Today we made a welcome return to the delightful setting of Oxnead Hall in Norfolk. The origins of Oxnead Hall trace back to 1580 when Sir Clement Paston, a distinguished naval commander who served under four Tudor monarchs, constructed the original mansion. His epitaph in St Michael’s Church, located on the estate, commemorates his service:
“Princes he served four, in peace and war, as fortune did command, sometimes by sea and sometimes on the shore.”
The Paston family, renowned for their influential role in English history and for the famous “Paston Letters,” resided at Oxnead Hall for over two centuries. In the 17th century, Sir William Paston, Clement’s nephew, enhanced the estate with the assistance of architect and sculptor Nicholas Stone. Notably, in 1671, a grand banqueting hall was added to host King Charles II and Queen Catherine during their visit.
Following the decline of the Paston lineage, the estate was acquired by Admiral George Anson in 1757. Over time, much of the original structure was lost, leaving behind the east service wing, north wing, and barns. These remnants have been meticulously restored, preserving the estate’s historical essence.
A Dream Wedding Venue
Today, Oxnead Hall seamlessly blends its rich heritage with contemporary amenities, making it an idyllic venue for weddings. The estate boasts several exquisite spaces:
- St Michael’s Church: A 13th-century church situated within the grounds, offering a sacred and historic setting for ceremonies.
- The Orangery: Once a haven for citrus trees, this light-filled space is perfect for intimate gatherings and receptions.
- The Great Barn: A spacious venue featuring timber beams and rustic charm, accommodating larger celebrations.
- The Long Room: An elegant area adjacent to the Great Barn, suitable for ceremonies and receptions.
Surrounding the estate are 16 acres of manicured gardens, terraced lawns, and the tranquil River Bure, providing a picturesque backdrop for wedding photography. On-site luxury accommodations ensure a comfortable stay for guests, encapsulating the perfect blend of history, beauty, and modern convenience.
The Wedding
Katrina and Matt
Oxnead Hall
Sunday 25 May 2025
Ceremony and Drinks
The Wedding Ceremony
Today was an outdoor ceremony which meant carrying our kit from the car park quite some distance to the ceremony area. But no matter, this is something we do regularly on a daily basis and just comes under the category of ‘things the couple don’t need to see’!
By staying overnight locally we arrived with plenty of time to carry our kit and organise everything so we were ready and set up in the orchard for the wedding ceremony.
Music for the Ceremony
Pre Ceremony
I’m Kissing You – Des’ree
Can’t help falling in love – Nat King Cole
Lovely – Billie Eilish
Forever – lewis capaldi
A Thousand Years
Young & Beautiful – Lana del Rey
Bridal Entrance
Sunchyme – Dario G (slowed down) for bridesmaid entry
Sam fender – The dying lights for Bride entrance
Signing
NA – celebrant ceremony
Exit
Forever – Chis Brown
Drinks Reception
After the ceremony we relocated just a short distance to the terrace where we continued to entertain guests with music whilst they enjoyed drinks and canapés.
Some of the songs we included in our set for this part of the day included:
La Vie en Rose
LOVE – Nat King Cole
Can’t help falling in love – elvis presley
Everywhere – Fleetwood Mac
Le Festin (Ratatouille soundtrack)
married life – up (disney film) 🙂
Unforgettable – Nat King Cole
Avicii – Wake Me Up
“Higher Love” – Kygo & Whitney Houston
Something to talk about – Badly Drawn Boy
dancing in the moonlight
Sweet love – myles smith
lets stay together – Al Green
You make my dreams – daryl hall and john oates
Dreams – Fleetwood Mac
feels like im falling in love – coldplay
Cold Heart – Elton John / Dua Lipa
sweet disposition – temper trap
married life – up (disney film) 🙂
MCFLY – All About You
Kiss me – Sixpence None The Richer
until i found you – stephen sanchez
so this is love – disney (Illene Woods , Mike Doiuglas)
Rusted Root – Send Me On My Way
Avicii – Wake Me Up
hoppipolla
one day like this – elbow
everlasting love
unwritten – natasha bedingfield
Wildest dream – Taylor Swift
You’re still the One – shania twain
Adore u by Fred Again
Stick Season – Noah Kahan
We particularly enjoyed being a part of Katrina and Matt’s wedding at Oxnead Hall and wish them both all the very best for their future together.
