dodford manor
award winning wedding team
About me: I live with my husband, my 2 children, my step son & 3 dogs(!) yes it’s a very busy household but I wouldn’t change it for the world! When I started my role at Unique Venues in 2012 friends used to say ‘always the planner never the bride’ but that wasn’t the case for me as I got married at Dodford Manor in July 2018 and had THE most amazing day!
Favourite hobby/pastime: When I’m not working, I’m usually with the kids at soft play(!) out walking with our dogs or enjoying a steak at Miller and Carter!
Favourite First Dance Song: Ed Sheeran – Perfect (my first dance song of course!)
Favourite part of the wedding: When father of the bride see’s his daughter for the first time in her wedding dress. I wasn’t fortunate enough to have my Dad walk me down the aisle, but knowing how much those memories will be cherished forever means the world!
Your favourite aspect/part of Dodford Manor: The Mortain Barn…. I love the warm cosy feel as you walk into the barn and even when there are no decorations the barn is absolutely stunning.
About me: I grew up in South Africa and moved to the UK when I was 13 (I am completely bilingual in English and Afrikaans). I live with my partner and my Maine Coon cat, Max, in a tiny village and love hosting friends and family in our home with good food and South African wine.
My favourite pastime: I am a competitive Ballroom and Latin American dancer and have danced for 11 years! If I’m not wearing sparkly dresses on the competition floor you can normally find me in practice-wear in the studio. It’s a great hobby to help with any First Dance jitters!
My favourite first dance song: Can’t Help Falling in Love by Elvis Presley
My favourite part of a wedding: The first dance! I can always feel the relief and the “we did it” moment as the couple stare into each other’s eyes and sway to their perfect song. You can normally find me shedding a little tear as I watch from the corner.
My favourite aspect of Dodford Manor: I think we are so lucky to have a west-facing courtyard overlooking the west-facing fields! The sunsets are always so beautiful and make for stunning photos that I know the couple will treasure.
A bit about me: I am Wife to one and Mum to two. I’m happiest in wellies, not a fan of puddings unless it’s my Mum’s chocolate brownies. I also got married at Dodford Manor!
My favourite pastime: Being the proud owner of two children my hobbies include watching Frozen and trips to the park! Outside of that I’m often found in coffee shops or binging on Netflix with a glass of wine. I’m also a horse lover, I’ve been riding since I was four years old and hope to have my own horse again one day
My favourite first dance song: Just You and I by Tom Walker
My favourite part of a wedding: Super hard question and there’s so many to choose from! If I had to pick just one moment it would be when the guests are asked to stand for the entrance of the bride/groom. That moment… it’s just so special.
My favourite aspect of Dodford Manor: My favourite aspect of the venue will have to be how atmospheric the barns are at night, it has such a romantic, homely feel!
A bit about me: Hi, I'm Lauren! I am Mummy to a car obsessed little boy and Christmas is my favourite!
Favourite hobby/pastime: In my spare time I enjoy spending time with family and friends, eating yummy food and drinking all the wine!
Favourite first dance song: My favourite first dance song is ‘I get To Love You’ by Ruelle
Favourite part of a wedding: My favourite part of a Wedding has to be the speeches, it’s so lovely hearing the sound of laughter fill the Oak Barn!
Favourite aspect of Dodford Manor: Dodford Manor is effortlessly stunning but my favourite part is the huge glass panes that allow all the natural light to flood into the barns, it’s beautiful in every season!
A bit about me: Hi, I’m Jess. I live with my husband and two small children who are my absolute world. I enjoy holidays and the odd glass of wine.
My favourite pastime: Outside of work I enjoy spending time with my family and friends.
My favourite first dance song: All of Me by John Legend
My favourite part of a wedding: Just before the bride/groom walks down the aisle. Everything builds up to that moment and it is just magical.
My favourite aspect of Dodford Manor: I love all the natural light in the barns, there is so much glass and the modern glass suits the rustic barns beautifully!
About me: I am a Mum to two wild little boys who keep me on my toes! I’m happiest with loved ones, socialising or watching anything Marvel! I used to be an entertainer and vocalist at holiday parks in North Devon. Never did I think part of my job would be to dance, dressed as a beachball! Living by the sea made it all worth it.
Favourite hobby/pastime: I love exploring new places, whether it’s a beach, city or countryside! I love to sing too.
Favourite first dance song: Tenerife Sea - Ed Sheeran
My favourite part of a wedding: The seconds before I cue the bride/groom to walk down the aisle… the nerves, emotion and anticipation in their eyes makes me completely and utterly melt!
Favourite aspect of Dodford Manor: The small window in the bridal suite… so many beautiful moments happen looking through that window. Looking at their guests and their husband or wife to be waiting for them at the end of the aisle… it’s so magical.
About me: My happy place is at home with my two dogs, binge watching Netflix with a takeaway pizza. A hopeless romantic at heart, I love weddings!
Favourite hobby/pastime: Meeting friends for a coffee or spending time with my grandad.
Favourite first dance song: Etta James – At last
My favourite part of a wedding: A romantic and heartfelt speech to the bride or groom. Pass the tissues!
Favourite aspect of Dodford Manor: Walking into Oak barn and seeing the beautiful countryside views.
A bit about me: I’m not as old or grumpy as I look! If I’m not at work, you can usually find me on the golf course.
My favourite pastime: Playing golf and going on holiday!
My favourite first dance song: You Do Something to Me by Paul Weller
My favourite part of a wedding: Definitely the speeches!
My favourite aspect of Dodford Manor: I love the views of the countryside and that they can be seen out of every glass pane throughout the venue!
A bit about me: I am a family man that loves animals. I am also a massive Prince fan that one day hopes to go to Paisley Park in Minneapolis.
My favourite pastime: I have recently started doing the sounds for a local amateur dramatic group. I also love going to festivals and camping.
My favourite first dance song: Purple Rain by Prince
My favourite part of a wedding: When couples say their vows!
My favourite aspect of Dodford Manor: I love the sheep! Any younger wedding guests love them and they are always there to greet you on your way in.
