Getting hitched in Harpenden

Harpenden is a picturesque town for a wedding. With its green backdrop of the Common and parkland, plus a plentiful choice of venues to cater for a celebration, it has a lot to offer a couple making their vows. Whatever the style of wedding, the size of party or the budget, its a location that is surely worth exploring.

With a high proportion of church goers living amidst the Harpenden community - rumoured to be in the region of 30%, it goes without saying that plenty of locals will opt for a traditional religious wedding service within their parish church.

For those opting for a non-religious service, Harpenden has two licensed wedding venues for civil ceremonies; Harpenden House Hotel and Glen Eagle Manor. Both of these enable the wedding party to stay on one site for both the ceremony itself and the celebrations afterwards. Harpenden House Hotel is in a prime location, overlooking the common. The hotel has a variety of function rooms to allow flexibility for the size of the wedding party. With its chandeliers and artistic ceilings it sets a romantic mood. To see more of the venue, go along to one of their wedding open evenings, which are held every Wednesday until 8.30pm, or put a note in your diary for their upcoming Wedding Fair on Sunday 31st October. Glen Eagle Manor is a traditional hotel, with three function rooms, so again it can cater for parties large and small. The hotel has been closed for refurbished throughout August so the expectation is that the hotel should look in prime condition for upcoming celebrations.

St Albans is home to the district’s Registry Office, which is housed within a former Victorian prison. The largest ceremony room there caters for up to 60 guests and many choose to have their wedding photos taken by the ancient canon outside the doors to The Gatehouse.

Harpenden has a wide range of choices for venues to follow a service. The town’s golf club’s make for a good starting point as many of them have catering facilities overlooking their courses. Harpenden Conservative Club has a spacious hall, with a sprung dance floor and its own bar, which can be hired out to non-members, as well as members. Other options for consideration are The Public Halls, The British Legion, as well as the town’s church halls, pubs and restaurants.

When it comes to recording your special day, it seems that the concept of two wedding photographers shooting simultaneously throughout the day is now a popular one. At least two local companies, provide this service. Check out I&W Photography and Ian Scott Photography to view images from other couples big days.

If you’re after a show stealing wedding cake or cupcakes, then look no further than Yummy Mummy Cakes at 64a High Street. Maria makes wonderful creations and there are plenty of sample cakes in the shop to inspire even the least imaginative.

And finally, being the centre of attention, it’s important that the bride-to-be (- or groom too for that matter) looks and feels their very best. Breathing Space Spa in Thompsons Close offer a Pre-Wedding Preparation package, which includes a hydrating body wrap, a skin brightening facial, along with a luxury manicure and pedicure.

If you’re getting married in Harpenden, let us know what you’re planning. Share pics of your big day here in our gallery, and don’t forget to review the local services you used in our Business Directory.