Describe the best wedding that happened at The Old Swan Hotel?
It's very hard to say because every wedding is very different but we love weddings that have surprises. Recently, we had a swan shaped ice sculpture that was unveiled to all the guests during the evening. They liked it even more when they found out it could be used as a luge and that the couple had ordered lots of bottles of vodka! The best weddings are when all the guests are just thoroughly enjoying themselves and there is a great atmosphere. There are lots of things you can do to ensure that your guests are having a great time, but some form of entertainment is always a good idea and keeps the guests in good spirits throughout the whole day.
What is your No. 1 wedding planning tip for couples?
Just don't panic! It's likely that things aren't always going to go to plan - it could rain on the day, you might run a little bit late to the ceremony etc. but it's all things that can be dealt with on the day and there is no need to worry about them. When they do happen, you realise that the reason you're there is because you're marrying the person that you love, and that's enough for you to have an amazing day and that the small things you do worry about become unimportant.
What’s your favourite personal touch you’ve seen at a wedding?
We see so much creativity and variety with the weddings we host and each one always has a gorgeous personal touch to it. We did have a couple that were keen cyclists and their cake stand was actually a bicycle built for two, which had their names written across it. It was just so lovely to see such an original idea and it really wowed their guests.
Describe The Old Swan Hotel in 5 adjectives
• Elegant
• Romantic
• Charming
• Welcoming
• Historic
Where’s the best photo spot at The Old Swan Hotel?
There are so many fantastic photo opportunities as the hotel, as we have extensive gardens and lawns, but also the function rooms are so beautiful and characterful (especially good if it does rain on someone's big day). We are also only a minute's walk away from the Valley Gardens where there are also lots of photo opportunities. Harrogate is a truly beautiful place and there are lots of green spaces and historic buildings that create the perfect backdrop for romantic photographs.
Have you had any celebrity guest or wedding at The Old Swan Hotel?
We were the chosen retreat of the famous crime queen Agatha Christie, when she disappeared in the 1920s.
What’s your favourite canapé?
Tomato & Mozzarella Bruschetta, Mini Fish and Chips or Deep Fried Breaded Brie with a Cranberry Dip.
What’s your favourite midnight treat?
We offer a wide range of evening buffet options, which are paired perfectly with wedding cake. Our steak and onion ciabatta and our roasted vegetable with feta cheese baguettes always go down a treat.
What is The Old Swan Hotel most unique feature?
There are so many gorgeous features of the hotel, but our garden pavilion is truly gorgeous and one of the only outdoor venues in the area. We also have our huge Garden Ballroom, which is adjacent to the Red Lounge, creating a gigantic space and flexibility for wedding receptions. Our Wedgewood Restaurant has an ornate glass ceiling, which fills the room with sunlight. The hotel is very historic, so the architecture is very ornate and beautiful. There are so many amazing and unique features in the hotel!
What part of your business are you most proud of?
Our fantastic feedback and testimonials from previous couples.