These special events are hosted throughout the year at each of our stunning Kent venues – The Orangery, The Castle Westenhanger, The Gardens, and Bilsington Priory – and they’re designed to give our couples the chance to experience their venue in a whole new light.

So, what exactly is an Inspiration Event?

A relaxed evening designed for you

Whether you join us during the day or in the early evening, our Inspiration Events are a chance to see your venue beautifully styled and full of atmosphere. From elegant table setups to carefully curated lighting and décor, you’ll get a real sense of how your wedding could look and feel. The vibe is relaxed and informal, with plenty of time to explore, ask questions, and enjoy the experience at your own pace.

Meet the team behind your day

Our dedicated Events Team are on hand throughout the evening to answer questions, share tips, and help you start putting the pieces of your wedding vision together. It’s also the perfect chance to start building that all-important relationship with the people who’ll be supporting you every step of the way.

Sample your wedding menu

Food and drink are such a big part of the celebration – so at our Inspiration Events, couples get to sample a selection of beautifully presented mini dishes from our talented chefs. There’s also a curated wine tasting offered by our Bar Team, helping you discover the perfect pairings for your meal or drinks reception.

Explore styling & enhancements

Every couple is unique, and we want your day to feel completely your own. During the evening, you’ll also have the chance to explore optional extras – from styling ideas and table layouts to upgraded menus, added experiences, and entertainment inspiration.

It’s all part of the Glow experience

Our Inspiration Events aren’t just an event – they’re a reflection of how we do weddings. Thoughtfully planned, beautifully presented, and designed to make you feel special from the moment you arrive.

It’s just one of the many reasons why couples choose to celebrate with us, and a moment they often tell us was a highlight of their planning experience.

Want to be part of it?

Once you’ve booked your wedding at one of our venues, you’ll receive a personal invitation to the next Inspiration Event at your location. These events are for booked couples only, with limited capacity to keep things intimate and meaningful.

So if you’re still searching for your perfect venue, know that the support doesn’t stop once you say “yes” to the space – it’s just the beginning.

Contact us today and let’s start planning your unforgettable day.

Weddings should be a true reflection of who you are – your story, your style, your culture. That’s why our dry hire package is the perfect choice for couples who want the freedom to create something completely personal, without the restrictions of a set package.

At Glow Events, we offer dry hire across our breathtaking venues in Kent – including our romantic castle, enchanting orangery and picturesque gardens– giving you the flexibility to bring your vision to life with your own trusted suppliers and unique ideas.

Why choose Dry Hire?

Dry hire is all about freedom and flexibility. You’ll have exclusive use of the venue and the ability to create a wedding day that feels authentic to you. Whether you’re planning a traditional cultural celebration, a fusion of styles, or something entirely original, dry hire puts you in control.

Here’s why it works so well:

• Design every detail – From your décor and entertainment to the day’s timings and flow, you’re free to create a wedding that’s completely your own.
• Celebrate cultural traditions – Our venues are well-suited to large cultural or religious weddings, with spaces for prayer, flexible layouts, and experience in hosting events across many traditions.
• Bring your dream team – Choose your own wedding planner, stylists, florists and more – and work with one of our approved catering partners to craft a delicious, personalised menu for your guests.
• Spacious, elegant settings – Our dry hire venues can host up to 300 guests, giving you the room to celebrate in style with all your loved ones.
• Support when you need it – While you’re in the driving seat creatively, our professional team is still on hand to help your day run smoothly behind the scenes.

Dry hire is ideal for couples who have a strong vision and want to work with their own suppliers, but still want the assurance of a beautiful venue and an experienced events team to support them.

What’s included in our packages

Our dry hire package includes exclusive use of the venue and grounds, access to our online planning portal, use of tables, chairs, glassware, and linen, a fully staffed bar, complimentary parking, and use of our catering kitchen by one of our trusted catering partners.

Everything you need to bring your day together – with the freedom to make it your own.

Let’s create a wedding that’s uniquely yours

If you’d love a venue that gives you flexibility, space, and support – all in one unforgettable setting – we’d love to hear from you. Get in touch to book a viewing and discover more about our dry hire offering at Glow Events.

Dry Hire at The Orangery
Dry Hire at The Castle Westenhanger

Choosing your venue is one of the biggest decisions in the whole planning process. It sets the tone for the day, frames your photos, and shapes the experience your guests will remember. No pressure, right?

Don’t worry, we’ve got you! Whether you’re at the very start of your planning journey or just narrowing down your shortlist, here are some top tips to help you find the perfect venue for your wedding day.

1. Start with the vision

Before you start viewing, have a think about the kind of day you’re dreaming of. Romantic and traditional? Natural and outdoorsy? Stylish and modern? Your venue should support your vision – from the architecture and backdrop, to the way the day flows.

2. Make a list of your must-haves

It helps to separate your nice-to-haves from your non-negotiables. For example:

• Do you want everything all in one place – ceremony, drinks, dinner and dancing?
• Is live music or a DJ a must? Check sound limits and curfews.
• Need pet-friendly options? A space for fireworks? Dressing rooms?
• Do you want exclusive use of the space?

Getting clear on what matters most to you will help narrow down your options early on.

3. Think about the practicalities

Let’s talk logistics. These might not be the most exciting bits, but they’re so important:

• Capacity – does the space work well for your guest numbers?
• Access – is it easy for guests to find and get to?
• Parking – is there enough?
• Facilities – are there enough loos? Is there disabled access?
• Layout – how will the day flow from ceremony to reception?
• Indoor/Outdoor Options – if it rains, what’s the plan?

You want a space that looks great but also works well for your guests and your plans.

4. Do some pre-visit prep

A little preparation before your viewing goes a long way. Before you visit:

• Have a rough idea of your guest list
• Know the kind of date you’re aiming for – exact date, season or year
• Decide whether you’ll be doing a legal ceremony at the venue, or just a blessing
• Make a note of any big questions you want to ask

And when you go for the tour:

• Bring a notepad or make notes on your phone – venues can start to blur together!
• Take pictures or videos – you’ll thank yourself later
• Wear comfy shoes if you’ll be walking around grounds or gardens
• Bring someone whose opinion you trust – your partner, a parent, best friend – a second pair of eyes is always helpful!

5. Be realistic with budget

It’s easy to fall for a venue that’s slightly outside your budget, but always be honest about what you can afford. Don’t forget to check what’s included – furniture, linens, staff, setup? A more expensive venue might include more than a cheaper one that’s dry-hire only.

6. Ask the right questions

Make sure you ask about:

• Ceremony licensing
• Payment terms & cancellation policy
• What’s included in the package
• Restrictions on suppliers (e.g. catering, décor, music)
• Access times for setup & take-down
• Parking & transport options
• Accommodation nearby

Every venue does things slightly differently, so it’s worth being thorough!

7. Trust your instincts

We always say: when you know, you know. If a venue gives you that lovely gut feeling, ticks all the right boxes, and feels like a place you want to celebrate something special – it’s probably the one.

Bonus tip: Think about the team!

Never underestimate the value of a brilliant venue team. From answering your questions and coordinating the day, to helping you bring your ideas to life – having experienced, friendly support behind the scenes can make all the difference.

Need a little more guidance? We recently sat down with Kate, one of our Event Managers at The Orangery (who’s also planning her own wedding!) to talk through the venue process from both sides. It’s full of real insight, tips, and even a fun game of “Dealbreaker, Red Flag or Doable?”

You can catch it now in Episode 3 of our Glow Up Your Wedding podcast, here.

Happy venue hunting! And remember, the perfect place is out there, and when you find it, you’ll know.

Finalising your wedding guest list is one of the biggest and most important steps when planning your big day. It can feel overwhelming but getting it right early on helps with everything from budgeting to venue choice and makes the whole planning process smoother.

Photograph taken at The Orangery: Kerry Ann Duffy 

Starting your guest list: Pen and paper or spreadsheet?

Some people swear by old-school pen and paper. There is something oddly satisfying about scribbling names out and organising your thoughts. Others prefer a spreadsheet breaking guests down into sections like immediate family, extended family, close friends, plus ones, work colleagues and more. This can be a great way to keep track of who is coming and help you stay realistic about numbers.

A useful tip is for both of you to make separate lists then combine them. This way you won’t accidentally miss anyone important and you get a full picture of everyone who should be invited. Plus it means less awkward moments later when someone wonders why they didn’t get an invite.

Remember your guest list will influence which venues can accommodate you and your loved ones. If you’re thinking about 200 guests but a venue only holds 150 you’ll need to reconsider. That is why finalising your numbers before booking is key.

Plus ones, work colleagues, kids and pets

Plus Ones Inviting plus ones can get complicated. If you haven’t met someone’s partner it can feel odd having them at your wedding. Some couples opt to invite only established relationships while others are happy welcoming guests and their dates. It is your day so do what feels right for you.

Work Colleagues Depending on how close you are and your work environment you may want to invite some colleagues to the evening party only. This can avoid awkwardness and keep the ceremony intimate while still including those you spend a lot of time with.

Kids Deciding whether to have children at your wedding is a big choice. Some couples love having kids around giving them roles like flower girl or ring bearer. Others prefer an adults only celebration to keep the atmosphere relaxed and avoid any unexpected kid moments. If you do decide to exclude children there are polite and even fun ways to let guests know like including a note that says “Put on your dancing shoes and enjoy a kid free night out with us!”

Fur Babies Many couples want their beloved pets to be part of the day. Whether as ring bearers or just a sweet guest pets are welcome at many venues with some guidelines. Just be sure to chat with your event manager and have someone responsible for your furry friend.

Your wedding party: How many is just right?

How many is too many? Some prefer a small intimate group of a few close friends or family while others go all out with large bridal parties. It often comes down to balance and logistics. Consider your venue’s space, the vibe you want and how you will feel surrounded by your crew.

Traditional roles like maid of honour and best man are still popular but modern twists are everywhere. You might have a best woman, man of honour, flower men or even beer boys handing out drinks. The important thing is to include people who truly support and celebrate you.

Photograph taken at Bilsington Priory: Michael Newington Gray

Navigating family dynamics

Many couples now navigate separated parents, step parents or loved ones who sadly can’t be there. Beautiful gestures like leaving an empty seat with a photo or meaningful item or honouring absent family during the ceremony can make the day feel complete and heartfelt.

Invitations and RSVPs: Keeping everyone in the loop

Sending save the dates about 9 to 12 months ahead gives guests plenty of notice especially for summer or destination weddings. Formal invitations usually go out 4 to 6 months before the day with RSVP deadlines set 6 to 8 weeks ahead of time. This helps you finalise numbers for catering, seating plans and the all important final details meeting with your venue.

Finalising your guest list and wedding party can feel like a big challenge but with a clear plan, honest conversations and a little bit of humour, you’ll create a wedding that truly feels like yours.

Watch episode 2 of our Glow Up Your Wedding podcast, for helpful advice, real talk and friendly tips on starting your wedding planning journey.

And if you’re ready to take the next step, book a viewing at one of our stunning Kent venues, we’d love to show you around and hear all about your ideas.

]]> https://glowevents.staginglab.co.in/whos-on-the-guest-list/feed/ 0 https://glowevents.staginglab.co.in/youre-engaged-now-what/ https://glowevents.staginglab.co.in/youre-engaged-now-what/#respond Thu, 19 Jun 2025 02:02:31 +0000 https://glowevents.staginglab.co.in/necessitatibus-sed-natus-et-aliquam-voluptatem-nihil/ Getting engaged is one of the most exciting moments in life. Whether it was a quiet moment at home, a surprise during a holiday, or something totally unique (like a proposal hidden in a Christmas quiz!), the joy is real. But once the initial celebrations calm down, the question many couples find themselves asking is… what now?

If you’re newly engaged and wondering how to start planning your wedding without getting overwhelmed, this is for you. Below is a relaxed, practical guide from our team at Glow Events to help you navigate the early stages of planning with confidence and joy.

Celebrate the moment first

Before diving into anything else, take time to celebrate. Go out for dinner, throw a party, post that ring selfie, or just have a glass of bubbly (or a good cup of tea) at home. This moment is worth savouring – your wedding will come soon enough, but for now, soak up the excitement.

Setting your priorities (before the Pinterest overwhelm hits)

One of the first things to do is get clear on what matters most to you both. This will help guide every decision moving forward. Start simple:

• Do you want a big celebration or something more intimate?
• What’s most important – the venue, the food, the atmosphere, the photos?
• Are there non-negotiables, like live music or a specific style?

A great tip is to create two notebooks:

1. A neat, pretty wedding planner for your organised thoughts
2. A “scribble” notebook where you can jot down messy to-do lists, change your mind, cross things out, and be completely honest

This balance of vision and practicality helps keep things fun and focused.

Create a rough guest list

It doesn’t need to be final, but having a rough guest count will guide your venue search and budget. Start with immediate family and closest friends, then build outwards.

Decide early if you want to split guests into day and evening invites – it’s a simple way to manage numbers and costs.

Talk budget and be realistic

Weddings can look very different depending on your budget, and that’s completely okay. Sit down together and have an open conversation about what you’re comfortable spending, and who might be contributing.

Some family members may offer to cover specific elements, like the flowers or the cake. Make a note of any offers early on, as it all adds up.

Top tip: If you’re keen on a particular venue but the price is a little over your ideal spend, look at off-peak months or weekdays. A Thursday wedding, for example, can offer huge savings with the same beautiful experience.

Choose a date but stay flexible

Picking a date can be deeply personal – you might want to honour a family anniversary, a season you love, or simply choose something convenient. Keep in mind that having a few options in mind gives you more freedom when choosing your venue.

Weather is always unpredictable in the UK, so try not to get too hung up on the perfect sunny day. What matters most is that you’re marrying the person you love – and with a beautiful indoor plan, the day will be just as magical come rain or shine.

Venue first, then everything falls into place

Choosing your venue often helps shape the whole look and feel of your wedding. It gives you a clear vision, a date to work towards, and brings your planning to life. Some couples have a strong sense of style from the start, while others figure it out after viewing a few spaces.

Our tip? Explore a mix of styles, even if you think you know what you want. You might fall in love with something completely unexpected.

Here’s a quick breakdown of how different venue styles can help define your day:

• Fairytale & Regal: Think dramatic backdrops, candlelight, and romance – like a castle
• Timeless Elegance: Creams, pastels, chandeliers – perfect for classic weddings
• Rustic Meets Historic: Natural textures with grand touches – ideal for couples who love both tradition and charm
• Boho & Relaxed: Wildflowers, wooden details, and an open-air feel – a dream for outdoor lovers

Mood boards & visioning

Once you’ve shortlisted a few venues or picked your favourite, creating a mood board is a great next step. Save images that speak to you, but try not to go overboard. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, step back and review your saved content with fresh eyes – what truly excites you? What’s practical within your budget and venue?

Remember, your wedding doesn’t need to be a Pinterest replica. It should reflect you as a couple.

Choosing your planning timeline

Some couples are happy to have a long engagement, while others want to get married quickly. There’s no right or wrong. It depends on your personalities, your circumstances, and how involved your wedding vision is.

If you’re planning over two years, enjoy the early calm – use that time to explore ideas, book your key suppliers, and take it slow. If you’re planning a shorter engagement, create a simple checklist and tackle one thing at a time. You don’t have to do everything at once.

Stay organised (but don’t let planning take over your life)

Wedding planning should fit around your life, not take it over. Block out time to focus on certain areas – for example, one weekend for sorting invitations, another for shortlisting caterers, and so on. This approach keeps things manageable and fun.

Once you’ve booked with Glow Events, you’ll also get access to our planning platform, Sonas – which helps you:

• Build your guest list
• Visualise your seating plan
• Add menus and dietary info
• Track your supplier details
• Communicate directly with your planning team

It’s a real time-saver and keeps everything in one place, which makes a big difference in the final months.

Be ready for hiccups and focus on what matters most

No matter how organised you are, small things may go off plan. It could be the weather, a supplier delay, or a last-minute guest issue. Try not to let it take over.

The most important thing is that you’re marrying your partner. The rest – however beautiful – is just the backdrop.

Final thoughts: Enjoy the ride

This is a once-in-a-lifetime journey. Make it personal, make it joyful, and don’t forget to laugh along the way. Whether you want to wear white every day until your wedding (we love that energy!) or take a slower approach, the key is to plan in a way that feels true to you.

If you’re feeling a little lost on where to start, we’ve got you covered. Watch episode one of our podcast, Glow Up Your Wedding, for helpful advice, real talk and friendly tips on starting your wedding planning journey.

And if you’re ready to take the next step, book a viewing at one of our stunning Kent venues, we’d love to show you around and hear all about your ideas.

]]> https://glowevents.staginglab.co.in/youre-engaged-now-what/feed/ 0 https://glowevents.staginglab.co.in/dont-visit-a-venue-without-knowing-this/ https://glowevents.staginglab.co.in/dont-visit-a-venue-without-knowing-this/#respond Mon, 07 Apr 2025 12:21:15 +0000 https://glowevents.staginglab.co.in/neque-ut-ullam-illo/ Your venue viewing is one of the most exciting parts of your wedding planning journey, it’s when your ideas start to feel real! To make the most of your time and get all the right info, it helps to come prepared. Here’s a little guide we’ve put together to help you get the best out of your visit to our venues.

Before you visit: A little prep goes a long way

Got a date in mind?
Think about whether you have a specific date, month, or even just a season you’d love to get married in. This allows us to share photos and insights into what the venue looks like at different times of year – and if gardens are involved, we can let you know what’s likely to be in bloom!

Ceremony Plans
Would you like to have your legal ceremony onsite, a blessing by a celebrant, or get married off-site and join us for the reception? We’ve got four beautiful licensed spaces for civil ceremonies, and we’re happy to chat about more personal options too, whether it’s a celebrant-led ceremony or a friend doing the honours.

Who’s on your guest list?
Even a rough idea of numbers helps! Whether you’re thinking intimate or all-out celebration, having a draft guest list means we can guide you on how the space will work for your day, from seating plans to flow between ceremony and reception.

What are your non-negotiables?
Have a little think about the things that really matter to you. Live music, a BBQ feast, a laid-back garden vibe, a formal setting, space for your dog to roam (yes please!) – whatever your must-haves are, we want to know. It helps us show you how the venue can match your vision, especially since each of our venues suits different styles.

What to bring to your viewing

A notepad & pen
Trust us, after seeing a couple of venues they can start to blend into one! Jotting down key points can help keep things clear when you start narrowing down your options.

A camera or your phone
Take snaps of the spaces you love, especially the little corners or details that spark ideas. These photos will be super handy later when you’re styling or explaining your vision to suppliers.

A coat and comfy shoes
We always recommend bringing a coat and suitable footwear – especially if there are outdoor areas to explore. Some of our venues have beautiful gardens or grounds that you won’t want to miss, even if the weather isn’t perfect!

Booking a viewing is just the beginning, and we’re here to make it feel relaxed, inspiring, and (most importantly) all about you. Whether you’re dreaming of a whimsical garden wedding, a sleek and stylish celebration, or something uniquely you, we can’t wait to show you around and chat all things weddings.

Ready to start the tour? Let’s get your date in the diary

1. Give yourself time

Your wedding morning should be savoured, enjoyed, experienced. Not rushed through in some wild, clock-checking panic! So arrive early and give yourself plenty of time (our prep rooms are yours from 9am).

If you’re having your hair and makeup done, allow 1 hour for yourself, and 30 minutes for each of your wedding party. Work out how long you’ll need. Then give yourself an extra hour! And if you’re ready early? Great! Pour yourself and glass and enjoy that yoga-zen sensation of having all the time in the world.

2. Clear that clutter

When it comes to your morning photos, ‘chaotic teenage bedroom’ is not the vibe!

So keep it clean and clutter-free. Have a spare suitcase for your comfy clothes and keep them out of sight. And put rubbish in the bin straight away.

(Pro tip: ask your tidiest friend to be on clutter duty!)

3. Get ready first

We hereby give you permission to be selfish!

You are the stars of the show, the main characters, the guests of honour. And there’s no point in everyone else being ready to go if you’re still in your PJs! (Trust us, this happens A LOT!)

Be the first person to get ready, and then the pressure is off. Have a drink, put your feet up and chat to your besties. Then just have a few last-minute touch-ups on your way out the door.

4. It’s all in the details

When you look through your wedding album, your morning prep will be the first thing you see. So consider your styling, your theme, your palette, and style your morning accordingly.

Dressing gowns, PJs, slippers; maybe even personalised glasses, hip-flasks or water bottles…

All these little touches will set the mood for the day, and ensure the start of your ‘story’ is just as beautiful as the rest. 

5. Have a first look

Of all the wedding trends, it seems like ‘first looks’ are here to stay. And as hopeless romantics, we couldn’t be happier! 

The moment you see each other for the first time is special- and we mean *core-memory* special! So why not share that moment alone, just the two of you.

Set 15 minutes aside before the ceremony, and we’ll help you choose a super-secret, super-romantic spot for those intimately magic few minutes. And who knows? This might just be your favourite part of the day.

And there you have it, our 5 easy-breezy tips for the perfect wedding morning! By giving yourself plenty of time, keeping things tidy, and enjoying the little details, you’ll set yourself up for a calm and memorable start to your big day. And don’t forget to squeeze in that special first look moment, it’s the perfect way to kick off the celebration!

We hope these tips help make your morning stress-free and fun.

Photo taken by Fleur Challis Photography at The Castle Westenhanger

Beautiful, but relaxed; stylish, but sentimental. We had an outdoor ceremony, and florals *to die* for. We had two of the most adorable flower girls the world has ever seen. 

And to top it all off, our wisteria was in full bloom, and giving serious Bridgerton vibes!

If you’re thinking of having your wedding in The Gardens, you’re about to be endlessly inspired. Come take a little look…

Spring florals and bridal styling inspiration

Our story begins with Anna and her girls, getting ready in our on-site prep room, The Retreat. 

We’ve recently renovated the space, and it’s the perfect place to spend an easy-breezy wedding morning. It’s super-spacious, super-comfy. And with natural light pouring in from both sides, your wedding photographer’s going to love it! 

Anna looked beautiful in her timelessly stylish dress from Isabella Grace (don’t you just love that Andie Anderson low back?!) 

And of course we HAVE to talk about her bouquet! Blush peonies, daisies, violet pea flowers, reflexed roses…it could’ve been scooped from a meadow, or an English country garden. Needless to say, we are *obsessed*! 

Anna had an excited first-look with her bridesmaids, and an emotional few moments with her dad. And with her butterflies fluttering and the ceremony calling, she headed out into the sunshine to marry the love of her life. 

It’s giving Bridgerton

At the centre of The Gardens is our iconic ceremony space, The Wedding Gazebo. 

Stand at the altar and look around, and you’ll find yourselves completely surrounded by beauty. Pinks, purples, yellows and greens. And in late spring, early summer, the wisteria blooms, and the aisle becomes a tunnel of colour. 

And it’s quiet. Blissfully quiet. Bees busy away in the flowerbeds; birds sing from the trees. 

It is- in the truest sense of the word- idyllic. 

Lawrence stood by the gazebo, waiting for Anna in the sunshine. Meadows lined the aisle, and two spectacular floral urns framed the altar. 

Pastel florals work so well with the palette of our venue, especially in spring. And the florist, Star & The Rose, elevated the space to dreamy new levels of beauty. 

The ceremony was romantic, wonderfully personal, and tons of fun. And as the celebrant made it official, a huge cheer filled the gardens, and fresh rose petals filled the air. 

Gin & tonic drinks reception

The drinks reception was the epitome of an English country wedding.

A&L had opted for the Gin & Tonic Bar The Gardeners Rest (our horsebox bar on the patio*). We serve 17 different types of gin, and various flavoured tonics as part of this upgrade. And suffice to say, the gin was flowing!

Guests sipped G&T, mingled on the sun-warm grass, and explored the gardens. And after some family group-shots by the wisteria, Anna and Lawrence went for a stroll around the grounds. 

(*By the way, if gin isn’t your thing, The Gardeners Rest can also be hired as a prosecco bar, bottle bar, cocktail bar or- for those Christmassy winter weddings- even a hot chocolate bar.) 

Your couples portraits in The Gardens

Our gardens are *dreamy sigh* beautiful all year round. 

You have 12 blissfully secluded acres to explore, divided into 16 lovingly-landscaped gardens. And as you hire our venue exclusively, you really do have the place all to yourselves!

A&L snuck away from the crowds, and walked hand-in-hand through the quiet grounds. 

The spring flowers were in bloom, the sun was shining. And for a little while, they felt as if they had the world to themselves. Nothing but the sound of birdsong, their feet swishing through the grass, and the breeze playing in the trees. 

Styling inspiration for your wedding breakfast in the tipis

The rustic, understated aesthetic of our tipis is a gorgeous blank space for your reception styling. The sides of the tipis had been flung open, filling the space with natural light and letting the outside in. 

And once again, Star & The Rose had knocked it out of the park. 

Impossibly gorgeous peonies and roses spilled from simple glass vases on the tables. And behind the head table, the florals from the ceremony had been repurposed to create *the most* stunning backdrop. 

They had a tasty meal, and some heartfelt and hilarious speeches. And as the sun began to fall, the guests spilled out onto the grass and got ready for the party. 

Party in the barn

The rest of the evening was a beautiful blur. They drank, they danced, they laughed, they partied. 

And as darkness fell and the festoon lights glowed, Anna and Lawrence stole away, and kissed beneath the wisteria for one last time. 

If this is the kind of wedding day you’ve been dreaming of, we’d be so excited to hear from you. 

Book yourself in today for a visit, come meet the team and take a stroll through The Gardens. 

Confetti anywhere – with a natural touch

We love seeing confetti create unforgettable moments, and at our venues, you can have your confetti moment anywhere! The only requirement? It must be real petals or dried petals only, not biodegradable paper confetti. This keeps our beautiful grounds pristine and ensures an eco-friendly, picture-perfect shower of petals.

Choosing the perfect confetti

For a romantic and environmentally friendly option, dried petals or fresh petals beautifully complement our venues. Imagine stepping out hand in hand, surrounded by loved ones as delicate petals flutter around you – pure magic!

Unique confetti ideas

• Petal cones: Hand out dried petals in paper cones made from book pages, sheet music, or kraft paper.
• Confetti stations: Offer guests a selection of natural confetti at a stylish station.
• Fresh flower petals: Our in-house florists can provide petals to match your theme.

Fun confetti signs

Add a playful touch with signs like “Shower us with love” or “Let love fly!” to enhance the moment.

Not every guest needs confetti – providing for 80-90% is plenty, and just a pinch per person is enough.

Make your wedding confetti moment unforgettable at any of our stunning venues: The Orangery, The Castle Westenhanger, Bilsington Priory and The Gardens.

Photo taken by Shelby Ellis Photography taken at The Gardens in Yalding.