Page 5 - Mulberry House Wedding Mag July 2025

Joanne & Alfie
How did you meet?
We met 12 years ago in a bar and Alfie made the first move :) We were friends for a bit but both knew we wanted more. I moved into my own place and Alfie became part of the furniture very quickly. 8 months later we found out we were expecting our 1st daughter Betsy.
What made you choose Mulberry House?
We got engaged in November just before COVID 19 struck. I see so many brides having to move and cancel their weddings it actually put me off looking or booking anywhere but I was initially attracted to Mulberry house because I liked the name. Mulberry House is also in the area I grew up in so it felt close to home. I had seen a few posts on Instagram and really liked the look of the venue. We decided to book a viewing once all of the COVID restrictions had lifted and we fell in love as soon as we pulled in.
Best advice you could give to a couple who are starting to plan their wedding?
Try not to think about a budget, that part blew my mind. We booked the venue and worked out how much we needed to save each month to pay for it. We then wrote a list of all the suppliers we wanted to use. Everytime I booked a supplier I wrote how much we owed them on an envelope and added the money as and when we needed to. I used most of the trusted suppliers that Mulberry house recommended and was happy with all of them. They all made the process so easy and stress free.
What was the favourite part of your day?
Obviously saying 'I do'. I decided that due to costings I didn't want to have any adult bridesmaids. I had my 2 daughters, my niece and my twin nephews. I then asked 2 of my best friends, my sister- in-law and our mums to get ready with me in the morning. My wedding morning was definitely one of the best parts, the morning breakfast with my closest friends and family was just so relaxed and we chatted about the day ahead. Once the makeup lady and hair stylist arrived, we pumped up the tunes and just all had so much fun. We even managed a cheeky shot before I put my dress on. The staff were amazing checking we had all that we needed and nothing was ever too much.
What did Mulberry House do to make your day extra special?
Everything, from the planning process with Jo and Chloe to the wedding day with claire. One thing that stood out for me which I didn't find out until the next morning was one of our evening guests was dropped at the wrong venue, left there with no way of getting to mulberry house. The gent who was working at the time, I'm unsure of his name, personally went and collected my guest in his own car. This is something I will be forever grateful for.
Whatsongdidyouwalkdowntheaisleto? HayleyReinhart-can'thelpfallinginlove.
What would you have done differently given the chance?
Nothing, we loved every part of our day. I didn't want to go home the next morning. All our guests that stayed had a wonderful breakfast and we all sat outside enjoying the sunshine and views. People are still talking about our day now, mainly how stunning the venue was and how good the DJ was!
Any other comments on your wedding day?
Clare is literally the Queen, she made the day so perfect. She did everything that was asked of her and more. I had a guest spill red wine on my dress as an accident as she was just a superstar, without her and the toastmaster I think our day wouldn't have run as smoothly. The ham and cheese toasties were an absolute hit too. The accommodation was spotless and again we still have guests talking about it now. We can't wait to book in just for a nights stay and to come see the team again. Thank you Mulberry House.
NOW A MULTI AWARD WINNING VENUE!
2023 Regional Winner of the Wedding Industry Awards – Wedding Venue (Hotel) – East of England 2023 National Winner of the Wedding Industry Awards – Wedding Venue (Hotel)
2023 Essex Wedding Awards – Best Historic Venue of the Year
2023 Essex Wedding Awards – Best Hotel Venue of the Year
2023 Hitched Wedding Award Winner
2023 Trip Advisor – Travellers Choice Awards (awarded to top 10 businesses)
2024 Regional Winner of the Wedding Industry Awards – Events Team – East of England
2024 Regional Winner of the Wedding Industry Awards – Wedding Venue (Hotel) – East of England 2024 National Winner of the Wedding Industry Awards – Wedding Venue (Hotel)
2024 Essex Wedding Awards – Best Events Team of the Year
2024 Essex Wedding Awards – Highly Commended – Wedding Venue of the Year
2024 Hitched Wedding Award Winner
2025 National Winner of the Wedding Industry Awards – Wedding Venue (Hotel)
2025 Essex Wedding Awards – Outstanding Contribution to the Wedding Industry – Claire O’Sullivan 2025 Hitched Wedding Award Winner
2025
NATIONAL
WINNER
Wedding Venue (Hotel)
2023 & 2024
NATIONAL
WINNER
Wedding Venue (Hotel)