Weddings at Mellerstain
In deciding on Mellerstain as your wedding venue, you have ensured that if your guests attend several weddings this year, none will compare to the treat you have in store for them here. Mellerstain's unique charm is that it combines the grandeur of a stately home, with all the attendant possibilities for theatre and visual drama, elegant state rooms and expansive views, with a homelier, more informal level beneath.
This combination makes it ideally suited to act as a wedding venue where, as the day unfolds, your guests will enjoy the chance to transition from one to the other. There is an unhurried, accommodating atmosphere to the place, and the fact that it is available for your exclusive use means you will not be 'hurried along' the moment your ceremony is over.
Below is a typical suggested timetabe for a couple marrying at Mellerstain. Our wedding planner, Lindsey Hunter, is happy to discuss your own ideas with you and conduct any visits you may wish to make.
Typical timetable
Late afternoon (Friday or Monday) - Arrival at Mellerstain
You'll sweep down the drive to the front of the house, and be met by Lindsey. You can take tea in the sitting room and go through final details while your bags are taken to your suite.
Evening entertainment
You can opt for a girls' night in, with supper in the sitting room, the chance to relax in front of a log fire, and a beauty treatment to help you unwind from your travels. Or you might simply like to enjoy informal drinks in the sitting room, followed by supper in the Yellow Dining Room. You can also opt for a much grander dinner in the Music Room, or to eat elsewhere - Kelso and Melrose both have excellent choices available.
The Big Day
After breakfast (in the sitting room), the bride and bridal party can be pampered by our hair and beauty stylists in the wedding suites. Meanwhile your florist will be setting up your displays, and the caterers will be putting the finishing touches to your banquet in either the main House or a marquee, depending on numbers.
Any entertainment or activities that have been arranged for your guests (a quick round of golf, an archery session or an excursion) will take them throught to lunchtime.
After your light lunch with champagne, it's time for the bride and groom to make their grand entrance - via our staircase leading from the bedchamber level down to the reception rooms.
The Ceremony
Your civil or religious ceremony takes place in the Music Room, renowned as one of architect Robert Adam's finest creations. This beautiful airy space comes complete with grand piano and can seat 76 (greater numbers if standing). Ceremonies can also take place on the Rose Terraces, and a gazebo-style marquee can be erected in case of inclement weather.
Next... let the reception begin!
