A guide to getting married in Derbyshire

Derbyshire is a perfect blend of city and country, blessed with the natural beauty of the Peak District National Park (the world's second most visited National Park) and thriving culture, with history and heritage at its heart.

The best wedding venues in Derbyshire

Derbyshire is home to many beautiful wedding venues, each with its unique character and charm.

Here are some of the best wedding venues in Derbyshire:

• Osmaston Park - Osmaston Park is a wedding venue situated in Ashbourne, Derbyshire. If you are searching for a venue that offers the flexibility to plan your day your way, then Osmaston Park might be "the one" for you. You can tailor your day to meet your specific requirements and ideas to have the food, music, and décor you want for a truly memorable day.
• Morley Hayes - Morley Hayes is a gorgeous wedding venue in Morley, Derbyshire, offering complimentary venue hire for couples for their special day. Set amongst 305 acres of beautiful woodland and parkland golf course, this property provides the perfect venue for either a large exclusive use or a small intimate wedding. Fresh and modern, this stunning property offers couples a glimpse into lavish living and provides a sleek space to create unforgettable wedding day memories. With flexible event spaces, delicious cuisine, and an accomplished event team, this hidden gem has the means to bring every couple's wedding vision to life.
• The Palace Hotel - The Palace Hotel is a historic wedding venue in Buxton, Derbyshire. Located in over five acres of beautifully landscaped gardens, this stunning hotel is perfectly seated on the edge of the Peak District National Park. Built in 1868, this ultra-romantic and picturesque venue is ideal for celebrating love stories.
• The Merchant’s Yard - The Merchant's Yard is a sophisticated wedding venue nestled in Tideswell, Derbyshire. Begin your journey towards wedded bliss in this award-winning restaurant and boutique stay in the heart of the Peak District National Park. Offering charming reception spaces, exquisite dining, and sophisticated guestrooms, the team would love for you to celebrate your big day within their stone walls.
• Heathy Lea - Located in Bakewell, in the heart of Derbyshire's rolling hills, lies Healthy Lea, a stunning, chic countryside wedding venue. Unwind amongst the picturesque views of Chatsworth Park and in the company of the woolly sheep dotted around the property. An idyllic location far from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, it is the perfect place to host the intimate wedding of your dreams in blissful privacy, immersing yourself in a romantic celebration.

The best wedding photographers in Derbyshire

Choosing the right wedding photographer can be a daunting task, especially in a bustling area like Derbyshire where there are many talented photographers to choose from. Whether you're looking for a traditional approach or a more contemporary style, many skilled wedding photographers in Derbyshire can deliver stunning images that you'll treasure for years to come.

Here are some of the best wedding photographers in Derbyshire:

• Karl’s Photography Centre - Located in Bolsover, Derbyshire, Karl's Photography Centre produces timeless images from weddings and other milestone celebrations. I'm a passionate photographer with over two decades of experience to my name and a few awards and my work has featured in numerous magazines. In the past, I have had the honour of working all over the world encapsulating some of life's most precious scenes.
• Jon Hollands Photography - I am Jon Hollands Photography, a wedding photographer based in Matlock Bath, Derbyshire on the edge of the beautiful Peak District - but willing to travel wherever you want to go. I've discovered a talent for photographing gorgeous weddings with a special touch. I try to catch the big and small moments, your laughs and smiles, so I can tell your story filled with memories of a special, precious day.
• Carl James Photography - My name is Carl James I am a wedding photographer based in Derbyshire in the Midlands. My journey in the industry began with landscape photography and has since extended to the world of weddings. Two of my proudest moments in photography, firstly, were when I first had my work published and the second, was when I said yes to my first wedding, since then I have been hooked. The raw emotion, romance, and theatrics of this momentous occasion really drew me to this style of photography. I offer hybrid shooting so I shoot photos and video. Nothing captures your day like a video to music.
• Chris Smith Photography - Chris Smith Photography produces authentic images from weddings throughout Alfreton, Derbyshire, and beyond. The owner, Chris, has had the honour of capturing wedding celebrations for over a decade. These one-of-a-kind events have taken this professional all over the United Kingdom and beyond. During this time, Chris has honed a relaxed style that allows him to flawlessly convey his client's love stories.
• Jonty Howe Photography - Jonty Howe Photography is a wedding photography company based in Derby, England. Owner Jonty loves weddings; he enjoys the splendour and the palpable sense of excitement in the air. A wedding is a milestone event in a couple’s love story, but it’s also made up of hundreds of little stories and moments. Jonty’s documentary approach is all about allowing beautiful moments to unfold naturally. He keeps posed photos to a minimum so that you can spend less time looking at the camera and more time making memories.

Getting a wedding dress in Derbyshire

Derbyshire is home to several renowned bridal boutiques and designers, offering a range of beautiful wedding dresses.

Here are some of the best places to get a wedding dress in Derbyshire:

• Ruth Day Dressmaker - 30 years of sewing experience. Dressmaker. Wedding dress alterations. Suit tailoring. Handmade accessories. Handmade wedding dress from design to completion. I can offer a mobile fitting service within the Derby area, or you are welcome at my shop in Derby city centre.
• The Wedding House - The Wedding House provides a beautiful haven for wedding dress shoppers in the heart of Derby, Derbyshire. The team has been helping nearlyweds find their dream wedding gown for over 15 years, earning its reputation as a stylish and reliable boutique for all kinds of couples. With a fantastic range of couture dresses and chic accessories, the team strives to deliver a luxurious and unique experience. Whether searching for your wedding gown or the perfect dresses for your squad, The Wedding House guarantees a lavish wedding journey from beginning to end.
• Beau Belles - At Beau Belles, in Derby we understand just how important your wedding day is and, more than anything else, we believe that choosing your wedding dress and accessories should be a highly enjoyable experience.
• Bridal Boutique Outlet - Here at the Bridal Boutique we are here to help you find your dream wedding gown to make your day perfect but at a fraction of the price. Our dresses are ready for you to take home today, we have off-the-peg gowns waiting to find their forever homes.
• Tiffany Jordan Couture - We have been in the bridal business for more than 25 years, and we have truly loved every moment of it. Our family-run business is here to offer our expert advice to all brides. Based out of a beautiful shop in the cathedral quarter in the heart of Derby, we are proud to host one of the biggest bridal collections in the area. Every customer is important to us, and we have an amazing collection of dreamy wedding gowns available to suit every size and body shape. To complete your look we have a range of bridal lingerie and accessories available.

The best wedding catering companies in Derbyshire

Derbyshire is home to many catering companies that specialize in weddings.

Here are some of the best wedding catering companies in the area:

• The Pantry Event Catering - The Pantry Event Catering is a wedding catering company situated in Derby, Derbyshire. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing the highest standard of food and hospitality for couples and their guests. Our chefs source the finest ingredients from local suppliers, whilst our front-of-house team is committed to providing exceptional service throughout your special event.
• Saffron Outside Catering - Saffron is a catering business based in Derby that specialises in providing its delicacies for weddings and related events. It was established in 2008 and it has grown into one of the most reputed businesses in the industry. Through an ideal combination of innovation and creativity, its team assures to not only stun your guests with aesthetically pleasing dishes but also with incredible taste.
• Uppercrust Caterers - Based in Ashbourne, Uppercrust Caterers offers bespoke wedding catering services to couples near and far throughout Derbyshire. Founded in 1992, this reputable business provides delicious buffets for weddings and special occasions. They will aim to deliver high-quality food using local produce that resonates with your style and taste.
• La Petite Crêpe Co. - La Petite Crêpe Co. is a mobile, pop-up crêpe bar based in Derby, Derbyshire, providing delicious fresh sweet and savoury crêpes for wedding events. The team pride themselves on using fresh local ingredients to produce delicious, comforting treats with a smile. Whatever your wedding may be, they are delighted to give your guests an experience they will love, topped off with a delicious crêpe.
• The Relief Chef - The Relief Chef is a highly mobile catering service which is equally happy working for intimate celebrations as for extravagant banquets. They are proud of their very personal and versatile approach which comes from many years’ experience dating back to 2000. They know that wedding couples are on strict budgets and to this end they guarantee to provide you with excellent dishes at wonderful value for money.

Getting a wedding cake in Derbyshire

There are numerous well-known cake designers and bakeries in Derbyshire that specialize in crafting exquisite wedding cakes.

Here are some of the best places to get a wedding cake made in Derbyshire:

• Corralène Jennifer Cakes - Corralène Jennifer Cakes is a wedding cake baker and designer based in Chesterfield, Derbyshire. These talented confectioners specialise in fusing classic elegance with modern techniques to create exceptional cakes that surpass their clients' wildest expectations.
• Cakes by Lucy - Cakes by Lucy provides flawless, luxury wedding cakes that not only look beautiful but taste incredible. Your wedding cake is the centrepiece of your reception and Lucy will create a cake that you won't forget, and that will wow your guests! Lucy specialises in flawless, beautiful cakes combining modern designs with elegance. Lucy can also make exquisite handmade sugar flowers to match your theme. Based in the beautiful Peak District - Glossop, Derbyshire - Lucy covers the North West and is proud to work with several beautiful venues as a preferred supplier. Lucy will work with you to design and create your dream wedding cake. A consultation will be arranged to discuss your cake, and a delicious cake sample box will also be provided to help you choose your cake flavours.
• Peak Patisserie - Elevate your wedding with Peak Patisserie's modern cake artistry. Are you looking for a contemporary and elegant style? For a wedding cake designer with an eye for detail and fantastic service? Peak Patisserie is here to provide just that – with the promise to create your dream wedding cake to compliment your big day. Nestled in Matlock, on the edge of the stunning Peak District, we craft bespoke, modern, fondant wedding cakes that are as delicious as they are beautiful. Delivering across Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and South Yorkshire, couples trust us to create the perfect centrepiece for their special day.
• Yorkshire Cakes - When it comes to wedding cakes and their decor, there are endless possibilities. Whether you’re planning a lavish wedding event or a small, intimate affair, deciding on your wedding cake design is essential. Yorkshire Cakes Co provides a personalised wedding experience and guides you through what flavours to how many tiers and everything in between. The art of cake design is constantly changing, and although some couples may know exactly how they want their wedding cake to look and taste, some may need a little help. I love working with couples to create a statement centrepiece for your big day!
• Pretty Fancy Cakes and Confections - Your wedding can be complete only if you have a beautiful cake that makes you feel special. With a masterpiece standing in the centre of your wedding venue, you will feel delighted that you have the perfect wedding. Pretty Fancy, an experienced and expert cake designer is known for creating exquisite cakes and confections for your big day. Their eye for detail makes their cakes flawless and extremely delicious.

The best hotels in Derbyshire

Derbyshire is celebrated for its natural beauty, historic sites, and cultural heritage, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

Here are some of the best hotels in Derbyshire:

• Ensana Hotels - Buxton Crescent - Buxton Crescent is a beautifully elegant setting for both wedding ceremonies and receptions. The Grade-1 listed Georgian Hotel is in the idyllic spa town of Derbyshire. Originally built between 1779 – 1789 by the Fifth Duke of Devonshire, the Crescent is one of the most architecturally significant buildings in the country and provides a unique and exclusive backdrop for your wedding. Inside the property’s uniquely curved honey-stone façade there is a hidden world full of exquisite luxury and authentic rich interiors, with several stunningly restored function rooms. These include the splendid 18th century Ballroom, known as the Assembly Rooms.
• Rafters at Riverside House Hotel - Enjoy exclusive use of our historic 5-star restaurant with rooms, set on its own grounds on the river Wye in the idyllic village of Ashford-in-the-water where the only guests you will see are your own.
• Peak Edge Hotel - At Peak Edge Hotel, we understand that your wedding day is not just an event, but a cherished memory in the making. Our meticulous wedding planning services are designed to alleviate every concern, allowing you to immerse yourself in the joy of the moment. From curating the ideal guest list to designing the ambience of the event spaces, we ensure that every aspect aligns seamlessly to craft your ideal celebration.
• Wildhive - Elegant and unique, our Victorian country house is the perfect backdrop for your special day. Our collection of event spaces is great for everything from intimate events to larger-than-life ceremonies with the whole family. With 15 house rooms, 11 woodland Hives and 2 Treehouses, we can accommodate up to 65 guests. If you require more accommodation, we can recommend nice places to stay, locally.
• Duncombe Arms - This room offers a perfect opportunity to entertain family and friends. It is also ideal for business meetings and our staff can provide breakfast lunch or dinner to meet your requirements. The Private Dining Room is full of atmosphere with the walls lined with Old English prints and a log-burning stove. It seats twelve people comfortably and allows our customers to have their own exclusive dining experience at The Duncombe Arms.

Derbyshire, a lovely county in England known for its picturesque landscapes, historic sites, and charming villages. Getting married in Derbyshire can indeed be a delightful experience for those who appreciate its beauty and tranquillity. The county offers a variety of stunning venues, from grand country houses to quaint rural churches, providing couples with a range of options to suit their preferences. The backdrop of Derbyshire's rolling hills, lush greenery, and scenic countryside can add a magical touch to wedding celebrations. So, for many, getting married in Derbyshire can be a truly special and memorable occasion.