Walking Down The Aisle with The Painswick’s Events Manager, Chelsea Tunstall
3 January 2025
Getting ready to say 'I do'? The Painswick is a picture-perfect location for your Cotswold wedding.
Join us in conversation with Events Manager, Chelsea Tunstall, to find out how to plan the celebration of your dreams. Whether you are brimming with ideas or need a little wedding inspiration, here are all the tips and tricks you need to make your big day extra special.
When is the best time of year to get married?
The Cotswolds are beautiful year-round, but each season offers something unique for a wedding at The Painswick. We have the best backdrop here at The Painswick with stunning, ever changing valley views, which are perfect for those memorable wedding photos. Spring, is ideal for wildflowers and fresh greenery views with Summer offering warm (sometimes!), golden evenings ideal for alfresco drinks on our beautiful terrace. Autumn paints the landscape in rich hues of amber and gold, creating a romantic, cosy ambiance. Winter, with its frosty mornings and crackling fireplaces, transforms The Painswick into an intimate haven for a festive wedding with all the gorgeous touches. The best time depends on your personal style and vision!
What makes weddings at The Painswick so special?
The Painswick is a gem in the heart of the Cotswolds, known for its charm, elegance, and attention to detail. Its boutique size ensures an exclusive experience, with the venue feeling like a home away from home for guests. From its stunning Georgian architecture to the breathtaking views of the Painswick Valley, every corner provides an exquisite backdrop which is great for those photos! Combine this with exceptional cuisine crafted from locally sourced ingredients and a dedicated events team, and your day is guaranteed to be unforgettable. We are renowned for food and some notable weddings have requested elements of our regular menu to be part of their special menu, including our delicious (keep'em coming back for more…) scotch eggs, which many of our couples use as canapes - a real winner for all guests!
Why would you recommend an intimate wedding?
Intimate weddings allow for a deeper connection with loved ones, focusing on quality time rather than large-scale hosting. At The Painswick, smaller weddings mean you can make full use of the venue, tailoring every detail to reflect your unique love story. Intimate celebrations often feel more relaxed and personal, creating lasting memories for everyone. It’s one lovely house party celebration and the team love it too!
Why is it important to choose local suppliers to help make your day extra special?
Local suppliers bring authenticity and expertise to your wedding, ensuring every element is perfectly suited to the Cotswolds setting. From florists who understand the local flora to photographers familiar with The Painswick’s most photogenic spots, their knowledge enhances your day. Additionally, supporting local businesses contributes to the community and often means fresher, higher-quality offerings, from farm-to-table menus to bespoke decor. We have great connections with local suppliers and very often can secure the best prices, which can make a big difference when planning a wedding. We’re extremely lucky in this area of the Cotswolds to have some of the best, innovative and creative suppliers, so working hand in hand with them is always a pleasure and ensures every wedding is unique and special.
What is the most memorable wedding that has been held at The Painswick?
One standout wedding featured a couple who embraced the Cotswold’s essence with a whimsical garden-inspired theme, which suited The Painswick perfectly. They incorporated seasonal flowers and a locally crafted cake adorned with edible wildflowers. The day concluded with an intimate dinner in the private dining room, with speeches full of love and laughter. The couple transformed the venue with their personality, but what truly stood out was the joy and warmth shared by everyone present. It was memorable for the relaxed, yet beautifully stunning day; our team still talk about it!
What is your favourite finishing touch to add to a wedding or event?
Personalisation makes a wedding truly special. At The Painswick, one favourite touch is creating bespoke welcome gifts for guests - perhaps a local bottle of gin, artisan chocolates, or a handwritten note from the couple? We’ve had some beautiful hand drawn notecards featuring the building which add such a unique touch and a lasting memento. For the day itself, signature cocktails crafted with local ingredients or customised table settings add a memorable flourish. These small yet thoughtful touches make guests feel appreciated and elevate the overall experience. We love coming up with ideas with each couple as they plan their special day with us. The planning is such an exciting time; I absolutely love it!
Dreaming of a Cotswold wedding? Find out more about celebrating your special day at The Painswick.
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