We know how important your wedding day is, so to put your mind at ease we’ve put together this useful set of Beaulieu wedding FAQs.
Where do we have the drinks reception and photographs?
By permission of Beaulieu we hold the drinks reception in the Cloister outside the Beaulieu Abbey Domus, which is a stunning setting for photographs. We also have Victorian Gardens and sections of the Beaulieu River on site, where the bride and groom, only by permission of Beaulieu, may be taken for photographs.
What if it's raining?
In the event of wet weather, by permission of Beauileu, we will hold the drinks receptions in the undercroft of the Domus. There are also a number of archways and shelters that may be used for photographs.
Can we put up a gazebo or marquee in the Cloister?
Unfortunately we cannot permit any structures or furniture on the grass of the Cloister as it is sacred land and part of the historic Beaulieu Abbey. Marquees may only be erected in the Event Fields of the Beaulieu Estate.
Are we allowed games in the Cloister?
Games are not permitted within the Cloister, however they may be permitted in one of the other gardens within the complex.
What time can we start the ceremony/reception?
When you book your wedding ceremony and reception with us, the Domus is yours exclusively for the whole day. We will arrange the timings around your ceremony or service time to suit your requirements.
What time does the evening reception finish?
The licence is until midnight, at which time the bar will close and the entertainment must finish. We ask that all remaining guests depart by 12.30am.
Can we have an extension on the finish time?
As we are in the grounds of the home of Lord Montagu, we are not able to obtain a licence extension any later than midnight.
Where is the nearest accommodation?
The nearest hotel is The Montagu Arms in the Beaulieu village, however we also provide a full list of local accommodation of hotels in the area.
How much is the deposit?
Once you have decided to book your wedding here at Beaulieu, we will send you a contract with our terms & conditions and a deposit invoice for £1000 inc VAT. By returning the signed paperwork with the payment, the booking will be secured for your wedding day.
Is there a separate price for children?
Yes, there is a separate wedding menu and package price for children.
Is there disabled access?
Yes, we have a stair lift for any elderly or immobile guests.
Can we have a live band in the Domus?
Yes, we have power points on the stage and we regularly have live bands during evening receptions.
Can we bring our own alcohol?
We have a fully stocked bar in the Domus and do not allow clients to provide their own alcohol due to responsible alcohol retailing laws. We can negotiate bringing in wine, however this does incur a corkage charge per bottle.
Can we use our own caterers?
As Leith’s at Beaulieu, we have the contract for all catering on the Beaulieu Estate and therefore can not allow any other caterers on site.
Is the Domus warm in the winter?
Yes, there are heaters around the room and a full working fireplace.
Can we have fireworks?
Fireworks are not permitted within the Beaulieu complex.
Can we throw confetti?
Unfortunately confetti is not permitted within the Cloisters or the Beaulieu complex. You may have bio-degradable confetti outside Meadow Gate, towards the front of the church.
Can we go into the National Motor Museum during our wedding day?
Entrance to the National Motor Museum is not included for yourselves or your guests during your wedding day. If you wish to include it as part of your day we can quote for discounted entry or exclusive private hire in the evening.
Do you recommend any wedding suppliers?
Yes, we have a list of our recommend suppliers, which we will gladly provide you with on request.
Do you have an easel for the table plan?
Yes we have an A0 size easel for your table plan, to which cardboard or foamex table plans may be attached.
When do you set up the room?
We will request a 'final details meeting' with the bride and groom the day before the wedding. At this meeting we request that you bring along any items that you wish to set up in the room i.e. table plan, name place cards, candles and favours. We will put all the items in our lockable store and run through details of where you want everything. It will then be set up first thing in the morning of your wedding day.
Can we have candles in the Domus?
Yes, we permit candles in the Domus, providing they are sat on a base to prevent wax damage.
Can you cater for vegetarians and special dietary requirements?
Yes, we have a full vegetarian menu and can cater for all special dietary requirements including coeliacs, diary intolerance and nut allergies. We request that they are marked on the table plan and we will provide them with a suitable alternative.
Can we put some money behind the bar in the evening for our guests?
Yes, you may have a pre-paid bar tab, which we will add to your final balance invoice prior to the wedding day.
Will there be signs to direct our guests on arrival?
There will be signage on the Meadow Car Park entrance for parking and there will also be a marshal on Meadow Gate to direct your guests in to the Domus.
Can we get married in Beaulieu Abbey Church?
You need to contact the Rectory Office directly regarding Church weddings. Please call them on 01590 612242.
Will the Wedding Co-ordinator be there on the wedding day?
Your Wedding Co-ordinator will be there in the morning to help decorate the room and welcome suppliers i.e. florist and cake supplier, and then greet you on your arrival. The Conference and Banqueting Manager will run your wedding day and ensure things are running smoothly.