Describe the best wedding that happened at Judges Country House Hotel?
Although people say it must be the same for you every week it really isn't. All of our weddings are unique for different reasons, some are traditional and formal, some are full of fun and activities and some have family emotions tied in - after looking after a couple and getting to know them and their story in the run up to the wedding I will admit to having shed a tear a couple of times! In terms of themes, I really loved the Harry Potter wedding, complete with an Owl ring bearer and letters appearing to fly out of the fireplace, they went all out on this and it really worked. We have a wedding next year and the theme is the Pixar movie 'Up' - I'm really looking forward to seeing what they do with this!
What is your No. 1 wedding planning tip for couples?
There are many so I'll list them!
Ask all your questions - couples often say 'it's a silly question but can I ask ..... ' if something is on your mind please ask away, we are here to help as much as we can, planning a wedding is a big task!
Remember that it's your day - make a list of must haves + might haves and work through this ticking off your wish list as you go while sticking to your budget. All weddings are unique and if you stick to your ideas you will have the day your are dreaming of.
Top 5 feedbacks on what to consider for the guests: the venue is easy to get to, accommodation on site if needed, good food, drinks and some entertainment
Take as much as advice from the venue as possible and attend their fairs and open days to meet their recommended suppliers - some of which they will have worked with for years so they can point you in the right direction for photography, decor, casino or a saxophonist if that's what you are looking for; then you can relax knowing you are in safe hands and it will all come together on the day.
What’s your favourite personal touch you’ve seen at a wedding?
One of our brides knitted little models of her guests as the wedding favour, all personalised to them. It must have taken such a long time and the effort was certainly appreciated by the guests.
Describe Judges Country House Hotel in 5 adjectives
Luxury | Beautiful | Classic | Charming | Tranquil
Where’s the best photo spot at Judges Country House Hotel?
The beauty of Judges Hotel is that there are so many! The outdoor wedding gazebo is surrounded by flowers and woodland, a really natural backdrop that changes with the seasons. There is a little hidden waterfall feature which is beautiful, I also love how the lawns from the back of the house meet the stream, bridges and the willow tree. The original staircase is also a must, a photo taken from above in this location looks so grand!
Have you had any celebrity guest or wedding at Judges Country House Hotel?
We have - I can't say who but we've looked after a few!
What’s your favourite canapé?
Savoury - duck spring roll and hoisin sauce
Sweet - lemon meringue pie
What’s your favourite midnight treat?
Pizza!
What is Judges Country House Hotel most unique feature?
The privacy of the Courtyard Suite with it's own private garden, there is of course the full grounds to take advantage of for your photographs but you keep this area just for yourselves, friends and family to enjoy the sunshine, drinks, canapes and music!
What part of your business are you most proud of?
Our longevity in the Hospitality industry and how we always approach every day by putting the customer first and providing a wonderful experience.
We are rated highly by the AA for our Hotel and Dining and the Good Hotel Guide for weddings. Many of our staff have been here from the beginning which shows it is a lovely place to work and this consistency of experience carries through in all areas of the Business.
We are also very proud of how we managed to take care of all of our weddings during lockdown and the postponement phase, making it as easy as possible for our couples to re-arrange and adapt their plans in such a difficult time.