Can you give me an idea of my Wedding Day Timings?
Each wedding is unique and we are extremely flexible but for a good idea of how your day might run please check out your My Wedding Page within your private online wedding planner.
Where can I hang my bunting?
Please download our Bunting PDF available from your private Ashes Online Wedding Planner , which contains detailed diagrams and measurements of where you can hang bunting at The Ashes.
Can guests throw confetti?
Yes, we request only biodegradable confetti is used within the South Courtyard, (we will advise your photographer on the day).
Can we use candles?
We do allow certain types of candles to be lit, but due to safety reasons have to approve them first. For full guidelines on what is allowed please download the Candle Guidelines PDF from your private Ashes Online Wedding Planner.
Can I have coloured tablecloths and napkins?
Our catering partners provide white linens as standard although they have a number of alternatives available at a nominal fee. Please contact Jenkinsons Caterers directly to discuss, on 01785 252247 or email tricia.garratt@jenkinsonscaterers.co.uk
Just remind me what The Ashes provides on the day?
Cake Stand (round or square) with Cake Knife
Stainless steel table name holders
All the chairs and tables
Up to 3 high chairs
Your Events Manager
Microphone & PA system for the speeches
Background music where required
Please visit our Prices and What’s Included page for a comprehensive listing.
Do you allow professional firework displays or Sky Lanterns (Chinese Lanterns) at your venue?
No. Due to our rural setting surrounded by farmland with livestock and ponies, we cannot allow fireworks or Sky Lanterns. A great alternative can be something like a laser display or dove release.
Do you have a list of recommended suppliers?
We have a fantastic Suppliers Directory featuring a host of local wedding suppliers passionate about providing you excellent service, everything from Florists to Photographers, DJs and live bands, Hair Stylists to Vintage Ice Cream Vendors; you’re sure to find what you’re looking for on our online Suppliers Directory.
Can I supply the Evening Buffet?
No. To ensure the very highest standards in both culinary excellence and food hygiene, The Ashes works exclusively with one of the most respected independent caterers in the UK. Jenkinsons Caterers are competitively priced and can offer advice on how to best cater for your evening guests.
When is the best time for the DJ / Band to set up?
It is great if the DJ or Band can set up before the ceremony, so no sound checks are going on during key moments of your day. (The Ashes recommended DJ’s, Sound Solutions always set up in advance.) If this isn’t possible, your Events Manager will liaise with your band or DJ when they arrive to ensure as little disruption to your day as possible during their set up.
Is there an area that could be used as a crèche if needed?
The Old Dairy or The Ceremony Barn can be used as a crèche area later in the day, with full supervision being necessary. We have a great recommendation for a company who supply fabulous ‘soft play’ equipment within our Suppliers Directory.
Is there a quiet area for our more mature guests once the DJ or Band get going?
In most cases when the band or DJ are in full swing on the dance floor, the noise level is fairly well contained, so at the opposite end of The East Barn it is possible to enjoy a conversation without needing to shout. The sound insulation above the dance floor ensures no more than an ambient level of noise in The Bar and if complete silence is required The West Barn can be used.
Do you have a Public Address (PA) system that can be used for speeches?
Yes, there is an individual PA system in each barn.
How many high chairs have you got?
We have three high chairs. Should you require more, your guests are welcome to bring their own.
When do we drop everything off for the wedding?
At 9am or 9.30am the day before your wedding.
Can we serve our own drinks in the evening?
No. Service of your own drinks ceases at the end of the Wedding Breakfast meal at which point The Bar opens. Any unopened bottles are returned to your designated area of our storage facility for collection at 9am the day after your wedding.
When do we set up for the wedding?
Your suppliers have access to the venue from 10am on the morning of the wedding, when your Events Manager will set up for you together with your chosen florist and our fantastic caterers. For more information about how it all comes together on the day visit the Venue Setup Guide page of your private online Ashes Wedding Planner.
What’s the earliest I can get into The Old Dairy?
The Bridal Party has access to The Old Dairy from 10.30am. Your exclusive use of The Ashes Wedding Venue starts at 11am.
Do we have to pack everything up at the end of the night?
No, as you enjoy sweet dreams, our fabulous Restoration Team carefully collect together all your belongings and place them into your designated area of our secure storage facility, ready for collection at 9am the next day.