An Essex Wedding - May/June 2022 (Issue 104)

THE OLD PARISH ROOMS 01268 833101| www.theoldparishrooms.com Build in 1863 as a schoolhouse, and now a Grade II listed building, The Old Parish Rooms are set within the grounds of a church in the picturesque town of Rayleigh. Historic on the outside but cool and contemporary within, the space offers white brick walls and exposed steel beams, giving you the perfect blank canvas for your wedding styling. There are also two mezzanine floors available, meaning you can create different areas while keeping your guests together in the same space. And that’s before you account for the huge amount of photo opportunities to be had, with a firm favourite being right outside the venue between its impressive windows. Become newlyweds with a more intimate ceremony in the ‘chapel’ mezzanine for up to 30. Alternatively, for a larger party, why not hold the ceremony on the ground floor for up to 60? Your reception then takes place for up to 80 seated guests across all mezzanine floors – or, for a more casual affair, up to 100. Psst! There are currently some fantastic rates for midweek weddings, twilight weddings or last-minute dates – be sure to get in touch to find out more. MARKSHALL ESTATE 01376 565420 | www.markshall.org.uk/weddings Markshall Estate’s The Coach House is a beautiful 18th century building originally used to house horse drawn carriages for the mansion house. Surrounded by parkland, an arboretum, lakes and a walled garden, it’s here you’ll create everlasting memories of your special day. The rustic, red brick and exposed beams of The Coach House are adorned with twinkling fairy lights, setting the perfect backdrop for your wedding. Three sets of double doors then open out onto a spacious terrace covered by three Chinese hat marquees, providing a shady spot on warmer days to drink in the view and fragrance of the garden’s blooms and scented borders. You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to picking an actual space to say ‘I do’, with either The Flower Garden, The Coach House or The Woodland available – the estate has a licence for both indoor and outdoor ceremonies. You’ll then enjoy a wedding breakfast for up to 140 – and up to 200 with evening guests – at The Coach House or The Tipi Field. Just be sure to take full advantage of the 250 acres of manicured gardens and wild woodland for photographs you’ll cherish forever. www.paulandrewsweddings.photo www.thekensingtonphotographer.co.uk 26

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