Frequently Asked Questions
Do we have to pay any room hire for our wedding?
Ceremony room hire is £500 if you choose our Silver Package (it’s included free of charge in our Gold and Diamond Packages).
Do you ever hold more than one wedding per day?
No. You are guaranteed to be our only wedding on the day and can expect our full attention on your special day.
Do you allow outside caterers?
The Connaught Hotel and Spa will only allow catering provided by our own chef and cannot allow any outside catering either from professional caterers or family members.
Can we bring our own wine and champagne to the wedding breakfast or reception?
We do not permit corkage; all alcohol must be supplied and sold through The Connaught Hotel and Spa, including favours.
Are dogs or other pets allowed to be part of my wedding?
Unfortunately we only allow guide dogs in our hotel.
What time does the wedding reception have to finish?
Our main function bar will close at 12am. However, any wedding guests staying in the hotel will be able to purchase drinks from our bar on presentation of a valid room service charge card after this time.
Can we provide our own entertainment?
Yes, you are welcome to provide your own wedding entertainment or we can arrange it for you. Please note – we do not allow bands in the Franklyn Suite. If you would like the hotel to arrange a disco for you we can do so.
Can wedding parties be on different board basis?
Yes
What happens if it rains on our wedding day?
If you’ve arranged for an outdoor wedding ceremony, we’ll always reserve an indoor space which can be used as an alternative if it’s raining.
Can we bring our own recorded music? if yes, which devices can be used?
Yes. We can accommodate any device to play your music.
When do you need to know final wedding guest numbers?
Please confirm this with us at least six weeks before your wedding day.
How much is the deposit?
To confirm your wedding, we will require a non-refundable deposit of £1,000.
When does the deposit need to be paid?
The deposit for your wedding needs to be paid within two weeks of your booking being confirmed.
When does the full balance need to be paid?
Six months prior to your wedding day we will require 50% of your total price. Final details are required six weeks before your wedding day, with the final balance being paid four weeks prior to the wedding date.
What days can I get married at the hotel?
You can hold your wedding at The Connaught Hotel and Spa on any day of the week.
How many people can you sit in the marriage ceremony?
Our wedding ceremonies can accommodate up to 120 guests.
What time can you have the marriage ceremony?
Your wedding ceremony can take place at any time, subject to registrars.
I want to supply my own chair covers and table decorations, is this possible?
Yes
Am I allowed to bring in additional services such as sweet cart, photo booth, casino tables for the evening etc?
Yes, we can also help arrange this for you.
Can my photographer visit the venue prior to the wedding day?
Yes, this is a great idea so that they can become familiar with the hotel if they’ve not photographed here before. Please ask them to contact us in advance so that we can give them the time and attention they need for their visit.
Are there any discounts for my guests staying at the hotel?
Yes, we offer a preferential room rate for a limited number of your wedding guests. Please get in touch for more details.
When can my guests book their accommodation?
Your wedding guests can book as soon as your wedding day is booked.
Can we hire out the whole hotel exclusively?
You can hire every room in The Connaught Lodge but it’s not possible to exclusively hire the main hotel.
Is there plenty of parking for my guests?
Parking is only available for wedding guests who have booked a room (subject to availability). There are plenty of car parks within walking distance of the hotel, plus great public transport links as we’re just a five minute walk from the town centre.
Does the venue allow confetti to be thrown?
Yes, biodegradable confetti can be thrown outside.
Are lit candles allowed in the venue?
Yes
Do you have access for disabled guests?
Yes
Can we set up the day before?
If your wedding rooms aren’t being used for anything else then you can set up the day before.
