Nestled in the heart of the Surrey countryside, Pennyhill Park Hotel & Spa is one of those rare venues that manages to feel both grand and deeply personal at the same time. With its sweeping drive, elegant façade and the unmistakable scent of autumn in the air, it was the perfect setting for Amy and Jasper’s wedding day. Pennyhill is a place we’ve long admired — not just for its five-star reputation and tranquil gardens, but because it offers a kind of quiet luxury that allows every couple to truly make it their own.
On this particular October morning, the grounds were at their most beautiful. The trees that line the estate were beginning to turn, their leaves tinged with gold and amber, and a gentle mist lingered over the lawns as we arrived. There was something almost cinematic about it — that early-morning calm before guests begin to gather and the buzz of celebration fills the air.
Anne-Marie and I had been asked to provide music for the outdoor ceremony, which was to take place on the terrace overlooking the manicured gardens. We often find that outdoor ceremonies have a certain magic — the open air carries the music in a wonderfully natural way, and it always feels as if the music becomes part of the landscape itself.
Setting the Scene
We arrived early, as we always do, to make sure everything was in perfect place. Pennyhill’s staff were already hard at work, arranging chairs in gentle rows and making sure every petal in the floral arch was flawless. The décor had a distinctly autumnal charm — a warm palette of russet reds, deep oranges and soft creams, with little pumpkins tucked among the arrangements for a playful seasonal touch. It was one of those effortlessly elegant designs that suited the time of year perfectly.
Our piano setup was positioned so that the music would drift gently down the aisle without overpowering the natural ambience. As always, I brought along my Nord Stage piano — while Anne-Marie prepared her cello. There’s something incredibly satisfying about the first sound check in the open air: hearing how the cello’s warmth and the piano’s clarity carry across the space, mingling with birdsong and the faint rustle of leaves.
Pre-Ceremony
Amy and Jasper had asked for an upbeat and joyful selection as guests arrived and took their seats. They wanted to keep things light-hearted and full of warmth — a reflection of their personalities and the easy happiness that surrounded the whole day.
Among the pieces we played were “Lover” by Taylor Swift, which brought smiles from a few of the bridesmaids, and a few favourites from Love Actually — always a crowd-pleaser at weddings, especially as that film’s soundtrack captures romance so effortlessly. We also mixed in a few Disney moments for the bride’s friends, who are self-confessed Disney enthusiasts. It was one of those pre-ceremony sets that felt genuinely joyful — guests chatting quietly, the music weaving through the conversation, and a sense of anticipation building as everyone waited for Amy’s arrival.
The Bride’s Entrance
Just before the entrance, I played PM’s Love Theme from Love Actually as a piano solo. It’s one of those pieces that never fails to create an emotional atmosphere — delicate, tender, and full of quiet energy. You could feel the moment shift; the chatter faded, and all eyes turned towards the aisle.
Then came the entrance itself: Elgar’s “Salut d’Amour”, performed on piano and cello. It’s one of our personal favourites, not only because it’s beautifully romantic, but because it allows both instruments to shine. The cello sings with such heartfelt emotion, while the piano adds a gentle, lyrical flow that gives the whole piece a timeless grace. Watching Amy walk down the aisle with this music underscoring the moment was truly lovely — one of those scenes where everything aligns perfectly: music, setting, emotion, and timing.
The Signing
Once the ceremony began, the tone was beautifully relaxed — full of laughter and warmth. For the signing of the register, Amy and Jasper chose “Bittersweet Symphony” by The Verve. We often find that this song resonates deeply with couples; it has a kind of nostalgic optimism that fits so well with a moment of reflection and joy. Our arrangement for cello and piano gives it a more intimate feel, with the cello carrying that iconic melody while the piano underpins it with soft rhythmic chords.
The Exit
And then, after the all-important kiss and cheers from their family and friends, we launched into “This Will Be (An Everlasting Love)” by Natalie Cole. It’s such a fun choice for the recessional — upbeat, celebratory and full of life. You could see guests instinctively start to sway as they clapped the newlyweds back down the aisle. It’s always a wonderful feeling when the music helps to lift the energy just as the couple take their first steps into married life.
Reflections on the Day
Although on this occasion we were booked just for the ceremony, it was one of those weddings that stays with you. Sometimes, even a short part of the day can carry an incredible sense of connection — and Amy and Jasper’s ceremony certainly did. Everything about it felt genuine and full of heart: the laughter, the autumnal touches, the soft golden light filtering through the trees.
As we packed away, the guests were beginning to move towards the terrace for drinks, and there was that unmistakable sound of happiness — glasses clinking, conversations starting, and a few people still humming Natalie Cole’s tune. It’s those little moments that remind us why we love what we do.
Pennyhill Park proved once again why it’s such a wonderful venue for weddings. Whether indoors or outdoors, it provides a seamless blend of luxury and natural beauty — a space where music really does feel at home.
Thank You
A heartfelt thank you to Amy and Jasper for choosing JAM Duo to provide music for your outdoor ceremony at Pennyhill Park. It was an absolute pleasure to be part of such a beautiful celebration, and we wish you both every happiness in your future together.
Jules & Anne-Marie – JAM Duo
🎶 100% live – no backing tracks
💍 Beautifully timed music for every aisle walk
🌿 Creating unforgettable moments through music
