Frequently Asked Questions

A.

Accessibility 

– Is Bilsington Priory accessible?

While inclusivity is important to us here at Bilsington Priory, please note that this is an ancient Scheduled Medieval Monument. Unfortunately, there is no disabled access for wheelchair users to the Great Hall.

Accommodation 

– Is there onsite accommodation?

Yes, there is onsite accommodation available for close family and friends. Please contact Libby or Zena at the Manor House for more information. Note that there is an additional charge for accommodation in the Edwardian Manor. For further accommodation options, please see our recommended suppliers list.

As long as Libby or Zena have prior notice they will offer breakfast for more guests, however, please discuss this request with The Manor House Team directly

Aisle Carpet

– Do you supply an aisle carpet runner for our ceremony?

No, we do not provide an aisle carpet as couples all want different colours and textures, however we can recommend suppliers that do.

B.

– Bar 

– What time does the bar open? 

The bar is open from the time your guests arrive until midnight (Sunday 11pm)

However, it must close 20 minutes before your legal ceremony. We recommend closing the bar during your grand entrance and formal speeches to ensure everyone is present, but this is optional.

– What time does the bar close? 

Last orders are called at 11:45 PM, and the bar closes at midnight.

– What drinks do Bilsington Priory offer? 

Your drinks package typically includes a post-ceremony glass of bubbles, a half bottle of wine and a toast drink per adult. Various upgrade options are available, such as unlimited drinks during your drinks reception.

– What drinks are available at the bar? 

We serve a wide range of beverages, including soft drinks, bottled beer and cider, wine, bubbles, spirits and cocktails. Beer kegs can also be arranged for an additional charge.

– Is there a drinks list? 

Yes, we have a drinks list that serves as a guide. Prices and availability may change based on our supplier.

– Can we put money behind the bar? 

Yes, couples or their parents often opt to put money behind the bar. This amount must be prepaid and any unused funds will be refunded a few days after your wedding.

– Do you take cash at the bar? 

We operate a cashless bar on the day of your wedding but cash can be used for prepayments.

Bouncy Castle

– Are we able to hire in a Bouncy Castle?

Yes, you can hire a Bouncy Castle, however this must be manned by a responsible person and you must have wedding insurance as anyone injured during the use is your responsibility. 

C.

Candles 

– May we use real candles during our wedding day? 

Tea lights and real candles are permitted on tables, Priory window sills and mantelpieces. Candelabras or taper candles must be non-drip and positioned to protect linens or you will be liable for any damage.

Catering 

– Can we bring our own catering company? 

We are not a dry hire venue, so we ask that you use our curated list of recommended caterers.

Chairs

– What size are the Louis Cane Back Dining Chairs? 

The chairs are 96cms high, and take up 56cms of space from front to back. The seat high is 49cms high.

Children 

– Are children allowed, and are there any special considerations? 

Children are very welcome at Bilsington Priory. Our caterers offer a children’s menu. However, please be aware that there are ponds on site, so children must be supervised by a responsible adult at all times.

Church 

– Is there a local church if we want to get married off-site? 

Yes, there are local churches. Please see our recommended suppliers page for details.

Confetti 

– Do you allow guests to bring confetti? 

Yes, but only natural, real, or dried petals or biodegradable confetti are permitted both inside and on the lawn. We suggest providing confetti for your guests to ensure compliance with our environmental policies. If unsure, please consult our onsite florist, House of Mimi Fleur.

– Can we add confetti to the table decor? 

Yes, you may use real or dried petals. However, we do not allow silk petals or scattered metal or plastic items.

Corkage 

– Can we bring our own bottles? 

Yes, we allow you to bring your own wine and bubbles (75cl bottles only) with a corkage fee of £12 per bottle for wine and £15 per bottle for bubbles. These charges cover chilling, corking, glass use, bottle disposal, and staffing.

– Can we bring our own miniatures? 

Yes, alcoholic miniatures are permitted as guest favours, but a small corkage fee will apply.

D.

Decor Drop-Off 

– Can we drop anything off before our wedding?

We ask that your decor be dropped off the day before your wedding to allow us and the caterers ample time for setup. What should be included in your decor drop off:

• Welcome sign
• Order of the day
• Table plan
• Table numbers
• Place cards placed in an envelope per table

DJ

– Is a DJ included within the venue hire?

No, we do not include the price of a DJ in our quote as our couples want the choice to pick a DJ that works for them and their crowd. Check out our recommended suppliers page

Dance floor

– Do we have to pay extra for the dance floor?

No, the Dance Floor is included within your venue hire.

– Can we move the dance floor into the Edwardian Tent?

No, due to sound restrictions dancing to music can not take place in the Edwardian Style Tea Tent.

E.

Evening Guests 

– Can we invite additional evening guests, and if so, what is the best time for them to arrive? 

Yes, you can invite additional evening guests. Please notify the caterer of any dietary requirements and the number of guests. See section T for our recommended time of arrival for evening guests.

F.

Food Trucks 

– Are food trucks allowed? 

Yes, food trucks are permitted but they must have a five-star food hygiene rating and adhere to our terms and conditions. Please ask before booking so we can ensure they meet ours and the caterers requirements.

Fireworks 

– Are fireworks permitted at the Priory? 

Due to the presence of horses in the Edwardian Stables, as well as dogs, cats and local wildlife, fireworks and Chinese lanterns are not permitted.

Furniture 

– What chairs are included in the package? 

We include classic wooden chairs with seat cushions in the venue hire package. For alternative chair styles, please see our recommended suppliers list.

-Are tables included in the venue hire? 

Yes, tables are included in the venue hire. We provide xx tables for dining and other setups.

G.

Gardens

– How many gardens are there at the Priory

At Bilsington Priory we have three gardens, the Lawn in front of the Edwardian Tea Tent that is perfect for outdoor games, The Enchanted Gardens for your romantic outdoor wedding ceremony and cocktail hour and the Secret Garden for your intimate couple shots.

Getting Ready 

– Is there somewhere for us to get ready? 

For couples wanting to get ready on-site, there is a Tack Room that comfortably accommodates up to ten number of people. Additionally, if the Edwardian Manor House is available, the second partner can get ready there, though there will be an additional fee for its use.

Guest Numbers 

– Does the ‘guest numbers’ include us as the couple? 

Yes, when counting your guest numbers, please include yourselves. We can seat up to 100 people in the Edwardian Style Tea Tent for your wedding breakfast and up to 100 for your indoor or outdoor wedding ceremony.

H.

Hiring 

– If we want to hire any major pieces like furniture or charger plates, who should we tell and when?

Because we will need to make space for hired in furniture or lay out for instance your charger plates we just ask that you let us know asap so that we can plan for their arrival and departure.

I.

Inclusive 

– Is Bilsington Priory an inclusive wedding venue? 

Yes, the team at Bilsington Priory is passionate about welcoming all couples and guests. We love hosting weddings and if you fall in love with the Priory, you are our perfect client. We are deeply committed to preserving our heritage and ensuring everyone feels welcome.

Insurance 

– Should we take out wedding insurance? 

Yes, we recommend you take out wedding insurance. A wedding insurance policy can cover you financially if, for example, you have to cancel or postpone your wedding day (e.g., due to illness or a supplier going out of business), there is damage to your outfits or if there is a public liability claim on the day from a guest or wedding supplier.

J.

Just because we love joyous celebrations

– How do we ensure our wedding is full of Joy?

Ensuring your wedding is full of joy involves careful planning, meaningful touches and a focus on what truly matters to you and your partner. Here are some tips to help create a joyful wedding experience:

1. Personalisation. Add Personal Touches: Incorporate elements that reflect your personalities and relationship, such as custom vows, personalised decor, and your favourite music.
2. Meaningful Rituals: Include traditions or create new ones that hold special significance for you both.
3. Stress-Free Planning: Hire a Coordinator: Consider hiring a wedding planner or coordinator to handle the logistics and ensure everything runs smoothly.
4. Plan Ahead: Start planning early and create a detailed timeline to avoid last-minute stress.
5. Capture Memories: Book Your Wedding Photographer early.  Since wedding photographers and videographers get booked quickly, we recommend making this a priority right after securing Bilsington Priory as your wedding venue.
6. Surround Yourself with Loved Ones.  After booking your photographer send out Save The Date cards to ensure you get everyone you want to attend your wedding
7. Supportive Wedding Party: Choose a wedding party that is supportive and will help keep the atmosphere light and joyful.
8. Music and Dancing: Ensure you have a great playlist and plenty of dancing can elevate the joy of your celebration.
9. Interactive Elements: Consider interactive elements like photo booths, games, or guest book activities.
10. Delegate Tasks: We recommend that you assign tasks to trusted friends or family members, so that you can focus on enjoying the day.
11. Comfort and Convenience: Ensure your guests know where they need to be, when and what time so that no one misses a single moment!
12. Engagement: Plan activities or entertainment that will engage your guests and make them feel involved throughout the day.
13. Good Food and Drink: Offer a variety of food and drink options to cater to different tastes and dietary requirements.
14. After Your Food Tasting:  Send out your official invitations after you have selected your menu, these normally take place around six months before your wedding.
15. Moments of Connection. Spend Quality Time: Make time during your day to connect with each other and with your guests.
16. Be Present: On the day try to stay in the moment and enjoy the experience. Don’t worry about small details that might go wrong and stay positive
17. Flexibility and Adaptability: On your wedding day, embrace the unexpected and be ready to adjust to any changes or challenges that come your way. A flexible mindset will help you stay happy regardless of circumstances or any wide balls.
18. Celebrate Your Love with a Meaningful Ceremony: Focus on the significance of the ceremony itself, celebrating the commitment you are making to each other.
19. Express Gratitude: Take moments to express gratitude to your partner, guests and anyone who helped make your day special.
20. Plan a Mini Getaway: Whether it’s a mini moon or a simple day of relaxation, plan something to look forward to after the wedding.  Then start planning your HoneyMoon

By focusing on what truly matters to you and creating an environment where everyone can feel comfortable and happy, you can ensure your wedding day is full of joy.

K.

Knowledge

– How knowledgeable are the staff?

– Our team consists of passionate, knowledgeable staff who are eager to share their expertise and experience to assist you.  Please follow us on Instagram and Tik Tock to learn about all our handy tips and tricks.  If you can’t find the answer to your question please get in touch as we relish a challenge. 

L.

Late Licence 

– Does Bilsington Priory offer late licences?

Unfortunately, we cannot offer late licences due to on-site residents. Last orders are at 11:45 PM, and the bar closes at midnight.

Legal Ceremony 

– If we are holding a legal ceremony at Bilsington Priory, how do we go about organising the legal side of our wedding day? 

If you are planning on holding your legal ceremony at Bilsington Priory, we will ask you to complete your details online to reserve your date and time with Kent County Council (KCC). Please consider the timing of your day carefully before booking as KCC charges for any amendments. Once we reserve your date and time with KCC we will send you a reservation number and KCC will contact you directly. Note that KCC requires a minimum of 31 days before your planned wedding date.

– Is the ceremony price included within the Bilsington Priory Venue Hire?

No KCC prices are not included within our Venue Hire, you must pay KCC directly.

Lost Property 

– What happens if one of us or our guests loses something? 

If you or one of your guests leave something behind, our housekeeping team will do their utmost to find and store items safely. We will generally hold items for no more than 30 days. After this, any items will be disposed of respectfully, for example, donated to a local charity shop. Perishable items like food and alcohol will be disposed of immediately.

If you cannot return to the Priory, we are happy to send ‘easy to pack’ items back to you, but you will need to pay for postage or shipping in advance, particularly for large or heavy items. We strongly recommend taking out wedding insurance and encouraging your guests to take out travel insurance (please see section I).

M.

Maintenance

– What happens if you need to do any maintenance on the Priory?

All maintenance at Bilsington Priory is planned, however if we need to do any emergency works we will let you know what has happened, why it has happened and what our plans are to resolve the situation.

Music

What music will we need?

We recommend that the first place to start when thinking about your music is the time of day and what is happening then consider if you are going to have a sound track to your day or book mucians to perform all or elements of your day:

1. Getting ready
2. Welcome your guests
3. Your ceremony music – you need five tracks one for walking down the aisle, three whilst you sign the paperwork and one walking back down the aisle (recessional)
4. Post ceremony drinks reception
5. Grand entrance to your wedding breakfast
6. Music whilst you eat
7. Post Wedding Breakfast Music
8. 1st dance
9. Evening music

N.

Noise 

– Our band is asking if there are noise restrictions at the Priory? 

We ask that all musicians be respectful of our staff, your guests, and our neighbours. Musicians should not exceed the average wedding band volume of 95 dB.

– What is a sound limiter, and do you have one at Bilsington Priory? 

A sound limiter measures sound levels in decibels (DB) and can cut power if the limit is exceeded for a sustained period. We do not have a sound limiter, but we monitor sound levels and may ask performers to reduce volume if it exceeds 95 DB. If they do not comply, we reserve the right to terminate the set. Please check with us before booking musical performers or choose from our recommended supplier list.

O.

Own Food 

– May we bring in our own food? 

No food may be brought onto the Estate without prior permission. Additional fees may apply.

P.

Parking

 – Is there on-site parking for our guests? 

Yes, there is on-site car parking. Cars must be collected by midday the day after your wedding.

Pets 

– Are pets allowed, and when do they have to go home? 

Yes, pets are allowed as long as you are responsible for them. The team at Bilsington Priory loves pets and has its own animals. Libby, the owner, is even happy to have your horse on-site overnight (Livery fee applies)

Public Liability Insurance 

– Do you have Public Liability Insurance? 

Yes, we have Public Liability Insurance (PLI). All our recommended suppliers should also have PLI. Ensure that any suppliers you bring onto the Bilsington Priory Estate have PLI. We strongly recommend taking out wedding insurance as any issues arising from items or suppliers you bring onsite are your responsibility.

Q.

Questions

– If we have a question about our wedding, who should be ask?

At Bilsington Priory we understand that planning a wedding is project management and it involves numerous steps and decisions, from setting the date to choosing the perfect venue, catering, and so much more. If you have any questions about any aspect into what’s involved here’s a comprehensive look at what’s involved in planning a wedding:

– What is Involved in Planning a Wedding?

1. Initial Planning

• Budget: Determine your overall budget and allocate funds for each aspect of your wedding so you don’t overspend.
• Guest List: Create a preliminary guest list to estimate the number of attendees.
• Date: Choose an ideal date for your wedding but we recommend that you also pick a few back updates so if you fall in love with the Priory and we don’t have your first choice hopefully one of your other dates will work for us both.

2. Choosing a Venue

• Location: Decide on the location, considering factors like the venue’s ambiance.
• Tour and Book: Visit potential venues, ask detailed questions, and book the one that fits your vision and budget.
• Timeline: Agree on what is the best time to hold your legal ceremony and say we do, as everything resolves around this and send out your Save The Dates.

3. Hiring Vendors

• Catering: Select a caterer that suits your taste and budget.
• Photography/Videography: Hire professionals to capture the day.
• Florist: Choose our onsite florist for bouquets, centrepieces, and other floral decorations.
• Entertainment: Book a DJ, band, or other entertainment.
• Transportation: Arrange for transportation for the wedding party and guests if necessary.

4. Wedding Attire

• Attire: Choose, purchase or hire your outfits and accessories along with your respective wedding parties

5. Invitations

• Design and order wedding invitations and don’t forget to keep a sample for your photographer to use on your wedding day
• Send Out: Mail invitations and track RSVPs.

6. Details and Decor

• Theme: Decide on a wedding theme or colour scheme.
• Decorations: Plan and purchase or hire decorations for your ceremony and reception.
• Seating Arrangements: Create a seating plan for the reception.
• Programs and Favours: Design and order wedding programs and if you are having them favours for guests.

7. Day-of Coordination

• Timeline: Create a detailed timeline for the wedding day, turn up and have fun!

R.

Reception Space 

– What are the dimensions of the Edwardian Style Tea Tent? 

The Tea Tent can comfortably seat 100 guests and is designed with classic Edwardian styling. Dimensions TBC

Renewal of Vows

– Do you offer couples the opportunity to re-affirm their love and commitment to each other?

Yes, we offer Renewal of Vows. These days can be linked to special occations or an anniversary.

S.

Seating plan

– Will we need to supply a seating plan? 

Yes, you will need to supply a seating plan, even if you are having an informal wedding we along with your chosen caterer will require a seating plan so that we can identify anyone with dietary requirements.  Please note it is your responsibility to inform us of any dietary requirements.  

Set Up and Take Down 

Who sets up the Priory on the morning of our wedding?

– After you have paid your final balance, four weeks before your wedding, we will arrange a decor drop-off. Our team will set up the decor on the morning of your wedding as discussed, allowing you to relax and enjoy getting ready.- Who is responsible for taking down the decor?

At the end of the evening, we will dismantle your wedding decor and place items back into the provided boxes or crates. Please ensure your wedding items are collected by 10 AM the day after your celebration.

Suppliers 

If you’ve recently booked with us, be sure to ask for your password so you can start building your dream team! If you can’t see what you are lookinf for please ask.

Social Media

– Will you post images of our wedding on your social media?

As a wedding venue we hope you understand we need social media content.  If you are happy for us to post your wedding on social media please give your photographer the instruction to supply us with access to your full wedding gallery.  If there is something you particularly don’t want us to share please just drop us a line so we can respect your wishes.

– Are you happy to work with Social Media content makers?

Yes, we love working alongside Photographers, Videographers, Wedding Planners and Social Media content creators, just don’t forget to include a meal for them which you will need to pay for.

Staircase 

– Can we decorate the staircase leading from the entrance to the Great Hall? 

Yes, floral arrangements can be used on the staircase and wooden bannisters in the Great Hall. However, your florist must ensure that the decorations do not hinder guests in case of an evacuation. We recommend using our in-house florist, House of Mimi Fleur, as she is familiar with the venue.

Sustainability 

– Is Bilsington Priory a ‘Green’ wedding venue? 

Yes, we are committed to sustainability. We work with suppliers who operate sustainably, recycle all waste, and only open during British Summer Time to minimize environmental impact. We ask you to avoid providing flip-flops and disco wands to help reduce microplastics.

Sound System 

– Can we use the Bilsington Priory Sound System throughout the day? 

The sound system is for background music and speeches only. Your band or DJ must bring their own sound system and lighting.

– Can the team at Bilsington Priory play our music during the ceremony? 

Yes, but you must submit your music as a Spotify list four weeks before your wedding. Label your playlists clearly (e.g., Welcome Guests Music, Music to Walk Down the Aisle, etc.).

Sparklers and Smoke Bombs 

– Are sparklers and smoke bombs allowed?*

Yes, sparklers and smoke bombs are allowed outside only. Please bring two buckets: one with sand for standing sparklers and one with water for extinguishing them. We strongly recommend taking out wedding insurance to cover any potential injuries.

T.

Taxis 

– Is there a wide range of reputable taxi firms in the area? 

Yes, there are reputable taxi companies locally. We recommend pre-booking taxis as they can get very busy, especially on weekends. Please see our recommended suppliers list for details.

Timings 

– What time can we get access to the Bilsington Priory Tack Room, and can we bring food and refreshments?

Partner one has access to the venue from 8:00 AM for wedding preparations. You can bring your own food and drink, or we can arrange a brunch (e.g., Prosecco) through your Event Manager.

– What is an ideal timeline for a wedding day? 

We recommend the following timeline for a 2PM ceremony during British Summer Time:

• 8:00 AM: Partner one arrives and checks into the Tack Room
• 12:30 PM: Partner two arrives arounds 1.5 hours before the ceremony
• 1:10 PM: Partner two meets the registrars
• 1:30 PM: Partner one meets the registrars (they come to the Tack Room)
• 1:30 PM: Guests arrive
• 1:50 PM: Guests take their seats in either the Great Hall or outside
• 1:50 PM: Partner two walks from the Tack Room to the ceremony location
• 2:00 PM: Ceremony
• 2:30 PM: Ceremony ends, group shot, and confetti throwing
• 2:50 PM: Drinks and canapes served during photos*
• 3:50 PM: Guests take their seats in the Edwardian Style Tea Tent
• 4:00 PM: Couple’s grand entrance
• 4:10 PM: Wedding breakfast served
• 5:40 PM: Speeches
• 7:30 PM: Evening guests arrive

Note: Cake cutting and first dance timings depend on the golden hour on your wedding day.

• This depends on your individual package

U.

Unusual request

– I want to organise a surprise for my partner?

If you have an unusual request or if you want to organise a surprise for your partner please call us or arrange a time for us to call you when you can speak openly and we will do our best to accommodate your unusual request.

V.

Venue Hire 

– What is included in the Venue Hire?

Venue hire includes exclusive use of Bilsington Priory, the Tack Room, and seven acres of garden on your wedding day. We provide tables, chairs, two easels, and glassware for up to 100 people, as well as a waitress team, wedding coordinator, and evening duty bar manager.

Can we visit the venue after booking? 

Yes, you can visit the venue after booking. Please book in advance as we may have a wedding or event taking place.

W.

WIFI

– Do you have Wifi?

Yes, we have Wifi, and we recommend you let your guests know the wifi code in advance so that they can for instance make payments over the bar.

X

xxx

– What happens if something goes wrong?

From time to time we understand that elements of your wedding can go wrong.  All we ask is that if you are unhappy at any stage of your wedding planning journey, please let us know as soon as possible so that we can make every effort to correct the situation. 

Y.

Your day

– Who will look after us on our day?

Six weeks before your wedding we will hold a meeting either in person or by zoom.  Wherever possible the person who conducts your Final Details Meeting (FDM) is the person who manages your day as they will better understand the nuances of your big day. 

Z.

Zoom calls

– We live at a distance to Bilsington Priory so are you happy to meet us by Zoom?

Yes, absolutely we love a zoom call or a Google Meet.  Just agree a day and time in advance and we look forward to seeing you virtually, however we always recommend you attend your food tasting.

If you have any further frequently asked questions (FAQs), please do not hesitate to contact the Bilsington Priory team. We are here to help make your wedding planning as seamless as possible!