Your Kent Wedding - May/June 2023 (Issue 108)

PORT LYMPNE HOTEL & RESERVE 01303 234 111 | www.aspinallfoundation.org/weddings A magical and unique setting steeped in history, four-star Grade II listed mansion Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve is Kent’s largest wildlife reserve and award-winning wedding venue, set within 600 acres of magnificent private parkland and home to 900 wild endangered animals. Set among 14-acres of perfectly manicured gardens and adorned with white rambling roses, the garden Pergola seats 110 guests and is an enchanting place to say ‘I do’ outside. Additionally, the second outdoor ceremony option is the Moroccan Courtyard located in Port Lympne Hotel. Offering a more intimate wedding for yourself and 25 guests, it boasts original 1920s details from Phillip Sassoon’s original design and has also been decorated with items from Marrakesh. For al fresco entertaining post-vows, nestled amongst the gardens of the Hotel, The Iceberg Terrace can comfortably seat 100 guests and has views of the Lime Tree Avenue and the Trojan Steps. Inside, for the ceremony, the mansion boasts delightful muralpainted rooms by famous English artists such as Rex Whistler, Spencer Roberts and Martin Jordan. The stunning Spencer Roberts room is hand-painted and showcases a mural of animals, some of which live at Port Lympne; it seats 50 for the ceremony, and 30 for the wedding breakfast. The Long Room can be used for wedding ceremonies witnessed by 100 guests (wedding breakfasts, 50) and has wonderful views of Southern Terrace and 600-acre reserve. The venue’s stunning new glass orangery and terrace are a creative salute to the theatrical entertainment style of the Gatsby era. Truly private and available for exclusive use only for 120 guests for wedding breakfasts, it includes a dancefloor, cloakroom and luxury washrooms, fully incorporated kitchen and has the option to add a marquee or food station on the adjoining lawn. Private guided safaris can be arranged for you and your guests. What’s more, with unique overnight accommodation available from star gazing to luxury lodges set within animal enclosures, there’s ample choice for staying guests. ST AUGUSTINE’S 01843 830 150 | www.staugustineskent.com St Augustine’s is a Grade II listed building set in beautiful grounds in the heart of Westgate-On-Sea in Kent. Formerly a Catholic boarding school, it has a Chapel and beautifully maintained gardens, which boast a gorgeous gazebo, licensed for ceremonies, and a relaxing patio area along with a vast lawn complete with a swing. An array of function rooms are available for any occasion. The Kent Suite (Chapel), hosting 218 for ceremonies, 100 for dining, 250 for informal party, is the hidden gem of St Augustine’s. Mainly used for ceremonies and christenings, it’s also available for receptions and even has its own bar. The Ruby Hall, hosting 500 for cocktail parties, 220 for formal dining, or 180 for a dinner dance, boasts an array of beautiful chandeliers and views of the gardens. One of the largest function rooms, it’s primarily used for wedding breakfasts and receptions. The Drawing Room is a popular dining space for medium-sized parties (150 for a cocktail party, 80 for formal dining), it’s also licenced for civil ceremonies. While for smaller gatherings, The Oak Room can host ceremonies (85), usually for those on the twilight package, and wedding breakfasts (70) in a beautiful space with vaulted ceiling. www.aranyaphotography.co.uk 28

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