We weren't expecting it. We'd popped into Marks & Spencer for a coffee, and there on the shelf was Essex Life magazine, with a feature on the Essex Wedding Awards 2026. Our first reaction: "What the helly belly... is that actually us?"
Essex Stays won in the Unique or Additional Service of the Year category, and seeing it in print stopped us in our tracks.
Running a venue is changeovers, messages, planning and endless little improvements. You don't often stop to look back. This was one of those moments where we did, and realised how far we've come: hundreds of groups welcomed, and a small part of so many weddings, birthdays and family celebrations.
Thank you to our community for the recognition. It means the world to a small family business.
Em & James