Sandhole Oak Barn, Cheshire Wedding – Clare & Andrew

I had been booked for this Cheshire wedding for a few years, and with delays due to covid – it was great to finally get here and to such a beautiful venue. The venue staff kindly called me to inform me there was a road closure outside the venue which meant I had a heads up to set off in good time to ensure I was early.

When I arrived, there was, unfortunately, some rain, but I was hoping it would clear up later so the couple could take advantage of the beautiful venue backdrop for their photos. I was fortunate that the venue has its own grand piano which is well looked after and I felt very privileged to play it.

Just as I had finished setting up, the weather cleared and the guests started to arrive. Clare had chosen some beautiful songs for her service. Her entrance song was a piano version of ‘Beneath your Beautiful’ and the couple exited to ‘At Last’ by Etta James. I played a mixture of music for the guest arrivals and also my own version of ‘Can’t Help Falling in Love’ for the signing of the register.

As the rain had cleared, the guests were outside for the drinks and I played the grand piano and sang as background music, I had some great feedback and got the opportunity to meet some wonderful suppliers for the day.

Photography was by Ben Cumming Photography and Martin Slater Photography – both incredibly lovely guys. Videography by Leeds Videography. There seemed to be an influx of Yorkshire-based suppliers on this occasion which is always fun! I also met their fabulous friend and magician Mr. Chris Clarkson who provided great entertainment, was friendly and engaging, and also very helpful in assisting me in the load out of my equipment – a great bunch of guys! DJ Services for the evening were not provided by myself on this occasion but by Dave from ICE entertainments in Manchester – a friend of the couple and someone I have worked with before. Highly recommended.

During the wedding breakfast, I performed a selection of songs chosen by the couple and included some last-minute, on-the-spot requests for their daughter who wanted to hear some Disney. Being a huge Disney fan myself, I happily obliged.

Finally, I performed their first dance song, which was a piano & vocal version of ‘Say you won’t let go’ by James Arthur, which ended with their family and friends joining them on the dancefloor. A perfect end to a wonderful day.

Sandhole Oak Barn is also a stunning venue, with incredibly helpful staff. The backdrop with the lake makes for some beautiful photos and the accommodation surrounding the venue is perfect for those who wish to stay on site.

Many thanks to Clare and Andrew for inviting me to be part of their special day and for being so supportive of me throughout the pandemic, tuning into my live streams. Its been a pleasure, may I wish you all the best for your future together.