Download Brochure

Book a Viewing

Download Brochure

Book a Viewing
Download Brochure Book a Private Viewing

Tag Archive: Northumberland wedding

Five Reasons to choose a Spring Wedding

Spring weddings in the UK are increasing in popularity. Summer may still be the most sought after season for most couples, but latest statistics show that March, April and May are seeing increasing numbers of wedding bookings.

One of the main reasons for the increasing number of spring weddings is cost. The peak summer months are more expensive due to demand, but the weather is also a factor.

In recent years, the spring and summer seasons haven’t experienced the usual variation in weather. And that has influenced more couples to consider spring when planning their wedding.

Beautiful Backdrop

Spring is often when wedding venues really start to shine. Spring flowers boast some of the most stunning colour palettes, from blossoming trees to bulbs bursting with colour. At Ellingham Hall the creeping Virginia on the Hall starts to flourish providing a beautiful plush backdrop. Also, the spring sunshine isn’t as strong, so you’ll often get softer images with dappled lighting.

Be inspired by our spring weddings here

Tip – Consider a venue which offers you a wide choice of photography beauty spots. If you choose a small venue that can’t offer a pretty space indoors for your group shot, then it could spoil your wedding album if the weather doesn’t hold up.

spring wedding

Weather

Whilst there can be a chance of April showers, the British weather is unpredictable during any season and the sun isn’t guaranteed in summer. Spring weather can be perfect for you and your guests, as the milder temperatures mean you don’t get the hot and uncomfortable conditions which some guests may struggle with.

Once the clocks go forward, you can enjoy longer days and that gives you an opportunity to enjoy more time outdoors. Ellingham Hall is set in 8-acres of countryside grounds. Many couples opt for alfresco dining the night before with a sizzling BBQ on the Chapel terrace or they choose an outdoor ceremony to say ‘I Do’.

Check out our choice of indoor and outdoor ceremony spaces here

Tip – If an outdoor wedding is part of your dream, make sure you choose a venue that can offer you a plan B if the weather takes a turn. When looking at potential venues, ask if you can bring everything indoors if you need to escape from the rain

outdoor spring wedding

Cost

Spring weddings are trending, with more couples moving away from the most expensive peak summer months and looking for more cost-effective dates.

Spring weddings at Ellingham Hall generally fall into mid-season pricing which can offer huge savings. However, for 2026 if you opt for a wedding in March, you can benefit from a further discount, as March 2026 falls into low season pricing.

Check out all our pricing here

Tip – By choosing a mid or low season wedding, this will leave you with more money to spend on all the other wedding day essentials such as outfits,  entertainment and event dressing etc.

spring wedding breakfast

Date Availability

Wedding venues and suppliers are busiest in the summer months, which means you may have to compromise on your desired date. But choosing a glorious spring wedding could mean more flexibility when it comes to selecting your dream venue and choice of dates.

Spring has many public holidays, which some couples choose because it makes it easier for guests to take time off. Unlike some venues, at Ellingham we don’t increase pricing during the school holidays, which is an added benefit for couples looking for a term time date.

Contact us today to check date availability or to arrange a viewing

Tip – If you’re looking to save money on a wedding, why not consider our late availability weddings

Pretty Colour Palettes

The colours in spring are by far some of our favourites. Soft pastels, subtle hues, and lush greenery make for a beautifully elegant wedding palette. Ellingham’s indoor ceremony spaces both offer a neutral backdrop so this will complement your spring colours perfectly.

Pastels are perfect for springtime, but that doesn’t mean you should shy away from strong bold colour options.

For inspiration check out our Spring wedding gallery here

Tip – Once you have chosen your venue, try visiting in the spring so you can see what colours are in our gardens. This may help you when choosing your bouquet & dresses.

If a spring wedding your dream, or you are flexible on season –  contact us today and we’ll show you how Ellingham Hall can fit in with your spring wedding plans.

Why Choose a Two Night Wedding?

Spring weddings in the UK are increasing in popularity. Summer may still be the most sought after season for most couples, but latest statistics show that March, April and May are seeing increasing numbers of wedding bookings.

One of the main reasons for the increasing number of spring weddings is cost. The peak summer months are more expensive due to demand, but the weather is also a factor.

In recent years, the spring and summer seasons haven’t experienced the usual variation in weather. And that has influenced more couples to consider spring when planning their wedding.

Beautiful Backdrop

Spring is often when wedding venues really start to shine. Spring flowers boast some of the most stunning colour palettes, from blossoming trees to bulbs bursting with colour. At Ellingham Hall the creeping Virginia on the Hall starts to flourish providing a beautiful plush backdrop. Also, the spring sunshine isn’t as strong, so you’ll often get softer images with dappled lighting.

Be inspired by our spring weddings here

Tip – Consider a venue which offers you a wide choice of photography beauty spots. If you choose a small venue that can’t offer a pretty space indoors for your group shot, then it could spoil your wedding album if the weather doesn’t hold up.

Over the past 17 years, Ellingham Hall has become renowned for its unforgettable two-night weddings and has set the trend for such an experience.

A lot of our success is thanks to our multi award-winning team, who feel like part of your family during your stay. The teams passion and wealth of experience in planning and delivering dream weddings is highly praised by couples. Nothing is too much trouble, and as a result, our couples have a wedding they and their guests will always remember.

From the luxurious accommodation, homely reception rooms, underground party Den and an array of alfresco terraces and luscious lawns and woodland, we offer something for every family member to enjoy.

For us, it’s the small details that make a big difference to your wedding.

spring wedding

Weather

Whilst there can be a chance of April showers, the British weather is unpredictable during any season and the sun isn’t guaranteed in summer. Spring weather can be perfect for you and your guests, as the milder temperatures mean you don’t get the hot and uncomfortable conditions which some guests may struggle with.

Once the clocks go forward, you can enjoy longer days and that gives you an opportunity to enjoy more time outdoors. Ellingham Hall is set in 8-acres of countryside grounds. Many couples opt for alfresco dining the night before with a sizzling BBQ on the Chapel terrace or they choose an outdoor ceremony to say ‘I Do’.

Check out our choice of indoor and outdoor ceremony spaces here

Tip – If an outdoor wedding is part of your dream, make sure you choose a venue that can offer you a plan B if the weather takes a turn. When looking at potential venues, ask if you can bring everything indoors if you need to escape from the rain

outdoor spring wedding

Cost

Spring weddings are trending, with more couples moving away from the most expensive peak summer months and looking for more cost-effective dates.

Spring weddings at Ellingham Hall generally fall into mid-season pricing which can offer huge savings. However, for 2026 if you opt for a wedding in March, you can benefit from a further discount, as March 2026 falls into low season pricing.

Check out all our pricing here

Tip – By choosing a mid or low season wedding, this will leave you with more money to spend on all the other wedding day essentials such as outfits,  entertainment and event dressing etc.

If a spring wedding your dream, or you are flexible on season –  contact us today and we’ll show you how Ellingham Hall can fit in with your spring wedding plans.

Ellingham Hall Wedding Event Team is best in the UK!

Beautiful Backdrop

Spring is often when wedding venues really start to shine. Spring flowers boast some of the most stunning colour palettes, from blossoming trees to bulbs bursting with colour. At Ellingham Hall the creeping Virginia on the Hall starts to flourish providing a beautiful plush backdrop. Also, the spring sunshine isn’t as strong, so you’ll often get softer images with dappled lighting.

Be inspired by our spring weddings here

Tip – Consider a venue which offers you a wide choice of photography beauty spots. If you choose a small venue that can’t offer a pretty space indoors for your group shot, then it could spoil your wedding album if the weather doesn’t hold up.

So, it was a real thrill for every member of our team to know that the work they do is appreciated so highly by our couples. Indeed, their focus on couples is such a priority that some of the team couldn’t pick up their award because they were welcoming another happy couple to their wedding venue in Northumberland.

It was left to three of our management team to represent the Event Team and collect their award. But, as our Head of Weddings Debbie Armstrong, explains, no-one minded because the team’s focus is always on our couples.

spring wedding

Weather

Whilst there can be a chance of April showers, the British weather is unpredictable during any season and the sun isn’t guaranteed in summer. Spring weather can be perfect for you and your guests, as the milder temperatures mean you don’t get the hot and uncomfortable conditions which some guests may struggle with.

Once the clocks go forward, you can enjoy longer days and that gives you an opportunity to enjoy more time outdoors. Ellingham Hall is set in 8-acres of countryside grounds. Many couples opt for alfresco dining the night before with a sizzling BBQ on the Chapel terrace or they choose an outdoor ceremony to say ‘I Do’.

Check out our choice of indoor and outdoor ceremony spaces here

Tip – If an outdoor wedding is part of your dream, make sure you choose a venue that can offer you a plan B if the weather takes a turn. When looking at potential venues, ask if you can bring everything indoors if you need to escape from the rain

outdoor spring wedding

Cost

Spring weddings are trending, with more couples moving away from the most expensive peak summer months and looking for more cost-effective dates.

Spring weddings at Ellingham Hall generally fall into mid-season pricing which can offer huge savings. However, for 2026 if you opt for a wedding in March, you can benefit from a further discount, as March 2026 falls into low season pricing.

Check out all our pricing here

Tip – By choosing a mid or low season wedding, this will leave you with more money to spend on all the other wedding day essentials such as outfits,  entertainment and event dressing etc.

wedding event team

A Huge Thank You!

Ellingham Hall General Manager David Fordham-Scott, who attended the National awards ceremony, points out that their commitment to couples is what makes him so proud of every member of the team.

“I’m incredibly proud of not only the Wedding Events Team for achieving this accolade, but everyone who works at Ellingham Hall. They are a fantastic team who pull together to ensure our couples experience an unforgettable wedding, which is why they are being deservedly recognised.

wedding event team

General Manager, David adds “Sadly, not everyone could join us for the awards ceremony, as they were helping one of our couples celebrate their wedding back in Northumberland. That just sums up their dedication to ensuring our Bride and Groom had a wedding to remember, which was their number one priority. As they couldn’t make it, I’d like to publicly thank our amazing team for everything they do.”

“I would also like to thank every single one of our couples who not only took the time to vote but showered the team in such well-deserved praise in the comments section. As a General Manager who genuinely cares about our couples’ experience, it was overwhelming to read such heartfelt reflection from them. “

If a spring wedding your dream, or you are flexible on season –  contact us today and we’ll show you how Ellingham Hall can fit in with your spring wedding plans.

Supplier Spotlight – Jane Gray Wedding Pianist

Beautiful Backdrop

Spring is often when wedding venues really start to shine. Spring flowers boast some of the most stunning colour palettes, from blossoming trees to bulbs bursting with colour. At Ellingham Hall the creeping Virginia on the Hall starts to flourish providing a beautiful plush backdrop. Also, the spring sunshine isn’t as strong, so you’ll often get softer images with dappled lighting.

Be inspired by our spring weddings here

Tip – Consider a venue which offers you a wide choice of photography beauty spots. If you choose a small venue that can’t offer a pretty space indoors for your group shot, then it could spoil your wedding album if the weather doesn’t hold up.

So, it was a real thrill for every member of our team to know that the work they do is appreciated so highly by our couples. Indeed, their focus on couples is such a priority that some of the team couldn’t pick up their award because they were welcoming another happy couple to their wedding venue in Northumberland.

It was left to three of our management team to represent the Event Team and collect their award. But, as our Head of Weddings Debbie Armstrong, explains, no-one minded because the team’s focus is always on our couples.

spring wedding

Weather

Whilst there can be a chance of April showers, the British weather is unpredictable during any season and the sun isn’t guaranteed in summer. Spring weather can be perfect for you and your guests, as the milder temperatures mean you don’t get the hot and uncomfortable conditions which some guests may struggle with.

Once the clocks go forward, you can enjoy longer days and that gives you an opportunity to enjoy more time outdoors. Ellingham Hall is set in 8-acres of countryside grounds. Many couples opt for alfresco dining the night before with a sizzling BBQ on the Chapel terrace or they choose an outdoor ceremony to say ‘I Do’.

Check out our choice of indoor and outdoor ceremony spaces here

Tip – If an outdoor wedding is part of your dream, make sure you choose a venue that can offer you a plan B if the weather takes a turn. When looking at potential venues, ask if you can bring everything indoors if you need to escape from the rain

outdoor spring wedding

Cost

Spring weddings are trending, with more couples moving away from the most expensive peak summer months and looking for more cost-effective dates.

Spring weddings at Ellingham Hall generally fall into mid-season pricing which can offer huge savings. However, for 2026 if you opt for a wedding in March, you can benefit from a further discount, as March 2026 falls into low season pricing.

Check out all our pricing here

Tip – By choosing a mid or low season wedding, this will leave you with more money to spend on all the other wedding day essentials such as outfits,  entertainment and event dressing etc.

wedding event team

A Huge Thank You!

Ellingham Hall General Manager David Fordham-Scott, who attended the National awards ceremony, points out that their commitment to couples is what makes him so proud of every member of the team.

“I’m incredibly proud of not only the Wedding Events Team for achieving this accolade, but everyone who works at Ellingham Hall. They are a fantastic team who pull together to ensure our couples experience an unforgettable wedding, which is why they are being deservedly recognised.

wedding event team

General Manager, David adds “Sadly, not everyone could join us for the awards ceremony, as they were helping one of our couples celebrate their wedding back in Northumberland. That just sums up their dedication to ensuring our Bride and Groom had a wedding to remember, which was their number one priority. As they couldn’t make it, I’d like to publicly thank our amazing team for everything they do.”

“I would also like to thank every single one of our couples who not only took the time to vote but showered the team in such well-deserved praise in the comments section. As a General Manager who genuinely cares about our couples’ experience, it was overwhelming to read such heartfelt reflection from them. “

Wedding Breakfast

Jane can play ambient piano music in the Chapel as you both relax and dine with family and friends, soaking up and reflecting on the memories already made on such a special day.

Again, your tailored setlist means you can choose to have the music you want played to really reflect you both as a couple, while also having the option to add in family and friends favourites too. Jane is bound to get your guests asking ‘I know this song?!’

Images captured by Claire McGowan Photography

If you are looking for a professional North East Wedding Pianist, contact Jane Gray today to discuss your bespoke requirements. Jane takes bookings years in advance due to high demand, so be sure to request your free personalised quote now to ensure you can have her there on your date!

If you are planning your dream wedding and searching for your perfect Wedding Venue in Northumberland, book your viewing appointment to come and explore everything Ellingham Hall has to offer including its Grand piano!.

Supplier Spotlight – The Master Cakesmith

Beautiful Backdrop

Spring is often when wedding venues really start to shine. Spring flowers boast some of the most stunning colour palettes, from blossoming trees to bulbs bursting with colour. At Ellingham Hall the creeping Virginia on the Hall starts to flourish providing a beautiful plush backdrop. Also, the spring sunshine isn’t as strong, so you’ll often get softer images with dappled lighting.

Be inspired by our spring weddings here

Tip – Consider a venue which offers you a wide choice of photography beauty spots. If you choose a small venue that can’t offer a pretty space indoors for your group shot, then it could spoil your wedding album if the weather doesn’t hold up.

So, it was a real thrill for every member of our team to know that the work they do is appreciated so highly by our couples. Indeed, their focus on couples is such a priority that some of the team couldn’t pick up their award because they were welcoming another happy couple to their wedding venue in Northumberland.

It was left to three of our management team to represent the Event Team and collect their award. But, as our Head of Weddings Debbie Armstrong, explains, no-one minded because the team’s focus is always on our couples.

spring wedding

Weather

Whilst there can be a chance of April showers, the British weather is unpredictable during any season and the sun isn’t guaranteed in summer. Spring weather can be perfect for you and your guests, as the milder temperatures mean you don’t get the hot and uncomfortable conditions which some guests may struggle with.

Once the clocks go forward, you can enjoy longer days and that gives you an opportunity to enjoy more time outdoors. Ellingham Hall is set in 8-acres of countryside grounds. Many couples opt for alfresco dining the night before with a sizzling BBQ on the Chapel terrace or they choose an outdoor ceremony to say ‘I Do’.

Check out our choice of indoor and outdoor ceremony spaces here

Tip – If an outdoor wedding is part of your dream, make sure you choose a venue that can offer you a plan B if the weather takes a turn. When looking at potential venues, ask if you can bring everything indoors if you need to escape from the rain

outdoor spring wedding

Cost

Spring weddings are trending, with more couples moving away from the most expensive peak summer months and looking for more cost-effective dates.

Spring weddings at Ellingham Hall generally fall into mid-season pricing which can offer huge savings. However, for 2026 if you opt for a wedding in March, you can benefit from a further discount, as March 2026 falls into low season pricing.

Check out all our pricing here

Tip – By choosing a mid or low season wedding, this will leave you with more money to spend on all the other wedding day essentials such as outfits,  entertainment and event dressing etc.

wedding event team

A Huge Thank You!

Ellingham Hall General Manager David Fordham-Scott, who attended the National awards ceremony, points out that their commitment to couples is what makes him so proud of every member of the team.

“I’m incredibly proud of not only the Wedding Events Team for achieving this accolade, but everyone who works at Ellingham Hall. They are a fantastic team who pull together to ensure our couples experience an unforgettable wedding, which is why they are being deservedly recognised.

wedding event team

General Manager, David adds “Sadly, not everyone could join us for the awards ceremony, as they were helping one of our couples celebrate their wedding back in Northumberland. That just sums up their dedication to ensuring our Bride and Groom had a wedding to remember, which was their number one priority. As they couldn’t make it, I’d like to publicly thank our amazing team for everything they do.”

“I would also like to thank every single one of our couples who not only took the time to vote but showered the team in such well-deserved praise in the comments section. As a General Manager who genuinely cares about our couples’ experience, it was overwhelming to read such heartfelt reflection from them. “

Wedding Breakfast

Jane can play ambient piano music in the Chapel as you both relax and dine with family and friends, soaking up and reflecting on the memories already made on such a special day.

Again, your tailored setlist means you can choose to have the music you want played to really reflect you both as a couple, while also having the option to add in family and friends favourites too. Jane is bound to get your guests asking ‘I know this song?!’

Foliage

Classic and timeless white cakes finished with fresh or handmade foliage are timeless, simple and natural. Tying in with any design or colour scheme this is the one to go for if you can’t make up your mind.

Image Katy Melling Photography

Icing Flowers

Gorgeous handmade flowers made from icing have defiantly had a comeback over recent years. They can be made to complement your wedding flowers and look oh so pretty on any design

Image Katy Melling Photography

Northumberland Wedding Cake Supplier

Staging & Dressing

Staging your wedding cake to look super pretty is definitely something to think about. Add candles, runners, a gorgeous cake stand or a few bud vases. Most cake makers now offer packages to dress your cake and make it stand out.

Image Katy Melling Photography

Little Extras

Add some sweet treats to sit alongside your wedding cake. Iced biscuits, macarons, popsicles are all pretty and add interest to your cake display.

Image Helen Russell Photography

Images captured by Claire McGowan Photography

If you are looking for a professional North East Wedding Pianist, contact Jane Gray today to discuss your bespoke requirements. Jane takes bookings years in advance due to high demand, so be sure to request your free personalised quote now to ensure you can have her there on your date!

If you are planning your dream wedding and searching for your perfect Wedding Venue in Northumberland, book your viewing appointment to come and explore everything Ellingham Hall has to offer including its Grand piano!.

Supplier Spotlight – Tina Elliott Hair Styling

Beautiful Backdrop

Spring is often when wedding venues really start to shine. Spring flowers boast some of the most stunning colour palettes, from blossoming trees to bulbs bursting with colour. At Ellingham Hall the creeping Virginia on the Hall starts to flourish providing a beautiful plush backdrop. Also, the spring sunshine isn’t as strong, so you’ll often get softer images with dappled lighting.

Be inspired by our spring weddings here

Tip – Consider a venue which offers you a wide choice of photography beauty spots. If you choose a small venue that can’t offer a pretty space indoors for your group shot, then it could spoil your wedding album if the weather doesn’t hold up.

So, it was a real thrill for every member of our team to know that the work they do is appreciated so highly by our couples. Indeed, their focus on couples is such a priority that some of the team couldn’t pick up their award because they were welcoming another happy couple to their wedding venue in Northumberland.

It was left to three of our management team to represent the Event Team and collect their award. But, as our Head of Weddings Debbie Armstrong, explains, no-one minded because the team’s focus is always on our couples.

spring wedding

Weather

Whilst there can be a chance of April showers, the British weather is unpredictable during any season and the sun isn’t guaranteed in summer. Spring weather can be perfect for you and your guests, as the milder temperatures mean you don’t get the hot and uncomfortable conditions which some guests may struggle with.

Once the clocks go forward, you can enjoy longer days and that gives you an opportunity to enjoy more time outdoors. Ellingham Hall is set in 8-acres of countryside grounds. Many couples opt for alfresco dining the night before with a sizzling BBQ on the Chapel terrace or they choose an outdoor ceremony to say ‘I Do’.

Check out our choice of indoor and outdoor ceremony spaces here

Tip – If an outdoor wedding is part of your dream, make sure you choose a venue that can offer you a plan B if the weather takes a turn. When looking at potential venues, ask if you can bring everything indoors if you need to escape from the rain

Wedding Day

When I arrive at your venue, I like to make sure you have the most relaxing time prior to your ceremony, keeping a calm and fun atmosphere can really help with pre wedding nerves. I particularly love working at Ellingham Hall as you have a beautiful dressing room situated within Lady B’s Wedding Suite with amazing natural light for hair and makeup. It’s also a great space where you can retreat to for some quiet time but are close enough to the main wedding suite to be with all your party and the buzzy excitement.

I’m going to share four popular bridal looks for upcoming brides to consider for their big day:

outdoor spring wedding

Cost

Spring weddings are trending, with more couples moving away from the most expensive peak summer months and looking for more cost-effective dates.

Spring weddings at Ellingham Hall generally fall into mid-season pricing which can offer huge savings. However, for 2026 if you opt for a wedding in March, you can benefit from a further discount, as March 2026 falls into low season pricing.

Check out all our pricing here

Tip – By choosing a mid or low season wedding, this will leave you with more money to spend on all the other wedding day essentials such as outfits,  entertainment and event dressing etc.

wedding event team

A Huge Thank You!

Ellingham Hall General Manager David Fordham-Scott, who attended the National awards ceremony, points out that their commitment to couples is what makes him so proud of every member of the team.

“I’m incredibly proud of not only the Wedding Events Team for achieving this accolade, but everyone who works at Ellingham Hall. They are a fantastic team who pull together to ensure our couples experience an unforgettable wedding, which is why they are being deservedly recognised.

wedding event team

General Manager, David adds “Sadly, not everyone could join us for the awards ceremony, as they were helping one of our couples celebrate their wedding back in Northumberland. That just sums up their dedication to ensuring our Bride and Groom had a wedding to remember, which was their number one priority. As they couldn’t make it, I’d like to publicly thank our amazing team for everything they do.”

“I would also like to thank every single one of our couples who not only took the time to vote but showered the team in such well-deserved praise in the comments section. As a General Manager who genuinely cares about our couples’ experience, it was overwhelming to read such heartfelt reflection from them. “

Wedding Breakfast

Jane can play ambient piano music in the Chapel as you both relax and dine with family and friends, soaking up and reflecting on the memories already made on such a special day.

Again, your tailored setlist means you can choose to have the music you want played to really reflect you both as a couple, while also having the option to add in family and friends favourites too. Jane is bound to get your guests asking ‘I know this song?!’

Images captured by Claire McGowan Photography

If you are looking for a professional North East Wedding Pianist, contact Jane Gray today to discuss your bespoke requirements. Jane takes bookings years in advance due to high demand, so be sure to request your free personalised quote now to ensure you can have her there on your date!

If you are planning your dream wedding and searching for your perfect Wedding Venue in Northumberland, book your viewing appointment to come and explore everything Ellingham Hall has to offer including its Grand piano!.

A Quality Christmas Wedding is ‘Streets’ Ahead!

Christmas Wedding

Chris and Sarah Quigley

Tuesday 7th Dec 2021

A confectionery treat made the Christmas Wedding of Chris and Sarah Quigley stand out, when they joined us in December. Quality Street was the theme of their wedding cake, which was inspired by their personalised ‘Quigley Street’ tins.

The theme was chosen after Chris proposed to Sarah in Budapest, when she sported nails in the colours of the chocolate’s wrappers. With the sweet treat’s association of Christmas and memories of her nails from the proposal, it was the perfect theme.

Chris and Sarah booked their wedding for December 2020, however lockdown postponed the wedding for a year. Sarah says, “In that time the Hall got even better. I was impressed that you invested so much into improvements, especially when you were forced to turn away weddings.”

 

Notes from the Bride

SARAH SAYS….

Why we chose Ellingham Hall

We viewed 5 or 6 venues in the Northumberland area and as soon as we walked into Ellingham Hall, we got the feeling it was the right place. It sounds clichéd but it’s true. We were planning a Christmas Wedding and we wanted somewhere that felt warm, and we loved the cosy feeling when we viewed it with all the fires lit. The exclusive hire was one of the big attractions as there wasn’t going to be another wedding going on at the same time; it was totally private.

The dress, cake and flowers

We used local suppliers and found them through word of mouth. Marrime Bridal in Jesmond provided my beautiful dress and veil, and our wintery themed flowers came from Sprig and Thistle who also brought our vision to life with a huge wreath above the fireplace behind the top table, beautiful chair drapes and centre pieces that matched our theme, as did our cake maker Chemily’s Cakes who incorporated our flowers and even some chocolates into the finished design.

Stand out wedding moments

We hired a saxophonist quite late on after seeing something on TikTok that we wanted to do, which was them playing me and Chris into the room before the wedding breakfast. They weaved in and out of the guests playing ‘Freed From Desire’! Everyone was on their feet clapping and that set the tone after the ceremony.

We had a cardboard cutout of our lovely dog! He’s a bouncy Cocker Spaniel and he would have ruined everyone’s dresses if he’d been there. We made sure other dogs of our guests got a little dog goody bag of treats to takeaway.

Sarah dazzled on the dancefloor when she donned a pair of fairy light angel wings. She says, “They were a present from my Mum on the morning of the wedding after seeing another bride-to-be wear them on a hen do!”

Best part of your wedding day

It’s hard to choose one thing but I’d say the most memorable bit was the ceremony itself and saying the vows. Our registrar was so lovely and sincere. It felt like I was in a bubble! Chris would say that too, I think, though he might say the party was the best part!

Your overall experience

The Ellingham Hall team were brilliant. We planned our wedding through lockdown, but everything was seamless and relaxed. I thought there’d be an endless list to tell a venue what we needed, but everything was organised in one meeting. We had the ‘night before’ meeting and it was so relaxed; nothing was too much trouble.

It was so magical because getting married in December meant the Hall was beautifully decorated and the trees were gorgeous. We were also the first couple to have the After Dark experience, it was cool and a really good touch. It was a like a mini-after party with our music because you can plug into your own Spotify list.

Our family and guests loved it, too. The night before our wedding it was great. No one had been to a wedding like it where you have the whole venue to yourself, and it spans across a few nights. It was a nice icebreaker for everyone, and they could make the most of the time off work. Everyone loved the food and we got so much feedback from that.

We enjoyed not having to share the venue with other guests like you would in a hotel, so even breakfast the day after felt personal and intimate.

We loved that because it’s not a hotel where you have to share breakfast with other guests the day after your wedding, and we didn’t have to hurry for a check-out time!

Everyone was really friendly, and your team would always be in touch, even through the difficulties of lockdown. It was like clockwork. You can tell the team arrange 3 weddings a week!

 

Advice to brides-to-be

Have a spreadsheet so you can keep in line with your budget and plan your day how you want it. Don’t be led by others and keep it to your own vision. You can’t cater for everyone and it’s your day that you want to look back on and have no regrets!

CREDITS

Margarita Hope Photography – https://www.margaritaphotos.com

Dan Lewis from We Were Here – videographer – https://www.wewerehereuk.com

Registrar – Northumberland Registrars

Marrime Bridal – https://marrimebridalwear.co.uk

Chemily Cakes – https://www.chemilyscakes.co.uk

Sprig and Thistle florist and event stylist – https://www.sprigandthistle.co.uk

Suit Culture – https://suitculture.co.uk

Sarah Stonehouse makeup – https://www.instagram.com/f.a.c.emakeupartistry/

Samantha Jane Bridal Hair – https://www.instagram.com/samanthajanebridalhair/

Freak Music Agency (The Emperors Band) – https://www.freakmusic.co.uk

If you looking for a Christmas wedding as quality as Chris & Sarah’s, contact us today!