Your Gloucestershire and Wiltshire Wedding - August/September 2023 (Issue 40)

FINEST RETREATS UNVEILS BLAISDON HALL FOR STAYCATIONS Finest Retreats, which offers a hand-picked selection of the finest holiday rental properties across the UK has unveiled its latest addition, the sublime historic estate of Blaisdon Hall nestled in the heart of Gloucestershire. Unlocking the gates for groups of friends and families everywhere to enjoy extraordinary experiences, stunning staycations and celebrations can now be enjoyed in this beautiful building. Blaisdon Hall, with its rich heritage dating back centuries, has, until now, remained an exclusive private retreat for those hosting large-scale celebrations and weddings. Renowned for its timeless elegance and captivating beauty, it will now welcome guests to indulge in unforgettable experiences like never before. Groups and guests can enjoy an unforgettable countryside experience and create cherished memories in this enchanting setting. From the moment they step into the meticulously landscaped grounds and gardens, they will be immersed in a breathtaking backdrop that’s perfect for strolls and intimate gatherings. This is alongside perfectly preserved historic features, that transport visitors to a bygone era of elegance and sophistication. The interior of Blaisdon Hall is equally awe-inspiring, with its ornate chandeliers, towering ceilings, and exquisite period furniture. Guests will have the opportunity to explore the lavishly decorated rooms, each one telling tales of the hall’s illustrious past. From the grand ballroom to the cosy library, every corner of this architectural gem offers a glimpse into the captivating history that unfolds within its walls. Blaisdon Hall is also the ideal destination for unique celebrations and unforgettable events. Whether hosting a fairytale wedding, an elegant corporate retreat, or a milestone anniversary, the hall is fully equipped to orchestrate every detail to perfection, ensuring an extraordinary and memorable occasion. Richard Bond, CEO of Finest Retreats, shared his joy at adding such an esteemed and splendid property to their portfolio: “We are thrilled to open the doors of Blaisdon Hall to the public and share its rich heritage and unparalleled beauty with the world”. “This is an exciting new chapter for such a stunning estate, and we look forward to welcoming guests from near and far, offering them an enchanting experience they will treasure for a lifetime.” To book, visit www.finestretreats.co.uk/rentals/house-longhopeblaisdon-hall-433828.html ANTIQUES AND VINTAGE STORE NOW OPEN AT THE OLD KENNELS IN CIRENCESTER Independent antiques and collectables homewares store, Lily Antiques, is celebrating opening the doors of its new showroom at The Old Kennels in Cirencester Park, Gloucestershire. Inspired by rustic, everyday handmade objects from across Europe, Lily Antiques offers ever-changing collections of beautiful and useful items of excellent quality from one-off antique ceramics, including Capasoni olive oil jars and Spanish pots to Italian crockery platters and pasta bowls. There’s also vintage furniture, decorative items, baskets and stoneware - the pieces are perfect for styling at weddings and also make great gifts with prices ranging from £30 to around £3000. Steve and Louise Pike opened the first Lily Antiques store in Tetbury, Gloucestershire three years ago and stocked it with some of the items from their collection they’d picked up on their travels around the Mediterranean over many years. Louise says, “I’m so excited about welcoming customers to our new store.“ To find out more, visit www.lilyantiques.co.uk EDITOR’S FAVOURITE Why not commission Caroline Evans from Gloucestershire-based Forever Bouquet Fine Art to create an oil painting of your big-day bouquet? It’s not just a keepsake, it’s a heirloom which couples can enjoy for a lifetime. Capturing the blooms in a painting is a straightforward process, it doesn’t require the bouquet to be sent anywhere, Caroline simply asks for a good photograph to work her magic from. The flowers will look exactly like they did on the special day - perfect and in context. It makes the ideal wedding gift or couples can treat themselves to one as a first anniversary present. For further information, to book visit www.foreverbouquet.co.uk or email Caroline at hello@foreverbouquet.co.uk www.facebook.com/ foreverbouquetfineart; www.instagram. com/foreverbouquet_art EDITOR LOVES Sudeley Castle & Gardens in Winchcombe, Gloucestershire has recently opened its stunning Orangery which, combined with the historic Old Coach House provides spacious dining and celebration areas to seat up to 150 guests, with many more able to enjoy the large terrace and outdoor bar. This timeless setting is located in the surroundings of the 15th-century Sudeley Castle and Gardens, with views of the castle exterior and across the rolling Cotswold Hills. The award-winning gardens sweep around the castle and grounds and are known as being some of the most romantic in the Cotswolds. With ruins and roses aplenty, there are awe-inspiring views and when the sun begins to set, the Cotswold stone of the castle and ruins magically glows. The wedding breakfast and evening reception can take place in the Orangery for up to 150 loved ones or inside the Old Coach House for up to 100 people. For more information and to book, call 01242 602 308 or visit https://sudeleycastle.co.uk/weddings LOCAL NEWS 9

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