Ta da.....it's booked!

In my head I have a plan and that plan is:  Getting married somewhere that is not religious in a small casual ceremony, with a pretty backdrop, then onto a marquee for a 'summer fete' type theme ie. a ploughmans and tons of cider.  

After our day of emailing and calling we have a few replies saying the only do 'whole' wedding booking ie the wedding and reception.  Or they are booked already.  Or no reply at all.  

The few that do reply we arrange to go and visit while we're at home visiting my parents and the place/field we're holding the reception.  We first go and check out a registrary office, I can whole heartily say this did not meet the romantic picture I had in my head.  So this option although cheap was vetoed.  I think it was the idea of coming out on the street afterward kind of ruined it.  

Next up is Chettle House, along with Mat and one of the bridesmaids (my twin) we head off, this one is bit further away but tucked in a lovely chocolate box village.  After meeting the owner and checking out the three areas licensed for a wedding and the gardens, we all give a knowing look of yes, this is it!!  

We don't let on and move onto the next appointment this house is a bit further away and down some very dubious country lanes, I think we know before we even get there this won't be the one.  We check it out and the house and gardens although lovely are not really anything amazing. 

After the long drive home the three of us collectively decide Chettle House is the one, we have to pay £600 for the hour and half hire and an additional £400 for the registrar.  This is more than expected but a House like this we decide it's worth it.  

Mat puts in the calls and within a matter of minutes we're booked with both!  Phew, so one year to the day we're getting marries on 20th August 2011.  Let the bunting making commence!