There are some moments in time that hold such an indefinable sense of fragility that we try to capture this fleeting event and bottle it as a memory. We imagine the feelings we felt and grasp them with both hands, clutching at it as if it were a precious butterfly about to escape. Some memories are so pure and so strong that one word, sound, smell or touch can take us back in time and conjure up what once was. Weddings often carry that sense of timelessness and there is something truly magical about encapsulating the day in a series of everlasting moments such as photographs, favours or scraps of material. We imagine ourselves old and grey, holding onto that precious token and looking back on a lifetime of happiness.
There is a feeling of promise that hangs in the air before our weddings at Happy Valley; our lands become restless with excitement as the fluttering of birds’ wings and the dancing of leaves signal its approach. The temperature rises and with it a warm feeling of joy is spread across the grounds as we anticipate our guests’ arrival with each tick and every tock.
The dreaminess of our woodland ceremonies and sense of ethereal wonder of our Willow Island blessings, sets a magical tone to proceedings. With all of the enchantment and mystery surrounding Happy Valley, it’s a perfect setting for a fairy-tale wedding, such as the one in Shakespeare’s Midsummer Night’s Dream.
The ways to have a Shakespearean Midsummer Wedding at Happy Valley
Set the scene – “I know a place where the wild thyme blows, where oxlips and the nodding violet grows”. Shakespeare knew of the importance of creating the perfect ambience for romance. At Happy Valley, our nine acres of whimsical woodland are bound to inspire you.
Add a touch of romance – “Love's stories written in love's richest books. To fan the moonbeams from his sleeping eyes”. Consider adding a harpist or string quartet to your day, include Shakespearean quotes at the dinner table or perhaps send calligraphy wedding invitations, written on handmade paper and sealed with wax. At Happy Valley we can provide exquisite wedding gift vouchers, romantic, vintage props and timeless, vintage wedding dresses.
Add a sparkle of magic – “hand in hand with fairy grace, will we sing and bless this place”. With Happy Valley’s festoon lighting, log burners, Willow Island and star-gazing hot tubs, we add a glimmer and flicker of charm to any occasion.
Shakespeare Up the Dress Code – whether you choose to include floral garlands for the bridesmaids, Shakespearean masks for the guests or go all out and fashion some incredible costume pieces, Happy Valley has a stock of vintage clothing items that emulate the Midsummer Night’s Dream wedding theme perfectly.
Make Memories – “Are you sure/That we are awake? It seems to me/That yet we sleep, we dream”. Having your wedding at Happy Valley is an unforgettable event but you can treasure this moment by capturing it with stunning photos, keeping a wedding invitation and favour in a time capsule, by dancing under the stars to your favourite song, or choosing to wear your signature perfume. Whatever it is you need to create an unforgettable moment, Happy Valley has a list of amazing wedding suppliers we can provide you with.
The Bard was a great believer in Love and naturally, so are we. No matter what theme or style you choose for your wedding, Happy Valley invites you to immerse yourself in the magic of our venue.
With love,
Katy, Kirsty and the team at Happy Valley xx
weddings@happyvalleynorfolk.co.uk
01485 600719
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