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Creative Wedding Table Plan Ideas September 18, 2024

Creative Wedding Table Plan Ideas

While it might not sound like the most exciting element of your wedding planning, the table plan is an essential item that can also be a stylish part of your décor and a wonderful keepsake. If you’re in the midst of compiling your wedding ideas, we hope you’ll like some of these creative designs.

The Classic Choice

There is perhaps nothing more elegant than meticulous calligraphy on white card. Add interest through different coloured inks, change the style with your chosen font and decorate with fresh flowers or foliage. Display at the entrance to The Oak Barn to greet your guests.

These classic table plans would be perfect for your barn wedding at Sandhole Oak Barn in Cheshire
Images Courtesy of Frank and Bunny Love and Jack Henry Photography

Rustic Style

If you want to create a more boho look, choose a wooden background for your wedding table plan. Use a simple piece of wood or upcycle a wooden pallet.

This simple but effective table plan is perfect for a rustic barn wedding
Image Courtesy of Taylor Parker Photography

All About Acrylic

Inject some contemporary style to your barn wedding venue with an acrylic table plan. We think this style looks stunning in Sandhole Oak Barn. You might even decide to display it outside.

A clear acrylic table plan looks elegant but also doesn’t take away from the beauty of the venue at your Sandhole Oak Barn wedding
Images Courtesy of Nochta Boutique and Tell Your Story Photography

You’ve Been Framed!

Frame your table plan to make it a statement piece, whether you choose a glamorous mirror or elegant metallic.

An elegant framed table plan is perfect for a barn wedding wedding in Cheshire
Images Courtesy of A Sterling Affair and Christina Sarah Photography

Step Up

Ladders make exceptionally popular wedding props and are especially useful when it comes to seating plans. Display your tables on individual cards and adorn the ladder with flowers – it’s a lovely choice for a country wedding.

A rustic ladder table plan is a great choice for your barn wedding in Cheshire
Images Courtesy of Rose Images and Lola Rose Photography

Get Personal

Finally, think outside the box and look at alternative options. You might make a seating plan that includes photographs of your guests, use a map highlighting your travels as a background or name your tables after wine, movies, film stars or cities.

A photo table plan is a lovely option for your rural barn wedding at Sandhole Oak Barn
Image Courtesy of Ryan Ray Photography

A plant pot table plan is a unique but perfect choice for a barn wedding in Cheshire
Image Courtesy of Fab Mood

A unique hoop table plan will look perfect at your barn wedding at Sandhole Oak Barn
Image Courtesy of Summer Lily Studio

A wine bottle table plan is a simple but original idea for your Sandhole Oak Barn wedding
Image Courtesy of Melani Lust Photography

If you have yet to visit Sandhole Oak Barn, we would love to show you all we have to offer. Simply call our friendly team on 01260 540007 or 01260 224215 or contact us online.

Jenny and Tom – A Relaxed, Fun-Filled Autumn Wedding September 18, 2024

Jenny and Tom – A Relaxed, Fun-Filled Autumn Wedding

Jenny and Tom’s October wedding at Sandhole Oak Barn was a wonderful blend of romance, fun, fabulous food and great entertainment.

With an Autumn wedding in mind, Sandhole Oak Barn was the first venue Jenny and Tom visited and they fell in love with it straight away.

“It was unfussy and natural – perfect for us. We loved the space, the natural wood and the exclusive use. We also loved the outdoor space. It was just a shame that on the day we got married, Storm Callum was raging overhead!”

The happy bride walks to the wedding ceremony at Sandhole Oak In Cheshire The groom takes a glance at his beautiful wife to be at the wedding ceremony at Sandhole Oak Barn in Cheshire

Setting the Scene

The happy couple decided to embrace the natural beauty of the barn with a rustic theme in hues of green and white.

“We like to be outdoors in the Lake District and in the mountains so the white and green and the natural look really reflected what we like to do in our spare time,” explains Jenny.

The rustic oak barn at Sandhole Oak Barn wedding venue in Cheshire The wedding menus were displayed on rustic wood slices at this barn wedding at Sandhole Oak Barn

Making many of the decorations themselves, Jenny and Tom adorned Sandhole Oak Barn with fairy lights, tea lights, pine cones and log slices alongside beautiful white flowers for the table centres.

“We did pay to upgrade the chairs and to have fairy lights around the beams,” says Jenny. “They looked fabulous. We also wrote the place names and made the table plan. I loved creating the decorations!”

Tables were decorated with jars of tealights and photos of the happy couple at Sandhole Oak Barn The couple chose photos of themselves in place of table numbers at this barn wedding in Cheshire

Bridal Style

The bride was stunning in an elegant Jesus Peiro gown – the first wedding dress she tried on and chosen by her mother.

“I loved my dress,” smiles Jenny. “I felt relaxed, beautiful and, most importantly, ‘me’.”

The happy newlyweds have confetti thrown over them

She accessorised with nude heels and simple jewellery, letting the dress speak for itself.

Meanwhile, Tom looked the part in a bespoke navy suit with grey checked waistcoat. And finally, Jenny’s three bridesmaids wore floor-length navy blue strapless gowns from tfnc, completing the look with silver earrings.

The happy newlyweds pose for a wedding photo with the wedding party at Sandhole Oak Barn

Wedding Day Details

Following the romantic wedding ceremony at Sandhole Oak Barn, the newlyweds and their guests enjoyed welcome drinks and canapés while a magician entertained them.

Sitting down to dine, the wedding breakfast commenced with a caramelised shallot, red pepper and brie tart, moving on to chicken stuffed with spinach and, for pudding, a delicious trio of desserts.

“I can’t rate the food highly enough,” smiles Jenny. “The team at Top Table did an amazing job. Our guests have said it’s the best food they’ve ever had at a wedding.”

Mini bunches of gypsophila were tied to the chairs at this barn wedding in Cheshire The couple chose a rustic semi naked wedding cake at this barn wedding near Manchester

Evening Celebrations

As day turned to evening, Jenny and Tom danced their first dance to a Brian Fallon cover of ‘Teenage Dream’ by Katy Perry before a live band played rock ‘n’ roll classics to get the party started.

“We didn’t choreograph our first dance,” says Jenny. “We just jumped about and sang the lyrics to each other – our kind of relaxed and fun first dance!”

The happy newlyweds enjoy their first dance at this barn wedding at Sandhole Oak Barn in Cheshire

Bacon butties were an excellent choice for evening dining, although the bride didn’t manage to eat one.

“I couldn’t fit one in. I was too busy on the dancefloor,” she laughs. “Tom said they were good, so a thumbs up from us!”

Jenny’s favourite moment:

“It was all perfect. We really enjoyed the ceremony, we loved the food, the band were fantastic and our speeches were a real highlight.”

The happy newlyweds have a giggle at their wedding ceremony at Sandhole Oak Barn

Advice from the Bride

“Take it in your stride. Make sure you and your partner get want you want from the planning and the day. Enjoy the whole process and look back on it as a happy time rather than getting stressed about tiny things that don’t really matter.”

The happy couple take a stroll alongside the lake at this waterside wedding venue in Cheshire

If you are considering Sandhole Oak Barn for your celebration, we would love to show you all this wonderful wedding venue has to offer. Please get in touch  with our friendly events team to discuss your plans, receive a brochure or arrange a visit.

Photography courtesy of © Dominic Hinde Photography

Lisa and Adam – A Romantic Autumn Wedding September 18, 2024

Lisa and Adam – A Romantic Autumn Wedding

Dreaming of a barn wedding venue and with a November wedding date in mind, Lisa and Adam took one look at Sandhole Oak Barn and knew it was the place for them!

“It had everything we wanted,” smiles Lisa. “A gorgeous barn with a wonderful view over the lake and accommodation for our guests just a few seconds away. We immediately cancelled all other viewings!”

Lisa and Adam's Romantic Autumn Wedding at Sandhole Oak Barn Lisa and Adam's Romantic Autumn Wedding at Sandhole Oak Barn

Setting the Scene

Lisa and Adam both love going to the cinema and spent their first date at the movies, so it was an obvious choice for a wedding theme.

Focusing on a colour scheme of blue, purple and silver, the table centres were made from old cinema reels, invitations looked like cinema tickets and the seating plan was designed as a screening board in a vintage cinema!

Flowers by Green Earth Flowers completed the look.

Lisa and Adam's Romantic Autumn Wedding at Sandhole Oak Barn Lisa and Adam's Romantic Autumn Wedding at Sandhole Oak Barn

Bridal Style

Lisa was stunning in a dress with a beautiful bodice from Wed2B. She accessorised with delicate jewellery.

“I had two pairs of shoes – heels for the day and trainers for the evening,” says Lisa. “Both were the sparkliest I could find!”

Adam looked the part in a blue suit from Marks and Spencer while the bridesmaids also found the perfect dresses in Wed2B.

Lisa and Adam's Romantic Autumn Wedding at Sandhole Oak Barn

“Their hair combs were from Etsy and included little blue gems which added some sparkle to their outfits,” says Lisa.

Lisa and Adam's Romantic Autumn Wedding at Sandhole Oak Barn

Wedding Day Details

Following the romantic wedding ceremony at Sandhole Oak Barn, a magician from Rockstar Magic delighted the newlyweds and their guests.

Serving a vegan wedding breakfast, guests enjoyed a vegetable risotto starter followed by cottage pie and a trio of desserts that included key lime pie, chocolate brownie and cheesecake.

“It was delicious,” says Lisa. “Everyone particularly loved the desserts and knowing that we were catering for every dietary requirement made us enjoy everything that bit more.”

Lisa and Adam's Romantic Autumn Wedding at Sandhole Oak Barn

Evening Celebrations

As the evening party commenced, Lisa and Adam danced their first dance to ‘All of Me’ by John Legend and a DJ filled the dancefloor.

Vegetable and bean burgers were an exceptional choice for evening dining, served with a variety of relishes.

Lisa and Adam's Romantic Autumn Wedding at Sandhole Oak Barn

Lisa’s favourite moment:

“When I walked in to the venue and we saw each other for the first time that day. And our first dance, when we’d made it through most of the day without any fluff ups!”

Lisa and Adam's Romantic Autumn Wedding at Sandhole Oak Barn Lisa and Adam's Romantic Autumn Wedding at Sandhole Oak Barn

Advice from the Bride

“Accept the support offered by friends and family, and make sure you’re happy with your suppliers as they’ll make everything run smoothly. If you have a great team, you can sit back and relax to enjoy the day.”

Lisa and Adam's Romantic Autumn Wedding at Sandhole Oak Barn

If you are considering Sandhole Oak Barn for your celebration, we would love to show you all this wonderful venue has to offer. Please get in touch with our friendly events team to discuss your plans, receive a brochure or arrange a visit.

Photography courtesy of © Andy Griffiths Photography

Wedding Dresses to Suit a Rural Wedding September 18, 2024

Wedding Dresses to Suit a Rural Wedding

If you’re planning a rural wedding, look for a wedding dress that perfectly suits both the style of your day and your surroundings, whether you plan on marrying in a church, in Sandhole Oak Barn itself or outside beneath the Clock Tower. We hope these ideas might offer a little inspiration.

Shapes and Styles

Nature and the great outdoors lead us away from formal, structured styles to soft, romantic shapes, from traditional A-line skirts to Grecian style or Empire line gowns.

We love this ethereal dress from Halfpenny London and the beautiful Maeve gown from Temperley London, simply perfect for a barn wedding.

Wedding Dresses to Suit a Rural Wedding

Full skirts and beautiful backless gowns are just the thing.

Wedding Dresses to Suit a Rural Wedding
Image Courtesy of Project Valentine

All About Fabric

Your rustic wedding dress should be ethereal and floaty. Look out for gorgeous gowns in tulle, lace and chiffon that really embrace the bohemian style.

The ‘Sophia’ gown from Temperley London is made from chiffon with a tulle bodice. The hand-stitched leaf and vine trellises are stunning. Meanwhile, lace is hard to resist and looks fabulous in the great outdoors. ‘Santa Monica’ by Claire Pettibone features beautiful embroidery and a hint of sparkle.

Wedding Dresses to Suit a Rural Wedding

In the Detail

Bring the outside in with beautiful floral details, from embroidery to applique and beading. You might even add a delicate colour to reflect the season.

The floral embroidery and applique butterflies on the back of the ‘Pappilon’ gown by Claire Pettibone are a perfect example. Meanwhile, ‘Alexa’ from the La Vie en Rose collection by Stephanie Allin features breathtaking beaded detail on a soft blush lining.

Wedding Dresses to Suit a Rural Wedding

Alternatively, you might choose a classic gown and add detail to your veil or shoes.

Wedding Dresses to Suit a Rural Wedding
Image Courtesy of Christopher M Couture

The Perfect Accessories

Finally, don’t forget the perfect details that can make all the difference to your look. From floral crowns to cowboy boots, sometimes the perfect accessory is all you need.

There’s nothing quite like a floral headdress to complement your rural wedding style.

Wedding Dresses to Suit a Rural Wedding
Image Courtesy of Lisa Aldersey Photography

Wedding Dresses to Suit a Rural Wedding
Image Courtesy of Adam Riley Photography

Choose pretty shoes with lace detail or be bold with some cowboy boots!

Wedding Dresses to Suit a Rural Wedding
Image Courtesy of Shane Webber Photography

Finally, capes, shawls and veils add to the romance of the country style.

Wedding Dresses to Suit a Rural Wedding
Image Courtesy of Luke Slattery Photography

If you have yet to visit Sandhole Oak Barn, we would love to show you all we have to offer. Simply call our friendly team on 01260 540007/224215 or contact us online.

Helen and Matthew – A Delightful Spring Wedding September 18, 2024

Helen and Matthew – A Delightful Spring Wedding

Dreaming of an amazing wedding venue and a day filled with fun, Helen and Matthew fell in love with Sandhole Oak Barn as soon as they saw the view.

“We visited on a clear January day and when we saw the barn, the clock tower and the lake, it was just spectacular,” says Helen.

The happy couple pose for wedding photo in front of the lake at Sandhole Oak Barn

Setting the Scene

Setting a May wedding date, the happy couple chose a delicate colour scheme of dusky pink, soft grey and gold accents. Letting the beauty of the venue speak for itself, décor was kept to a minimum with beautiful flowers and a few touches of sparkle such as gold place names and a sequin guest book table.

“Flowers were my favourite thing to choose,” smiles Helen. “We wanted eucalyptus to give the soft grey leaf and we had several coloured roses with hints of jasmine and love in the mist. The tables all had a different type of container on – tall candelabra and flat containers, designed to mirror the iron lighting in the barn.”

The Oak Barn is set up for the wedding breakfast at Sandhole Oak Barn wedding venue

Bridal Style

The bride was stunning in an elegant gown by Justin Alexander from Lu Lu Browns.

“I loved the soft silhouette of it,” smiles Helen. “I also loved how unique the lace on the top of the dress was and felt it fitted with the theme I had in my head.”

She completed the look with a cathedral length veil and nude pink shoes.

The bride wears an elegant wedding dress with a lace top and the groom wears a navy 3-piece wedding suit at Sandhole Oak Barn

Meanwhile Matthew looked the part in a navy three-piece suit from Autograph at Marks and Spencer, accessorising with a Liberty print tie from Mrs Bow Tie.

Finally, Helen’s bridesmaids were stunning in dusky pink Florence style dresses from Rewritten.

The bridesmaids wear pretty dusky pink bridesmaid dresses at this wedding at Sandhole Oak Barn

Wedding Day Details

Following their romantic ceremony, drinks and canapés were served on the terrace in front of the lake.

Wedding guests enjoy mingling under the Clock Tower at Sandhole Oak Barn in Cheshire

Sitting down to dine, the wedding breakfast commenced with baked asparagus wrapped in smoked salmon followed by chicken breast and, for pudding, a trio of desserts.

“Everyone commented on how great the desserts were,” continues Helen. “Why have one when you can have three!”

Evening Celebrations

As day turned to evening, Helen and Matthew danced their first dance to ‘Perfect’ by Ed Sheeran.

“The song came out about two weeks after we got engaged and I knew it was the right one for us,” says Helen. “We surprised our guests and learned a dance routine as we both have two left feet!”

The happy couple take to the dancefloor at their wedding evening at Sandhole Oak Barn

Following a set by Matthew’s dad and his friend, live band, ‘The Rush Band’ filled the dance floor. Delighting their guests once more, pizza proved a popular choice for evening dining – a wonderful finale to this magical spring wedding.

Helen’s favourite moment:

“After the ceremony, we both loved seeing all our friends and family and everyone being so happy and excited for us.”

The happy newlyweds walk back down the aisle as guests throw confetti over them

Advice from the Bride

“It’s your day. Don’t feel bad if you can’t pick lots of people to be in your bridal party. True friends will understand.”

If you are considering Sandhole Oak Barn for your celebration, we would love to show you all this wonderful venue has to offer. Please get in touch with our friendly events team to discuss your plans, receive a brochure or arrange a visit.

Photography courtesy of © Anthony Higginson Photography

The Shepherd’s Hut at Sandhole Oak Barn September 18, 2024

The Shepherd’s Hut at Sandhole Oak Barn

While our Dressing Room is the perfect space for you to prepare for your wedding day… what about your partner? Introducing our second preparation space, the stylish new Shepherd’s Hut at Sandhole Oak Barn.

For some time now, we’ve felt a little sorry for the partner of the bride or groom at Sandhole Oak Barn who doesn’t get to prepare for the day in our beautiful Dressing Room. After all, everyone deserves some space to relax on the morning of their big day!

With that in mind, 2019 has seen the addition of a traditionally designed Shepherd’s Hut. Built by a talented local craftsman, it is perfectly positioned in a tranquil space by the lake and set away from our Dressing Room, so there’s no chance of bumping into your partner before your ‘I do’ moment.

The shepherds hut wedding preparation room at Sandhole Oak Barn in Cheshire

Clad with larch timber and reached along a bark footpath, the hut blends beautifully into its natural surroundings. Inside, you’ll find a bar, stools, a fridge, bucket chairs and a full length mirror as well as a separate loo, Wi-Fi and French doors opening out on to the lake. It’s cosy but expertly designed, offering space for four people to get ready before the ceremony.

The breakfast bar and stools in the Shepherds hut at Sandhole Oak Barn wedding venue in Cheshire Comfy tub chairs and fridge in the shepherds hut partner preparation room at Sandhole Oak Barn

Put simply, it’s a fantastic space for your partner to relax with his or her attendants. Toast the day ahead with a beer or a glass of fizz, enjoy the view and the tranquil setting and wander over to the Oak Barn or the Clock Tower for your ceremony.

The cool groomsmen apply the finishing touches to their look in the Shepherds Hut preparation room at Sandhole Oak Barn

And, while the Shepherd’s Hut is closed for the rest of the day, it does make a rather pretty backdrop for your photographs.

If you have yet to visit Sandhole Oak Barn, we would love to show you all we have to offer. Simply call our friendly team on 01260 540007/01260 224215 or contact us online.

Our Favourite Winter Wedding Photos September 18, 2024

Our Favourite Winter Wedding Photos

Winter weddings can undoubtedly be some of the most romantic, with exceptional wedding food and festive wedding ideas. And, while you might not spend a lot of time outside, the great outdoors still proves to be a wonderful backdrop to your photographs. Let’s take a look back on some of our favourite winter wedding shots for your barn wedding.

Effortlessly elegant and wonderfully romantic, this photo from the wedding of Hannah and Matthew has to be one of our all-time favourites. We love the view over the lake, the adoring gaze of the newlyweds, Hannah’s fabulous dress and the stunning colours in her bouquet.

The happy couple pose for a winter wedding photo with the lake in the background at Sandhole Oak Barn
Image Courtesy of GN Photo

Remember to ask your photographer to take a photograph of the Oak Barn set for dinner before your guests arrive. This photograph is a wonderful reminder of the barn awaiting its guests, beautifully lit and with a Christmas tree in the background.

The wedding barn looks festive with fairy lights around the beams and the Christmas Tree for decoration.

Thoughtful details make all the difference, and table centres don’t need to cost the earth. We love this shot of a festive table centre, lit by candlelight.

The couple chose festive table centre-pieces at this winter wedding at Sandhole Oak Barn in Cheshire
Image Courtesy of Lee Brown Photography

Capture every detail of your day, even down to the canapés! These fish and chip cones look delicious and we’re happy to see the bride and groom in the shot too!

Delicious fish and chip cones were served at the wedding evening at this Cheshire wedding venue
Image Courtesy of Stephen McGowan Photography

This roast turkey main course is set to delight. A professional photographer will be able to take lovely photos of your wedding food – it’s all part of the memory.

Mouth-watering wedding food was served at the wedding breakfast at this wedding venue in Cheshire
Image Courtesy of HBA Photography

Nothing sets the winter scene quite like a photograph of the surrounding countryside. At Sandhole Oak Barn, we couldn’t be more proud of our breath taking location, and the sheep!

The sheep in the snowy fields at Sandhole Oak Barn rural wedding venue

As the sun sets, it creates the most glorious colours on the winter frost, across the lake and the Clock Tower.

Sandhole Oak Barn looks beautiful in the snow with the sunset in the background

Another beautiful interior shot of the barn set for the wedding breakfast. The combination of red and white with an abundance of foliage at Hannah and Matthew’s wedding was simply stunning.

The oak barn is beautifully decorated with festive wedding flowers and decorations at Sandhole Oak Barn
Image Courtesy of GN Photo

There’s nothing quite as inviting as a festive winter table. The red napkins and pretty foliage really stand out on the crisp white table linen.

The tables were decorated with festive deep red napkins and winter wedding flowers at this barn wedding in Cheshire
Image Courtesy of GN Photo

This photograph highlights the beautiful lighting in the Oak Barn. Elegant and stylish, illuminated baubles on the table centre trees are a fantastic idea.

The happy couple pose for an evening wedding photo on the verandah at Sandhole Oak Barn
Image Courtesy of Lee Brown Photography

With the illuminated letters in the background, this rustic table swag is the perfect complement to a countryside wedding barn.

The top table has been decorated beautifully for a winter wedding at Sandhole Oak Barn in Cheshire
Image Courtesy of Richard Milnes Photography

It’s great to see guests mingling and chatting outside the barn and enjoying the great outdoors, no matter what the season. This photograph highlights a happy moment, with the lake in the background and an atmospheric sky above.

Wedding guests enjoy mingling in the winter sunshine at Sandhole Oak Barn
Image Courtesy of Carpe Diem Photography

As this happy couple look forward to their new lives together, we can all appreciate that look of love! With the lake in the background and an exquisite pink hue from the sunset, it couldn’t be more romantic.

The happy couple pose for a beautiful wedding photo in front of the misty lake
Image Courtesy of Adam Riley Photography

Make the most of the dark winter evenings with some after-dark photos. This image perfectly captures the romance of the venue and the twinkle of fairy lights.

The happy newlyweds pose for a creative evening wedding photo with twinkly fairy lights in shot at Sandhole Oak Barn
Image Courtesy of Lee Brown Photography

The happy couple pose for a wedding photo on a snowy evening at this wedding venue in Cheshire
Image Courtesy of Joe Bickerton Photography

And finally, don’t forget to take those fun-filled dance floor shots, especially the all-important first dance. This time of year gives you the perfect excuse to hang a sprig or two of mistletoe overhead.

The couple enjoy their first dance at their festive winter wedding at Sandhole Oak Barn
Image Courtesy of Lee Brown Photography

Whether you’re dreaming of a wedding in the spring, summer, autumn or winter, if you have yet to visit Sandhole Oak Barn, we would love to show you all we have to offer. Simply call our friendly team on 01260 540007 /01260 224215 or contact us online.

Spring Ideas for your Rustic Barn Wedding September 18, 2024

Spring Ideas for your Rustic Barn Wedding

The daffodils are in bloom, the sun is shining and we are dreaming of all those glorious spring weddings ahead. Let’s take a look at some inspirational ideas for your spring wedding at Sandhole Oak Barn.

Design and Décor

When planning your wedding colour scheme and style, this generous season gives us so much to work with. Embrace the colours of the great outdoors, choosing elegant greens and whites, delicate pastels or vibrant yellows and oranges. The choice is yours!

Rustic style is the perfect complement to Sandhole Oak Barn. Start at the beginning with your ceremony, perhaps adorning chairs ends with pretty flowers or hessian and lace bows. Greet your guests with personalised wooden signage and welcome them through to the wedding breakfast with a co-ordinating table plan.

Stick to neutral coloured table linens but introduce rustic style to your tables with centrepieces sitting on log slices, jam jar vases and candles. The beauty of the rustic look is that it doesn’t have to be perfect. A little creativity and a mixture of styles only adds to the natural, country vibe.

The couple displayed their order of the day on a wooden pallet sign at their rustic wedding at Sandhole Oak Barn
Image Courtesy of Daniel Lloyd Photography

The barn was set up for the wedding ceremony with pretty lace sashes tied to each of the chairs
Image Courtesy of Creative Camera

Rustic crates were used to display the table plan at this spring wedding at Sandhole Barn near Staffordshire
Image Courtesy of Project Valentine

Clear jars of pretty spring wedding flowers are simply perfect for a rustic barn wedding in Cheshire
Image Courtesy of Luke Slattery

All about Flowers

The world is your oyster when it comes to spring flowers. If you like the idea of sticking to elegant whites, roses, gypsophila, peonies and lily of the valley are all in bloom this season. Add country style by including beautiful foliage in your arrangements.

Of course, pastel shades are also dreamy at this time of year, as are the wonderful bright yellows and oranges from spring daffodils.

At Sandhole Oak Barn, delight your guests with flowers at the entrance to the barn, carrying them through to your ceremony and on to your tables. Of course, if you’re planning to marry outside, we hope you’ll also adorn the Clock Tower with some pretty flowers or bunting.

When it comes to rustic style, ask your florist to create that informal, ‘just picked’ look and consider vessels such as milk churns, glass jars and wooden crates instead of sleek glass vases and candelabra.

White roses and hyacinth are the perfect wedding flowers for a spring wedding at Sandhole Oak Barn in Cheshire
Image Courtesy of Lee Brown Photography

This bouquet is a beautiful mix of blue and peach spring wedding flowers and is perfect for a barn wedding
Image Courtesy of Sarah Horton Photography

Sandhole Oak Barn is the perfect venue for a rustic spring wedding near manchester
Image Courtesy of Richard Milnes

An outdoor wedding ceremony is the perfect option for your spring wedding at Sandhole Oak Barn
Image Courtesy of Luke Slattery

An abundance of pretty spring flowers were used to decorate the top table at this rustic wedding at Sandhole Oak Barn
Image Courtesy of Luke Slattery

Food and Drink

We are delighted to work with Top Table as our caterer at Sandhole Oak Barn. They will work with you every step of the way to create a delicious, seasonal menu, whether you like the idea of canapés on the lawn, an informal springtime afternoon tea or an evening barbecue.

Of course, your wedding drinks are also important – perhaps you might consider serving a bespoke seasonal cocktail or a selection of fruit to pimp your Prosecco.

Mouth watering canapes were served at the drinks reception at this spring wedding at Sandhole Oak Barn
Image Courtesy of Project Valentine

Refreshing wedding drinks were served at the wedding reception at Sandhole Oak Barn
Image Courtesy of Richard Milnes

Mouth-watering wedding food was served at this rustic barn wedding in Cheshire
Image Courtesy of Richard Milnes

Treats and Favours

Favours should embrace the style of your wedding and with a country wedding, there is much to choose from.

You might like the idea of giving a non-edible favour. At this time of year, seeds or potted plants are a lovely thought – perhaps something for your guests to grow in their gardens that will remind them of your special day.

Mini plants are great as spring wedding favours as are small bottles of infused oils for your Sandhole Oak Barn wedding
Images Courtesy of Joshua Zuckerman Photography & Live View Studios

When it comes to edible treats, homemade favours suit the rustic style, from jars of jam or chutney to miniature pots of honey or even homemade damson gin or infused oils.

And, of course, we all love chocolate. Spring gives you the opportunity to delight your guests with an Easter treat.

Mini chocolate eggs make perfect favours for a spring wedding at Sandhole Oak Barn
Images Courtesy of David Jenkins Photography & Emma Stoner Photo

Bridal Style

With rustic style, look for a dress with a romantic, bohemian edge. Lace is a lovely choice for spring and you might even consider a delicate colour (blue is bang on trend for the 2019 bride!).

As always, the weather can be unpredictable so, if you’re planning on an outdoor ceremony, it could be a good idea to add a jacket or wrap that you can take off afterwards.

And, of course, when it comes to accessories, the spring wedding lends itself perfectly to fresh flowers in the form of bridal crowns and hand-tied posies.

A pretty lace off the shoulder wedding dress is the perfect choice for rustic wedding at Sandhole Oak Barn
Image Courtesy of Mr & Mrs W

A long sleeved lace wedding dress is perfect for keeping the chill off at your spring wedding at Sandhole Oak Barn
Image Courtesy of Richard Milnes

Blush prink bridesmaids dresses are the perfect choice for a spring wedding at Sandhole Oak Barn in Cheshire
Image Courtesy of Luke Slattery

Small bunches of gypsophila make the perfect spring wedding hair accessory for your barn wedding at Sandhole Oak Barn
Image Courtesy of Richard Milnes

If you have yet to visit Sandhole Oak Barn, we would love to show you all we have to offer. Simply call our friendly team on 01260 540007 or 01260 224215 or contact us online.

In the meantime, we hope you’ll also be inspired by the rustic April wedding of Jessica and Patrick.

Katie and Lewis – A Colourful, Fun-Filled Easter Wedding September 18, 2024

Katie and Lewis – A Colourful, Fun-Filled Easter Wedding

The April wedding of Katie and Lewis was a glorious celebration. With fabulous colour scheme, great entertainment and an exceptional menu, their guests were in for a treat at Sandhole Oak Barn.

Setting their wedding date for April 1st which also happened to be Easter Sunday, Katie and Lewis were looking for a venue in Cheshire where they could host a fun-filled celebration. Sandhole Oak Barn was the third venue they visited and they knew it was the one.

“It had the relaxed atmosphere we were hoping for with breath-taking views and an equally exquisite barn interior,” smiles Katie. “We also wanted to have the bar within the same room so there wasn’t a separation between guests in the evening. Sandhole ticked all the boxes.”

The couple chose bright and bold colours for their wedding and Sandhole Oak Barn The barn was decorated with colourful lanterns and sashes at this spring wedding at Sandhole Oak Barn in Cheshire

Setting the Scene

An Easter theme ran throughout the day, along with an abundance of fabulous colour. An Easter egg hunt proved popular with all the children and colourful balloons featured in the stationery and also in a balloon release on the day. Colour was also introduced through sashes on the chairs and a wonderful ambience was created using 25 hanging lanterns in the dining area with candle lanterns during the ceremony.

Harry Potter played a part in the day with the cake sitting on top of a pile of books, signage on the back of the chairs and Butter Beer served as one of the reception drinks.

“We wanted the whole day to be a celebration,” explains Katie. “The Easter egg hunt, colourful dresses, balloons, sparklers, bubbles and our multi-coloured cake certainly helped toward that!”

The couple created a display using personalised wooden crates at their barn wedding at Sandhole Oak Barn Wedding guests were able to type their wedding wishes on an old typewriter at this Spring wedding at Sandhole Oak Barn The couple had chosen personalised wooden egg cups filled with chocolate eggs for their Easter wedding at Sandhole Oak Barn The wedding cake was made from three white iced tiers decorated with colourful fondant bunting and displayed on the couples’ favourite books

All About Flowers

With all this fabulous décor, very little was needed when it came to flowers. An artificial garland adorned the entrance to Sandhole Oak Barn, and Katie and her bridesmaids carried pretty bouquets of fresh blooms.

The wedding flowers were a stunning mix of beautifully bright coloured blooms and lush foliage at this barn wedding in Cheshire

Bridal Style

The beautiful bride wore a Sincerity gown with 50’s style skirt and separate lace top.

“I had it shortened to tea-length and it had buttons down the back,” says Katie. “The bodice had a lace overlay which was perfect for me – I’m not massive on embellishments or fuss.”

She completed the look with her cousin’s veil, Rachel Simpson shoes and Swarovski jewellery.

Meanwhile, Lewis looked the part in a blue suit from Marks and Spencer.

“We chose it with ease as it had a matching grey version for the groomsmen to wear,” says Katie. “It’s also something he’ll love wearing again. The ties and pocket squares were made from the same material as the bridesmaid dresses.”

Finally, Katie’s bridesmaids were stunning in dresses made by her talented colleague. Silk with lace overlay, they were designed to suit all four bridesmaids and the end result was simply fabulous.

“The ladies danced all the way to their beds in them which I was thrilled about,” smiles Katie.

The bride wore a pretty lace top dress with 50’s style skirt for her spring wedding at Sandhole Oak Barn near Manchester The Groom and Groomsmen wore three-piece wedding suits with grey tweed jackets and waistcoats at this Cheshire barn wedding. The bridesmaids each wore a different coloured dress with their own style shoes and a bouquet to match at their wedding The bride and groom say their vows at their wedding ceremony at Sandhole Oak Barn in Cheshire

Wedding Day Details

Following their romantic ceremony at Sandhole Oak Barn, a drinks reception was held on the terrace.

Moving in to dine, pate was served to start with roast beef as a tantalising main course. For pudding, a trio of mini desserts were all delicious. Katie and Lewis also catered for vegetarian and vegan guests with a spinach and pine nut lasagne and a vegan chilli.

The happy couple walk back down the aisle following their wedding ceremony at Sandhole Oak Barn The happy newlyweds pose for a fun wedding photo on the tractor at Sandhole Oak Barn in Cheshire

Evening Celebrations

With a passion for music, the newlyweds delighted their guests with wonderful entertainment throughout the day, from a pianist playing during the ceremony and welcome drinks to a fabulous live band, The Daisy Chains, in the evening.

“I knew the band would be incredible as I had worked with most of the musicians, but we were pleased that our guests seemed to agree.” says Katie. “They are a five-piece girl band playing rock and roll – what’s not to like!”

The newlyweds took to the dance floor for their first dance to ‘Better Together’ by Jack Johnson, and the party started. An outdoor barbecue was just the thing for evening dining, alongside a full cheese board and delicious wedding cake.

“The day was joyful, playful, run and relaxed,” Katie laughs. “If adults wanted to play dress up in the photo booth – great! If kids wanted to run wild – let them! We danced to 50s swing and rock music all night long.”

The happy couple have their first dance as their guests watch on at this barn wedding in Cheshire A live band played at the wedding evening reception at this barn wedding in Cheshire The bride and groom pose for a wedding photo by the entrance to the wedding barn at Sandhole Oak Barn in Cheshire

Katie’s favourite moment:

“Walking down the aisle with my dad and seeing Lewis standing there… and the food!”

The bride walks down the aisle with her father before the wedding ceremony at Sandhole Oak Barn

Advice from the Bride

“Spend money on the things that are important to you and don’t worry what other people have done at their weddings. Most of all… have fun.”

The happy newlyweds pose for a photo by the lake at this rural wedding venue in Cheshire

If you are considering Sandhole Oak Barn for your celebration, we would love to show you all this wonderful venue has to offer. Please get in touch with our friendly events team to discuss your plans, receive a brochure or arrange a visit.

Photography courtesy of © Vox Photography

Why Sandhole Oak Barn is the Perfect Venue for All Seasons September 18, 2024

Why Sandhole Oak Barn is the Perfect Venue for All Seasons

Whether you’re dreaming of a summer wedding with an outdoor ceremony or have your heart set on a cosy winter celebration complete with candlelight… you’ll find that Sandhole Oak Barn is the perfect wedding venue throughout the year. Here are just a few of the reasons why!

1. The Ceremony Options are Fabulous

At Sandhole Oak Barn, we’re delighted to offer you the opportunity to marry either inside or out. Both spaces are delightful, from the atmospheric oak barn itself with views over the lake, to the idyllic Clock Tower, resting on the shores of the lake. Exclusively yours on your special day, we’ll keep an eye on the weather forecast so that you can plan your ceremony accordingly.

The bride and groom say their vows at their wedding ceremony at Sandhole Oak Barn in Cheshire
Image Courtesy of Suzy Wimbourne Photography

The bride and groom say their vows under the Clock Tower on a beautifully sunny day at this barn wedding venue in Cheshire
Image Courtesy of Luke Slattery

2. The Countryside is Exquisite

Set amidst acres of rolling countryside, Sandhole Oak Barn boasts glorious views at every turn. This ever-changing scenery offers natural beauty all year round, a magnificent backdrop to your day whether you gaze out across sunshine and greenery, or experience the delights in store in the autumn and winter months.

The happy newlyweds have their wedding photos taken in the surrounding fields at the rural wedding venue in Cheshire
Image Courtesy of Shane Webber Photography

The happy couple pose for a wedding photo by the lake on their winter wedding day at Sandhole Oak Barn
Image Courtesy of Adam Riley Photography

The stunning view over the lake at Sandhole Oak Barn creates the most beautiful wedding photos

3. The Spaces are Varied… and Versatile

At Sandhole Oak Barn, the options are endless. While you might choose to marry outdoors under the Clock Tower in the summer, for an autumn or winter wedding, with its heaters it becomes a wonderful area to sit out and enjoy the evening calm. Whether you’d like to have drinks and canapés on the verandah or around the elegant bar, wander in the gardens or stay cosy in the warmth of the barn, the choice is yours.

The verandah at Sandhole Oak Barn with its lake views is the perfect spot for you and your guests to mingle in the sunshine
Image Courtesy of Lee Brown Photography

Wedding guests enjoying mingling in the sunset at this summer wedding at Sandhole Oak Barn
Image Courtesy of Pixies in the Cellar

The bride and groom enjoying mingling with their guests at their wedding at Sandhole Oak Barn in Cheshire
Image Courtesy of Shane Webber Photography

4. The Décor is Neutral

When it comes to the style of your wedding, we hope you’ll consider Sandhole Oak Barn a blank canvas upon which you can impart your own style. If you’re planning an autumn wedding, rich, jewelled tones look stunning here, while the delicate pastels and soft whites popular in spring and summer months also suit the space perfectly. Of course, you might even like to have a sparkly Christmas wedding, complete with tree!

The top table was adorned with rustic wedding decorations at this winter wedding at Sandhole Oak Barn in Cheshire
Image Courtesy of Richard Milnes

The card table at this spring wedding was decorated with lots of soft white wedding decorations at Sandhole Oak Barn in Cheshire
Image Courtesy of Richard Milnes

The oak barn was decorated with twinkly fairy lights and a Christmas tree at this festive winter wedding at Sandhole Oak Barn
Image Courtesy of Tobiah Tayo Photography

5. There’s No Need to Travel

Come sunshine or showers, at Sandhole Oak Barn you can celebrate your entire day, from your civil ceremony through to your evening party, in one place. And, with Sandhole Farm B&B just next door, you can even spend the night!

The happy newlyweds pose for a wedding photo by the love letter lights at this summer wedding at Sandhole Oak Barn
Image Courtesy of Sarah Horton Photography

The bride and groom pose for a photo at the entrance to the oak barn at Sandhole Oak Barn
Image Courtesy of Project Valentine

If you have yet to visit Sandhole Oak Barn, we would love to show you all we have to offer. Simply call our friendly team on 01260 540007 or 01260 224215 or contact us online.