Following the church reception, the wedding party made their way down the tree lined driveway in vintage buses and out onto the rear lawn of the school. Whilst guests enjoyed a champagne and canape reception, we surprised younger summer wedding guests with brilliant entertainment and bouncy castles. As guests enjoyed the sunshine, live music ran out across the lawns and helped create a wonderfully relaxed atmosphere.
As guests entered into the traditional marquee they were met with a sea of brilliant blues, suspended from the ceiling we included a variety of hanging lanterns – perfect for bringing colour, texture and height into the otherwise white interior. With fairy lights wrapped around the poles and hanging throughout the lanterns, they looked sensational as evening began to fall. Until then, guests could make the most of the clear window walls to look out on the surrounding grounds.
The stater included miniature charcuterie boards, slow cooked squid & chorizo, feta salads, manchego jelly skewers, artisan flat breads and dips. Following my a trio of pork; roast tenderloin, confit belly and ham soup served with pomme puree, minted pea and cider jus. Finished with gooseberry & elder flower fool, rich chocolate pot, treacle tart and clotted cream. Following this incredible menu we were on hand with decadent cheese boards, macaroons and jars filled with sweets for guests to enjoy late into the evening. For an additional personal touch, the wedding cake was made by the Mother of the groom, and was of course decorated in blue.
After dinner, evening guests were invited to join ahead of the speeches before the couple took tot he floor for their first dance. Continuing late into the evening, we transformed the marquee into the perfect dance spot with colour lighting and a energy filled live band.
As the bride and groom prepared to leave, their guests gathered under a firework display and waved them off with personal sparklers – a magical ending for what had been a truly unforgettable day.
Further information about hiring The Downs School for your summer wedding can be found here.