As the venue approaches this exciting milestone, it also enters a new chapter: the next generation of the Wrigley family is now at the helm, bringing fresh energy, new ideas, and ambitious plans to build on the strong foundations of previous years.

With landscaped gardens, tranquil lakes, and sweeping countryside providing a serene backdrop, The Barns offers endless possibilities for breathtaking imagery.

Wedding Planner Sarita Toor explains, “Choosing this location for a styled shoot felt effortless. I wanted a venue that could inspire both emotionally and visually, somewhere couples could truly see themselves. I was also intentional about creating a multicultural narrative, styling the bride and groom in Indian attire. The golden and neutral tones of the fabrics and details created a beautiful contrast with the softness of the English countryside, yet everything felt completely in harmony. For me, it was about more than just showcasing a venue; it was about capturing a feeling and celebrating how different cultures can come together so seamlessly in a space like this.”

The Barns at Delbury Hall provide a variety of ceremony settings. Outdoor ceremonies are framed by manicured gardens and lakes, with the gentle beauty of the surrounding hills. Indoor ceremonies in the Coach House offer soaring ceilings, twinkling lights, and abundant greenery, a versatile canvas for personalised styling. Couples may also choose to marry at the picturesque St Peter’s Church, just moments from the estate, before returning to celebrate with family and friends.

Photographer Stuart Wood adds, “This, to me, is a very special place that pulls the best out of you behind the camera. The light moves beautifully through the spaces; the colours and textures of the outfits bring real depth to the pictures, and the calibre of the suppliers means every detail is considered and rich. It all came together in a way that pushed me to explore more, lean into the atmosphere, and create imagery that I am truly proud of.”

As part of the venue’s continued evolution, new guest accommodation is also being introduced this year. The Walled Garden Pods offer a tranquil stay for wedding guests within the estate’s historic gardens, while the newly renovated Fernhalls Mill cottage provides additional accommodation moments from the venue, perfect for couples, families, and close friends wishing to extend celebrations.

Lucia Wrigley, who runs the venue with her husband Jack and father-in-law Patrick, shares, “It’s always a joy to collaborate with passionate, like-minded suppliers, and this shoot was a particularly special example of that. Each creative element, from the florals to the styling, complemented the space beautifully. It was wonderful to see everyone come together and breathe new life into the venue, infusing it with energy, creativity, and a fresh, inspired vision.”

What truly sets The Barns at Delbury Hall apart is its family-run ethos, visible in every facet of this stunning venue.

A venue with heart, heritage, and vision, The Barns at Delbury Hall is ready for its next chapter.

Suppliers & Credits

Planner: Let Love Be Events — Instagram | Website
Photographer: Stuart Wood Photography — Instagram | Website
Venue: The Barns at Delbury Hall — Instagram | Website
Bride & Groom-wear: Sharon’s Couture — Instagram | Website
Videography: LR Films — Instagram | Website
Hair: Chloe Britton Hair — Instagram
Makeup: Ruth Starkie MUA — Instagram
Models: Minnie — Instagram, Raju — Instagram
Styling: Frilly Fox Creative — Instagram
Cake: Sugar Creations by Dimple — Instagram | Website
Ice Cream Bike Hire: EL Events — Instagram | Website
Gifts: Dream Gift 2 You — Instagram
Flowers: Flowers With Love Ltd — Instagram | Website
Singer: Purdey Nurse — Instagram

When it comes to choosing a venue for your wedding, it often depends on whether you would like something traditional or something modern, but what if you could combine the two?  Cowley Manor in The Cotswolds offers contemporary couples a backdrop of modern interiors within a beautiful 19th-century Italianate Villa.  The typically English Cotswold countryside location means that wedding photographs at Cowley are full of colour and character.

We had heard a great deal about Cowley Manor prior to our visit.  It is part of a boutique collection of properties called A Curious Group of Hotels, all designed with cool yet comfortable luxury interiors in mind.

Arriving at Cowley Manor holds an element of surprise and excitement that every bride and groom want their guests to feel when attending a wedding.  The property is tucked away in the corner of the countryside and sits regal but understated in its grounds.  Guests wouldn’t be wrong in expecting a classic country style affair, with all the pomp of a traditional English wedding, but attending an event at Cowley comes with a twist.  Swap conventional country home interiors with bright pops of colour, mid-century modern furniture, and a stunning collection of the owners’ independently picked contemporary artwork.

Weddings at Cowley Manor are booked on exclusive use so that you and your guests can enjoy the entire property and its facilities – that is 30 bedrooms, the gardens, main house and stable block (excludes C-side spa).  Couples can either be married in the hotel or in St Mary’s Church ,which conveniently sits in the grounds of Cowley Manor.

The hotel’s sitting room was definitely one of our favourite spaces – a large and light-filled lounge with a traditional log fire and views out onto the landscaped gardens.  Eat, chat and relax seemed to be the order of the day as afternoon tea was served on the cosy armchairs and sofas.

The bride and groom stay for free in the Best Room, which has a four-poster bed and a huge terrace with views overlooking the lake and woodland.  Both rooms and bathrooms are spacious, providing ample space for brides to get ready with their family and friends.

The rooms are also warm and cosy, with Nespresso machines, Green & Spring toiletries, a complimentary mini-bar, and delicious biscuit treats, among other amenities.

The award-winning C-Side spa is another welcome surprise for any guest of Cowley Manor.  In grounds separate from the main building, the pool is a beautiful glass space flooded with natural light, perfect for prepping before the big day or recuperating afterwards.  The spa uses Green & Spring products – a range of products created by Cowley themselves using herbs and flowers native to the British Isles – they smell divine.  Wedding guests are encouraged to experience the spa and will receive 20% off treatments during their stay.

Your wedding breakfast is served in Malt restaurant – an atmospheric dining room where delicious seasonal food is served under a ceiling of sparkling pendant lights.  It’s truly beautiful and makes a wonderful setting for entertaining guests.

The hotel’s normal dinner menu is here – we had the beef and celebration of lamb, dishes which were cooked to perfection and served with a variety of side dishes.  Our dessert, however, was a real showstopper.  The Malteser – a chocolatey ball of heaven which aesthetically melts inside itself on pouring its accompanying sauce all over it.  Good food and entertainment all round.

During our stay at Cowley Manor, the staff were impeccable – friendly and open but equally efficient.  Choosing your wedding here is not just about the great location and venue; it’s also about creating an experience you and your guests will enjoy.  The space, colour palette, and facilities make it a great venue for modern family weddings that invite children.  At the same time, it is a boutique country hotel that would suit a sophisticated adult-only affair, where luxury and good service are appreciated.

• 5 Star Wedding Directory received a complimentary stay at Cowley Manor for the purpose of this review.
• For more information on weddings at Cowley Manor, you can download their wedding brochure here
  

  Thank you to Christopher and Kati for the use of their wedding images. All wedding-related images copyright Eve Dunlop Photography

  
  

With over 20 years of experience in London’s elite pastry kitchens, Neil has perfected the art of the “Showstopper.” Whether you are planning a grand gala at Botleys Mansion or an intimate garden party in Woking, Le Papillon Cakes creates bespoke masterpieces that guests will be talking about long after the final slice.

The Anatomy of a Luxury 2026 Wedding Cake

In 2026, couples are moving away from heavy, dry sponges in favour of the complex textures found in high-end patisserie. Neil’s philosophy remains unwavering: Quality before cost.

• The Chocolate: Crafted using only the finest Belgian Couverture, ensuring a rich, melt-in-the-mouth experience.
• The Vanilla: No essences here. Only Grade-A Madagascan vanilla pods are used in his signature silky Swiss meringue buttercream.
• The Infusion: From vintage rums for traditional fruitcakes to Champagne-infused ganache for modern tiers, every soak is premium.
• The Butter: Sourced from the best dairies to ensure a light, clean finish that never feels “greasy” on the palate.

2026 Trend Spotlight: What’s New at Le Papillon?

Neil and his team have adapted their 2026 collections to meet the most sought-after styles of the year:

• The “Whimsical Garden” Cake: Think delicate, hand-painted floral motifs and sugar-spun butterflies—perfect for the “Bridgerton-chic” weddings trending this season.
• Vintage Glam & Lambeth Piping: A resurgence of the 1980s “maximalist” look, featuring intricate over-piping and architectural ruffles.
• The Croquembouche Comeback: As an expert in French pastry, Neil’s Croquembouche towers—decorated with macarons and caramel shards—are the ultimate interactive dessert experience for 2026.
• Flavour Innovations: Beyond the classics, ask about the Pistachio & Rosewater or the Elderflower & Lemon Curd tiers.

Serving Surrey, London, and the South East

Based in Woking, Surrey, Le Papillon Cakes is the premier choice for couples across the Home Counties. Neil provides a highly personalised service, including:

• Private Tasting Consultations: Sample a variety of flavour combinations to find your perfect match.
• Venue-Specific Design: Neil works directly with venue coordinators at Cain Manor, Notley Abbey, and hotels in Greater London to ensure your cake fits the room’s acoustics and scale.
• Sustainable Sourcing: In 2026, luxury means local. Le Papillon prioritises local Surrey farm ingredients wherever possible.

After months of meticulous planning, every detail of your wedding day should radiate perfection. From the “I do” to the final dance, your celebration reflects your story. Central to that story is the wedding toast—the moment your guests raise a glass to your future.

Whether you are looking for the perfect luxury sparkling wine or dreaming of a destination wedding in a Spanish vineyard, Barcelona’s historic Codorníu estate offers an unparalleled blend of heritage, glamour, and taste.

The Perfect Pour: Why Codorníu is the 2026 Wedding Essential

For the modern couple, choosing a sparkling wine is about more than just bubbles; it’s about choosing a brand with soul. As the world’s oldest family-owned business in Spain, Codorníu brings over 450 years of expertise to your flute.

1. Codorníu Brut NV: The Elegant Classic

A guaranteed crowd-pleaser, the Codorníu Brut NV is the gold standard for wedding receptions.

• The Profile: Fresh and crisp with delightfully fine bubbles.
• Tasting Notes: A sophisticated blend of honey, green apple, and citrus aromas with a dry, clean finish.
• Best For: Your primary wedding toast, paired with light appetisers.

2. Codorníu Rosado NV: The Romantic Choice

For a touch of modern flair, the Rosado NV adds a vibrant pop of colour to your tablescape.

• The Profile: Bursting with red fruit notes and a delicate floral bouquet.
• Best For: Summer weddings, “Golden Hour” toasts, and pairing with wedding cake.

Pro Tip: For a 100-guest wedding, we recommend approximately 18 to 20 bottles of Cava for the toast alone. If you are serving it throughout the night, plan for one bottle per three guests.

Hosting Your Wedding at the Codorníu Estate (Sant Sadurní d’Anoia)

Located just 45 minutes from Barcelona city centre, the Codorníu winery is more than a cellar—it is a “Cathedral of Cava.” Designed by the famed Modernist architect Josep Puig i Cadafalch, this National Historic-Artistic Monument is one of Europe’s most exclusive wedding destinations.

Iconic On-Site Venues:

• The Celler Gran: A breathtaking vaulted space perfect for a grand, candlelit banquet that feels like a royal gala.
• The Tower Garden: An emerald outdoor oasis for couples seeking a Mediterranean garden wedding surrounded by historic architecture.
• The Anna Terrace: A chic, open-air spot for sunset cocktails overlooking the Penedès vineyards.

Sustainable Luxury for the Modern Couple

In 2026, sustainability is the ultimate wedding trend. Codorníu is a leader in organic viticulture. By choosing their Cavas, you are supporting eco-friendly farming and the preservation of the Catalan landscape—values that resonate with the conscious couple.

How to Source Codorníu for Your Big Day

Ready to stock your bar? You can find the Codorníu collection at premium retailers such as Majestic Wine and Ocado. For those planning a destination wedding in Spain, you can book private tours and venue consultations directly via the Official Codorníu Website.

Luxury Wedding & Estate FAQs: Planning Your 2026 Celebration

How far is the Codorníu Estate from Barcelona city centre?

The Codorníu Estate is located in Sant Sadurní d’Anoia, just a 30 to 45-minute drive from central Barcelona. It is easily accessible via private transfer or the R4 train line, making it a perfect destination for both local and international wedding parties staying in the city.

What is the guest capacity for a wedding at Codorníu?

Codorníu offers high flexibility for weddings of all sizes. The iconic Celler Gran (the Great Cellar) can host grand galas for up to 1,200 guests, while more intimate spaces, such as the Anna Terrace or the Tower Garden, are ideal for boutique celebrations of 50 to 120 people.

Can we integrate AI and Augmented Reality (AR) into our wedding at the estate?

Absolutely. The 2026 “Narrative Wedding” trend is a speciality here. You can use AR wayfinding to guide guests through the historic modernist gardens or create digital “memory spots” near the vintage cava train where guests can view your story via a QR-enabled smartphone experience.

Is Codorníu Cava sustainable for an eco-friendly wedding?

Yes. Codorníu is a pioneer in sustainable viticulture. Their cavas are produced with a deep respect for the land, and the estate offers organic options that align with “Circular Wedding” trends, ensuring your luxury celebration has a minimal environmental footprint.

Do we have to use the winery’s in-house catering?

While Codorníu provides expert sommeliers and world-class Cava, it also allows couples the flexibility to bring in independent catering and decor vendors. This ensures your wedding menu is 100% personalized to your dietary needs and aesthetic vision.

Taking in the grand front gates, at the pinnacle of a winding drive surrounded by an expertly trimmed box hedge, Brocket Hall conjures up a timeless British elegance from the very first glimpse. One of the greatest stately homes, witness to some of the most pivotal moments and characters of English history, Brocket Hall, under new management, embarks on an exciting new era, reawakening the classic magic of this historic property.

We attended a gorgeous event to see this amazing historic venue for ourselves.

Displaying quintessential British grandeur and available solely for exclusive use, this exceptional ancestral home stands proudly within a manicured 543-acre estate and is conveniently located just 22 miles from central London. This distinctive destination features not only one of England’s greatest stately homes but also two championship golf courses with outstanding practice facilities and coaching for beginners to elite players, as well as a host of activities that epitomise the best of Britain, such as motorised sports, falconry, clay-pigeon shooting, archery and croquet.

Individually tailored arrangements with dedicated butlers and a brand new team of chefs; corporate events, private parties and weddings bring Brocket Hall back to life. Showcasing every inch of the unforgettable property, these exclusive events reawaken the fine furnishings, the collection of stately paintings, the historic connections found in each bedroom, and the captivating, intriguing narrative of scandals.

Guests can sense its stories past whispered between the walls.  Built in 1760, few stately homes, if any, can claim to have had two prime ministers live and die within their walls. A country retreat for some of the most famous royal and aristocratic figures, including King George IV, Lord Melbourne and his close friend and counterpart Queen Victoria, the estate also features Melbourne Lodge, the 18th-century former stables with 16 luxury bedrooms, many of which overlook an expanse of beautiful Broadwater Lake.

The grandeur of the Regency Hall and the glamorous splendour of its Ballroom, surrounded by beautiful parkland and coupled with traditional butler service, Brocket Hall provides a most superior backdrop for those looking for the very finest elements of all that makes Britain Great.

A reputation as one of the most innovative out of London dining destinations, the Estate also plays host to Auberge du Lac. A charming fine dining restaurant, housed in the Estate’s former hunting lodge that dates back to 1760 and boasts a stunning lakeside setting, exceptional cuisine and the highest standards of service.

Brocket Hall, an exclusive venue for corporate events, weddings and parties, is fully staffed with butlers discreetly anticipating guests’ needs as well as a team of chefs delivering the highest culinary standards. The Hall’s exceptional meeting facilities and luxurious accommodation are regularly used by politicians, captains of industry, and businessmen to meet, discuss and relax in a discreet and convivial environment. It is just as popular a venue for weddings, company outings and private parties, providing an extraordinary and memorable experience to all.

The beautiful Regency stately home boasts 30 luxurious double bedrooms, all named after individuals who have either lived in or been closely associated with Brocket Hall. Providing breathtaking views across the country estate, the luxury accommodation retains a quintessentially British look and feel while meeting modern standards, befitting Brocket Hall’s international reputation.

Close to the capital and near the convenience of London Luton Airport, Brocket Hall is also easily accessible for private jet users, and the large Estate allows for helicopters.

Visit Brocket Hall’s website to find out more.

1. What are the different venue options within the estate? Brocket Hall offers three distinct vibes:

• Brocket Hall (The House): Exclusive-use Regency mansion for grand, traditional weddings.
• The Oak Room: A rustic-chic space at the Melbourne Club with vaulted ceilings and a barn-like feel.
• Auberge du Lac: An intimate, former hunting lodge perfect for “foodie” weddings and smaller gatherings.

2. What is the maximum capacity for a wedding?

• Indoor: The Ballroom can seat up to 150 guests for a wedding breakfast.
• Outdoor: For larger-than-life celebrations, the grounds can host a marquee for up to 700 guests on the Front Lawn.
• Intimate: Auberge du Lac is perfect for groups of 40–60.

3. Is “Exclusive Use” actually exclusive? Yes. If you book the Hall, the entire house and its immediate gardens are yours. You will have a dedicated team of Brocket Hall Butlers (a signature of the New Era) to ensure total privacy and a seamless experience.

4. Can we have our ceremony and reception in the same place? Absolutely. The estate holds a full civil ceremony license. Popular choices include the Library (50 guests) for intimacy or the Boardroom (150 guests) for a grander entrance.

5. What is the accommodation like for guests? There are two main options:

• The Hall: 30 luxurious, individually styled bedrooms (including the Prince Regent suite).
• Melbourne Lodge: 16 additional en-suite rooms in the converted 18th-century coach house, just a short stroll or buggy ride away.

6. Is there a “secret” photo spot on the estate? The Broadwater Lake Ferry is the icon’s best-kept secret. It’s a hand-pulled ferry that takes the couple across the water—it makes for incredible, unique photography with the Hall and the Paine Bridge in the background.

7. Can we bring our own caterers? While the Hall prides itself on its world-class in-house culinary team, dry-hire options are available to meet specific cultural requirements. You must use their approved list of high-end external caterers to ensure the Grade I listed interiors are protected.

8. What is the policy on fireworks and music? As a sprawling 543-acre estate, fireworks are generally permitted (usually until 10:30 PM or 11:00 PM), provided you use their professional partners. Music is allowed in the Hall until midnight, with the option to extend via a late-license application.

9. How do we handle the “New Era” tech integration? Brocket Hall now uses digital planning portals. You’ll have access to 3D floor-planning software to visualise your seating in the Ballroom and an AI-assisted concierge to help your guests book their rooms at Melbourne Lodge directly.

10. What does a 2026 wedding roughly cost? Pricing is bespoke, but for the “New Era,” expect:

• Intimate Packages: Starting around £3,000 – £5,000 for small groups.
• The Oak Room: Packages often start around £12,000+ for 60-80 guests.
• Exclusive Hall Hire: Usually requires a significant venue fee plus a per-head “platinum” package.

Opening its doors this summer to welcome its inaugural celebrations of the season, Wickham House is Berkshire’s newest and most exclusive wedding venue. A luxurious late 18th-century Georgian Manor House located just outside Newbury and home to the charming D’Arcy family, Wickham is a venue that provides the canvas to transform weddings from the ordinary to the extraordinary.

The house – which has been extensively enhanced in recent years – effortlessly blends glorious grandeur with a wonderfully welcoming feel and just the right amount of old-world country charm. A magnificent backdrop for outdoor marquee receptions of all sizes and styles, the venue also comes complete with a quaint church for quintessentially British religious ceremonies and a contemporary yet cosy purpose-built oak-framed barn for intimate rehearsal dinners, morning bridal preparations and a wet-weather civil ceremony option.

Yet the true magic of Wickham is unveiled outside within the 52 acres of heavenly grounds that come alive in all their glory from May to September. Step outside of the house and you are immediately greeted by the immaculate expanse of lawns flanked by grand Lebanese Cedar trees that provide the setting for marquee celebrations for up to 400 guests, overlooking the Downs to one side and the house façade on the other.

Wander through to the magnificent Walled Garden, designed by renowned architect Robin Templar-Williams, to discover a floral wonderland abundant in textures, colours and scents. Once inside the Walled Garden, it’s easy to let imaginations run wild, envisaging an idyllic, intimate civil ceremony under the pagoda surrounded by loved ones….and never wanting to leave.

From the Walled Garden, guests are transported a few steps away to the Pavilion and pool terrace for an informal yet elegant drinks reception – with champagne flowing and mixologists serving signature cocktails beside the deep azure water and York stone terraces – before heading to the main marquee for the wedding breakfast and evening entertainment.

Once the party is over, guests looking for the comfort of a luxury hotel can retreat to Sir Peter Michael’s five-star hotel, The Vineyard, located just three minutes away, or to the sister hotel, Donnington Valley, which is 10 minutes further.

Alternatively, there’s a host of stylish gastro pubs for more informal accommodation, and for the very free-spirited, Wickham House can also accommodate guests in ‘glamping’ tents within the grounds through its preferred partner, The Pop Up Hotel.

With an exceptionally attentive eye for style and an avid appreciation for life’s luxuries, the D’Arcy family have worked tirelessly to ensure every element of Wickham House has been carefully considered before opening it as a wedding venue.

From the curated list of world-class preferred partners to the exclusive use policy of only one weekend per month, Wickham House is one of Berkshire’s best-kept secrets and a truly special place that will play host to the weddings of a lucky few.

While the 2017 diary is booking up quickly, due to its recent opening, there are still dates available for 2016 weekends – a rarity in the modern-day world of weddings where venues are booked several years in advance.

To make an appointment to view all that Wickham has to offer

email enquiries@wickhamhouse.com

wickhamhouse.com for further information.