PLANNING your ceremony
The ceremony is often the heart of a wedding, where the couple formally exchanges vows and make a commitment to one another. It is one of many elements of the day to personalise to you as a couple from where you choose to say your vows, who officiates them and what entertainment is included.
At Farleigh, wedding ceremonies can be held within the house or outside in the surrounding grounds. Whether you have 20 guests or 200, we can provide something intimate inside or you can use our space outside surrounded by countryside.
Choose between the cosiness of open fires, dramatic stairwells and a pianist twinkling on the Grand Piano or views of fields for miles, fresh air and the sound of birdsong. We offer flexibility at every turn. At our fully licenced venue, anything goes.
LOCATION LOCATION LOCATION
OUTSIDE THE CHAPEL
Imagine exchanging vows alongside our ancient Chapel, surrounded by lush greenery and blooming flowers. This outdoor space is ideal for those who wish to embrace the beauty of nature with a romantic ambiance, making it perfect for a spring or summer wedding. With ample space for guests and an aisle leading from the entrance to the House, this picturesque backdrop provides views for miles as you say I do.
CASTLE COURT GARDEN
The oldest part of the estate, the Castle Court Garden is a beautiful, sheltered space that still enjoys natural light flooding in. With an aisle up the middle, surrounded by manicured, shaped topiary trees and lavender it is a magical setting walking to the large original doors. These Gardens are versatile, accommodating both intimate gatherings and larger celebrations.
THE LONG WALK
The clue is in the name, this charming avenue on the Estate is lined with an original stone wall adorned with roses. The pebbled aisle leads to a luscious pergola as guests are seated each side creating a beautifully long walk between your friends and family to say your vows.
THE SUNKEN GARDEN
A unique setting uncovered by one of our 2024 couples, the Sunken Garden provides the House as the grand backdrop to the couple and views out towards one of our largest water fountains. Invite your nearest and dearest into the central space with the rest of the party circling around to create a beautiful intimacy and views for all.
THE SNOGGERY
Aptly named for that first kiss as a married couple, this beautiful ancient awning is in the heart of our Estate. Walk the aisle to a twinkling harp alongside the wisteria-draped House. Enjoy the soft glow of the sun setting. Line the front with a beautiful flower arch. Surrounded by all your closest friends and family. Intimate or extravagant, it will be memorable.
THE GRAND HALL
With a church-like feel, our Grand Hall inside Farleigh, offers a touch of classic elegance through high ceilings, ornate chandeliers and beautiful period features. Children adorning the stairs, a string quartet on the balcony and the Grand Piano creating a warm and romantic atmosphere for you to say your vows.
THE HOST
Some find it hard to whittle it down but all of these beautiful locations can be used at other points throughout your day whether it’s the reception, cake cutting or evening cocktail hour. You choose.
There are further choices to be made around the entertainment but first, you need to choose who is in charge. The person guiding you and all your friends and family through this incredibly important part of your day needs to be right for you as a couple.
A REGISTRAR
As Farleigh is licenced for civil ceremonies a registrar, from Somerset, can officiate your wedding here. They will be a professional wedding officiant and can legally marry you in a non-religious ceremony. You can tailor the ceremony through length, songs and readings too to ensure it is the right occasion for you both.
A CELEBRANT
Celebrants, whilst they can’t legally marry you, it is their job and passion to get to know you, to create and conduct a highly personalised, happy and memorable experience. This is the opposite of generic and templated! Celebrants allow for more flexibility in the content and style of the ceremony often working with you to carve out a ceremony that reflects your beliefs, values and personalities.
FRIEND OR FAMILY
If you’re already legally married and you have someone in mind, a friend or family member hosting your ceremony can often be the most personal. The clue is in the name really! However, they won’t have the knowledge and experience of the other two options so take time to work through expectations for the occasion.
IT’S PERSONAL
No matter where you choose to have your ceremony or who you choose to host it, we love seeing how each couple personalises their ceremony. One of the most meaningful ways to tailor it is through readings and music.
Incorporating personal readings into your ceremony can add depth and significance. Consider choosing passages that link to your relationship—perhaps a favourite poem, a meaningful excerpt from a book, or even inviting loved ones to share their thoughts and stories, making it even more special.
Music sets the tone for your ceremony and can evoke emotions that words sometimes cannot. Whether you opt for live musicians or curated playlists, selecting songs that reflect your journey together is essential. From the moment guests arrive to the final notes as you walk down the aisle, the right music can transform your ceremony into an unforgettable experience.
Some say it’s the most important part of the day, some want it over as quickly as possible. Whatever your thoughts, it will set the tone for the rest of the day.
Space to create moments you’ll remember forever.