GJA PHOTOGRAPHY
DODDINGTON HALL WEDDING GUIDE
LUXURY EDITORIAL WEDDINGS
INTRODUCTION
Being a Lincolnshire wedding photographer based not too far away from Lincoln, I have been fortunate enough to have been photographing weddings now for over 15 years.
One of the benefits of travelling around the UK and particularly around my home county of Lincolnshire is that I get to visit and photograph at some pretty amazing wedding venues (and I’ve been to ALOT).
Dower House Hotel wedding is something that should be high up on the list of options for any couple planning their big day. The venue is set within the picturesque town of Woodhall Spa, steeped in history it’s a real gem worth considering.
Table Of Contents:
VENUE OVERVIEW
CEREMONY OPTIONS
WEDDING GUEST ACCOMMODATION
GETTING MARRIED AT DODDINGTON HALL
WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY AT THE HALL & GARDENS
WEDDING FAIRS
WEDDING PRICES & BROCHURES
LOCATION, PARKING & CONTACT DETAILS
DODDINGTON HALL WEDDING REVIEWS
VENUE OVERVIEW
Doddington Hall Wedding Venue
Design by renowned Elizabethan architect Robert Smythson, Doddington Hall was completed in 1600 and remains until this day a loving family home.
The hall, despite its age, has hardly changed in terms of its abundance of character and charm and with it's bright and airy Georgian style renovation it is now the perfect location if you are looking for a Doddington Hall wedding that is romantic, classy and chic.
The hall is surrounding by an array of characterful outbuildings and coach house which have now been converted into accommodation and additional wedding reception venue. It is perfect for your wedding guests (more on that later) along with some truly stunning wild and formal gardens.
Set within the five acres of the Doddington Estate the venue is surrounded by woodland and open area walks including their own Farm shop, cafe, restaurant. Everything you could need for a short or extended stay for you and your wedding guests when getting married there.
All in all, this really is the perfect venue to hold your wedding where you can be assured of some truly stunning wedding photographs.
WEDDING CEREMONY OPTIONS
Where Can I Have My Ceremony?
There are four options available for getting married in and around the Doddington Hall estate with the bonus option of including a traditional church ceremony at the local Doddington church.
There is a great variety of choice for couples ranging from a small intimate wedding to a larger grander celebration. Each of the options provides you with exclusive use which means there are no other weddings taking place on your chosen wedding weekend!
The Long Gallery
This is a stunning room located on the top floor of the hall. Accommodating up to 180 guests it really has the wow factor surrounded by amazing painting with a stunning view out the windows of the hall's gardens.
The Long Gallery is a fantastic backdrop for some truly amazing wedding ceremony photographs that your friends will be jealous of.
The Coach House Garden Room
The Coach House itself has two main rooms, firstly the Garden Room where your intimate ceremony of up to 70 guests will take place & the Green Wing used for your wedding breakfast.
It is the perfect place for a self-contained wedding with access to a gorgeous garden right next to the dining area. This is ideal for a drinks reception and evening celebrations.
The Coach House Garden Pavilion
This is a new addition for Doddington Hall and I recently had the privilege of photographing a wedding there for the very first time and I can say it works very well indeed.
Located on the secret garden area of the Coach House the pavilion provides the options for couples and guests to enjoy the great outdoors in an exclusive setting.
This is another great opportunity for some stunning wedding photographs, particularly when set against the amazing wisteria when it comes into bloom.
The Garden Pavilion
Located within the gardens of Doddington Hall is the garden pavilion. This structure was created by the owners of the estate as a lasting memory of their parents. Set within the wild gardens it has fantastic views of the stunning parkland beyond. Getting married at this location is perfect for smaller weddings of around 20 guests and for those who enjoy the outdoors.
East Porch
Another outdoor option for a smaller civil ceremony of up to 20 wedding guests is the East Porch. Located inside of the east end of the Walled Garden it really offers a romantic vibe and incredible backdrop for some fab.
A Church Wedding
If you are looking for something a little more traditional there is the option of a religious ceremony at St Peters Church which is only a short walk away from the Hall itself.
Generally, you can only get married at this church if you have a local connection either yourselves of through family, however, one option would be to have a civil ceremony at the Hall along with a blessing at the church. This really does give you the best of both worlds.
WEDDING GUEST ACCOMMODATION
Options For Guest Accommodation
The estate offers a collection of charming holiday cottages situated within the picturesque grounds of Doddington Hall. These cottages provide guests with a comfortable and self-contained stay. Each cottage has its own distinctive character, and they are tastefully furnished with modern amenities. Whether you're traveling as a couple, a family, or a group of friends, the holiday cottages offer a delightful retreat surrounded by natural beauty.
The Coach House is a beautifully restored building that provides a luxurious and spacious accommodation option. It offers a blend of traditional architecture with modern comforts. The Coach House features several self-contained apartments, each with its own unique layout and style. Guests staying at the Coach House can enjoy privacy, tranquility, and easy access to the gardens and attractions of Doddington Hall.
For those seeking a unique and adventurous experience, Doddington Hall offers glamping facilities. Located within the estate, the glamping site provides visitors with the opportunity to stay in stylish and comfortable bell tents or lodges, offering a touch of luxury in a natural setting. The glamping accommodations are equipped with cozy beds, furnishings, and heating facilities, ensuring a cozy and memorable stay.
GETTING MARRIED AT DODDINGTON HALL
A Wedding Day Breakdown
So what's it really like getting married at Doddington Hall?
Well as a wedding photographer with over 15 years experience this has become a firm favourite for producing amazing images that you'll cherish and make your family and friends jealous of. The staff are excellent and the memories you'll make there will last a lifetime.
Here's a little overview of what it's like to get married there...
Getting Ready
As mentioned earlier staying at Doddington Hall on your big day can produce some wonderful opportunities for getting ready photographs that are classy, romantic and chic.
The Wedding Ceremony
Having your wedding ceremony at Doddington Hall is a truly enchanting and memorable experience. The historic charm and picturesque beauty of this Elizabethan mansion create the perfect backdrop for wedding. The magnificent gardens, manicured lawns, and elegant architecture provide a romantic ambiance that will make your special day even more magical.
Doddington Hall offers a range of wedding ceremony locations within its grounds, from intimate indoor spaces to stunning outdoor locations. Whether you prefer a grand ceremony in the Long Gallery or a charming outdoor affair in the walled gardens, Doddington Hall provides a unique setting that reflects both sophistication and natural beauty.
What about Confetti?
This always makes for fun dramatic images on a wedding and I always recommend to brides to purchase some for their guests before the day to ensure everyone can join in the fun.
It is always best to follow the advice of the venue on this too as they may have restrictions in place. At the time of writing Doddington Hall request that only flower petal confetti be used as any other types can have a detrimental effect on the ground.
Group Photographs
Group photos are always a must on the wedding day and there are lots of options available for where you can take them. When I capture photographs for couples I usually see to have the sun behind them and this is no different for group shots. This helps avoid you and your guest squinting into the sun and can make for fab pictures.
As the sun sets at the back of the Hall during a wedding day this makes it ideal for group photos in front of the Hall or set against the gardens.
Couples Portraits
I always find that when the group photographs are finished this is the ideal time to spend taking some couples photographs. It always you a little time away from your guests just for the two of you.
The Wedding Breakfast
The staff at Doddington Hall really do above and beyond to ensure your day goes without a hitch. Both Justine and Andrew who manage the events and weddings have years of experience behind them and are both passionate about ensuring your day goes without a hitch. The chef here also produces outstanding quality food much of which is sourced locally.
Cutting The Wedding Cake
There are so many fab cake makers in and around Lincoln offering a whole host of options to meet your theme. Having the cake cutting captured by your photographer at the Hall is a great way to remember it before it all gets eaten.
The Evening Reception
Another one of my absolute favourite times of the day is the evening celebrations. As the sun draws down on the horizon the sunsets at the back of the estate are to die for. A great way to finish off the evening is with some EPIC wedding images.
WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY AT THE HALL & GARDENS
If you have read through this article you have probably begun to gather that there are an abundance of opportunities for some amazing wedding photography not only inside the venue but around the locality.
Having a little time out to have your wedding photographs taken can be a really relaxed and fun time for couples. Weddings can be particularly demanding when you have many guests surrounding you wishing you well so taking the opportunity for a little time out with each other is always welcome and the venue size certainly allows for this.
I will often go on a little walking safari with my clients to embrace what the venue has to offer and to provide some stunning couples portraits with variety. Doddington Hall certainly has the variety from the gorgeous classy interiors & private gardens to the woodland and park walk all offering something a little special for your photographs.
WEDDING FAIRS
Meet The Suppliers
Wedding Fairs can be a great way for you to get a good look around the venue and let the staff answer any questions you may have. Wedding fairs at Doddington Hall will usually have various suppliers attending and are set up to create the look and feel of a wedding.
Doddington Hall like many other wedding venues in Lincolnshire usually holds wedding fairs throughout the year.
WEDDING PRICES & BROCHURES
How Much Are The Wedding Packages?
Wedding brochures and prices for Doddington Hall are available by contacting them directly and speaking to their events team. Both Justine and Andrew are fab at answering your questions and helping you with your planning journey.
If you are looking for an experienced wedding photographer who has photographed at Doddington Hall then why not contact me for further help and details.
DODDINGTON HALL WEDDING REVIEWS
What Are Others Saying About a Doddington Hall Wedding?
When looking at any wedding venue it is always wise to check out the reviews from other couples and guests who have had first-hand experience getting married at the hall.
To help you choose whether Doddington Hall is right for you I have compiled a list of trusted sites that offer the insight you are looking for from real couples.
LOCATION, PARKING & CONTACT DETAILS
How To Get There
Located just outside of the historic city of Lincoln, Doddington estate is easy to reach from the main A46 had towards the B1190.
Doddington Hall & Gardens
B1190
Lincoln
Lincolnshire
LN6 4RU
Parking
There is plenty of parking for Doddington Hall for you and your wedding guests. The main car park is located directly opposite the Hall on Main Street.
Contact
Owners: Claire & James Birch
Weddings: Justine Shakespeare – justine@doddingtonhall.com
Corporate Events: Andrew Lowley -andrewlowley@doddingtonhall.com
Tel: 01522694308
Website: www.doddingtonhall.com
