Until last year, non-religious wedding ceremonies had to take place inside or under a permanent licensed structure. In 2021, we were delighted to make the most of the temporary change in licencing rules, which meant licenced wedding venues could use outdoor spaces for ceremonies. Whilst this change was prompted by covid regulations, everyone in the wedding industry was hopeful that it may be recognised as a positive step forward from the previously outdated laws – and we are absolutely delighted that this temporary measure is now being made permanent!
What does this mean for Treseren Ceremonies?
Couples always fall in love with the gardens and grounds of Treseren as well as the beautiful Georgian house, so the first choice ceremony location is often one of our outdoor spaces. The sprawling front lawn can be beautifully framed with a moongate floral arch with the rhododendrons and camelias of the hedgerow behind creating a quintessential English country garden setting – whilst the 200-year-old walnut tree on the lower lawns is a beautiful peaceful spot that creates the perfect space for even the smallest of ceremonies.
Previously, we made this work by holding ‘step in, step out’ ceremonies, with the couple and their witnesses stepping inside the Wedding Room for the legal declaratory words and signing of the register. Whilst this was a great way of complying, the new changes mean that the entirety of the ceremony can take place in the outdoor location, creating an inclusive and naturally flowing ceremony.
Can the ceremony take place anywhere?
Ceremonies still have to be held at licensed venues, and each of the outdoor ceremony spaces needs to be agreed with the local registration office. At Treseren, those spaces are the Upper Covered Terrace, the Lower Covered Terrace, the Front Lawn and the Walnut Tree Lawn. Our inside licenced spaces are the Wedding Room and the Drawing Room – and whilst we are forever hopeful for glorious sunshine on Treseren wedding days, we always have a plan B ceremony option in place should the weather not be accommodating.
Making the most of the Treseren gardens
Of course, as well as the ceremony, outdoor receptions are always wonderful and make the most of our beautiful space. The covered terrace provides shade from the sun on a hot day for drinks receptions and canapes, as well as shelter from the rain. Enjoy al fresco dining on a summer’s evening, looking down through the gardens to the orchard with our long tables laid with delicious food. Add lawn games and bespoke summer cocktails and you have the perfect recipe for a dreamy English garden party wedding celebration.
Visit our gallery of real weddings for more outdoor wedding inspiration.
Photo credits –
Lyra & Moth Photography
Paul Caddis Photography
Mollie McAusland Photography
John Hersey Photography
