Summer

How to Choose the Perfect Wedding Invitations for Your Big Day

How to Choose the Perfect Wedding Invitations for Your Big Day

Your wedding invitations are the first glimpse your guests will get of your wedding style and theme. They set the tone for the whole event, from the colours and fonts to the wording and etiquette. But with so many options and details to consider, how do you choose the perfect wedding invitations for your big day? Here are some tips and advice to help you out.

Pick Your Shape and Dimensions

The standard size and shape for wedding invitations is a 4.5-inch-by-6.25-inch rectangular card. However, you can also opt for more creative shapes and sizes, such as circular, scalloped, or square invitations. Just keep in mind that unconventional shapes and sizes may cost more to print and mail, and may not fit in standard envelopes. You can also choose between single-sided or double-sided cards, depending on how much information you need to include.

Consider Your Location

One of the factors that you should consider when choosing your wedding invitations is your location. Your location can have a significant impact on the style and design of your invitations, as well as the mood and tone that you want to convey to your guests. For example, if you are planning to get married at The Old Hall Ely, a remarkable and grand country wedding venue near the historic town of Ely in Cambridgeshire, you may want to reflect the elegance and charm of this beautiful Jacobean manor house in your invitations. You may want to use imagery that showcases the well-groomed grounds, the romantic lakes, and the awe-inspiring views of the Ely Cathedral that surround this venue. You may also want to use colours and fonts that match the luxurious and sophisticated atmosphere of this exclusive wedding venue, script or serif fonts. You can also add some personal touches to your invitations, such as a monogram, a wax seal, or a ribbon, to make them more unique and memorable. By choosing your wedding invitations based on your location, you can create a cohesive and harmonious theme for your big day that will impress your guests and make them excited for your celebration.

Choosing Romantic Fonts

One of the aspects that can affect the appearance and impression of your invitations is the choice of fonts. Fonts are not only a way of displaying text, but also a way of expressing the personality and mood of your wedding. You want to choose fonts that are clear and easy to read, but also match the style and theme of your wedding. For example, if you are going for a romantic and classic style, you may want to use script or calligraphy fonts that resemble handwriting. These fonts can create a sense of elegance and sophistication, as well as convey your love and emotion. Some examples of script or calligraphy fonts are Alex Brush, Great Vibes, or Parisienne.

On the other hand, if you are going for a more modern and minimalist style, you may want to use sans serif or geometric fonts that have clean and simple lines. These fonts can create a sense of freshness and simplicity, as well as convey your confidence and clarity. Some examples of sans serif or geometric fonts are Montserrat, Raleway, or Futura.

You can also mix and match different fonts to create contrast and hierarchy in your text. For instance, you can use a script font for your names and a sans serif font for the rest of the information. Or you can use a bold font for the headings and a lighter font for the body text. You can also use different sizes, colours, or alignments to emphasize certain words or phrases.

If you are planning to get married at The Old Hall Ely, you may want to take inspiration from our logo and website font. Our logo uses a script font that is elegant and graceful, while their website uses a sans serif font that is modern and sleek. You can use similar fonts for your invitations, or find ones that complement them. For example, you can use Dancing Script or Sacramento for your script font, and Lato or Roboto for your sans serif font. By using fonts that are inspired by The Old Hall Ely, you can create a consistent and harmonious theme for your wedding that reflects the beauty and charm of our venue.

Think About Your Imagery

Another way to add some personality and flair to your invitations is to use imagery that complements your theme and style. You can use photos of yourselves, illustrations of your venue or location, or patterns and motifs that match your colour scheme. You can also use icons or symbols to represent different aspects of your wedding, such as rings, hearts, flowers, or champagne glasses. Just make sure that your imagery is not too busy or distracting from the main information.

Think Outside the Box

If you want to make your invitations stand out from the crowd, you can think outside the box and try something different. For example, you can use unconventional materials or textures for your invitations, such as wood, fabric, metal, or leather. You can also use embellishments or accessories to add some sparkle or dimension to your invitations, such as ribbons, lace, beads, or wax seals. You can also experiment with different printing techniques or finishes, such as letterpress, foil stamping, embossing, or laser cutting.

Choose Your Colours

Your colour choice is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when it comes to your invitations. Your colours should reflect your personality and taste, but also coordinate with your wedding theme and season. For example, if you’re having a spring wedding, you may want to choose pastel colours that evoke freshness and lightness. If you’re having a fall wedding, you may want to opt for warm colours that evoke cosiness and richness. You can also use contrasting colours to create drama and excitement in your invitations.

Write Your Wording

The wording of your invitations is not only informative but also expressive. You want to make sure that you include all the essential details that your guests need to know, such as who’s hosting, who’s getting married, when and where the ceremony and reception will take place, how to RSVP, what the dress code is, and any other special instructions or requests. You also want to make sure that your wording is consistent with your tone and etiquette. For example, if you’re having a formal wedding, you may want to use more traditional and formal language. If you’re having a casual wedding, you may want to use more casual and conversational language.

Proofread Your Invitations

Before you send out your invitations, you want to make sure that they are error-free and flawless. You don’t want to have any spelling mistakes, grammar errors, typos, or incorrect information on your invitations that could confuse or offend your guests. You also want to check that your layout is balanced and harmonious, that your fonts are legible and appropriate, that your colors are consistent and pleasing, and that your imagery is clear and relevant. You can ask someone else to proofread your invitations for you or use an online tool like Grammarly to help you catch any mistakes.

Order Your Invitations

Once you’re happy with your design and wording of your invitations, it’s time to order them from a reputable and reliable stationer or printer. You want to order your invitations about four to five months before your wedding, so that you have enough time to print them, address them, and mail them. You also want to order some extra invitations in case you need to invite more guests, resend some invitations, or keep some as souvenirs. You can also order matching stationery for your wedding, such as save-the-dates, thank-you cards, menus, programs, and place cards.

Mail Your Invitations

The last but not the least step is to mail your invitations to your guests. This is the moment when your invitations will finally reach their destination and make an impression on your invitees. You want to mail your invitations well in advance of your wedding date, so that your guests have enough time to plan and prepare for your celebration. The general rule of thumb is to mail your invitations about eight to ten weeks before your wedding, or even earlier if you’re having a destination wedding or getting married over the holidays. These situations may require more travel arrangements and accommodations for your guests, so you want to give them as much notice as possible.

You also want to make sure that you use the correct postage and address for each envelope, and that you include any additional enclosures or inserts that your guests may need, such as maps, directions, accommodation information, or registry details. You can also use a calligrapher or a label maker to make your envelopes look more professional and elegant.

Conclusion

Your wedding invitations are one of the most important aspects of your wedding planning. They are the first impression that your guests will have of your big day, and they can set the mood and tone for the whole event. By following these tips and advice, you can choose the perfect wedding invitations for your big day that reflect your personality, style, and theme. You can also use online tools like Canva or Minted to help you design and customize your invitations with ease and convenience. Happy planning!

 

Why You Should Attend The Old Hall Ely Open Day: A Guide to the Ultimate Wedding Venue in Cambridgeshire

 

Why You Should Attend The Old Hall Ely Open Day: A Guide to the Ultimate Wedding Venue in Cambridgeshire

 

Are you looking for the perfect venue for your dream wedding? Do you want to experience the charm and elegance of a historic manor house surrounded by stunning gardens and views? If so, you won’t want to miss the opportunity to attend The Old Hall Ely open day on the 28th of August!

The Old Hall Ely is one of the most exclusive and luxurious wedding venues in Cambridgeshire, offering a range of bespoke packages to suit your needs and budget. Whether you are planning a small intimate ceremony or a lavish celebration, The Old Hall Ely can cater for your every wish and make your special day unforgettable.

But don’t just take our word for it – come and see for yourself what makes The Old Hall Ely so special. Here are some of the reasons why you should attend our open day:

 

Explore the grounds

Orangery, outside space, exterior design

The Old Hall Ely is set in a beautiful mile of countryside, with romantic lakes, manicured lawns, and breathtaking views of Ely Cathedral. You can wander around the grounds and imagine

 how your wedding photos would look like in this picturesque setting. You can also visit our stunning Orangery, where you can enjoy a drink and admire the 360-degree views of the landscape.

 

Meet the best suppliers in Cambridgeshire

We have hand-picked some of the best suppliers in Cambridgeshire to showcase their products and services at our open day. You can meet them and get inspired by their ideas and expertise. Whether you need a florist, a photographer, a cake maker, a DJ, or anything else for your wedding, you will find them at our open day.

a stand from our suppliers

Meet the team

Our friendly and professional team will be on hand to answer any questions you may have about The Old Hall Ely and our wedding packages. You can also book a personal tour of the venue with one of our wedding coordinators, who will guide you through every detail and help you envision your perfect day.

 

And so much more!

Our open day is not only informative but also fun! You can enjoy live music, delicious food samples, complimentary drinks, and a chance to win some amazing prizes. You can also browse our luxurious hotel rooms, each with its own unique design and character.

An open day is a special event where a wedding venue opens its doors to the public and invites couples who are looking for their ideal place to get married. It is a chance to see the venue in person, talk to the staff, and get a sense of the style and atmosphere of the place. An open day can help you make an informed decision about your wedding venue and give you a glimpse of what your wedding day could look like.

The Old Hall Ely is one of the most exclusive and luxurious wedding venues in Cambridgeshire, and they are hosting an open day on the 28th of August. If you are interested in The Old Hall Ely as your wedding venue, here are some of the benefits of attending their open day:

people getting married at the Old Hall Ely

 

FAQ

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about our open day:

  • When is the open day?
  • The open day is on Saturday, 28th of August 2023, from 11 am to 3 pm.
  • How do I register for the open day?
  • You do not need to register! just bring your friends and family and turn up 🙂
  • Is there a fee to attend the open day?
  • No, the open day is free to attend for all couples who are interested in The Old Hall Ely as their wedding venue.
  • Do I need to bring anything with me?
  • No, just bring yourself and your partner (and anyone else who is involved in your wedding planning). We will provide everything else you need to enjoy the day.
  • How do I get to The Old Hall Ely?
  • The Old Hall Ely is located on Soham Road Stuntney, River Bank CB7 5TR. You can find directions and a map on our website.
  • Where can I park?
  • We have ample free parking on site for all our guests.

We hope to see you at our open day and show you why The Old Hall Ely is the ideal venue for your wedding. For more information, please visit our website or follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

Why You Shouldn’t Fear Rain on Your Wedding Day at the Old Hall Ely

Why You Shouldn’t Fear Rain on Your Wedding Day at the Old Hall Ely

If you’re planning a wedding at the Old Hall Ely, you might be worried about the weather. After all, England is known for its unpredictable and often rainy climate. But don’t let that stop you from choosing this stunning venue for your special day. In fact, there are many reasons why rain on your wedding day can be a blessing in disguise. Here are some of them:

Rain is a sign of good luck.

Rain is considered good luck on a wedding day in many cultures around the world. There are a few reasons for this belief.

  • Fertility: Rain is often seen as a symbol of fertility, so it is thought to be a good omen for a couple starting their new life together.
  • Cleansing: Rain is also seen as a symbol of cleansing, so it is thought to wash away any negative energy from the past and start the couple’s new life on a fresh slate.
  • Unity: Rain can also be seen as a symbol of unity, as it brings people together under one roof. This is thought to be a good omen for a couple’s marriage, as it suggests that they will be able to weather any storms that come their way.
  • Tears: In some cultures, rain is also seen as a symbol of tears. This is because it is believed that the bride will shed her last tears on her wedding day, as she is starting a new chapter in her life.

Of course, not everyone believes that rain is good luck on a wedding day. Some people think that it is a sign of bad luck, or that it will bring the couple a lifetime of rainy days. But for those who do believe in the superstition, rain on their wedding day is a sign of good things to come.

Here are some other reasons why rain is considered good luck on a wedding day:

  • It symbolizes a fresh start. Rain can wash away the old and bring in the new, which is a perfect metaphor for a couple starting their lives together.
  • It represents abundance. Rain is essential for life, so it is seen as a sign of abundance and prosperity.
  • It is a symbol of love. Rain is often associated with romance, so it is thought to bring good luck to couples who are starting their lives together.

Of course, whether or not you believe that rain is good luck on a wedding day is up to you. But if you are planning a wedding, and the weather forecast is calling for rain, don’t despair! Just embrace the rain and let it be a part of your special day.

Rain creates a romantic atmosphere.

There’s something magical about rain that can make your wedding day even more memorable and intimate. Imagine cuddling under an umbrella with your partner, sharing a sweet kiss in the rain, or dancing in the puddles with joy. Rain can also create a cosy and warm feeling among your guests, as they gather together to celebrate your love. Plus, rain can add a dramatic and beautiful touch to your wedding photos, as you’ll see below.

Rain makes for stunning photos.

One of the best things about rain on your wedding day is the opportunity to take some amazing photos that you’ll cherish forever. Rain can create some unique and creative effects, such as backlit raindrops, reflections, rainbows, and misty backgrounds. You can also use props like umbrellas, boots, or jackets to add some fun and personality to your shots. The key is to embrace the rain and have fun with it, and trust your photographer to capture the beauty of the moment.

To give you some inspiration, here are some examples of rainy wedding photos here at the Old Hall Ely:

As you can see, rain can make for some incredible wedding photos that you’ll love to look back on.

The Old Hall Ely is the perfect venue for a rainy wedding.

If you’re looking for a venue that can handle any weather situation, look no further than the Old Hall Ely. This remarkable and grand country wedding venue is situated within an idyllic mile just outside historic Ely in Cambridgeshire. It features a beautiful Jacobean manor house, well-groomed grounds, breathtaking views over romantically-scenic lakes and the majestic Ely Cathedral.

The Old Hall Ely offers exclusive use for couples who are looking for an intimate and unforgettable experience on their wedding day. They have an array of unique and opulent guest bedrooms, each one boasting its own special design. They also have a fine dining restaurant that serves delicious dishes with the freshest ingredients. And most importantly, they have a dedicated and professional team that will ensure every detail of your wedding is taken care of.

The Old Hall Ely has several options for your ceremony and reception, depending on your preferences and guest numbers. You can choose from:

  • The Garden Pavilion: A stunning marquee-style structure that can accommodate up to 200 guests. It has glass walls that offer panoramic views of the gardens and lakes, as well as heating and air conditioning systems that can adjust to any weather condition.
  • The Great Hall: A magnificent room that can seat up to 110 guests. It has original oak beams, stone fireplaces, chandeliers, and large windows that overlook the grounds.
  • The Drawing Room: A cozy and elegant room that can host up to 40 guests. It has a fireplace, a grand piano, and a bay window that offers a view of the lake and the cathedral.
  • The Lakeside Gazebo: A romantic and picturesque spot that can host up to 200 guests. It’s located on the edge of the lake, surrounded by flowers and trees. It’s ideal for outdoor ceremonies, weather permitting.

No matter which option you choose, you can rest assured that the Old Hall Ely will provide you with a stunning and comfortable setting for your wedding day. And if it rains, they have plenty of umbrellas, blankets, and heaters to keep you and your guests cozy and happy.

And if you’re interested in booking the Old Hall Ely for your wedding, you can visit our website here or call us at 01353 663275. We would be happy to assist you with your wedding plans.

Have a wonderful day! 🌧️

How to Plan Your Dream Wedding: A Comprehensive Guide from Engagement to I Do

Getting Married: An Overview through Proposal to Vows

Congratulations! You’ve found the love of your life and you’re ready to take the next big step- getting married. But where do you start? With so many details to consider, planning a wedding can be overwhelming and stressful. That’s why we’ve created a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the journey from proposal to vows. From choosing the perfect engagement ring to selecting a venue, creating a budget, and sending out invitations, we’ve got you covered. We’ll also provide tips on how to personalize your wedding with unique touches that reflect your personality and style. And, of course, we’ll guide you through the ceremony itself, helping you write your vows, choosing readings, and more. With our comprehensive guide, you can relax and enjoy the journey, knowing that you’re well-prepared for the big day. So, let’s get started on this exciting new chapter of your life!

Couple getting married, black and white

Choosing the perfect engagement ring

This is an exciting time in your life, and choosing the perfect engagement ring is an important step in the journey to your wedding day. The engagement ring is a symbol of your love and commitment, and it’s important to choose a ring that reflects your style and personality.

When it comes to choosing the perfect engagement ring, there are several factors to consider. The first is the type of metal you prefer. Popular choices include yellow gold, white gold, and platinum. The next consideration is the shape and size of the diamond. The most popular diamond shapes are round, princess, emerald, and cushion. The size of the diamond is also an important factor to consider.

In the 20th and 21st centuries, engagement rings have become more diverse and innovative, reflecting the personal tastes and preferences of the couples. Some of the popular types of engagement rings in this period are:

– Solitaire rings:

These are rings that feature a single diamond or gemstone at the centre of a metal band. They are the most timeless and classic type of engagement rings, and can be customized with different shapes, sizes, and settings of the stone.

– Three-stone rings:

These are rings that have three stones, usually a larger one in the middle and two smaller ones on the sides. They are also known as trilogy or trinity rings, and they symbolize the past, present, and future of the relationship.

– Cluster rings:

These are rings that have a number of smaller stones arranged around a larger centre stone, creating a dazzling effect. They are also called halo rings, and they can have different shapes and patterns of the stones.

– Pavé rings:

These are rings that have tiny diamonds or gemstones set closely together on the band, creating a smooth and sparkling surface. They can also have a larger centre stone or a halo setting for more brilliance.

– Channel-set rings:

These are rings that have a row of diamonds or gemstones set into a groove in the band, creating a sleek and modern look. They can also have a centre stone or a halo setting for more contrast.

– Bezel-set rings:

These are rings that have a metal rim around the stone, holding it securely in place. They are ideal for active lifestyles, as they protect the stone from scratches and damage. They can also have different shapes and styles of the metal rim.

– Tension-set rings:

The most common kinds of engagement rings you could see as a goldsmith include a few of these. Of course, based on your consumers’ interests & budget, here are a tonne more permutations and combinations you may come up with. The ring’s construction, quality, and compatibility with the wearer’s personality and style should all be taken into consideration.

The setting is the next step after deciding on the material to be used & the dimensions, shape, and colour of the diamond. Where the diamond is put in the ring is referred to as the setting. Channel, bezel, and prong are common settings. Lastly, take into account any extra embellishments like engraving or side stones.

Don’t forget that the engagement ring represents your commitment and affection. Select an engagement ring that you love and whic

h accurately captures your own taste and character.

people getting married at the Old Hall Ely

Deciding on the wedding budget

One of the most important steps in planning your wedding is creating a budget. A wedding can be an expensive event, and it’s important to set a budget early on to avoid overspending.

To create a wedding budget, start by listing all of the expenses you’ll incur. This includes the venue, catering, photography, music, flowers, and attire. Once you’ve listed all of the expenses, assign a dollar amount to each. Be sure to leave some room in your budget for unexpected expenses.

Next, consider your sources of funding. Will you be paying for the wedding yourselves, or will family members be contributing? If family members are contributing, be sure to have a frank discussion about how much they are willing to contribute and how that money will be used.

Finally, stick to your budget! It can be tempting to overspend on certain items, but remember that every dollar you spend on one item is a dollar you can’t spend on another. Prioritize the items that are most important to you and be willing to compromise on others.

We recommend speaking to our experienced events team who can help you from start to finish; with your budget to anything from an idea.

Speak to us here

Setting the wedding date and venue

The next step in planning your wedding is setting the date and selecting a venue. The date and venue are closely linked, as popular venues may be booked several months or even years in advance.

When selecting a date, consider the season and weather. If you plan to have an outdoor wedding, choose a date in a season with mild weather. If you’re on a tight budget, consider having a weekday wedding or a wedding during the off-season.

Once you’ve selected a date, it’s time to choose a venue. Consider the number of guests you’ll be inviting and choose a venue that can comfortably accommodate that number. You’ll also want to consider the location, parking, and accessibility for your guests.

When touring venues, be sure to ask about any restrictions or requirements. Some venues may require you to use their preferred vendors, while others may have restrictions on decorations or music. Be sure to read the contract carefully before signing.

The Old Hall Ely, old historic building

Creating the guest list and sending out invitations

1. Write a list of everyone you’d even consider inviting.

This is your initial brainstorming session, where you and your partner write down all the names of people who you would love to have at your wedding if money and space were no object. Don’t worry about the numbers or the details at this stage, just have everyone on paper.

2. Narrow down the list.

Now that you have your dream list, it’s time to get realistic. You need to consider your budget, your venue capacity, and your personal preferences. A good way to do this is to divide your list into tiers, such as must-invites, really-want-to-invites, and nice-to-invites. You can also use some criteria to take people off , such as not inviting plus-ones, children, co-workers, or distant relatives.

3. Finalize the guest list.

Once you have your tiers and criteria, you can start finalizing your guest list. You may need to compromise with your partner, your parents, or other stakeholders who have a say in the guest list. Try to be fair and respectful of everyone’s wishes, but also stick to your vision and priorities. You can use a tool like The Knot Guest List or Planning Wedding Guest List to easily manage and track your guests’ information and RSVPs.

4. Choose your invitations.

Now that you have your guest list ready, you can start thinking about your invitations. You may want to choose invitations that match your wedding theme, style, and budget. You can browse through different designs and options on Shutterfly or The Knot Invitations. You can also create a free wedding website with The Knot or Shutterfly to share more details with your guests and collect their RSVPs online.

5. Send out your invitations.

The general rule is to send out your invitations about six to eight weeks before your wedding date, or earlier if you’re having a destination wedding or a lot of out-of-town guests. You can either mail paper invitations or send digital ones via email or text. If you choose paper invitations, you can save time and money by printing custom envelopes with The Knot Envelopes. If you choose digital invitations, you can use The Knot Email Designs to match your paper ones.

6. Track RSVP 

responses.

Once you send out your invitations, you need to keep track of who is coming and who is not. You can use The Knot Guest List or Planning Wedding Guest List to automatically update your guest list with RSVP responses and other information, such as meal choices or song requests. You can also send reminders to guests who haven’t responded yet via text or email.

7. Communicate with guests.

As your wedding day approaches, you may need to communicate with your guests about important details, such as directions, parking, dress code, or COVID-19 protocols. You can use The Knot Messages or Planning Wedding Messages to easily send group texts or emails to your guests with helpful templates. You can also update your wedding website with any changes or announcements.

 

Choosing the wedding attire

Couple Hugging, getting married

The bride’s dress and the groom’s suit or tuxedo are an important part of any wedding. When choosing your wedding attire, consider the formality and style of your wedding.

For the bride, there are many options to choose from, including traditional ballgowns, modern sheath dresses, and bohemian-inspired dresses. Consider the fabric, silhouette, and embellishments when choosing your dress.

For the groom, there are several options as well, including classic tuxedos, modern suits, and more casual options. Consider the colour, fabric, and style when choosing your attire.

Don’t forget about the accessories! The bride may want to consider a veil or hairpiece, while the groom may want to choose a tie or pocket square that complements the wedding colours.

Selecting vendors – caterers, photographers, florists, etc.

Selecting vendors for your wedding can be overwhelming, but it’s an important step in ensuring that your wedding day runs smoothly. Start by researching vendors in your area and reading reviews from other couples.

When selecting vendors, consider the style and theme of your wedding. For example, if you’re having a rustic wedding, you may want to choose a florist who specializes in wildflower arrangements.

Be sure to ask each vendor for references and a portfolio of their work. You’ll also want to discuss pricing and any additional fees before signing a contract.

Finalizing the wedding details

As the wedding day approaches, there are several final details to consider. This includes creating a seating chart, finalizing the menu, and arranging transportation for the wedding party.

You may also want to consider any special touches that will make your wedding unique. This could include personalized favours for your guests or a special song for your first dance.

Finally, be sure to communicate with your vendors and wedding coordinator to ensure that everyone is on the same page.

if your looking for wedding coordinators

 The Old Hall Ely can take any requests you need and make it happen.

The wedding ceremony and reception

It’s the big day! The wedding ceremony and reception are the culmination of all your planning and preparation.

For the ceremony, consider adding personal touches that reflect your personality and style. This could include writing your own vows or choosing readings that are meaningful to you.

For the reception, consider creating a timeline of events to keep the evening running smoothly. This could include a cocktail hour, dinner, speeches, and dancing.

Be sure to communicate with your wedding coordinator and vendors throughout the evening to ensure that everything runs smoothly.

Tips for a stress-free wedding day

Why not speak to us, We can take that stress off your special day & make what needs to happen; happen.

Contact us here

Wedding planning can be stressful, but there are several things you can do to ensure that your wedding day is as stress-free as possible.

First, consider hiring a wedding coordinator. A coordinator can help you with all of the details leading up to the wedding and can be a point of contact for vendors on the day of the wedding.

Second, be sure to delegate tasks to your wedding party and family members. This could include picking up flowers, setting up decorations, or running errands.

Finally, take some time for yourself on the day of the wedding.

Conclusion

Congratulations on your wedding! Planning a wedding can be stressful, but with our step-by-step guide, you can relax and enjoy the journey. From choosing the perfect engagement ring to selecting a venue, creating a budget, and sending out invitations, we’ve got you covered. Remember to personalize your wedding with unique touches that reflect your personality and style, and don’t forget to take some time for yourself on the big day. Best wishes for a happy and successful wedding!

And last but not least – if you still feel overwhelmed don’t worry! we can take the stress away here at The Old Hall Ely – with many years experience and beautiful grounds we are sure to make any day special

 Have you ever thought about a winter wedding?

 Have you ever thought about a winter wedding?

Winter weddings are becoming more and more popular among couples who want to create a magical and memorable experience for themselves and their guests. There are many reasons why winter weddings are a great idea, but one of the most important ones is the choice of venue.

If you are looking for a stunning and exclusive wedding venue in the heart of Cambridgeshire, look no further than The Old Hall Ely.

The Old Hall Ely: A Grand Jacobean Manor House

The Old Hall Ely is a remarkable and grand country wedding venue that sits within a mile of the historic town of Ely. This beautiful Jacobean manor house is set in well-groomed grounds and boasts breathtaking & idyllic views over its romantically-scenic lakes to the awe-inspiring Ely Cathedral.

The Old Hall Ely offers exclusive use for couples who are looking for an intimate and unforgettable experience on their wedding day. You will have access to the entire house and grounds, including the luxurious bedrooms, the quaint sitting rooms with open fires, the exquisite restaurant, and the stunning Orangery.

The Atmosphere: A Winter Wonderland

Imagine saying your vows to then being in front of a roaring fire, to be surrounded by candles and fairy lights, while snow lays thick outside. Imagine walking hand in hand with your partner through the snowy grounds, posing for photos with the majestic Ely Cathedral as your backdrop. Imagine enjoying a delicious meal with your loved ones in the elegant Orangery, with panoramic views of the frozen lakes and frosted white grass. Imagine dancing the night away to the clear Twilight winter night, with a live band or DJ playing your favourite tunes.

A winter wedding at The Old Hall Ely will create a magical atmosphere that you and your guests will never forget. The venue is decorated with festive touches, such as wreaths, garlands, lanterns, and mistletoe, to add to the charm and romance of your special day³.

The Food: A Mouth-Watering Menu

One of the highlights of any wedding is the food, and The Old Hall Ely does not disappoint. The venue has a fine dining restaurant that serves British cuisine with a modern twist, using fresh and local ingredients. You can choose from a variety of menus, from a traditional three-course meal to a sharing platter or a buffet. You can also customize your menu to suit your preferences and dietary requirements. We have many reviews who rave about our amazing food and how it made that experience ever so much better.

The Old Hall Ely also offers a range of drinks packages, including champagne, wine, beer, cocktails, and soft drinks. Whether you want to toast with bubbly, warm up with mulled wine, or sip on hot chocolate, The Old Hall Ely will cater to your needs.

The Old Hall Ely: Your Dream Winter Wedding Venue

If you are looking for a winter wedding venue that offers luxury, exclusivity, beauty, & romance, look no further than The Old Hall Ely. The grand Jacobean manor house will make you feel like royalty on your big day, and will leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.

To find out more about The Old Hall Ely and book your winter wedding today, visit their website at or call them at 01353 663275. You can also follow them on social media to see more photos and testimonials from happy couples who have tied the knot at this amazing venue.

Don’t miss this opportunity to have your dream winter wedding at The Old Hall Ely.

extended links:
The Old Hall Ely | Exclusive Wedding Venue, Hotel & Restaurant. https://theoldhallely.co.uk/weddings.
Luxury Adult-Only Hotel in Ely, Cambridgeshire | The Old Hall Ely. https://theoldhallely.co.uk/hotel/.

 

What is a Wedding Anniversary and How to Celebrate It at The Old Hall Ely

What is a Wedding Anniversary and How to Celebrate It at The Old Hall Ely

A wedding anniversary is a special occasion that marks the date of your marriage. It is a time to celebrate your love, commitment and memories with your partner. Each anniversary has a different meaning and symbol, depending on how many years you have been married. For example, the first anniversary is paper, the 25th anniversary is silver and the 50th anniversary is gold. You can find a complete list of wedding anniversary names and gifts here³.

Some couples like to exchange gifts that match the theme of their anniversary year, while others prefer to do something special together, such as going on a trip, having a romantic dinner or renewing their vows. Whatever you choose to do, make sure it reflects your personality and relationship.

The Origin and History of Wedding Anniversaries

The tradition of celebrating wedding anniversaries dates back to ancient times, when husbands gave their wives a silver wreath for 25 years of marriage, and a gold wreath for 50 years. This was based on the belief that silver and gold were precious metals that symbolized the value and durability of the marriage.

Later, in medieval Europe, other materials were added to represent different years of marriage, such as wood for the fifth anniversary, tin for the tenth anniversary and crystal for the fifteenth anniversary. These materials were chosen to reflect the increasing strength and quality of the relationship over time.

In modern times, more wedding anniversary gifts have been introduced to cover every year of marriage, from paper for the first year to diamond for the sixtieth year³. Some of these gifts are based on traditional materials, while others are based on modern themes, such as appliances, travel or hobbies.

Wedding Anniversary Traditions Around the World

While many countries and cultures follow similar patterns of giving gifts based on the number of years of marriage, there are also some variations and unique traditions that reflect different beliefs and customs.

For example, in China, couples celebrate their first anniversary by eating long noodles, which symbolize longevity and happiness. In Germany, couples plant a tree on their first anniversary, which represents growth and fertility. In India, couples wear new clothes on their first anniversary, which signify renewal and freshness.

Some countries also have specific names for certain landmark anniversaries. For example, in France, the 50th anniversary is called “noces d’or” (golden wedding), while the 60th anniversary is called “noces de diamant” (diamond wedding). In Spain, the 25th anniversary is called “bodas de plata” (silver wedding), while the 50th anniversary is called “bodas de oro” (gold wedding).

How to Celebrate Your Wedding Anniversary at The Old Hall Ely

If you are looking for a unique and memorable way to celebrate your wedding anniversary, why not book a stay at The Old Hall Ely¹? This stunning country house hotel is located in Ely, Cambridgeshire, and offers a range of facilities and services to make your anniversary unforgettable.

The Old Hall Ely has 16 luxurious rooms⁴, each with its own character and charm. You can choose from four-poster beds, roll-top baths, fireplaces and views of the gardens or the cathedral. You can also enjoy a delicious breakfast in the morning, made with fresh local ingredients.

The hotel does not have a spa⁴, but you can still relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings and atmosphere. You can also visit the historic Ely Cathedral², which is only a short walk away from the hotel. You can admire its impressive architecture, stained glass windows and paintings. You can also join a guided tour or climb the tower for a panoramic view of the city.

For dinner, you can book a table at The Old Hall Ely’s restaurant, which serves seasonal dishes made with local produce. You can also enjoy a drink at the bar or lounge, or order room service if you prefer.

The Old Hall Ely can also help you organise a special surprise for your partner, such as flowers, chocolates, champagne or balloons in your room. You can also arrange for a private dining experience or a picnic in the gardens.

Whether you are celebrating your first or your fiftieth wedding anniversary, The Old Hall Ely is the perfect place to make it memorable. You will feel welcomed and pampered by the friendly staff and enjoy the beautiful surroundings and atmosphere.

Contact The Old Hall Ely for More Information

If you are interested in booking a stay at The Old Hall Ely for your wedding anniversary, or if you have any questions or requests, you can contact them by phone on 01353 663275 or by email on info@theoldhallely.co.uk. You can also visit their website¹ for more information and online booking.

Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate your love and marriage at The Old Hall Ely. It will be an experience you will cherish forever.

Sources

¹: https://www.theoldhallely.co.uk/

²: https://www.elycathedral.org/

³: https://www.hitched.co.uk/wedding-planning/organising-and-planning/the-complete-wedding-anniversary-guide/

: https://www.eternityrose.com/anniversary-gift-traditions

: https://www.brides.com/gallery/wedding-traditions-around-the-world

⁴: https://www.booking.com/hotel/gb/the-old-hall-ely.html

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