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dodford manor
MEET THE TEAM

award winning wedding team

General Manager

Rachel

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!

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.

Wedding Event Manager

Jess

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.

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!

Wedding Event Manager

Lydia

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!

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!

Wedding Event Manager

Kirsty

Hi, I’m Kirsty – proud mum to Harry, who is 10 years old, dreams of becoming a footballer and can usually be found playing one sport or another. Life revolves around school runs, football matches and cheering him on from the sidelines, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Hi, I’m Kirsty – proud mum to Harry, who is 10 years old, dreams of becoming a footballer and can usually be found playing one sport or another. Life revolves around school runs, football matches and cheering him on from the sidelines, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

I’ve spent years creating unforgettable weddings and events, so I’m usually the one making someone else’s dream day come to life. Ironically, I’ve always been the wedding planner rather than the bride – but I’m still holding onto the hope that one day it’ll be my turn. When it is, there’s no question where I’d say “I do”: Dodford Manor. I’m completely in love with its beautiful countryside setting and stunning barn – it’s my perfect wedding venue.
When I’m not planning celebrations, I love escaping on holiday, making memories with Harry and enjoying life’s little treats – whether that’s an odd glass of champagne or a Hugo Spritz with good company.
Favourite hobby/pastime:-

My favourite pastime is going to the theatre, especially heading into London to see a West End show. There’s nothing quite like the excitement of the lights going down, the live music starting and watching an incredible performance on stage. Whether it’s a classic musical or the latest production, I love the whole experience and it’s one of my favourite ways to spend a day or evening.

Favourite First Dance Song - Ed Sheeran, Perfect

Favourite Part of the Wedding

It’s really hard for me to choose my favourite part of a wedding, because I genuinely love the whole journey from start to finish. From the very first enquiry and seeing a couple’s ideas come to life, through all the planning and excitement, right up to the big day itself – I love every moment. That’s why I’m now in my 22nd year of making weddings and events my career! But if I had to choose one moment, it would be sending the bride down the aisle to meet her husband-to-be. There’s something so incredibly magical about that moment – seeing the emotion on their faces, knowing how much planning and anticipation has gone into getting them there, and watching two people begin the next chapter of their lives together. It never gets old, and I’m not sure it ever will.
Favourite part of Dodford Manor

My favourite part of Dodford Manor has to be the beautiful Mortain Barn. Dating back to the 1680s, it’s the oldest barn we have and has so much character and history. I especially love standing up on the mezzanine and looking down to see all the guests seated and waiting for the ceremony to begin – there’s something incredibly magical about that moment. With its stunning glass, beautiful natural barn features and incredible sense of space, the Mortain Barn really is something special. Every time I stand up there and look down at a room full of excited guests waiting for the bride to arrive, it gives me that same feeling of excitement and reminds me why I love weddings so much.

Wedding Event Manager

Kayleigh

A bit 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!

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.

Wedding Event Manager

Abbie

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!

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.

Wedding Event Manager

Ellis

Hi, I’m Ellis! I’m a creative at heart, and a bit of a perfectionist when it comes to the little details in life ✨

Hi, I’m Ellis! I’m a creative at heart, and a bit of a perfectionist when it comes to the little details in life ✨

Before stepping into the world of weddings at Dodford Manor, I’ve worked as a bridal makeup artist and a baker, so I’ve experienced weddings from many different viewpoints during my career!

When I’m not working, you’ll usually find me enjoying time with family and friends, walking my dogs (with a coffee stop of course), planning my next trip or doing something creative. I’ve also recently got into going to the gym and swimming on my days off which is a great way to switch off from the world for an hour or two.

Favourite hobby/pastime:
I love anything crafty! My current favourite hobby is making bracelets with my 10 year old niece.
I also love reading books on my kindle and going to festivals during the summer 🪩

Favourite first dance song:
my personal choice would be Foundations by Kolidescopes, my partner and I have had it chosen for years for when our big day comes around, but I also love Unconditional by Sinead Harnett!

Favourite part of a wedding:
It's so hard to pick one thing, I love every element of a wedding day from the bride getting ready with her bridal party in the morning having a singalong to their favourite songs amongst the pre ceremony nerves, right up until the final dance at the very end of the night, it's all so special seeing such a big day unfold for every couple we have at Dodford after all of their hard work and planning!

My favourite part/aspect of Dodford Manor:
It has to be the one-way window in the bridal suite for me! I always think the final moments spent in this room before walking down the aisle feel so special, and being able to see your guests through the little window sat waiting for the ceremony to begin definitely adds to that unforgettable moment!
I also love how cosy the Oak Barn feels in the evenings with the fairy lights on, no matter what time of year it is.

Estate Manager

Simon D

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.

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!

Estate Team

Bruce

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.

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.

Housekeeping Manager

Roxanna

About me
I’m a proud mum of three and grandma of two. I’m a people person who loves a good laugh, positive energy and being part of a great team.

About me
I’m a proud mum of three and grandma of two. I’m a people person who loves a good laugh, positive energy and being part of a great team.
Favourite hobby/pastime
Dancing – especially Latin dancing! 💃 I haven’t danced as much lately as I used to, but it’s still something I absolutely love and always puts me in a good mood.
Favourite First Dance Song
Thinking Out Loud by Ed Sheeran. ❤️
Favourite Part of the Wedding
As I’m usually there the morning after, preparing breakfast rather than being part of the wedding itself, my favourite part is hearing the laughter and all the stories from the night before. I love seeing everyone come down for breakfast still smiling, sharing their favourite moments and reliving the celebrations. It means I get to experience a little bit of the magic of every wedding in my own way.
My favourite aspect/part of Dodford Manor
When I first came to Dodford Manor, all the lavender was in bloom and I absolutely loved it. It was such a beautiful first impression and something I still remember. But what makes Dodford really special to me is the people. I love the team, the friendly atmosphere and the feeling of everyone working together to create something special.
Venue Owner

Simon

Venue Owner

Annabelle

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Come explore next weekend!

 Exclusive Relaxed Viewings!

Every morning this week including Tuesday and Thursday evening!

Limited morning viewings this Sunday 25th October! 

Take in the views and grounds, explore the Oak Barn, Dairy Barn and 1680s Ironstone Mortain Barn, the Manor House B&B, meet the team of wedding jedis and enjoy a drink in the Inner Yard!

Book a personal tour of Dodford Manor Barns by clicking the ‘arrange a viewing’ tab! Or just email us or call us today to book your personal tour. 

                                    Don’t forget to ask about our limited offers too.

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