It’s a time to embrace the seasonal flowers and pastel colours. After the latest series of Bridgerton hit the screens, there’s no doubt that trends from this Regency era will find their way into this season’s spring weddings.
Picture trailing wisteria, hints of Regency blue – a signature shade of the time – script-inspired signage and good old-fashioned lawn games. As the days get warmer, the sun shines for longer and flowers begin to blossom. We can’t help but feel that spring is one of the most wonderful times of year for a wedding.
An outdoor ceremony?
The grounds at Notley Abbey tick all the boxes; the wisteria and whimsical walled gardens come into their own at this time of year, creating the perfect backdrop to say your “I do’s”. The ‘nook’ in the wall in which the registrars and register sit allow you and your guests to enjoy a truly al fresco wedding ceremony. The capacity of 164 allows you to choose: a small intimate wedding or a larger celebration. Of course, there’s always room to invite evening guests to join your evening do.
Let the drinks and canapés flow
At the drinks reception, Notley’s talented brigade of chefs will treat you and your guests to a selection of canapés outside amongst the lavender. For those couples wanting to embrace the Bridgerton vibes, or simply those with a love of music, a string quartet playing on the patio creates an undoubtably romantic atmosphere. The drinks will flow and your nearest and dearest will mingle in the sunshine on the front lawn, whilst you take the opportunity to explore the grounds and capture those essential newlywed couple photos. At this time of year, the tree-lined driveway is in full bloom and is a must for the photographer’s list.
Party time
Heading inside to the Refectory, the natural light floods through the floor to ceiling glass windows and doors, bringing the outside in for your wedding breakfast. The stone barn offers plenty of character and natural charm, which can only be emphasised by impressive floral arrangements and centre pieces. We love blue hues paired with white florals and green foliage for a soft and romantic setting, not to mention a creative way to tribute the tradition of ‘something blue’ on your wedding day.
After the wedding breakfast, the Refectory will be transformed into the perfect space for your evening entertainment. The four grand chandeliers overhead are turned down to set the mood and the party begins…
If you’re looking for that extra wow factor, a firework display in the Cloisters Garden is a spectacular finale to the perfect day – with spring in the air, you won’t need to worry about your guests wrapping up in layers (or maybe just a thin one), to step outside.
Nightcaps and a bed fit for a king (quite literally)
Once you’ve danced the night away, enjoy a nightcap with your nearest and dearest before retiring to one of the houses’ nine spacious bedrooms, all within a few footsteps of the dancefloor. Notley has welcomed quite the line-up of celebrities and royalty over the years, so you may find yourself sleeping in a room once slept in by Marilyn Monroe or Henry VIII – no need for a horse and carriage send-off here.
Dates still available for 2022, contact the team to book a visit
Notley Abbey, Buckinghamshire | 164 seated capacity | 250 evening capacity | licensed indoor and outdoor ceremony | nine bedrooms | late license | exclusive use
yourday@bijouweddings.co.uk
03451309966