Author: Adam Allaker
Wedding Breakfast Inspiration #marriedatmillbridge
(Lead Image: Photographer: Benjamin Wheeler, Florist: Blush Floral Design, Balloons: Bubblegum Balloons)
Here at Millbridge Court, our Dining Barn features high vaulted ceilings with rustic beams, a floor-to-ceiling glass wall, wooden floors & soft white walls; the end result of which is a light, airy, neutral space, which allows for each & every celebration to look truly unique & reflect the style of the couple.
With there being so many possibilities available to Millbridge Court couples, we are always so in awe of the varying ways in which the Barn is transformed throughout the seasons by the wonderful industry professionals who are entrusted to bring these visions to life. The neutral canvas ensures that every styling detail stands out, so whether there are low or high centrepieces, giant balloons suspended from the beams, coloured linens, round tables or banquet tables, no detail goes unnoticed.
In this blog post, we are sharing images from a handful of our 2018 Wedding Days, showing an array of setups, styles & floral arrangements in the hope that it provides all of you lovely readers with some Millbridge Court Wedding Day Inspiration.
Happy Monday & happy browsing! Xx
A Few Things We Love About Summer Weddings
Can you believe it’s September this week?! Nope, us neither! It feels like our first Outdoor Ceremony of the Season was only a few weeks ago, these sunny months really have flown by.
The Summer so far here at Millbridge Court has been so wonderful & it has been an honour to host such incredible celebrations that have involved so many amazing industry professionals which we have had the pleasure of working alongside. Each celebration has also been so unique to the happy couple themselves which is always such a delight for us all to see.
We have already been lucky enough to receive beautiful imagery from a handful of talented photographers who have joined us throughout the past four months, so we thought we would put a selection of those pictures together for you all to illustrate just a few things that we love about Summer Weddings here at Millbridge Court!
Feel free to browse for lots & lots of Summery Wedding Inspiration & here’s to the rest of this gorgeous 2018 Summer Season! X
10 Questions… with Philippa Sian Photography
Lead Image: Claire Graham Photography
Find out more about Millbridge Court
- What first made you interested in Photography?
I’ve always LOVED taking photos – for me it was not an action it was the fact that I was documenting things I wanted to remember. I always had a small ‘handbag camera’ that would come everywhere with me; to parties, events, festivals, weekends away and holidays. I was known for taking photos wherever I went, so much so that my friends and family stopped worrying about bringing their cameras as they knew I’d have it covered.
- Why did you decide to become a professional photographer within the Wedding industry?
I went to my first wedding about 8 years ago, and fell in love with the day, from the tiny details, to the tablescapes and the happy moments. As someone who loved taking photos you can imagine how in my element I was! After the wedding I thought, gosh I’d love to photograph weddings with a ‘real camera’. Back then didn’t think anything of it until after a few more weddings, I found that some of the photos I’d captured on my ‘handbag camera’ were being framed by these couples alongside their professional photos. For me that was the moment when I thought, yes, I can do this! So I borrowed a second hand Canon SLR camera and had an intensive 1-2-1 lesson with a pro to understand how to use it. From there I began helping at weddings, simply to carry the main photographer’s bags and to gain experience. I went on to shoot for the same photographer, as well as an Asian photographer and then some lovely female photographers to gain as much experience as possible before starting out on my own. It’s been the most incredible and rewarding journey.
- How would you describe your ‘style’ of photography?
- What is your favourite part of a Wedding Day?
- What top tips & advice do you offer your couples on their Wedding Day? (from a both a photography perspective & otherwise).
- What do you love most about Millbridge Court?
- When couples book you as a photographer what extras do you provide in addition to the on the day photography & the plethora of gorgeous images following the big day?
my service is not just about delivering lovely photographs but about personal touches as I truly believe that it’s the little things that count. So from booking right through to the wedding day and even after, I love to make my couples feel special as little things arrive through their mail box. I also always make myself available to my couples if they ever need any help or advice with anthing; I’ve even helped a bride buy her wedding shoes in the past! After their wedding day I invite them over for a glass of fizz to watch their wedding photos back with me – the perfect end to a personal service.- What details &/or moments do you enjoy capturing the most?
- Outside of Weddings, what else do you love shooting?
- Who are your 3 favourite Wedding Industry Professionals/ brands to follow on Instagram?
A huge thank you to the fabulous Philippa for sharing all of those wonderful insights with us, especially in a time that is always so busy for those in the industry. Here is a tiny glimpse at some of the gorgeous setups, details & couples shots she’s captured over the past few years here at Millbridge Court!
The Bridal Changing Suite
Last month, it wasn’t just the Millbridge Court grounds seeing some exiting changes! We were also busy re-designing our Bridal Changing Suite & we’re so thrilled to be unveiling all of the new additions with you all.
As you’ll see below, our interior designer has combined strong colours & textures, with warm natural materials, most obviously in the newly laid wooden floor. Additional pop’s of colour can be found in the hand woven Maimana Kilim Rug, sourced from Afghanistan & our full length mirrors now have added bulbs to create an even more glamorous feel to this intimate space.
Now for the two most exciting changes… firstly, we have created a private changing area for the Bride by adding a wall & curtain rail (featuring a rather gorgeous floral curtain) to the back wall which still features our vintage hook & also has a brand new full length mirror inside. This adds privacy in a beautiful space & also makes that dress reveal even more special. Lastly, we have also installed a private bathroom for ultimate ease & convenience throughout those morning preparations, complete with purple tiles & luxury bathroom products.
So, without further a do… here are a few snapshots of those exciting changes! We hope you adore the new additions & adjustments just as much as we do. Xx
The Hideaway Secret Garden At Millbridge Court
Throughout April, there was something rather exciting going on at the end of the Millbridge Court grounds. After months of planning, landscape gardeners got to work planting Laurel hedging, ferns & installing an incredible pair of vintage gates in front of our Bridal Suite, the Hideaway… & now that all of their hard work is complete, we’re excited to introduce to you all, The Hideaway Secret Garden!
A botanical sanctuary just beyond our flower meadow that creates that extra bit of magic & privacy for our couples on their Wedding Day & the morning after the celebrations. A tranquil & peaceful space to be able to enjoy all to themselves.
We hope that all of our MBC Couples love it just as much as we do! Here are a few sneak peeks to give you a taster of whats beyond the gates. Xx
And we love that we have already received pictures of photographers using the Secret Garden as a backdrop for gorgeous couples shots… here are L&S captured by The Springles last week.
And J&T captured beautifully by Joanna Nicole Photography earlier in May!
We can’t wait to see many more over the course of the Summer!
10 Questions… With Kalm Kitchen’s Pete Holder
1) What is your Role at Kalm Kitchen?
My role in Kalm Kitchen, as a wedding events manager, is to create a calm and unforgettable planning experience, leading up to the big day. We are passionate about providing creative and delicious food for your wedding day and providing an exceptional service throughout the journey, going that extra mile, with meticulous attention to detail. On the event day we will execute your plans to perfection and bring everything we’ve discussed to life.
2) What made you want to be an Event Manager at Kalm Kitchen?
My work life has always consisted of running events and the joy and accomplishment I get from them are next to none. My best friends got married in April 2017, before I had started with Kalm Kitchen, and I was heavily involved with the planning process. I knew from then that this was the industry I wanted to be in. Meeting new faces has always been a pleasure of mine and making my client’s dreams come true only makes it better. Kalm Kitchen had impressed me so much with their styling, food menu and work ethic, that as soon as I heard they were looking for an event manager, I didn’t think twice about applying for my dream role.
3) What do you love the most about being a part of the Kalm Kitchen family?
The word family is exactly what I would describe Kalm Kitchen to be. We all have our quirks and strengths, which I feel really develop us in our roles. The owners of Kalm Kitchen, Jen and James, have been such an inspiration to me and I cannot thank them enough for the time and effort they put into all of us, which then reflect in our events. Kalm Kitchen has not only given me great colleagues to work with, but friends for life!
4) What tips & advice do you give to couples during their planning journey?
I would tell them to enjoy every moment of it. I think it is natural to want perfection for the big day, which can add too much pressure and cloud the enjoyment of talking through their ideas.
5) What is your favourite part of a wedding day?
Seeing our couples for the first time in the morning has always been so special for me. I love that initial catch up and excitement you share together. It is such a lovely moment that I wish I could bottle up every time.
6) What new wedding food trends should couples be looking out for over the coming year?
Food stations are an amazing statement for the big day. The “wow factor” that comes with them offers such a great experience for guests and something delicious they do not expect. Our Lemonade and Lollipop stand works perfectly for a hot summers day and looks incredible! Or, for the evening, our Honeycomb and Hot Chocolate station satisfies those sweet cravings and brings everyone together as the night draws in. Complete Bliss!
7) If you could choose your dream Kalm Kitchen menu, what would it be?
I love the sharing experience for the wedding breakfast. I would have a middle eastern sharing board with an abundance of dips, breads and my personal favourite, halloumi!
As a vegetarian I would have our delicious arancini ball, which is available in an abundance of flavour and accompaniment combinations, to suit every taste. Mine would be a mozzarella, basil pesto and pine nut arancini on a bed of caponata and fresh basil. Dreamy!
A sharing dessert is a must! I am a chocolate fiend, so mixing this together with salted caramel and layers of meringue to create a slice at the table pavlova is perfection. You can nominate one person per table, and dress them in aprons, chef hats and moustaches, to collect the pavlova and serve the guests on their table. These are the little touches that create lasting memories of your special day. You just know it’ll be a talking point for years to come.
8) What do you love most about Millbridge Court?
I know I can speak on behalf of all our couples getting married at Millbridge Court, that this is the dream venue. The balance of contemporary design and country home works perfectly and instantly makes you feel at home when you walk through the front door.
9) What are your favourite linen and glassware colour combinations at the moment?
I am in love with vintage oak trestle tables paired with our luxurious urbane napkin range, it effortlessly really brings an outdoor feel inside. Having a spot of colour in the water glass elevates the whole design of the table. An idea would be to speak with the florist to match the colour palette of the flowers and unite all the elements together in harmony. My personal favourite is to have a bronze coloured water glass with a chalk urbane napkin as showcased in the most recent May tasting evening.
Chalk glassware & urbane napkin featured at our Tasting Evening
Flowers: Lavender Hill Company, Photographer: The Springles
10) Who are your three favourite Wedding Industry professionals/brands to follow on Instagram?
@natspaperstudio is a must for stationary lovers. I am in love with her designs, and her “Crazy Cat” charm just adds to the personality of her amazing work
@bubblegumballoons Their installations are the work of dreams. With a huge range of clients under their belt, they have proven that balloons are stylish, luxurious and most importantly fun!
@kindredxstylingbyjen showcases creativity and adventure. If you want to feel inspired by the latest trends and interiors to elevate your style, Jen is your girl.
Here’s the Lovely Pete, in action
Photographer: Millie & Belle
#mbcspringpreview2018
Last Sunday, we hosted our Annual Spring Preview & what a gorgeous preview it was, thanks to the amazing MBC Partners that joined us; creating inspiring displays & chatting away with our lovely MBC couples.
Showcasing stunning tablescapes in our Dining Barn were Alice (Meadowfolk), Carrie (The Topiary Tree), Katie (Blackberry & Bloom) & Gill Pike who each created such varied arrangements, from the rustic to the bold & beautifully blowsy… there was something for everyone. We had amazing wooden banquet tables & cross back chairs provided by Academy Furniture Hire & each table was complimented by coloured glassware from Crystal Hire.
The beautiful flowers weren’t just confined to the Dining Barn with Gill Pike showcasing her breathtaking foliage Moongate Arch in our Ceremony Barn, the perfect backdrop to any Ceremony & Carrie Macey created a statement urn arrangement outside the Millbridge Court entrance, a wonderful way brighten up a rainy day!
Further brightening up the grey day was Laura from Laura’s Paper Heart who serenaded our guests so beautifully throughout the event.
In our Bridal Changing Suite we had the amazing Carolanne Armstrong & Sharon Roberts doing Express Hair Styling & Make Up Sessions for our Brides. Such a wonderful opportunity to ask these very knowledgeable & talented ladies any questions & to trial a hairstyle/make up look for their Big Day.
Showcasing gorgeous Wedding Cakes were Andi Freeman & Melissa ( Thirty One Cakes) who also had delicious testers for our couples to try & the even more tasty treats were provided by Kalm Kitchen who circulated Canapes, yummy bowl food & they also put together yet another incredible Patisserie Boutique, with added foliage & Spring Flowers from Blackberry & Bloom.
We had MBC Partners Philippa Sian Photography, Jon & Laura from VLA Wedding Photography, Neale James & Sophie Duckworth showing our Brides & Grooms the phenomenal Wedding Days they have captured at Millbridge Court over the years. Thank you also to Ash Videography & Chris & Amy from W4 Wedding Films for not only joining us, but for putting together really beautiful videos of Sundays Event (you can find these on our Instagram & Facebook page).
Thank you so much to everyone that came to our Preview, we hope that you all had a really wonderful time & left truly inspired for your Wedding Day.
Xx
Stunning Summer Wedding Day #marriedatmillbridge
When the likes of MBC Partners Philippa Sian photography, Bubblegum Balloons & Bex from Blush Floral Design are brought together for a Wedding Day, we just know that the Venue will look utterly breathtaking & that every last detail will be captured so perfectly… & J+T’s Wedding Day turned out to be just as spectacular (if not even more spectacular) than we had anticipated.
The gorgeous florals & styling details started from the entrance with Bex creating cascading floral arrangements which overhung the doorway & these beautiful touches continued throughout the Barns & into the gardens. The Archway in to the Arbor Garden was adorned with blush, pink & white blooms; white rose petals lined the aisle & two elegant arrangements situated in copper vases framed the Arbor. The perfect styling and backdrop for a Summer’s Wedding Ceremony!
J+T’s vision for their Wedding Breakfast came to life so wonderfully. The Bubblegum Balloons installation of giant pink metallic & peach balloons along the beams of the Barn was such a showstopper & extra touches such as Glimmer & Thread’s sequin table runners & glamorous Louis chairs (provided by Academy Furniture Hire) created such a luxurious look. Adding to that luxury was Bex who created abundant dome centrepieces bursting with peonies, hydrangeas, roses & eucalyptus.
The amazing Philippa Sian Photography was the Bride & Grooms chosen photographer, & as always with Philippa, every last detail & all of personal touches were captured so amazingly & the love & emotion of the day is translated beautifully in her pictures.
Thank you to Philippa for sharing the wonderful images of J+T’s day with us & thank you most importantly to Mr & Mrs Maunders for allowing us to be a part in your incredible celebrations! Wishing you so much happiness in your married lives together! Xx
Suppliers:
Photographer: Philippa Sian Photography
Florist: Blush Floral Design
Wedding Cake: Jo Turner Cakes
Balloons: Bubblegum Balloons
Table Runner: Table Cloth Hire: Glimmer & Threads
Furniture Hire: Academy Furniture Hire
Romantic Summer Wedding Day #marriedatmillbridge
In August of last year, we hosted the utterly stunning Wedding Day of Mr & Mrs Levey & we’re very excited to be sharing a selection of images from E+L’s special day below.
The vision that they had for their Wedding Day was so romantic; a vision that was optimised in their Ceremony flowers which were created by Seventh Heaven Events. Two beautiful floral urn arrangements, abundant with blowsy white, peach & blush flowers framed the Ceremony Barn, they also had delicate floral pew ends & rose petals lining the aisle for E’s entrance. The sensational arrangements didn’t end there, as Seventh Heaven also made abounding centrepieces for each table, the soft colour palette of which went perfectly against the white table linen & metallic vases & candle holders.
The Wedding Cake, which was such a gorgeous focal point in the Dining Barn, was created by Rachelles Cakes. A three tiered, marble effect cake with gold leaf & stunning handmade flowers. Such a delicate, show-stopping design & oh so elegant.
The Bride & Groom thought of every little detail when planning their day & their stationery really took centre stage. Particularly the incredible acrylic engraved ‘Welcome to our Beginning’ sign hung by our bi-fold doors, which was later replaced with their exquisite seating plan, all created by the talented duo that are Two Little Birds.
In charge of capturing all of the beautiful details & the love & emotion of the day was Leanne Jade, who did so perfectly from those special getting ready moments, all the way through until the the first dance. Thank you to Leanne for allowing us to share Mr & Mrs Levey’s day & the biggest thank you of all goes to E+L for allowing us to be a part of what was such a special day. Wishing you so much happiness in your married lives together!
Xx
** Love the look of an August Wedding Day at Millbridge Court? Well we have a newly available August Wedding date here at Millbridge Court this Summer, Friday 10th August 2018, so if you’re yet to find your dream Venue & would like to find out more information, please do get in touch with us on team@millbridgecourt.co.uk. **
Suppliers:
Two Little Birds (Stationery): Website coming soon. Can be found on Instagram under @2littlebirds_
Berkshire Events (Light Up Letters)
Exclusive Valentines Viewing Evening
Are you newly engaged and looking for the perfect Wedding Venue for your Big Day? Well, in celebration of Valentines Day and all of you lovely couples who have just embarked upon your Wedding Planning journey, we have been organising a Valentines Viewing Evening.
Taking place on Thursday 1st March between 5pm-8pm we are offering you the chance to book in an appointment with a member of our experienced Wedding Planning team who will take you on a tour around the Venue and accommodation, offering you the opportunity to have an in-depth chat about all things Millbridge Court Weddings. In addition to your viewing, there will also be members of our fabulous in-house catering team, Kalm Kitchen, on-site who will be available to chat to you about menu options and answer any initial questions you might have regarding your Wedding Breakfast. They will also be showcasing some delicious treats so you can get feel for their style of presentation and try some of their stunning food.
Here at Millbridge Court, we currently have a few gorgeous Summer and Autumn Wedding dates still available for this year, so should you be looking to have a 2018 Wedding, our Valentines Event will be the perfect opportunity to come and visit us as our in-house Wedding Planners will be on-hand throughout the evening to discuss your initial ideas for your day, offer guidance and share details about our amazing suppliers list.
Our viewing evening is by appointment only and couples will be booked in on a first come, first serve basis, so to ensure you don’t miss out, we recommend getting in touch with us as soon as possible to book your preferred appointment time. To do so, please do email us on team@millbridgecourt.co.uk; we very much look forward to hearing from you.
In the meantime, we thought we would share with you all some beautiful pictures of recent Millbridge Court Wedding Days and Events to give you a small taster of all of the wonderful things you can do with the space and to provide you with some gorgeous Wedding Day inspiration. Xx
Philippa Sian Photography, Blackberry & Bloom Flowers
Charlotte Razzell Photography, Gill Pike Florist
Philippa Sian Photography, Blackberry & Bloom Flowers
The Springles, Topiary Tree by Carrie Macey
Philippa Sian Photography, Jay Archer Floral Design
Philippa Sian Photography, Hannah Berry Flowers
Philippa Sian Photography, Jay Archer Floral Design
Charlotte Razzell Photography, Gill Pike Florist
