Winter Wow Factor at The Normans

It’s been a while since our last blog update, for which we apologise. We’ve been busy hosting a flurry of fantastic festive weddings, not to mention training up the latest member of The Normans team - our baby girl, Violet.

But we’re back! And we’re starting 2019 with a firecracker of a blog, courtesy of Mark and Laura’s wedding held here back in November.

Mark & Laura lit the night up at The Normans

Okay, okay - we appreciate that November is technically an autumn month. But, for us, this was the wedding that truly kicked off our magical winter wedding season. Take, for example, Laura’s stunning Jesus Peiro dress from Andrea Bambridge, York. A timeless classic, which exudes class and sophistication. We just love the faux-fur trim that finishes off her look.

Bride Laura leaves The Normans Cottage and heads to the Ceremony Barn - photo by Luke Bell.jpg

Mark, meanwhile, kept the elements at bay (and looked rather dapper in the process) with a smart three-piece tweed suit from Moss Bros, embellished with a brown silk paisley patterned tie. A perfect example of how a groom’s attire can be understated, but still make a massive impact!

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As splendid as bride and groom looked, both were nearly (nearly) overshadowed by page boy Sebastian, who preceded them down the aisle wearing a natty suit by Next and a bespoke waistcoat by Kaye Hannabuss from KayeHtextiles.

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And so, to the ceremony, which provided (as always!) some truly memorable moments, captured here by supreme shutter-smith Luke Bell.

Laura and Mark exchange vows with stars in their eyes - photo by Luke Bell.jpg

The soundtrack to the ceremony and the reception thereafter was provided by talented Flo Duo

If music be the food of love - photo by Luke Bell.jpg

… while the couple took time to light a candle and remember their loved ones who couldn’t be at the wedding.

Laura & Mark in the Ceremony Barn at The Normans - photo by Luke Bell.jpg

Guests explored the nooks and crannies and hidden corners of The Normans with glass in hand. Some even went as far as helping out behind the bar…

Drinks and laughs in the Tack Room at The Normans - photo by Luke Bell.jpg

The Cow Stalls - the perfect cosy hideaway for a winter’s day - was gently illuminated with lanterns and our filament bulbs, and decorated simply yet effectively with crepe paper fans.

Sitting pretty in the Cow Stalls at The Normans - photo by Luke Bell.jpg

Guests were soon called into the Grain Shed for the wedding breakfast. As they took their seats, man and wife stole a quiet moment together in The Normans Courtyard.

A quiet moment together in The Courtyard- photo by Luke Bell.jpg

Inside, tables were adorned with elegant floating candles and seasonal centrepieces by Stems Design. “We wanted to embrace all the seasonal colours for a winter wedding, and chose complimentary winter berry,” recalls bride Laura. “Lynne had some amazing pieces and was able to create the rustic, natural look.” 

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Friends and family also played a hand in the decor of the Grain Shed - each contributing their own hand-stitched bunting triangle, combining in a remarkable, heart-warming keepsake.

Bunting hand-sewn by the family of the bride - photo by Luke Bell.jpg

Not to be outdone on the wow-factor front, caterers Hog & Apple Food Co. capped off a fine three-course meal with this ‘smoking box’ dessert, shrouded in dry ice. We can confirm: it tasted as good as it looked!

Food with flair courtesy of Hog & Apple - photo by Luke Bell.jpg

As night descended, guests chattered and small children toyed with glowing, mesmerising orbs (as is custom), until…

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… The New York Brass Band decided to crash the wedding, getting the party started (and guests on the dance floor) with another trademark high-energy performance.

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Guests danced…

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… and danced some more, until the evening was capped off with a firework display to celebrate Bonfire Night. A magical wedding for a magnificent couple. Congratulations!

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A gorgeous venue run by a fabulous team!
Our friends and families are still talking about the wedding!
Oliver, Laura and Sharon made our wedding planning really easy. They were so accommodating. We felt confident we were in good hands and were completely relaxed on the big day!
— the lovely Laura
Mark and Laura take to the dance floor.jpg