Frequently Asked Questions - Weddings
1. How do I enquire about hosting my wedding at La Mare Wine Estate? To enquire about hosting your wedding at La Mare Wine Estate send us an email with your preferred date and number of guests to [email protected] or telephone +44 (0)1534 481178. Our experienced events team will promptly respond to assist you in planning your special day.
2. What venues are available for wedding ceremonies? La Mare Wine Estate offers a variety of stunning venues for both wedding ceremonies and receptions. Choose from options such as a marquee or yurt on the lawn or the intimate Garden Room. You will need to organise the hire of the marquee or the yurt directly with our designated suppliers.
3. Who are your designated suppliers for marquees and yurts? We only work with designated suppliers. For Marquees please contact Marquee Solutions and for Yurts please contact Organic Yurts.
4.What venues are available for the wedding reception? You can hold your wedding reception either in The Winery (Up to 150 guests) or in The Vineyard Orangery (Up to 50 guests).
5. Can La Mare accommodate different wedding sizes? Absolutely! Whether you’re planning an intimate affair or a grand celebration, La Mare Wine Estate has venues that can cater to various wedding sizes. From smaller gatherings to larger parties, our team will work with you to ensure that your chosen venue suits the size and style of your wedding.
7. What catering options are available for weddings? La Mare Wine Estate offers in-house catering services to make your wedding culinary experience memorable. Our talented chefs create bespoke menus tailored to your preferences. Whether you desire a formal sit-down meal, a buffet-style feast, or unique culinary experiences, we can cater to your specific tastes and dietary requirements.
8. Is there on-site accommodation for wedding guests? While La Mare Wine Estate does not provide on-site accommodation, we can recommend nearby lodging options for you and your guests. Our events team is happy to assist in making arrangements and providing information on local accommodations.
9. Can we tour the venues before making a decision? Certainly! We encourage couples to schedule a site visit to explore our venues and get a firsthand feel of the enchanting ambiance at La Mare Wine Estate. To arrange a tour, please contact our events team via email [email protected], and we’ll be delighted to show you around and discuss your wedding vision.
10. Do you offer wedding planning services? Yes, we do. La Mare Wine Estate provides wedding planning services to ensure that every detail of your special day is expertly organised. Our dedicated wedding planner will work closely with you to bring your vision to life, from coordinating vendors to managing timelines, allowing you to relax and enjoy the journey to your wedding day.
11. Are there restrictions on décor or entertainment options? While we encourage personalisation, there are certain guidelines to ensure the preservation of our beautiful venues. Our events team will work with you to discuss and finalise décor and entertainment options that complement the venue while aligning with your vision for the day.
12. Can we have an outdoor ceremony or reception? Absolutely! La Mare Wine Estate’s beautiful outdoor venues, including the Quintessentially English Garden and the Vineyard Orangery, are ideal for both wedding ceremonies and receptions. The natural beauty of our estate provides a picturesque backdrop for your outdoor celebration.
13. How far in advance should we book our wedding at La Mare Wine Estate? To secure your preferred date and venue, we recommend booking your wedding at La Mare Wine Estate well in advance. Popular dates tend to fill up quickly, so the sooner you contact our events team to discuss your plans, the better. However, we also strive to accommodate last-minute enquiries whenever possible.
14. How do I confirm my booking at La Mare Wine Estate? To confirm your wedding booking at La Mare Wine Estate, a confirmation deposit of £1,250 is required within one month of the contract issue date. This deposit will be deducted from your final account, which includes catering and venue hire.
15. When do I need to confirm final numbers and the menu selection? Final numbers and the menu selection must be confirmed THREE WEEKS IN ADVANCE of your wedding date. Cancellations made less than 72 hours prior to the wedding will be charged at 100% of the menu cost. Special dietary requirements will be considered when notified a minimum of seven days prior to the event.
16. Can I bring my own marquee for the ceremony? Marquee Solutions is the exclusive appointed supplier for ceremony marquees at LMWE. Please contact them directly to arrange set up on 01534 861005. If you’re having your ceremony at La Mare, it is a requirement that you book a marquee with Marquee Solutions, as La Mare will take no responsibility in the case of bad weather.
17. What are the minimum spends on pre-booked food and beverages? There is a minimum spend on pre-booked food and beverages based on the season and venue. Please refer to the following chart:
| Venue | Saturday | Friday | Sun to Thu |
|---|---|---|---|
| Winery | £6,000 | £4,500 | £3,000 |
| Orangery (Sun-Fri) | £3,500 | £3,000 | £2,500 |
18. When is payment required for pre-booked food and beverages? All pre-booked food and beverage payments must be made TWO WEEKS IN ADVANCE of the wedding date. Any additional items will be invoiced following the wedding.
19. Can we bring our own drinks or use a corkage service? All wines and other drinks for the client’s event are supplied by LMWE. Unfortunately, LMWE is unable to offer a corkage service.
20. Is there an option for individual menu tastings? Individual menu tastings are not available; however, we do offer an open tasting evening each April. Please enquire for more information.
21. When can I start setting up on the day of the wedding? Set up can begin from 8 am on the day of the wedding unless otherwise agreed in writing with LMWE.
22. What are the requirements for supplier collections? All suppliers must collect their goods between 9 am and 10:30 am on the morning following the event. External decorations are permitted, but the Walnut tree in front of the farmhouse must remain free of all decoration.
23. What happens if items are left behind? Any items left behind must be collected within 48 hours. LMWE will not be held responsible for items not collected within this period.
24. Can we bring our own cars and leave them overnight? Yes you can however any cars left overnight must be removed by 12 noon the next day.
25. Are there guidelines for Homemade Wedding Cakes? If you choose to have a homemade wedding cake, it can be set up on the day of the celebration. La Mare will not assume responsibility for the set up and presentation of the cake. An indemnity form addressing aspects related to consumption and allergens must be signed.