Wedding
FAQs
Planning the Wedding
Below are a number of questions frequently asked by our brides & grooms. These are divided in to categories. However, if you can’t see the answer to your question, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
Email our Wedding Coordinator, to discuss your plans.
How often do we meet with our wedding co‑ordinator?
You will have two official meetings: one when you’re ready to send invitations and another about six weeks before the wedding. Your coordinator will guide you through and can arrange additional meetings as needed.
Can we bring our families/friends/photographer etc to show them the venue?
Yes—call ahead so someone can show them around rooms like the bridal suite, Cornloft, and Lakeside Suite.
Do we book the registrars?
Yes, you must book and pay for registrars through Yeovil Registrars.
Can you recommend suppliers like cakes, flowers, etc.?
Yes—beyond those on the supplier list, just ask your coordinator.
Do you have chair covers?
Chair covers are only available in the Cornloft and cannot be moved. For other areas, you’ll need to bring your own; the venue can recommend suppliers. Table linen is white.
What’s included in the venue hire charge?
Use of the Cornloft or Gazebo, exclusive lakeside area access, Lakeside Suite or Wheelroom for the wedding breakfast, Lakeside Suite for the evening reception, and the bridal suite for the night.
The Ceremony
When do we decide between Gazebo (outside) or Cornloft?
Both are prepared; the final decision is made about an hour before based on group size and logistics.
Can we have music for the bride’s entrance?
Yes, you can have recorded music or bring live musicians for both ceremony locations.
Can we throw confetti?
Yes—only outside, and it must be biodegradable to protect wildlife.
Wedding Breakfast
Maximum capacities?
Lakeside Suite: ~80 comfortably, max 85 (kids included).
Lakeside Suite + Orangery: up to 130 (buffet requires space).
Wheelroom: up to 40.
Coachroom: banquet table up to 30.
Table seating?
8 guests per table is ideal; you may add a child for a total of 9.
Top table size?
In Lakeside Suite: 8 is balanced, up to 12 if you seat guests at each end. In Wheelroom: oval table fits 6–8 well. Round tables are acceptable.
What color table linen?
White tablecloths and napkins. Other colours extra.
Can we bring our own caterer?
No—catering is in‑house only.
Special dietary requirements?
Yes, provide details (e.g. allergies).
Children’s menu/highchairs?
Yes—request the menu. Two highchairs available; you may bring more.
Canapés?
Yes—handcrafted by the Head Chef. Ask for the menu.
Bars
Why does the Lakeside bar close during the meal?
To avoid disruption and noise. If you have a drinks package, servers circulate; iced water is on tables. Bottle service (beer) available at extra cost. The room bar re‑opens for the evening. In the Wheelroom, the Lounge bar stays open.
Can we request the bar stay open?
Yes, that’s possible.
Can we supply our own wine/champagne?
Yes, with a pre‑agreed corkage fee.
Can we have a beer cask?
Yes—ask your coordinator for details.
Bar closing time & extensions?
Lakeside bar closes at midnight (11 pm on Sundays); extensions aren’t allowed by license. No residents’ bar, but guests may continue drinking in the grounds or bridal suite past closing.
Evening Reception
How many can we invite?
Lakeside Suite holds up to 200 people.
Can we bring our own DJ or band?
Yes—you may use your own DJ or band. Setup must wait until post‑meal turnaround, which reduces dancing time.
The Hotel
How do guests book rooms?
Rooms allocated at booking; you then assign them via a sheet. Guests pay on departure.
Local hotels/taxis?
Yes—ask for a list.
Check‑in times?
Bridal suite: 12 noon. Other rooms: 2 pm (possibly earlier if available).
Family rooms?
No. Three rooms can add a put‑up bed (£15); you can also bring a blow‑up bed (breakfast charge £5). Only two put‑up beds available; fire regs apply.
Overnight parking?
Yes, at your own risk. Cars must be moved by midday next day.
Other
Can we have a bouncy castle or children’s entertainer?
No—not enough flat area. They recommend you provide other entertainment for kids.
Can we have fireworks or Chinese lanterns?
No—disturbs wildlife and neighbours. Insurances also required.
