Rachael & Jay’s - Wedding Reception
Rachael & Jay had the most incredible reception here at Bradwell Abbey. Let us walk you through the festivities that started with sack races to their first dance in starlight.
Photography by Sarah J Scott Photography, Stylist and coordinator Samsa Mays
Arriving in high spirits, Racheal and Jay made the most of Bradwell Abbey’s stunning grounds for their photos, capturing beautiful moments along the winding pathways, beside the limestone barns, and in front of the historic chapel.
Meanwhile, their guests enjoyed the best of both courtyards - some mingled in the front courtyard with a drink in hand, while others grabbed a bite from the food vendor in the back courtyard or joined in with lawn games.
The back courtyard is ideal for entertaining your guests, The Hovel offers space for more music, entertainment, or additional under-cover seating. By summer 2026 we will also have an additional Hovel space in the front courtyard (ask us at your viewing!)
We can seat up to 100 guests in elegant chiavari chairs. For that perfect romantic glow as a backdrop for your top table, ask us about our starlight backdrop! Rachael and Jay opted for our signature wisteria hung from the oak beams with Stylist and coordinator Samsa Mays bringing their vision to life in soft blushes and rose gold. You can browse our preferred supplier list for stylists, florists & more.
As the evening continued, the barn was cleared for dancing for their guests, with the couple’s first dance marking the start of a lively night- with plenty of space for dancing and live DJ - D is for Disco
Suppliers credit: Wedding coordinator and venue styling: @samsa_mays, Photographer: @sarah_j_scottphotography, Makeup: @sjg_makeupartist, Hair: @kerryannehair, Flowers: @flowersbylaurenh, Venue: @bradwellabbeyweddings Cake: @vickys_little_kitchen, Lawn games: @overtherainbowweddings_uk, Videographer: @ryandevinefilm
@ryandevinefilm
FAQs
Set up the day before: However you want to style your reception, you or your stylist will have access to the reception barn the day before, Rachael and Jay had the wonderful Stylist and coordinator Samsa Mays who brought their vision to life.
Arrival from 3pm: Once you and your guests arrive, make use of the stunning grounds of Bradwell Abbey for photos while your guests mingle in the courtyards. You can utilise the space however you wish to keep your guests entertained, including live music, garden games and food vendors. The bar will be open for all to enjoy.
Dining for up to 100 seated guests: Once you’re ready to dine your guests will be invited into the reception barn to get settled. If you’ve opted for buffet-style dining, we have a dedicated space for everything from food stations and sweet carts to photo albums and even a snack wall. If you prefer a sit-down meal, we’ll work with your chosen caterer to ensure everything is perfect - check out our recommended supplier list for the best vendors who know the venue inside and out.
After your meal, it's time for speeches! You’ll have the option to add the sparkle of a starlight backdrop and our signature hanging wisteria.
Party: Then, it’s time to get the party started! Tables and chairs will be moved aside to create your dance floor, ready for your first dance as newlyweds. There’s plenty of room for a band, DJ and even a photobooth to capture all those fun moments. You can find great ideas in our recommended suppliers list.
Times: The drinks will be flowing from the bar until 11:00 pm, so be sure to remind everyone to arrange their taxis for midnight! (A quick heads-up: our bar is card only.)
We can’t wait to help make your day unforgettable!
Any more questions? Visit our FAQs page
bookings@mkcdc.org.uk
