YOUR WEDDING TIMELINE - WHY IT’S OKAY TO BREAK THE ‘RULES’

Ah, the wedding timeline. The sacred scroll. The “you must walk down the aisle to this song, cut the cake at that moment, and dance awkwardly in front of everyone by half past eight” script that’s been passed down through generations of well-meaning wedding planners and Aunt Margarets.

But here’s the thing, at Gorcott Hall, we don’t believe in cookie-cutters. (Unless we’re talking about biscuits. In which case, bring them on.)

Your wedding day isn’t a formula. It’s your wedding, your way. And stories are way more interesting when they take a few twists and turns.

Who says you have to… follow the classic order of photos?

Tradition says group photos first, couple portraits later. But why not flip it? Sneak off for golden-hour shots while your guests are happily chatting over fizz, or capture those big family group pictures after everyone’s loosened up a little. Photos feel more natural, and you get to enjoy more of the party too.

Who says you have to… cut the cake after dinner?

If cake is your love language (we get it), why not make it part of the drinks reception? Cake + fizz = instant joy. And bonus: your photographer captures it all in daylight.

Who says you have to… do a first dance?

Not a fan of the spotlight? Swap it for a “first shot,” “first group dance” or a “first karaoke duet.” We’ve seen it all, and trust us, the dance floor fills up just the same.

Who says you have to… stick to tradition at all?

Some couples want all the classics. Others want surprise entertainment, magician uncles, or a silent disco that kicks off after the speeches. The beauty of a place like Gorcott? We’re flexible enough to make your ideas happen (though we draw the line at live elephants… sorry – Alpacas? Maybe!).