Rachael and Matthew were searching for the perfect wedding venue in Cheshire for their October wedding. When they came across Sandhole Oak Barn, they knew it was the one.

“The rustic look and warm, homely feel drew us in and made us never want to leave. We loved the sheer amount of space and the fact that it would suit our autumnal wedding theme.” – Rachael

Setting the Scene

Embracing the season, the happy couple wanted to create a warm, cosy vibe and chose rich colours, ambient lighting and bright flowers. Pumpkins made perfect centrepieces and decorations incorporated conkers, acorns, pine cones and autumn leaves alongside hessian table runners.

“We chose a rich aubergine purple and a bright orange to reflect our favourite elements of autumn – the colours of the leaves.” – Rachael

Fairy lights adorned the beams, candles sat on the table and fabulous illuminated ‘LOVE’ letters stood on the dance floor.

“My parents carved a ‘Mr & Mrs’ pumpkin to be lit in the evening which was a lovely touch.” – Rachael

Looking the Part

In the two years running up to the wedding, Rachael lost eight stone in weight in order to feel wonderful in her wedding dress. Unsurprisingly, choosing that dress was an emotional experience. The beautiful bride fell in love with a dress from the Catherine Parry collection by Welsh designer Maria Ryan.

“I loved the delicate lace details, the corseted back and the huge train. I felt magical.” – Rachael

This dream dress suited the religious ceremony, with a bolero and veil that could be removed for the evening.

Matthew looked the part in a pale grey morning suit from Moss Bros with cream waistcoat and purple tie. Meanwhile, the three bridesmaids were elegant and stylish in long plum coloured gowns from D’Zage.

Wedding Day Details

Rachael and Matthew held their ceremony at the beautiful church of St James & St Paul in Marton, just five minutes from Sandhole Oak Barn. Returning back to the barn on a vintage red bus, guests enjoyed Winter Pimm’s and delicious cocktails before moving in to dine.

Top Table created an exquisite wedding breakfast, starting with butternut squash and sweet potato soup, moving on to a chicken main course and for pudding… toffee apple crumble with custard.

“Matthew is an avid crumble fan so it was a must for our dessert! The stand out dish for me was the starter – so warm and rich.” – Rachael

Evening Celebrations

After the sun went down, the newlyweds danced their first dance to ‘Everything I Do’ by Bryan Adams. A photo booth captured special evening moments and the guests went outside to create some amazing shots using sparklers. Pork rolls and chip cones made a great evening feast and the happy couple and their guests dance the night away.

“It broke up the evening a little and showed the guests the beautiful exterior of the barn illuminated at night” – Rachael

Rachael’s Favourite Moment:

“Taking photographs net to the lake beside the Clock Tower. It was just Matt and I with our photographer. We snuck moments like this throughout the day to spend time together, relishing getting married!”

If you’re looking for more autumn inspiration from the Cheshire wedding venue of Sandhole Oak Barn, take a look at Lorna & Paul’s beautiful day.

Photography courtesy of © HBA Photography

With a beautifully delicate colour scheme, stylish décor, pretty blooms and an abundance of fabulous entertainment, the June wedding of Verity and Sam was a delight for all.

With two daughters of their own, Verity and Sam were looking for a beautiful barn venue where they could create a relaxed, family atmosphere.

“With 26 children at our wedding, we wanted everyone to have fun,” says Verity. “As we got married after having children, it was important to us that the day was as much about them as it was about us.”

They finally came across their perfect wedding venue in Cheshire – Sandhole Oak Barn.

“We fell in love with the venue straight away,” smiles Verity.

Setting their June wedding date, the planning began!

Setting the Scene

With so many children at the wedding, the happy couple created a spectacular family fun day. Nannies were hired to look after the children and a circus skills workshop took place after the ceremony. A magician entertained younger guests during the speeches and all the catering was ‘child friendly’, even down to snack boxes being served on arrival.

When it came to the décor, Verity enlisted the creative team at Precious Things.

“Jacklyn completely understood our vision and created the perfect setting for our day,” explains Verity. “We chose a colour scheme of gold and blush with large candelabra centrepieces, fairy lights and tea lights.”

All About Flowers

Calla lilies, peonies, astilbe and roses adorned the tables while flowers also featured above the entrance to Sandhole, on the cake cables and, of course, in the bouquets.

Looking the Part

Verity was stunning in an elegant, slim-fitting gown by renowned designer David Fielden, accessorising with a blue topaz bracelet from her mother as a ‘something blue’.

“I attached a gold charm which was my nana’s for ‘something old’,” says Verity. “My dad bought me some Pandora earrings as my ‘something new’.”

Meanwhile, Sam looked the part in a pale grey suit from a local tailor.

Verity’s best friend, Charlotte was her one adult bridesmaid and chose a beautiful two-piece skirt and top in pink, while the couple’s two daughters and their niece wore pretty flower girl dresses from Monsoon.

Wedding day details

Following their civil ceremony at Sandhole Oak Barn, canapés and fizz were served while a pianist entertained the newlyweds and their guests.

The wedding breakfast began with a trio of starters moving on to lamb with seasonal vegetables and a trio of desserts.

“The food was really important to us and Top Table did a fantastic job,” smiles Verity. “We wanted to make sure we chose something for everyone.”

As the sun went down, a buffet was served and Verity and Sam took to the dance floor for their first dance to ‘You’ve Got The Love’ by Florence & The Machine – a wonderful finale to an undoubtedly special day.

Verity’s favourite moment:

“It’s so hard to choose – I loved every minute! Getting ready, walking down the aisle… the speeches were very special and our first dance. Also, seeing our children having such an amazing time.”

Advice from the bride:

“Keep things in perspective. It’s only one day – don’t let it take over your life and do make sure you enjoy it. Roll with it and don’t worry about the details.”

Photography courtesy of © Neil Parry Photography

If you’re on the look out for a barn wedding venue in Cheshire, you need look no further. Widely considered one of the best wedding venues in the North West, Sandhole Oak Barn offers an abundance of exciting opportunities for exceptional weddings.

Versatile Ceremony Spaces

It’s important to have a fabulous space for your wedding ceremony. After all, it’s the focus of your entire day. Sandhole Oak Barn offers two idyllic areas for your ‘I do’ moment, whether you choose to marry inside The Oak Barn or to say your vows outside beneath The Clock Tower. Both boast spectacular views over the lake. The Clock Tower sits on the shore and features a paved area for guests to sit. Meanwhile, the ceremony space in The Oak Barn features magnificent high ceilings, oak beams, a grand piano and adjoining verandah. Whichever you choose, we know you’ll love it!

Welcoming Guests in Style

After your ceremony has taken place, at Sandhole Oak Barn we know you’ll be eager to greet your guests with a stylish drinks reception. The verandah and surrounding gardens give you the opportunity to appreciate the wonderful countryside setting, mingling with your guests while enjoying drinks and canapés. If the weather isn’t warm enough to enjoy the great outdoors, simply invite your guests to enjoy the idyllic ambience of the Ceremony Area of the Oak Barn before sitting down to dine.

An Exquisite Wedding Breakfast

When it’s time to celebrate, The Oak Barn is an exceptional space for your wedding breakfast. Seating up to 140 guests and separated from the ceremony area, the design is elegantly rustic with neutral colour scheme and wrought iron chandeliers. A wall of French doors leads out on to the verandah, offering your guests wonderful views over the countryside and filling the barn with natural light. Spacious, versatile and stylish, it’s the perfect setting for your special day.

Capturing Memories with Beautiful Photography

Your wedding photographs are likely to become one of your most treasured possessions and, at Sandhole Oak Barn, you’ll find plenty of beautiful backdrops for those special shots. Many couples feature the lake and The Clock Tower in their romantic photos and we hope you will also wander around the pretty, landscaped gardens.

Exceptional Dining Experiences

Whether you’re planning a lavish fine dining experience or have your heart set on a vintage afternoon tea, we’re delighted to work alongside Top Table as our approved caterers at Sandhole Oak Barn. With extensive, award-winning experience of event co-ordination, they will create a bespoke menu to suit your day and delight your guests.

Exclusively Yours

Of course, all this and more are just for you on your wedding day. At Sandhole Oak Barn, you won’t bump in to another bride or share the space with other wedding guests. We’re delighted to offer this unique place exclusively for you to celebrate your perfect wedding day.

If you would like to see Sandhole Oak Barn for yourself, we would be delighted to show you around. Simply call our friendly team on 01260 540007/224215 or get in touch online.

Photography courtesy of © Project Valentine, Creative Camera, Luke Slattery Photography, Lee Brown Photography, Gareth Newstead Photography, Tobiah Tayo Photography and Lisa Aldersey Photography

A wedding with wow factor is a must when planning a seasonal celebration. If you are embracing the idea of a winter wedding, then the stunning interior of Sandhole Oak Barn is packed with possibilities. A welcoming and light-filled space to enjoy a magical reception with friends and family.

Image Courtesy of Lee Brown Photography

Festive flourishes and natural materials enhance the interior of the barn; seasonal foliage alongside the oak beams creates the perfect setting for a rustic Christmas theme. Hessian and pinecones with reams of festive ribbons, trimmings and glass can create your own fairy tale at this most wonderful time of the year.

Images Courtesy of Lee Brown Photography

The large windows in the Oak Barn flood the space with natural light, especially important in the winter months, and also provide panoramic views of rolling Cheshire countryside. Whether it is a sparkling frost, velvet coverings of snow across the fields, or a shimmering winter sun low across the lake – Sandhole really is a winter wonderland for your ceremony and reception.

Image Courtesy of Lee Brown Photography

Your guests will enjoy the best seasonal produce on offer, provided by our approved award-winning caterers Top Table, as they relax in the cosy surroundings of our medieval Oak Barn – a twist on the traditional roast, a chic rustic feast perhaps, or even a fusion of festive ideas from around the globe. Consider the intimacy of informal service with platters, antipasti or delicious tapas. Good food is at the heart of any celebration with your nearest and dearest.

The bar team can ensure that a glass full of festive cheer, spiced cider, or even a mulled wine will keep your guests warm this winter. More traditional couples might find that the season inspires them to ‘pimp’ their Prosecco. A retro theme for food and drink can bring a blast from Christmas past… Babycham anyone?

Image Courtesy of Tesco

Image Courtesy of Lee Brown Photography

Everyone loves a white Christmas, and naturally a white wedding… at Christmas the possibilities are endless in the season of sparkle and colour. A boho bride can be inspired by the colours of autumn fading into winter, while a Vintage bride can wrap herself in fur and sparkling lace. For the Well Groomed amongst us – guys can take inspiration for their attire from this idyllic rural setting with suits of tweed, warm wools and country chic.

Image Courtesy of Lee Brown Photography

When it comes to décor the blank canvas of Sandhole Oak Barn can take on any theme. If your approach is ”less is more” then the bare beauty of the neutral dining room and ceremony area comes to life with the lightest touch of festive sparkle.

The key themes of Christmas are fun, family and friends, so make sure to consider them in the detail of your plans. Handwritten place settings will personalise your day, like the gifts under the tree. Retro games to entertain your guests will in turn bring out everyone’s inner ‘big kid’ as if it were Christmas morning, or even provide a table theme.

Images Courtesy of Lee Brown Photography

If you’re planning a barn wedding and considering a winter ‘I do’, we would love to show you all we have to offer. Call our friendly show round team on 01260 224215.

If you think this stunning barn wedding venue is the one for you, take a look at Why Couples Fall In Love With Sandhole Oak Barn and see if you do too!

Setting a late December wedding date, the week before Christmas, Hannah and Matthew were on the lookout for their dream wedding venue in Cheshire. As soon as they came across Sandhole Oak Barn, they felt inspired by its rustic vibe and stunning scenery.

“I could see all my Pinterest boards coming to life and knew it was the perfect venue,” smiles Hannah. “We also loved that our friends and family could stay overnight at Sandhole bed and breakfast with its beautiful interior décor.”

Setting the Scene

The happy couple chose burgundy, red and gold as their festive colour scheme, with hues of pink and rose gold to soften the look.

A rustic style was adopted, creating a woodland effect with lots of greenery and beautiful flowers.

“I love the rustic look and anything boho so wanted to incorporate as much of this style as possible,” explains Hannah. “There was also an element of Christmas but I wanted to keep that simple with some gold accessories and sparkle as well as some Christmas music and scented candles.”

Sequin tablecloths, candles, lanterns and photographs set this romantic scene alongside log place names and creative stationery and signage created by the mother of the bride.

All About Flowers

Beautiful blooms played an important role in this special day, with ivy and eucalyptus bringing the outside in with an abundance of green. Black Baccara roses and other shades of pinks and whites were also featured.

“I wanted it to look like the flowers had been freshly picked from a field,” explains Hannah. “I think the florist created this look perfectly.”

Outside, flowers decorated the beam above the entrance as well as the clock tower. Inside, the aisle was lined with lanterns adorned with flowers and beautiful arrangements featured around the registrar’s table.

The tables were decorated with a combination of high and low table centres.

“The tall arrangements were almost like trees with hanging baubles and tea-lights,” says Hannah. “The low ones were made of log stacks and jars filled with flowers. It was a romantic, relaxed atmosphere with a hint of Christmas.”

Bridal Style

The beautiful bride wore “Vania’ by Pronovias – simple yet elegant with beautiful attention to detail.

“It was the first dress I tried on and nothing after that measured up!” smiles Hannah. “I knew it reflected me and my personal style.”

Hannah accessorised with Tiffany jewellery and fabulous silver and gold shoes by Jimmy Choo.

Meanwhile, Matthew looked dashing in a navy wool three-piece suit from Next with tie and pocket square from TM Lewin, a personalised pocket watch and a watch by Daniel Wellington that was a gift from Hannah.

Last but certainly not least, the bridesmaids were stunning in deep red chiffon gowns by True Bridesmaid.

Wedding Day Details

Following their civil ceremony, drinks and canapés were served outside on this mild December day.

Moving in to dine, parsnip and leek soup was followed by steak and ale pie with mash. And, for dessert, a choice of sticky toffee pudding or apple crumble.

“Our cake was made by my auntie,” explains Hannah, “a four-tier naked cake decorated with fruit. The florist also added some flowers.”

“We had singing waiters between the main course and pudding who surprised everyone when they started to sing,” she laughs. “They really got everybody into the party spirit.”

As day turned to evening, the newlyweds danced their first dance to ‘Live Forever’ by Noel Gallagher and a DJ filled the dance floor.

Hannah’s favourite moment:

“Definitely walking down the aisle and seeing Matty and our little boy, Leo.”

Advice from the Bride

“Relax and take things in as it goes in a flash. Also, keep a makeup bag of essentials behind the bar for touch ups!”

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 © GNPHOTO.CO.UK

From warming welcome drinks to exquisite wedding breakfast ideas, the talented caterers and bar team at Sandhole Oak Barn offer some inspirational thoughts for your winter wedding food.

Winter Welcome Drinks

Following your romantic ceremony, it’s a lovely idea to greet guests with a hot cocktail, whether you like the idea of warming winter Pimm’s, mulled wine or hot apple cider. You might even decide to offer boozy hot chocolate spiked with a liqueur of your choice. Fruity cocktails, sparkling apple juice and elderflower and mint mocktails make perfect non-alcoholic options.

“If fizz is your choice of tipple, we can decorate it with a few cranberries in the glass,” says Sara Griffith from the bar at Sandhole Oak Barn. “A rosé fizz looks even prettier with cranberries… or perhaps you might have an Aperol Spritz.”

Images Courtesy of Cat Mayer Studio and A Healthy Life for Me

Say it with Canapés

When it comes to winter canapés, Yioda Boyd at Top Table Weddings and Events suggests shots of spicy butternut squash soup, filled miniature Yorkshire puddings or brie and cranberry filo baskets. We also love the thought of their sticky honey and wholegrain mustard glazed chipolata sausages – delicious treats to delight your guests.

Image Courtesy of Stephen McGowan Photography

Image Courtesy of Top Table

Image Courtesy of Top Table

Your Wedding Breakfast

Moving in to dine, a winter menu offers an abundance of seasonal delights. You might consider a soup for starter, honey roasted parsnip being a particular favourite of Top Table. For your main course, roast turkey with all the trimmings is an absolute crowd pleaser at this time of year, or you might opt for beef bourguignon or fillet steak, often considered too ‘heavy’ for a summer wedding but a wonderful choice for winter.

Image Courtesy of HBA Photography

Image Courtesy of HBA Photography

Image Courtesy of Top Table

As for pudding… “Sticky toffee pudding is a firm favourite,” says Yioda. “Our homemade Christmas pudding ice cream goes down a storm, as does bread and butter pudding or apple and toffee crumble with custard.”

Image Courtesy of Top Table

Image Courtesy of HBA Photography

If you’re looking for the perfect wine, while you might choose something a little more full-bodied at this time of year, the most important thing is to select something you like that goes well with your food.

Evening Treats

As day turns to night, welcome evening guests with a Cranberry Fizz or a non-alcoholic Sandhole Sundowner (a Tequila Sunrise without the tequila!). “Beer tokens are a great idea if couples would like to buy evening guests a drink of their choice,” says Sara.

Image Courtesy of Stephen McGowan Photography

Fish and chip cones or turkey and cranberry barm cakes are a popular choice when it comes to evening food, as are hot food options such as chilli and rice. And, of course, this is a great time of day to serve your wedding cake.

Whatever you choose, we hope you enjoy every moment of this most special occasion.

To learn more about wedding catering at Sandhole Oak Barn, please give our friendly team a call on 01260 224215 or visit our online catering page.

From meeting at primary school at the age of five, to walking down the aisle years later, the winter wedding of Kirsty and Richard at Sandhole Oak Barn is as romantic as can be.

The Perfect Venue

Kirsty worked at this wonderful Cheshire wedding venue as a teenager and she and Richard went to secondary school together just down the road, so it seemed like the perfect venue for their wedding!

“When we visited Sandhole together for the first time, we instantly loved it,” says Kirsty. “From the lakeside setting to the beautiful oak features. It felt warm and relaxing – the place for us.”

Theme of the Day

Setting the date four days before Christmas, a wintery theme with a hint of festivity seemed like a lovely idea.

“We loved the natural beauty of the Oak Barn and its surroundings,” says Kirsty. “With that in mind, we tried to complement nature with simple touches such as lights around the oak beams. We didn’t want to ruin the natural charm of the venue.”

The theme of birds and hearts was introduced on the invitations and throughout the rest of the stationery and décor. Kirsty made the stationery and most of the decorations herself, spending her weekends and evenings being creative as the wedding day approached. Painted, personalised wooden hearts hung on the back of each chair as a wedding favour and she also painted wooden bunting and wooden table confetti. Pine cones were incorporated in to table lanterns to add to the wintery theme, and there was a ‘festive photos’ props box to add in a little fun! When it came to colour, luxurious purple and silver gave that dreamy winter style.

All About the Dress

Kirsty’s beautiful gown was from Mori Lee.

“My sister spotted it, and I fell in love it from the moment she sent me a link to it,” smiles Kirsty. “Within a week, I had tried it on, and I loved the style and the beautiful back detail. When I found out that Mori Lee is based in New York, it seemed even more perfect – we got engaged in New York in 2015!” To complement her dress, Kirsty wore crystal earrings, and a necklace that Richard gave her the day before the wedding. “I made my Swarovski crystal and pearl bracelet myself, and also made matching designs for the bridesmaids to add a touch of winter sparkle.”

As for the Bridesmaids…

Kirsty had four bridesmaids – her sister, Richard’s sister and two flower girls, Amy and Emma.

“Pip and Katie, our sisters, wore purple, while the flower girls wore white dresses overlaid with silver embroidery.” Kirsty explains. ‘
“They all accessorised with silver shoes and faux fur ivory jackets. They looked gorgeous!”

Grooms Style

In keeping with the bridesmaids and the colour scheme, Richard and his ushers wore grey Pierre Cardin suits with silver detail and purple ties.

Beautiful Blooms

The bridal bouquet consisted of Kirsty’s favourite flowers – ivory and purple freesias, ivory roses and Calla lilies. ‘Freesia’s remind me of being little and visiting my great grandmother’ she smiles. The bridesmaids carried smaller versions of her bouquet, while corsages featured ivory roses with a sparkly brooch. As for the buttonholes… an elegant ivory rose with a purple freesia. Wonderful flowers around the venue included a large arrangement for the top table, another for the cake table and a third for the sweetie table.

The Wedding Breakfast

A drinks reception in The Oak Barn with Champagne, mulled wine and non-alcoholic fruit punch kept guests cosy on a chilly winter’s day, while a pianist set the scene. For the wedding breakfast, Kirsty and Richard wanted a menu that reflected the season and also included some of their favourite foods. With that in mind, they started with fishcakes, moving on to roast chicken with dauphinoise potatoes. To finish, a trio of desserts included sticky toffee pudding, white chocolate cheesecake and a warm chocolate brownie.

Let Them Eat Cake!

The wonderful three-tier cake was adorned with sugar flowers in varying shades of purple, with two purple birds as a cake topper. Tasting as fabulous as it looked, the top tier was lemon cake, the middle victoria sponge and the bottom a chocolate cake with chocolate ganache.

Evening Celebrations

Let the party commence! A DJ entertained guests throughout the evening and filled the dance floor. When it came to food, guests were treated to delicious crispy bacon barm cakes, cheddar and onion paninis and chip cones with salt and vinegar. Romance was in the air as the newlyweds danced their first dance to ‘Everything’ by Lifehouse.

Kirsty’s Special Moments

‘The ceremony, being surrounded by our family and friends and being greeted by beautiful afternoon sunshine as we left the church.’

Photography courtesy of Dark Peak Photography

Rebecca and Graeme introduced beautiful spring colours to their February wedding at this idyllic wedding venue in Cheshire, with delicate hues of ivory and pink. Love was in the air!

The Perfect Venue

Having visited a few venues, Rebecca and Graeme fell in love with Sandhole Oak Barn straight away.

“The surroundings and the lake are simply stunning, along with the wonderful barn. Its neutral tones were a real blank canvas to bring our vision to life,” says Rebecca. “I only discovered the amazing bridal dressing room on our second visit – that would have been enough to seal the deal for me!” The couple loved the team at Sandhole and at Top Table catering immediately, and started to put their plans in place.

Theme of the Day

The happy couple chose a classic, elegant and pretty wedding in shades of pale pink, ivory and cream.

“While our wedding was in February, we wanted to welcome in spring rather than choosing wintery colours,” explains Rebecca. “Sandhole just oozes romance without having to try, so we decided to enhance it with some elements from different styles.” Beautiful floral arrangements and candles adorned the Oak Barn, alongside a few more personalised extras such as photographs of Rebecca and Graeme over the years, love letters and bunting.

All About the Dress

The bride wore a dress from Mori Lee, classically beautiful with its ball gown style, but with a layered skirt and dramatic beaded back lending a contemporary edge.

“I knew Graeme would love its simplicity,” says Rebecca. “And he really did love it!’ Vintage style Swarovski jewellery was the perfect accessory, alongside shoes from Jenny Packham.

As for the Groom and the Bridesmaids…

Graeme and his ushers wore dark blue suits from Debenhams, chosen for their elegant style and the fact that they will hopefully be worn again. The navy blue was a lovely complement to the pale pink Mori Lee dresses worn by Rebecca’s adult bridesmaids, her two sisters. As for the flower girls…

“They wore dresses from BHS and really stole the show,” smiles Rebecca. “Especially with their faux fur-lined Rocha John Rocha boleros and pink flower crowns!”

Beautiful Blooms

The fabulous flowers were a combination of tulips, roses and anemones in shades of ivory, cream and blush pink. The bridal bouquet was hand-tied and finished with blush ribbon and pearl pins, while the bridesmaids carried smaller versions of the same arrangement. A collection of garden blooms made up the buttonholes, while the venue looked simply stunning. Two urns on plinths decorated the ceremony space, with an eclectic mix of bottles, vases, tea lights and fresh flowers adorning the registrar’s table. For table centres, some tables featured tall vases filled with foliage and blush and ivory blooms. Around the base of each vase were glass tea lights standing on a mirror plate. Other tables were decorated with a selection of pretty containers from jam jars to bowls filled with flowers. ‘It was truly stunning’ says Rebecca. ‘The room took my breath away on the day.’

The Wedding Breakfast

Following their reception with drinks and canapés, guests sat down to the wedding breakfast. Farmhouse cheddar and broccoli soup started the meal, followed by steak and ale pie and a trio of desserts.

“We wanted some heartwarming food as we knew it was going to be a cold day,” says Rebecca. “Top Table Catering were superb.”

Let Them Eat Cake!

Pink and ivory cup cakes decorated with roses looked pretty as a picture, with a small top layer cutting cake. The mouthwatering fillings included vanilla, New York cheesecake and cherry bakewell.

Evening Celebrations

The DJ from Hipswing created a fabulous party vibe, also entertaining guests with large light up love letters, a sparkly dance floor and casino tables. ‘A photo booth from Drunken Monkey was another highlight’ smiles Rebecca. After the first dance to ‘You Make it Real’ by James Morrison, guests danced the night away. A selection of warm meats and rolls, a delicious cheese board and hot chips was a great choice for informal evening dining.

Rebecca’s Top Tip

“When you’re planning your wedding, cherish every moment and trust your instincts. If something feels right, don’t be afraid to go for it. Book the venue, buy the dress that gives you ‘that feeling’ and enjoy every second!”

Photography courtesy of © Mick Cookson Photography

The October wedding of Lorna and Paul embraced all that is wonderful about tying the knot at Sandhole Oak Barn. With delicious food, beautiful décor and their family and friends… it was a romantic day to remember.

The Perfect Venue

With friends and family travelling from all over the country, Lorna and Paul were on the lookout for a venue where the ceremony and reception could be held under one roof and where there was accommodation nearby. “Sandhole Oak Barn was just perfect,” says Lorna. “Close to major road links but set in beautiful countryside with just sheep in the field next door for neighbours… it really felt like our own hideaway!”

Theme of the Day

The happy couple decided to embrace the autumnal season and use natural materials to bring the outdoors in. Shades of golden yellow, burnt red, oranges and greens were introduced throughout, predominantly using wood, leaves, pumpkins and flowers.“For our table centres, we used slices of tree trunk,” explains Lorna. “Paul’s dad grew a bumper crop of pumpkins which we then hollowed out before giving to the florist to fill with flowers. I also made leaf lanterns by collecting glass jars and sticking leaves to them.” Ribbon and fairy lights adorned the barn beams to add extra colour and Lorna’s mum dried pretty leaves, which were then scattered around the tables along with some conkers. To complete the look, two beautifully carved pumpkins (created by a neighbour) sat in the entrance with lit candles after dark.

Paul and Lorna’s passion for mountain biking also added to the theme of the day, through the stationery and cake design.

All about the dress

Lorna wore ‘Bia’ by Pronovias, a stunning princess dress with shoulder straps, a tulle skirt and applique lace detail.

“I absolutely loved my dress!” she smiles. “It was one of the first dresses I tried on and it felt great. I especially loved the neckline.” To show off this elegant neckline, Lorna decided not to wear a necklace. Instead, she wore pretty pearl drop earrings from her mother, and a delicate gold bracelet that had been a gift from Paul. In the evening, she added a diamante belt for a little sparkle.

As for the Groom and the Bridesmaids…

Paul wore a completely bespoke suit from Frank Roston, with he and Lorna choosing the material, colour and cut together. “The level of personalisation was great,” says Lorna. “He even has the date of our wedding embroidered inside the suit jacket!”

Lorna didn’t have any official bridesmaids, but her friends Katie and Lisa were there to help every step of the way and organised her amazing hen party.

Beautiful Blooms

The wonderful flower arrangements were created by a family friend, sticking to the autumnal colour scheme. Lorna’s bouquet featured roses, cockscomb and eucalyptus leaves and were hand tied to create that ‘just picked’ look. All the ladies in the wedding party had matching corsages with roses, berries and leaves. The buttonholes were a real favourite of Lorna’s with a burnt orange Calla lily combined with a thistle, leaves and berries.

The Wedding Breakfast

Following the civil ceremony, guests enjoyed welcome drinks and canapés in The Oak Barn, spilling out on to the lovely courtyard overlooking the lake. An abundance of delicious canapés were served, before guests sat down for dinner. For the main course, Lorna and Paul wanted to encourage interaction on the tables, especially where some guests had never met before. “We chose chicken and leek pie, which was served whole to the table,” says Lorna. “There was a designated ‘chef’ on each table who then served the rest of the guests.” For pudding, a trio of tempting desserts was a winning choice.

Let Them Eat Cake!

“My mum’s friend made the cake, and it was amazing!” smiles Lorna. The three tiers consisted of fruit cake, chocolate cake and an orange cake – all delicious. When it came to design, it was adorned with sugar leaves and pumpkins, and given a mountain bike theme with the addition of two metal bikes as a cake topper.

Evening Celebrations

Keen to get everyone on the dance floor, the newlyweds entertained guests with a DJ in the evening. Treating the taste buds once again, bacon sandwiches were served, with halloumi panini’s as a vegetarian option.

And Another Thing…

Thoughtful favours gave a personal touch. Lorna and Paul made chili-infused oil and tomato chutney from homemade ingredients. As well as looking delicious in their pretty jars, the colours suited their wedding theme perfectly!

Lorna’s Top Tip

“Take your time to walk down the aisle. I was in such a rush, Dad and I were at the front before the music had really got going!”

To see how beautiful Sandhole Oak Barn can look in the winter as well as autumn, check out Victoria and David’s Winter Wonderland Wedding. There’s plenty in there to get you inspired!

Photography courtesy of © Andrew Wade Weddings

Alison and Joseph’s spring wedding at Sandhole Oak Barn was a wonderful combination of rustic style, creative décor, delicious food and happy guests!

“We wanted to be able to make the day personal to us and we fell in love with Sandhole Oak Barn on arrival. While we visited other venues, Sandhole was always going to be the place where we wanted to celebrate our wedding day.” – Alison

The happy couple chose a rustic wedding theme to complement the feel of the venue and their own home style. This meant plenty of hessian, chalk boards, lace and pretty pastels.

“Joseph and I decided to involve our families in the planning. My brother made the table decorations and, with the help of my mum and bridesmaids, we designed all the floral arrangements for the day.” – Alison

Even the place names were a labour of love – finding a photograph of each individual guest and painting their name on the bottom.

When it came to colours, as Alison is from Scotland, her family tartan was introduced in shades of navy and green. In addition to this, a more delicate hue of nude pink was chosen for the bridesmaid dresses. Of course, we mustn’t forget the elegant wedding cake, a three-tier delight adorned with wedding flowers and the family tartan and offering a tier of chocolate, one of lemon and another of fruit.

Looking the part

Alison found her dream dress at Swan Brides in Congleton. Having visited four boutiques and tried on a number of gowns, she chose a design by David Tutera.

“The dress wasn’t dissimilar to others I had seen on Pinterest but it had more sparkles! It’s good to try on something you might not have naturally chosen.” – Alison.

The stylish bride completed her look with a pearl bracelet and earrings and shoes by Rainbow Club at John Lewis. Delicate nude-coloured dresses with silver embroidery were chosen for the bridesmaids, who looked stunning on this pretty spring day.

“My sister has beautiful, natural red hair and I wanted a colour that would show this off.” – Alison.

Finally, the striking tartan was introduced in the groomswear. Joseph looked the part in a navy suit with waistcoat and tie in Alison’s family tartan, while his ushers wore the same colours but with plain waistcoats.

“They looked almost as good as my bridesmaids!” – Alison.

Wedding day details

Following the ceremony at St Peter’s Church in Prestbury, the newlyweds and their guests arrived at Sandhole Oak Barn – the guests in a London Routemaster bus and the happy couple in a cool Campervan!

They were greeted with delicious canapés, Prosecco and a ‘Pimp Your Prosecco’ stand with strawberries, mint and cordial. Moving in to dine, caterers Top Table delighted with a delicious menu of goats cheese salad followed by fillet of beef with dauphinoise potatoes and a trio of miniature desserts.

“Joseph and I have different tastes when it comes to pudding – so the trio of desserts was perfect!” – Alison.

As day turned to evening, a band called ‘PYT’ filled the dancefloor and Top Table served a selection of cheeses alongside carved meats, breads and chutneys.

Alison’s top wedding tip:

“Enjoy all of it – even the planning, even when you’re stressed! It will all be worth it. When the day comes, savour every moment and be sure to take a minute with your new husband to just step back and take it all in.”

“I know most people say this but I wouldn’t have done anything differently. It was just how we wanted it to be. I just wish we could do it again!”

Photography courtesy of © Joanna Eardley Photography