When you hear the word “wedding,” chances are that you think of the traditional big day – a huge white dress, hundreds of guests, and probably an eye-watering bill to go with it.
Yet these days, many couples are choosing to do things differently. From rustic barns to mini-festivals, there are all sorts of ways they can make the event more informal and comfortable both for them and for their guests.
And what could be more relaxed and personal than dinner in your favourite restaurant, surrounded by your family and closest friends?
At William & Victoria, our upstairs dining room is frequently used as a venue for intimate wedding receptions in Harrogate, including people travelling from further afield too. Whether they only want a small gathering, they prefer something a little unusual, or they just want to treat their nearest and dearest to a meal at a place they have loved visiting as a couple, there are all sorts of reasons why we’re chosen.
From the moment we’re asked to host, we work hard to ensure our couples get exactly the wedding reception they want. We can offer a drinks reception, canapés, a five-course dinner with wine pairing, coffee and post-dinner drinks – or we can keep things really simple and stick with our set three course dinner. It’s entirely down to the couple and how they see their special day unfolding.
Our chefs are happy to create a bespoke menu for the wedding breakfast, including catering for restricted diets, and our extensive wine list has something to suit all tastes. We also have local ales, gins and more – we could even create the perfect cocktail for your guests to enjoy on arrival or after dinner.
You can have exclusive use of the first floor restaurant with its own entrance and bar for wedding parties of around 50 guests or for smaller gatherings use our private dining room, which can seat up to 28. Our dedicated events manager, Ashley, will liaise with you on the run up to the big day and our team of experienced waiting staff will be on hand to ensure a faultless service and keep those glasses topped up throughout the day.
Our couples can decorate the dining room as they wish, with flowers, balloons and streamers, or just keep it simple with our tasteful decor. We are happy to recommend local florists and cake makers and advise on timings to keep things running smoothly. We even offer a discreet AV system just in case the father of the bride or the best man want to share a few old photos...
On a practical level, we’re a stone’s throw from the Stray and the Valley Gardens for beautiful outdoor photos, and the outside steps up to the dining room are a great place to get everyone gathered in their finery for a group picture. We’re also close to numerous hotels and transport links so guests can arrive and depart easily.
It’s a true honour to be chosen to host an event that will be remembered throughout a couple’s lives, and which says so much about their relationship. We’re always delighted to hear from couples considering us for their special day and to work with them to create a truly unique and memorable occasion.
If you’d like to speak to us about holding your wedding reception at William & Victoria, call us on 01423 521510 and ask for Ashley.