Planning a wedding is great fun but we understand that you’ve probably never done it before, so we;ve compiled a list of some of the most frequently asked questions, including ‘How do I book a wedding at The Ashes?’ . . . . .
How do I book a wedding at The Ashes?
If you’d like to know how to book a wedding at The Ashes please contact us
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Is The Ashes wedding venue available on the required date?
To check availability please contact us
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Is your venue easy to find?
Yes, we are very easy to find, please see full directions on;
Guest information
What is a civil wedding?
Click the link for a full explanation;
What is a Civil Wedding?
You can contact the register office directly on 0300 111 8001
or Email:
registrarsenquiries@staffordshire.gov.uk
Will ours be the only wedding at your venue on our wedding day?
Yes. From 11am on your wedding day, you and your guests have exclusive use of the whole venue. We don’t do any viewings and because we don’t have any facilities which are open to the general public, such as a restaurant, we can guarantee that the only people wandering around The Grounds are those you have invited!
How many people can you accommodate?
The Ashes can accommodate weddings and parties for as few as 20-30 people, up to a maximum of 150 guests.
Is parking available?
Our discreetly positioned parking ensures that none of your wedding photos feature a car park in the background and can easily accommodate around 70 cars which can be left overnight. All cars must be collected by 10am the following day.
Is The Ashes suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs?
A wedding is often a family affair with guests spanning all ages. The Ashes venue is easily accessible. We provide both disabled toilet facilities and a baby changing facility.
Is there any onsite accommodation?
Yes, please visit the Accommodation page of our website for details.
Can we erect a marquee in The Grounds?
No
Are there separate rooms for the Ceremony, Drinks Reception, Wedding Breakfast and Evening Reception?
Absolutely. For an idea of how you can make the most of our two beautiful barns visit The Venue section of this website
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 the next day.
What facilities are available if the weather is poor?
We’re well prepared for whatever the weather throws at us. We have our own generator, our own snow plough and plenty of covered and indoor options for your drinks reception and photographs whatever the weather.
Can we use our own caterers?
No. Jenkinsons are our contracted caterers, we have used them exclusively since we opened in 2008 and they continue to impress us and our couples with the quality of their food and service.
Can we provide our own drinks?
You are very welcome to provide all your own drinks for both the Drinks Reception and the Wedding Breakfast and there is no corkage or service fee applied.
What time does The Bar open and close?
The Bar opens at the end of the Wedding Breakfast meal and closes at 11.45pm. It is possible to have the bar open during your drinks reception by prior arrangement with the caterers who apply a small charge for this service.
What are The Bar prices like?
Please don’t hesitate to contact us for a comprehensive list of our bar prices. We aim to remain competitively priced at all times, we’re confident your guests will be pleasantly surprised.
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Do you have a list of recommended suppliers?
We have a fantastic Suppliers Section which has recommendations for 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.
Can you give me an idea of my Wedding Day Timings and running order?
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.
How big are . . ./How long is . . . / What size is . . . .?
For a comprehensive list of measurements please visit the Venue Setup Guide page within your private Ashes 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.
Do you allow 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.
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 Direectory.
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 the day before your wedding.
What’s the earliest I can get into The Dressing Room?
10.30am
Do we have to pack everything up at the end of the night?
No, as you enjoy sweet dreams, our fabulous Estates 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.
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