Laura Lewis

Can You Have a Proper Wedding With Just 20 Guests? Small Wedding Ideas for Bristol Couples

October 2, 2026 by Laura Lewis Leave a Comment

We’d like to start with one very important thought: you don’t need to feel bad about wanting a small wedding.

Your wedding day is yours. It’s a chance to celebrate your relationship, spend time with the people who matter most and create a day that feels meaningful to you both.

In Bristol, there are plenty of ways to celebrate a smaller wedding, whether you’re planning an intimate day with 20 of your closest family and friends, a micro wedding or even an elopement with just the two of you.

If you’re looking for small wedding ideas in Bristol but still want all the things that make a wedding feel like a proper celebration, here are some ideas to consider.

Your venue choice matters

Married couple in garden at Berwick Lodge — Photo credit: Red Maple Photography

Even if you don’t want a big wedding, you might still want some of those things you’ve pictured for years — saying yes to the dress, walking down the aisle, beautiful photographs you’ll keep for the rest of your life, and that feeling when you arrive and think this is it.

A small guest list doesn’t mean those moments matter any less.

Bristol has some really special wedding venues, and a few that we genuinely think are worth putting on your list to visit. From historic buildings and grand houses to beautiful city spaces and country settings, it’s worth looking beyond traditional smaller function rooms.

The Orangery at Goldney Hall – tucked away in Clifton, with beautiful gardens and a wonderfully romantic setting.

The Forge – a very different option, with its industrial character, Bristol setting and a more relaxed feel.

No.4 Clifton Village – a lovely option for a smaller wedding in Clifton, with an intimate wedding package designed for smaller groups.

And then there’s Berwick Lodge.

At Berwick Lodge, we believe a smaller wedding should still feel like a full wedding day. One of the things that makes us a little different is that our intimate weddings don’t require exclusive use of the whole hotel.

You can still walk down the aisle in our ceremony room, raise a glass with your closest family and friends over drinks and canapés, sit down together for a wedding breakfast and make the most of the house and gardens for your photographs.

It’s a chance to have those little moments you’ve imagined for years, just shared with a smaller group of people.

What to look for when choosing a smaller wedding venue

Dining tables laid out at luxury hotel in Bristol — Private lower restaurant at Berwick Lodge

When looking at wedding venues, it’s really important to actually go and see them. Even if you’ve visited a venue before, seeing it as a wedding venue is completely different.

You might have been there for dinner or afternoon tea, but can you picture yourself walking down the aisle there? Where would you have your photographs? Where would your guests enjoy drinks? Where would you sit down for your wedding breakfast?

When you visit, there are a few things we think are worth asking:

Does the venue still feel special with a smaller number of guests?

Can you have those important wedding moments there? Ceremony, drinks, meal, speeches, cake, first dance.

Are there beautiful places for photographs?

Does the food feel like part of the occasion?

Can your closest family and friends stay?

Will you have someone to help with the planning and details?

It’s easy to fall in love with a venue from the photographs, but seeing it in person can tell you so much more. Take your time, ask questions and, most importantly, see if you can picture yourselves actually getting married there.

Making the day feel personal

Married couple with their dog — Photo credit: Red Maple Photography

This is the exciting bit after you’ve booked your venue, where you can really make your celebration your own. Adding those small details is what can make a wedding feel truly meaningful and personal.

Have a celebrant

If you want your ceremony to feel really personal, having a celebrant can be a lovely option. Rather than following a set format, you can include stories, readings, music and little details that mean something to you both.

Include your pets

If your dog is a big part of your family, why shouldn’t they be part of your wedding day too? A smaller wedding can make it easier to include your four-legged family member, whether that’s bringing them along for some photographs or having them with you for part of the day.

Add handmade details and favours

This is something we’ve noticed becoming a real trend lately, and not necessarily because couples want to save money. It’s about adding those special, personal touches that make the wedding feel truly yours — and it’s something couples enjoy, too, giving them the chance to channel their creativity.

This summer, we’ve seen home-baked cookies, hand-painted place cards and table plans, and couples incorporating their hobbies and passions into their wedding décor.

At Berwick Lodge, our small wedding breakfast takes place in a completely private lower restaurant, which couples can personalise as much as they wish. Our dedicated small wedding coordinator, Magdalena, can help you find the perfect place for your cake, flowers, favours and other special details.

Choose your music

Small weddings certainly deserve a meaningful playlist. Music can take you back to important moments in your relationship, create emotional moments and set the atmosphere for the day.

Choose songs that mean something to you as a couple — from the music you listened to when you first met to the song you want for your first dance.

Your ceremony doesn’t have to be at your reception venue

Your wedding ceremony doesn’t have to take place at your reception venue. If getting married in your local church, somewhere meaningful to your family or another special place is important to you, you can have your ceremony there and then continue the celebrations at your chosen wedding venue.

Having a smaller wedding gives you the freedom to think about what matters most to you, rather than feeling that everything has to happen in one place.

Small doesn’t have to mean less

exclusive-use wedding venue — Photo credit: Red Maple Photography

There can be a lot of pressure around weddings — how many people you should invite, how big the venue should be and what a wedding is supposed to look like.

But if the people who matter most to you are there, you can still have the dress, the flowers, the photographs, the champagne, the speeches, the cake and the first dance.

You can still have that moment of walking into your wedding breakfast and thinking this is it.

And perhaps that’s the best thing about a smaller wedding. You get to spend the day with the people you really want beside you.

Still looking for the right venue? We’ve also put together a guide to small and micro wedding venues in Bristol, with more practical advice on planning an intimate celebration.

If you’re considering a smaller wedding and want it to feel every bit as special as you imagined, take a look at our micro wedding package or get in touch with our weddings team. We’d love to show you around.

Afternoon Tea for Special Occasions: Celebrating in Bristol

August 21, 2026 by Laura Lewis Leave a Comment

Afternoon tea has come a long way from a simple pot of tea, sandwiches and scones. Today, beautifully presented afternoon tea has become an occasion in itself – and we’re seeing more and more people choosing it to mark life’s special moments.

From small gatherings with a few friends to milestone birthdays and wedding celebrations, we’ve seen afternoon tea bring different generations into the same room and fill our house with a real sense of togetherness.

And what’s not to like about today’s afternoon tea? Think beautifully presented cakes, delicate mousses, freshly baked scones and sandwiches with varied fillings that change with the seasons. Paired with the elegant setting of our Victorian manor house, it makes for a truly memorable occasion.

In this article, we’ll share some of the occasions we’ve seen celebrated over afternoon tea at Berwick Lodge, and hopefully give you a little inspiration for your own.

Afternoon Tea Birthday Celebrations

At Berwick Lodge, we have hosted numerous afternoon tea birthday celebrations. 30th, 40th… 60th, 90th and even 100th!

From two friends getting cosy on our plush sofas in front of the fire in our beautiful Lounge to larger family gatherings in our elegant restaurant, afternoon tea works wonderfully for birthdays of all ages.

And perhaps that’s part of the magic. There’s none of the formality of a traditional meal, but it still feels like a real occasion. It’s easy to cater for different tastes and dietary requirements, while giving everyone something to enjoy.

And it really delivers that wow factor when you see the stands on the tables, filled with delicious sweet and savoury treats. We recently had the whole restaurant filled with guests celebrating a birthday, and seeing the space come alive with afternoon tea really showed just how well it can work for a larger party.

Celebrating a New Baby with a Cup of Tea

There is something wonderfully special about an afternoon tea party for a baby shower. It’s an occasion shared with the women closest to you – friends, sisters, mums and perhaps even a few generations of family – coming together to celebrate one of life’s biggest milestones.

Gathering around a table, with pots of tea being poured, delicate cakes to share and plenty of time for conversation, has an almost old-fashioned sense of togetherness. Like a modern-day high-society gathering – with a touch of Bridgerton about it.

At Berwick Lodge, there are several spaces that can be hired privately, from the elegant and light-filled Mews to our cosy Lounge and Lower Restaurant. In summer, the Anatolia Terrace is particularly lovely, with our beautiful gardens creating a natural backdrop for a baby shower.

We recently hosted a baby shower where the mum-to-be brought along her own balloons and decorations, transforming the space into a beautiful and very personal celebration. It was intimate, joyful and completely her own – just like the new baby.

Who Says Weddings Need to Be Formal?

If different and informal is your dream wedding, an afternoon tea wedding breakfast could be just the thing to make the day your own.

We’ve been seeing more and more couples choosing afternoon tea as part of their celebration after the ceremony. Of course, your wedding day can flow just as you imagine it – from getting ready and saying “I do”, to photographs, canapés and drinks, followed by everyone sitting down in our restaurant for afternoon tea.

Our most recent couple simply love afternoon tea, so choosing it for their wedding breakfast felt like a natural part of their day. They still had all the elements you would expect from a wedding – the ceremony, photographs, drinks and time with their guests – but their love of afternoon tea made the celebration feel that little bit more personal.

Afternoon tea works particularly well for smaller weddings, from intimate celebrations and elopements for two to micro weddings of around 30 guests. Rather than trying to make a small wedding feel like a scaled-down version of a large one, afternoon tea embraces the intimacy and simplicity of celebrating with just the people closest to you.

And of course, while tea might be the star of the show, there’s no reason you can’t raise a glass too. Champagne, cocktails and afternoon tea can sit very happily alongside one another on a wedding day.

Celebrating a Life Well Lived

Not every gathering is about birthdays, weddings or new arrivals. Sometimes we come together to remember someone who meant a great deal to us.

A cup of tea and a slice of cake are such beloved parts of our everyday lives, often woven into some of our happiest memories, particularly for the older generation. Afternoon tea takes these simple pleasures and elevates them into something a little more meaningful – a beautiful setting where everyone can sit, sip tea, share stories and remember.

Perhaps that is what makes afternoon tea so fitting for a celebration of life. We gather around a table, pour the tea, share a slice of cake and, most importantly, share the stories and memories of someone who mattered.

Why Afternoon Tea at Berwick Lodge is So Special

There are plenty of places to enjoy afternoon tea in Bristol, but we think there is something particularly special about enjoying it at Berwick Lodge.

It’s that perfect combination of a beautiful setting, delicious food and, most importantly, the people. We’re a family-owned, independent hotel, and we genuinely love seeing our house filled with people marking important moments – whether it’s two friends celebrating a 30th birthday or a whole family coming together for a milestone.

For us, afternoon tea is more than what arrives on the table. It’s the laughter, the conversations, the little decorations people bring with them and those moments when everyone can simply relax and enjoy the occasion.

Our warm and welcoming team, alongside our dedicated events team, are always here to help with questions, ideas and those little details that make your celebration your own.

And perhaps that’s what makes afternoon tea at Berwick Lodge so special – it’s not just an afternoon tea, it’s an experience.

More about the afternoon tea at Berwick Lodge: Indulge in Afternoon Tea at Berwick Lodge: A Quintessential British Experience.

If you would like to enquire about celebrating your special occasion with an afternoon tea party at Berwick Lodge, we’d love to hear from you. Send us a message and we’ll be happy to answer any questions and help you start planning your celebration.

How Much Does a Wedding Cost? A Practical Guide to Creating Your Wedding Budget

July 27, 2026 by Laura Lewis Leave a Comment

There’s something incredibly exciting about those first few weeks after getting engaged. You start imagining your wedding day, searching for inspiration, exploring venues and picturing everyone you love celebrating in one place.

One of the first questions many couples ask is:

“How much does a wedding cost?”

Creating a wedding budget can feel overwhelming at first, especially when there are so many different elements to consider. The honest answer is that there is no single figure. Every wedding is different, and your final investment will depend on the choices you make along the way.

Many couples begin their planning by searching for average wedding costs and trying to understand what is realistic. The truth is that there is no one-size-fits-all answer — your guest numbers, venue, style, priorities and chosen date will all influence the overall cost.

Through helping couples plan their weddings at Berwick Lodge, we have seen that some of the biggest budget decisions are made right at the beginning. Understanding these choices early can help you plan with confidence, make the most of your budget and create a wedding that feels truly personal.

The Biggest Factors That Influence Your Wedding Budget

Before looking at individual costs, it is helpful to understand the decisions that have the biggest impact on your overall wedding investment.

1️⃣ Guest numbers – the size of your celebration influences everything from catering and drinks to flowers, styling and accommodation.

2️⃣ Your venue and catering – your chosen setting and what is included within your package will shape a large part of your budget.

3️⃣ Your wedding package – understanding what is included can help you compare venues fairly and avoid unexpected costs.

4️⃣ Your date and season – the time of year and day of the week can influence availability and pricing.

5️⃣ Your personal priorities – deciding what matters most to you helps you spend your budget on the elements you will remember most.

Taking time to think about these areas first can help you create a realistic budget and focus your spending on the things that truly matter to you.

Guest Numbers: The Starting Point for Your Wedding Budget

Married couple having a kiss after the ceremony — Photo credit: Kieran Bellis Photos

You do not need to have your final guest list confirmed before viewing wedding venues, but having a realistic idea of your approximate numbers is one of the most helpful first steps.

Whether you are planning an intimate celebration, a micro wedding or a larger gathering will influence the type of venue you need, the atmosphere you want to create and many of the costs involved.

Adding guests does not just mean extra meals. It can also mean more drinks, stationery, flowers, table styling, cake, evening food and accommodation requirements.

A wedding for 50 guests and a celebration for 150 guests are likely to feel very different from a budget perspective. Larger guest numbers can influence everything from table layouts and flowers to entertainment and accommodation.

One thing we often find is that couples sometimes begin their planning with a larger guest list because they feel they need to invite everyone. As conversations develop, many discover that a slightly smaller celebration allows them to create a more personal experience and invest more in the details that matter most.

At Berwick Lodge, we welcome couples looking for different styles of celebrations — from intimate elopements for two, through to micro weddings for around 15–30 guests and exclusive weddings for larger gatherings of around 50–150 guests.

There is no perfect wedding size. The right size is the one that feels right for you and allows you to spend your budget on the elements that matter most.

Choosing Your Venue: One of the Most Exciting Decisions

Married couple after wedding in Bristol — Photo credit: Jodie Hurd Photography

Choosing your wedding venue is one of the most exciting parts of planning your day, but it can also feel overwhelming. With so many different styles of venues, packages and pricing structures available, it can be difficult to know what represents the best value for your budget.

For many couples, the venue and catering will make up one of the largest parts of their wedding investment. However, it is important to look beyond the headline price and understand what is included, as some venues may require additional investment in areas such as styling, décor and furniture.

The venue you choose can influence many of your other decisions. A setting with character, beautiful surroundings and thoughtfully designed spaces may naturally require less additional styling because the venue itself already creates much of the atmosphere.

At Berwick Lodge, our Victorian country house, gardens and woodland provide a naturally beautiful backdrop for weddings throughout the year. Couples can add their own personal touches while allowing the character of the venue to shine.

Our ceremony spaces are prepared ready for your special day, and couples can even incorporate seasonal flowers from our gardens, lovingly arranged by our team.

Choosing a venue is not just about finding somewhere beautiful to celebrate; it is about finding a place that creates the right atmosphere and allows you to spend your budget on the elements that are most meaningful to you.

Understanding Your Wedding Package: Knowing What Is Included

Once you have an idea of your guest numbers and the type of venue you are looking for, the next step is understanding what is included within your wedding package.

Wedding packages can vary significantly between venues, so it is important to look beyond the headline price and understand exactly what you are paying for. A package that appears more expensive initially may already include many of the elements you would otherwise need to arrange separately.

When comparing packages, consider whether they include:

▪️Venue hire

▪️Food and drink

▪️Reception drinks and canapés

▪️Wedding breakfast

▪️Evening catering

▪️Linen, crockery and cutlery

▪️Wedding coordination and support

▪️Accommodation or additional experiences

At Berwick Lodge, we make understanding your wedding costs as simple as possible. Our packages (like this Spring Wedding Package) are designed to give couples clarity from the beginning, with venue hire, food and drink costs included alongside our 2 AA Rosette dining experience.

This means couples have a clearer picture of their main wedding investment from the outset, allowing them to focus on the personal touches that make their day unique.

Choosing Your Wedding Date: How Season and Day of the Week Affect Your Budget

Married couple walking through parkland after wedding — Photo credit: Hotwells Wedding Photography

Your wedding date can have a significant impact on your overall budget. While summer Saturday weddings are often the most popular choice, they are not the only option for creating a beautiful and memorable celebration.

Choosing a date outside of peak season can offer more flexibility and help your budget stretch further. Spring, autumn and winter weddings can be just as magical, with each season bringing something different.

At Berwick Lodge, our Victorian country house, gardens and woodland provide a beautiful backdrop throughout the year — from the first spring flowers such as daffodils and bluebells, to the rich colours of autumn and the atmosphere of a winter celebration.

For couples who dream of a stunning setting but want to maximise their budget, choosing a quieter season can create more opportunities to invest in the details that make their wedding personal, whether that is additional flowers, candlelight, entertainment or styling touches. Take inspiration from Emma and Joshua’s beautiful spring wedding.

The day of the week can also influence pricing. Saturdays are usually the most sought-after, while weekday weddings, particularly Monday to Thursday, can offer better value. Fridays and Sundays may sit somewhere in between depending on the venue.

Many couples worry that guests will not attend a weekday wedding, but in our experience, loved ones are often delighted to celebrate with you when it is such a meaningful occasion.

Choosing a different season or day is not about compromising on your dream wedding — it can create even more opportunities to make it your own.

Other Wedding Costs to Consider

Once you have considered your venue, guest numbers, package and date, it is time to think about the additional elements that will make your wedding personal to you.

Every couple’s priorities are different. Some couples may choose to invest more in flowers and styling, while others prioritise photography, entertainment or creating an unforgettable dining experience.

Some additional wedding costs to consider include:

▪️Photography and videography – capturing the moments you will look back on for years to come.

▪️Wedding attire – including your dress, suit, shoes, accessories and alterations.

▪️Hair and makeup – for the couple and members of the wedding party.

▪️Flowers and styling – including bouquets, buttonholes, centrepieces, décor and personal touches.

▪️Entertainment – such as a band, DJ or live musicians.

▪️Cake – from a simple design to a bespoke creation.

▪️Stationery – including invitations, menus, place cards and signage.

▪️Transport – such as wedding cars or guest transport.

▪️Accommodation – including a wedding night stay, guest rooms and any additional nights.

Remember that not every couple chooses every element. A beautiful wedding is not created by adding more and more details; it is created by choosing the details that feel meaningful to you.

Planning a Wedding That Feels Like You

While your venue, food and drink form the foundations of your wedding day, it is often the personal touches that guests remember most.

We are seeing more couples invest time in creating handmade favours, meaningful decorations, personalised music choices and thoughtful details that tell their story as a couple.

These touches do not need to be the most expensive parts of your wedding — they simply need to feel personal.

The most memorable weddings are not about following a formula; they are about creating a celebration that feels completely yours.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does the average wedding cost?

There is no single answer, as every wedding is unique. The overall cost will depend on your guest numbers, venue, package, date and the elements you choose to include.

The best approach is to understand your priorities first and create a budget around what matters most to you.

What is usually the biggest wedding expense?

For many couples, the venue and catering make up one of the largest parts of their wedding investment. This is why understanding what is included within a venue package is so important when comparing options.

Are weekday weddings cheaper than Saturday weddings?

Many venues offer different pricing depending on the day of the week, with Saturdays often being the most sought-after. Weekday weddings can provide an opportunity to make your budget stretch further while still creating a beautiful celebration.

How can I make my wedding budget go further?

Choosing your priorities early can make a big difference. Considering different seasons, guest numbers, packages and what matters most to you can help you create a wedding that feels personal without unnecessary spending.

Start Planning Your Berwick Lodge Wedding

Planning your wedding should be an exciting experience, not just a list of costs to manage.

Whether you are dreaming of an intimate celebration, a micro wedding or an exclusive gathering with your favourite people, our team is here to help you understand your options and create a day that feels completely personal.

From your first viewing through to your wedding day itself, we are here to guide you through every step.

Explore weddings at Berwick Lodge or download our wedding brochure to begin planning your celebration. You might also find our blog post ”How to Start Wedding Planning” useful.

How to Choose the Perfect Christmas Party Venue in Bristol

July 20, 2026 by Laura Lewis Leave a Comment

You have been tasked with organising your company’s Christmas party.

Yes, another thing to add to the list — and we understand the pressure.

Everyone is expecting something AMAZING. A celebration that feels different from the everyday, with great food, a beautiful location, enjoyable entertainment and an atmosphere that brings everyone together. Suddenly, one evening has become your responsibility, and finding the perfect venue can feel like a much bigger task than it first appeared.

The good news is that Bristol is a fantastic place for Christmas celebrations, with an incredible choice of Christmas party venues. From small independent bars and quirky restaurants to dedicated shared Christmas party venues, hotels and exclusive event spaces, there is something to suit every type of celebration.

But with so much choice, where do you start?

The first step is understanding what matters most for your team and what you want the celebration to achieve.

Start with your budget

Your budget will naturally influence the type of Christmas party you choose. Before approaching venues, it is worth considering what you would like your budget to include.

Is it simply the meal and entertainment, or are you looking for a complete experience? Would you like drinks included? Is accommodation important? Are you looking for somewhere that feels special from the moment guests arrive?

A Christmas party is more than just a meal. It is an opportunity to thank your team, recognise their hard work and create memories together.

The best value comes from choosing a venue where the food, atmosphere, service and setting all work together.

Consider the type of celebration you want

One of the biggest decisions is whether you are looking for a shared Christmas party or an exclusive celebration.

Shared Christmas parties are a great option for smaller teams or groups who want the excitement of a larger celebration without having to organise every detail themselves. A carefully planned evening with festive dining and entertainment allows everyone to relax and enjoy themselves.

For larger teams or businesses looking for complete privacy, exclusive hire gives you the opportunity to make a venue your own and create a celebration tailored around your guests.

Think about your team size, your budget and the atmosphere you want to create.

Choose an experience that suits your team

Not every team wants the same type of Christmas celebration.

For some, a lively evening party with music and dancing is the perfect way to celebrate th

e year. Others may prefer a more relaxed gathering focused on great food, conversation and spending quality time together.

Smaller groups or teams with different preferences may enjoy a festive afternoon tea, seasonal lunch or a creative experience such as wreath making.

The most memorable celebrations are not necessarily the biggest — they are the ones that feel right for the people attending.

Food matters more than you think

Entertainment may be what gets people talking before the event, but the food is often what guests remember long afterwards.

A beautifully prepared meal has the power to bring people together, spark conversation and make everyone feel genuinely looked after. On the other hand, even the most spectacular setting can lose its shine if the food fails to impress.

A Christmas party is often one of the few occasions in the year where everyone sits down together, so the dining experience becomes an important part of the celebration.

Look for a venue where dining is more than simply serving a Christmas meal. Seasonal ingredients, thoughtful menus and passionate chefs can transform a festive dinner into one of the highlights of the evening.

Think about the location

Bristol offers an incredible variety of Christmas party venues, but the location you choose can completely change the feel of the evening.

A city-centre venue can be convenient, but sometimes the most memorable celebrations happen when guests feel like they have stepped away from the everyday.

A countryside setting close to Bristol offers the best of both worlds — easy access for guests while creating a feeling of escape, occasion and celebration.

Imagine arriving along a sweeping driveway to a beautifully decorated Victorian manor house, where elegant interiors, wood panelling, festive details and the warmth of crackling fires create a feeling of occasion from the moment you arrive.

It is this sense of escape that can transform a Christmas party from simply a meal and entertainment into a memorable experience your guests will truly appreciate.

Look at the reviews and reputation

When choosing a Christmas party venue, it is always worth taking the time to see what previous guests have experienced.

Reviews can reveal the details that are difficult to judge from a website alone — the quality of the food, the service, the atmosphere and how well a venue looks after its guests.

Look for feedback from groups similar to yours, whether that is corporate teams, private celebrations or larger gatherings. A venue that consistently creates memorable experiences throughout the year is more likely to deliver the kind of Christmas celebration people will be talking about afterwards.

Choose a venue that supports you

Organising a Christmas party can feel like a big responsibility, but you do not have to manage every detail alone.

A great venue team will guide you through the planning process and help make sure everything runs smoothly. From understanding guest numbers and timings to checking dietary requirements, entertainment and any external suppliers, having an experienced events team behind you can make all the difference.

At Berwick Lodge, our dedicated events team works closely with organisers throughout the planning process, helping you feel confident that every important detail has been considered before the celebration begins.

Create an evening people will remember

The best Christmas parties are about more than ticking boxes. They are about creating a moment where colleagues can relax, celebrate achievements and enjoy time together away from their usual routine.

When choosing a venue, think about the whole experience:

• How will guests feel when they arrive?

• Does the venue have character and atmosphere?

• Is the food something people will talk about?

• Does it feel like a genuine thank you to your team?

These details are what turn a Christmas party into a memorable celebration.

Christmas Parties Near Bristol at Berwick Lodge

Just minutes from Bristol, Berwick Lodge offers a Christmas party experience with a difference.

Set within a beautifully decorated Victorian manor house, our celebrations combine exceptional seasonal food, warm hospitality and the atmosphere of a Christmas celebration that feels truly special.

From our shared Christmas party, One Night, Many Stories, to exclusive celebrations and festive experiences, our team creates memorable occasions where colleagues and friends can come together and celebrate the season.

Discover our Christmas Events at Berwick Lodge and find the perfect way to celebrate this festive season.

Real Wedding Story: Emma & Joshua’s Spring Wedding

June 12, 2026 by Laura Lewis Leave a Comment

Some couples have a way of putting you at ease the moment you meet them, and Emma and Josh are very much one of those couples.

Listening to them talk about their wedding day, what stood out wasn’t just how beautiful the day was, but how much of themselves they had woven into it. From handmade details and carefully chosen music to the inclusion of their much-loved dog Cadzow, every part of the celebration felt personal, thoughtful, and full of heart.

Set against the beautiful backdrop of Berwick Lodge, their wedding brought together family, friendship, creativity and plenty of laughter. Hearing them share their memories, it was clear that this wasn’t just a beautiful wedding day — it was a celebration that felt completely and authentically their own.

How It All Began

Emma and Josh met at university through mutual friends and quickly discovered a shared love of board games, long walks and spending time outdoors.

Their relationship grew naturally from there. While Emma is the creative one, always drawing, making and crocheting, Josh brings a thoughtful, organised approach to life. Together, they balance each other beautifully, each appreciating the strengths the other brings.

Years later, Josh proposed during a trip to Brighton.

What Emma thought was simply a surprise weekend away turned out to be something much more personal. Knowing how important creativity is to Emma, Josh arranged for a local art gallery to display elements of her own work before asking her to marry him. It was thoughtful, unexpected and entirely reflective of the relationship they had built together.

Finding Their Perfect Venue

Although neither Emma nor Josh had a strong connection to Bristol at the time, they knew they wanted a location that felt accessible for both families, who would be travelling from Newport and London.

Their search led them to Berwick Lodge.

After attending a wedding fair at the venue, they immediately fell in love with it. There was something about the atmosphere that felt different. Hidden away from the city, surrounded by beautiful grounds and full of character, it offered exactly what they were looking for — somewhere elegant yet relaxed, intimate yet spacious enough to bring everyone together.

Most importantly, it felt welcoming.

A Day Filled With Joy

The wedding morning began in the best possible way: slowly.

Emma spent the morning with her bridesmaids enjoying pastries, prosecco and a wonderfully relaxed atmosphere, while Josh focused on the moments he had been looking forward to for months — seeing Emma walk down the aisle and watching Cadzow take on his role as ring bearer.

Looking back, both describe the day as one where they never stopped smiling.

From the ceremony to the speeches, dinner and evening celebrations, there was a sense that everything unfolded exactly as it should. The Berwick Lodge team worked quietly behind the scenes, allowing Emma and Josh to focus entirely on being present with their family and friends.

It was, as they described it, a day filled with love from beginning to end.

The Walk Down the Aisle

For Josh, the clearest memory remains the moment he saw Emma walking towards him with her father. He admits he had already been trying not to cry before she even appeared, but seeing her made everything suddenly feel real.

For Emma, the experience was strangely focused. Despite the room being filled with people she loved, she remembers looking only at Josh as she walked towards him.

It was the moment where months of planning disappeared and everything narrowed down to the two of them.

Handmade Details and Personal Touches

One of the things that made Emma and Josh’s wedding feel so personal was how much of themselves they brought into it.

Emma poured her creativity into the details, crocheting wedding favours, creating artwork and decorating spaces with handmade touches that reflected their personalities. Josh channelled his energy into the music.

From ceremony playlists to choosing their evening entertainment, he spent countless hours carefully selecting songs that would help tell the story of their day. Even the ceremony music included subtle nods to Emma’s interests, including pieces inspired by Studio Ghibli.

Together, they approached planning in much the same way they approach life — dividing responsibilities, trusting each other completely and creating something that felt uniquely theirs.

Cadzow Steals the Show

No retelling of the day would be complete without Cadzow.

Their beloved dog played an important role as ring bearer and quickly became one of the stars of the wedding. Like any good wedding guest, he brought plenty of personality with him. There were moments of distraction, moments of excitement and even a few decorations that didn’t quite survive an encounter with his enthusiastic tail.

For Emma and Josh, though, that was exactly the point.

Cadzow is such a big part of their everyday life that they couldn’t imagine celebrating without him there. His presence added laughter, warmth and a few wonderfully unpredictable moments to the day.

A First Dance to Remember

If there was one part of the wedding they were nervous about, it was the first dance.

Neither of them would describe themselves as natural dancers, so the weeks leading up to the wedding involved YouTube tutorials, living room rehearsals and plenty of attempts to remember choreography. By the time the day arrived, neither was entirely convinced they knew what they were doing.

But as is often the case, what mattered wasn’t perfection.

Looking back now, neither remembers the steps particularly clearly. What they remember is sharing the moment together, surrounded by everyone they love, and laughing through any mistakes along the way.

Sometimes the moments we worry about most become the ones we treasure most.

The Beauty of Berwick Lodge

When Emma talks about her favourite photographs from the day, she immediately mentions the daffodils. Married in March, she hadn’t known exactly what the gardens would look like, but the bright spring blooms created a beautiful backdrop for their couple portraits. As someone from Wales, seeing the daffodils felt especially meaningful.

The grounds became the setting for some of their favourite memories, including planting a cherry tree together with a plaque marking their wedding day — something they can return to and visit for years to come.

They also loved having access to the Antolia Terrace, which gave guests another space to gather and helped the celebrations flow naturally throughout the venue.

Looking Back

When asked what they think they’ll remember in twenty years’ time, the answers weren’t grand gestures or perfectly planned details.

They talked about seeing each other at the end of the aisle.

They talked about Cadzow.

They laughed about a mishap during the confetti exit when one door opened and the other didn’t.

They remembered the sparklers, the music, the daffodils and the people who had travelled to celebrate alongside them.

Most of all, they remembered how the day felt.

For Emma and Josh, their wedding at Berwick Lodge wasn’t about creating a perfect day. It was about creating a day that felt like them — creative, joyful, slightly quirky, full of love and surrounded by the people who matter most.

And listening to them tell the story, it’s hard to imagine a more fitting celebration.

Planning Your Own Berwick Lodge Wedding?

Inspired by Emma and Josh’s beautiful spring wedding? If you’re beginning your own wedding journey, you may find these guides helpful:

Planning Your Wedding at Berwick Lodge – A Stunning Countryside Venue in Bristol

Questions to Ask Wedding Venues

How To Start Wedding Planning

You can also explore our Weddings at Berwick Lodge page to discover more about celebrating your day at our beautiful Bristol venue.

Photography by Richard Hotwells from Hotwells Wedding Photography.

Real Wedding: Victoria & Dave’s Romantic Spring Celebration

March 31, 2026 by Laura Lewis Leave a Comment

About The Couple

We were introduced by a mutual friend at a pub in Saltford in 2010 – The Riverside Inn. We immediately clicked. We are like chalk and cheese and agree we bring out the best in one another. I (Vic) am calm and very loving, where as Dave is the clown and full of high energy… it just works!

Popping The Question

Dave proposed. Only 11 years after we first got together…*eye roll*! We always visit Dyrham Park in the spring to see the beautiful tulips and that is where he proposed. Such happy memories every time we go there. It was a complete surprise! I thought he was out shopping for a last minute Mother’s Day gift for the kids to give to me the following day, however he was actually asking my Dad for my hand. I even called my mum that morning and moaned that Dave had popped out at such an inconvenient time – little did I know he was with them!

Choosing The Venue

Berwick Lodge was the venue we came away from saying ‘This is it!’ – The house and grounds are stunning, the accommodation incredible – the initial meeting with Georgia and the rest of the team sold Berwick to us. The fact that everything could be taken care of and nothing was too much trouble, Berwick Lodge is an absolute gem.

We had a few things to consider… Dave’s mum is disabled so a venue to accommodate her needs was top of the list. We also have 2 children and we wanted a venue with different rooms/spaces to accommodate different needs on the day. We wanted somewhere that didn’t feel like a cliché wedding venue. Berwick is classy but also has a warm, boutique, quirky feel. We also love the fact we will be able to go back over the years to come.

Wedding Day Q&A

What did you wear?
We wanted a black-tie dress code so I was after a dress with an evening gown feel. I knew I wanted a bardot style wedding dress and also something I could easily dance in as well as pick up my youngest daughter. I chose a dress from Coast after trying on so many! It was sparkly and I loved it!

What outfit did the groom wear?
Dave and the groomsmen had black tuxedos and blue bow ties. They looked so smart. Our young nephews wore the same – they looked adorable.

Were you nervous before the ceremony?
I didn’t have time to feel nervous as the morning was such a whirlwind. Our wedding coordinator Simone helped to relax me. I was more emotional than anything else – I am always a ‘happy tears’ kind of person! Dave and the groomsmen chose whisky to settle the nerves!!

What did you choose as your entrance song?
‘Can’t help falling in with you’ sang by the amazingly talented Danielle Celeste.

Was there a theme for the day?
It was Good Friday so we had a Spring/Easter theme. Colours were pale yellow and blue. As we have children ourselves we wanted to make the day feel less formal and planned an Easter egg hunt for our guests. We also decided to give Cadbury Cream egg favours because who doesn’t love a cream egg!?

How did you choose your flowers?
We chose seasonal flowers, so daffodils, hyacinth, tulips were included in our flower arrangements. The centrepieces were supplied by Berwick Lodge from their beautiful flower cutting garden and the bouquets by ‘Flower Fairies Bristol’.

Did friends help with any styling?
Our table plan and ‘order of events’ board were hand made by our incredibly talented friend Hollie.

Did you have a wedding cake?
We had the M&S Colin and Connie the Caterpillar wedding cake and 2 smaller Connies to represent our daughters. M&S Colin the caterpillar cake is a firm favourite in our family and has been for years. It was the only ever option for us!

What was your favourite dish served on the wedding day?
Our guests raved about the food – the slow cooked beef was absolutely delicious.

How did you entertain your guests?
We had live music from Danielle Celeste for the ceremony and welcome drinks, she is so talented. Our DJ, Kieran, understood the assignment very early with the guests loving cheesy bangers. Kieran interacted with everyone and the dance floor was packed until the end!

What part stood out the most?
The ceremony was very special to us and the wedding breakfast and speeches – it was a day filled with love and laughter from start to finish.

Any funny stories or unusual anecdotes?
Better left unsaid!!

Who or what made your day extra special?
The dedication to the black tie dress code from our guests and the ‘above and beyond’ service from all at Berwick Lodge made our day everything we dreamed of and more!

Did you honeymoon anywhere?
We did a 2 week ‘family-moon’ cruising around France and Spain. Dave is the travel expert in our house! He has more of a ‘YOLO’ attitude than me! It was great exploring new places with our favourite people.

Supplier Shout-out

Venue – Berwick Lodge
Bride’s dress – Coast Fashion
Hair and make-up – Rachel & Gemma (@hairbyrachel01225 @celfie_hairmakeup)
Photographer – Stu Tucker Photography
Wedding cake – Marks and Spencer’s
Flowers – Flowers Fairies Florist
DJ – Kieran Clarke Entertainment
Entertainment – Danielle Celeste: Wedding Singer
Stationery – Lynette Bower Arts