Why You Need To Get Married At The Great Lodge In Essex
Have you ever wondered why you need to get married at The Great Lodge? Well, we can explain the reasons why. Whether you want your special day to be traditional, quirky or something in between, this family-run business’ goal is to support you in making your wedding as you visioned.
History of Great Lodge
The Great Lodge was originally known as Great Park and the estate was enclosed as a medieval deer park. Originally owned by Elizabeth de Burgh in the 14th century, Henry VIII gave it to former wife Anne of Cleves 200 years later as a settlement when their marriage was annulled. The beautiful barn dates from that time, in the 1620s the mansion was built in the alpaca field in front of the current house. 100 years later it was demolished and the buildings behind converted into Great lodge House.
Another reason why you need to get married at The Great Lodge? is because of its rich history. The Anne of Cleves Barn can seat up to 150 people for the ceremony and is available for only 25 weddings and receptions a year between 1st April to 31st October. Only one wedding will take place at the weekend and you’ll have all the staffs full attention, they want you to have plenty of time to prepare for your big day which includes as many visits to the site as you want. One of Great Lodges aims is to be as accommodating and flexible as possible, they do not require you to use specific caterers and suppliers, however, if you need a recommendation they are more than happy to help. A huge perk of having your wedding at this location is that they can supply you with their award-winning wine from their vineyard.
What You Need to Know
Costs
- Hire charge is £6,000 inc VAT (the barn is not available to hire on Sundays)
- You have to pay in 3 stages: 20% booking fee on confirmation of booking, 30% six months prior to the booked date and the rest is due one month prior to the booked date.
- They do not offer refunds
- You’ll have access to the Rose Barn dressing room from 7 am on the wedding day and the bridal suite for the night. Other accommodation is not included.
Numbers
- Max guests for ceremony and wedding breakfast is 150
- Max people in the evening including all staff and suppliers is 200
Access
- You and your guest will have exclusive use of the barn, marquee and garden on your wedding day from 12 pm – 12 am
- Also access to the barn form 9 am – 6pm the day before and until 12 pm the day after.
Music
- Music can be played outside until 10 pm
- All amplified music has to be played through the barn sound ceiling and has to be approved by the venue before booking.
Parking
- It is permitted to park overnight; cars have to be collected before midday the following morning.
Confetti and candles
Biodegradable confetti and candles are allowed after consultation with the venue
Suppliers
- All suppliers need to provide copies of the public liability insurance certificate, PAT testing certificate and food hygiene certificate, if appropriate.
- The venue can recommend suppliers to you if needed;
- Firework displays are permitted only by their recommended company.
