Who needs convincing to host their wedding in a castle? Not only have we grown up with Disney princess beginning their love stories in the majestic venues, but the likes of Victoria Beckham, Meghan Markle and Holly Willoughby have also chosen grand castles for their big days.
When Victoria and David Beckham got married back in July 1999, they chose to say 'I do' in Luttrellstown Castle in Dublin, which boasts 567 acres, a lake and a waterfall. It was the couple's way of emulating the Sherwood Forest since their big day was reportedly inspired by Robin Hood!
In case we needed any more wedding venue inspiration, the experts have all the details on why castle weddings are set to stay, from their picture-perfect backdrop to their all-year-round suitability. Take a look…
More brides and grooms than ever are choosing castle weddings, according to wedding planning platform The Wedding Party. While 23 per cent of couples chose to say their vows in a castle setting in 2019, this rose to 65 per cent in 2022.
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"When speaking to our couples, they said that they wanted the grandeur that they had seen in the recent royal weddings," said CEO and Founder Rachel Allen, who used Princess Eugenie and Princess Beatrice as examples.
Rachel also added that décor budgets are rising. "In 2019, our average spend for wedding décor with our clients was around about the £2,000 mark, but in 2022, this rose to an average spend of £4,000," she said.
While she revealed her clients spent an average of £10,000 on their venue during 2022, Wedding & Events Manager at Berkeley Castle Pippa Crossman reassured couples that castle weddings can still be "small and intimate."
Six reasons to choose a castle wedding venue, according to the experts:
1. Exclusive Venue
Pippa explained that castles can often be booked exclusively meaning you have the whole venue all to yourselves, from getting ready with your bridesmaids to your evening celebrations and even allowing all your guests to stay overnight.
Plus, can you think of a more magical, fairytale venue?
2. Amazing Photo Opportunities
It goes without saying that castles offer amazing photo opportunities both inside and outside – we're talking gorgeous architecture such as grand entrances, ballrooms and great halls, and acres of grounds including manicured lawns, water features and woodland.
"Castles are completely unique, no two the same," Rachel added. "It is such a flexible venue when it comes to space, photography and the guest experience."
3. Versatile Venue
© Two Focused PhotographyThis leads us to our next point - they're so versatile. Castles offer inside and outside locations for couples to host their ceremonies, wedding breakfasts and evening parties.
"Castles have multiple rooms each with their own unique charm and character giving you and your guests ample space to celebrate in style," Pippa said.
Rachel similarly promoted their flexibility when it comes to religious ceremonies and civil unions. "Castles can often have their own chapel or church on site giving you much more flexibility for blessing the marriage," she explained.
4. Sound
You may have put a lot of thought into your first dance song, but have you considered how your music will sound inside your reception?
"Most castles have fabulous optics for music, with gorgeous echoing stone. Absolutely perfect for those string quartets, gentle vocals and acoustic sounds associated with the quieter times of the day and for partying the night away with a great band or DJ," said Rachel.
5. Perfect for Every Season
© Jade TouronStressing about weather issues? If you've rented the entire venue, you can avoid rain woes by moving your wedding inside.
"In winter months there are log fires roaring and candles twinkling to create a cosy celebration and in the summer months you would be able to make the most of any gorgeous grounds where you could enjoy drinks, outdoor games and alfresco dining," said Pippa. Win, win!
Rachel added this allows you to keep the costs down if you are getting married outside of peak season.
6. Unforgettable Experience
This one needs no explanation! Get your fairytale, royal wedding moment in the grandeur of a castle and you and your guests will remember it for years to come. We don't know about you, but we're sold on the idea.
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