOMER SERVICE AND QUALITY OF WORK!
Every bride we work with will have a unique, tailored experience while having their dress altered by a skilled seamstress. From a small adjustment, to a one of bespoke piece, there is no limit to what we can create for your special day.
“What an amazing lady! Steph altered my wedding dress, bridesmaid dresses, flower girl and MOB’s dress. I wanted quite a few things changing on my dress and Steph did a fantastic job of every change I asked for and made recommendations where needed. She made the whole process easy, fun and as special as it should be. I had more fittings than I can remember and I could have had more if I wanted, nothing is too much trouble. Steph even made the 60 minute round trip to come and get me into my dress on my wedding day! I can’t recommend this lady enough! Thank you!!!”
BESPOKESAVANNAHBRIDAL.COM
THE O AKW OOD
AT RY T HER
The Oakwood at Ryther_195x141mm_(#17707).indd 8 Introducing The Oakwood at Ryther, a new barn wedding and events venue set deep in the Vale of York Look no further for your dream in the charming village of Ryther. Yorkshire wedding venue...
The Old Grain Barn is our contemporary barn conversion, with space for up to 160 dining guests and 220 for the evening reception. With a large dance floor, balcony lounge area and fully stocked bar, the charming barn is the perfect setting to celebrate your special day with your friends and family.
Accommodation will be available from 2020.
Get in touch with us to arrange a viewing and to see what we have to offer.
www.oakwoodatryther.co.uk info@oakwoodryther.co.uk
The Oakwood at Ryther is a stunning new venue in the heart of the North Yorkshire countryside. Once a generations old family farm, Oakwood has been lovingly and stylistically transformed in to a breathtaking venue and the most perfect place to celebrate your special day. Offering two striking barns, luxury accommodation for up to 32 guests and beautifully manicured grounds, every element of Oakwood has been specifi cally designed with your wedding in mind, and offers absolute exclusivity for the duration of your stay.
www.oakwoodatryther.co.uk info@oakwoodatryther.co.uk
11/12/2019 07:40
Small, but perfectly formedLockdowns, restrictions and postponements couldn’t stand in the way of Aukse and Scott tying the knot
Images courtesy of Hannah Shearman Photography
It was love at first swipe for Aukse and Scott. After matching on Tinder, the pair went on a few dates and they knew there was something special between them. When Scott popped the question, he kept it intimate and romantic. “He got down on one knee at home,” Aukse says. “He organised champagne, roses and our kittens as witnesses!”
The newly engaged pair got to work planning a destination wedding in Cyprus, but when the pandemic hit, their plans went out the window. “Everything changed except for our outfits and the flowers,” Aukse says. “We found a lovely venue in York, but when guest numbers were restricted to 15 people, we decided just to hold the ceremony at Dewsbury Town Hall in November. However, even this got cancelled because of the second lockdown!” Finally, the pair found a date that worked, 19th December, 2020, and managed to hold a beautiful micro-wedding at the Town Hall with an aqua blue colour scheme. Aukse continues the story…
Dewsbury Town Hall allowed us to hold a small wedding with just our bridesmaid and best man. As we were in the middle of the pandemic, we weren’t able to have a reception. Instead, we headed home to celebrate.
We ordered cupcakes from a local bakery as this was the best way to distribute cake while remaining COVID-safe. Our pretty silk flowers tied in beautifully with our blue palette.
I found my dress while shopping with my mum and sister before the pandemic. As we were planning a wedding abroad, I wanted a lighter dress. However, once I tried mine on I knew it was the one – it was only the second style I tried! I had it altered to fit me perfectly by a talented tailor in Leeds.
Scott looked great in a three-piece tailor-made suit from Moss Bros with a light blue tie. The groom stood out from the best man who was in a grey suit with a burgundy tie. Without prior planning, he managed to match my bridesmaid’s burgundy dress!
Before the day we were frustrated with the ever-changing restrictions – we thought we’d never get married! We were so glad we could tie the knot and put the disappointment behind us. We’re planning to have a vow renewal and reception in October 2021. Hopefully, we’ll be able to have as normal a party as possible.
AUKSE’S TOP TIP: “Make sure you enjoy every minute of the day – it goes by so quickly!”
If you’re worrying about how the pandemic will affect your plans, try to remain calm. If things do get delayed, it’ll make it even better when you are eventually able to get married.
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Venue | www.kirklees.gov.uk Photographer | www.hannahshearmanphotography.co.uk Hair and make-up | www.facebook.com/thestyleloungeuk Nails | www.facebook.com/jodienailslashes Dress alterations | https://topstitch-leeds.com Groom’s suit | www.moss.co.uk Flowers | www.etsy.com/uk/shop/laurelsilkflorist Cake | www.facebook.com/nixcakes Stationery | www.etsy.com/uk/shop/paperwillowdesign Catering | www.facebook.com/luigisbirstall It was hard to believe we were finally getting married after all the setbacks. We felt a bit nervous before the ceremony, but the whole day was magical – even being so small!
MEANT to be
Beth and Michael’s winter wedding will make you feel all warm and cosy
Images courtesy of Drawn by Light Photography
https://vimeo.com/377814035
Beth and Michael met when Beth went to check out Michael’s band, before her brother and sister-in-law booked them for their wedding. They got chatting after the gig, but then didn’t hear anything from each other until later that year. “Michael was friends with my brother’s best friend, Sally,” Beth tells us. “Sally mentioned to me that Michael was single and suggested we met up – by March I had moved in with him and I clung on for dear life!”
Michael chose Bonifacius Bridge in Bruges as the perfect spot to propose. “He was messing around with his camera – or so I thought,” Beth says. “All of a sudden he dropped down on one knee and popped the question. My first reaction can’t be repeated, but it was along the lines of ‘Are you joking?’” After the initial shock and tears, of course she said ‘Yes’, and they celebrated with an amazing meal and moonlit stroll through Bruges’ canallined streets.
Back home, the date was set for 29th November, 2019, and they chose the quirky Crab & Lobster Restaurant in Thirsk for the setting. Beth fills us in on the details…
Our venue was one of the first places we went to view. The quirky decorations were like nothing we’d seen before, from the old diving suit in the restaurant to the yeti in the manor house! We also loved the themed bedrooms with hot tubs – nothing compared to it.
We chose a hunter green colour scheme with wintry flowers. We left the florals up to our florist as we wanted something simple that didn’t overpower the venue. Our centrepieces were candles on wooden slices alongside little crab figures.
Our white, green and pearlescent cake coordinated brilliantly with the colour scheme of the day.
We created all our own invitations and on-the-day stationery as part of our business, BC Creative. Instead of traditional favours, we donated money to two charities: Cancer Research UK and Alzheimer’s and Dementia Research. I wore the Chloe dress by Venus Bridal. It wasn’t the style I thought I’d choose, but as soon as I tried it on I knew it was the one. I thought the stunning detail under the bust and simple corset back tied in well with the venue. I kept my accessories simple with a short veil, pearl necklace and drop earrings, which were made by my mother-in-law.
Michael and his groomsmen looked dashing in a modern-cut navy suit. The groom stood out with a different waistcoat and a larger buttonhole. My bridesmaids looked great in hunter green Dessy dresses; I let them choose their own style so that they were comfortable on the day.
We hired arcade machines from Arcade Hire to keep everyone entertained. We played Altered Beast, Pac Man and Super Mario. The day was pretty packed and everything flowed smoothly, with time for everyone to chat and mingle.
I ended up being about half an hour late, which is quite normal for me! The funny part was that I didn’t even realise. Michael’s first words to me were “What time do you call this?” Then he told me I looked beautiful!
It was incredible having all of our friends and family together for the first time, although most of us live relatively close, we still don’t seem to get together enough. We also had family from across the world there, which made it extra-special. In the evening we snuck off with our photographer to get some amazing shots around the venue. It was a highlight for us because we got some precious time to chat and be together. Both our photographer and videographers worked amazingly together and made sure everything went smoothly.
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Venue and catering | https://crabandlobster.co.uk Photographer | https://drawnbylightphotography.co.uk Bride’s dress and accessories | www.celebrationsbridalshop.co.uk Hair and make-up | www.anita-ashby.com Bridesmaids’ dresses | https://tohaveandtoholdbridalwear.co.uk Menswear | www.thegroomsrooms.com Flowers | www.flowerdesignripon.co.uk Cake | www.facebook.com/pink-wish-bakery-1688887464771057 Stationery | www.facebook.com/bethccreative Entertainment | www.arcadehire.co.uk Videography | www.redlimestudios.com
