Bracknell

The wedding season is fast approaching and happy couples from across Bracknell Forest are preparing for their big day.

Some have been saving for and planning the wedding of their dreams for months or even years, and are lucky enough to be able to splash out on a lavish ceremony with all the trimmings.

Some Bracknell brides and grooms, however, can’t or don’t want to spend a lot of money, but still want a day to remember. And with the recession hitting everyone’s pockets, more people are choosing budget-friendly options, rather than postponing the occasion.

Bracknell Forest Council’s registrars’ office offers the Syrett Suite as one of those options for a luxury-style wedding venue at a budget price.

A half-mile, tree-lined drive sweeps up to the spectacular Easthampstead Park Conference Centre, a beautiful Victorian mansion where the Syrett Ceremonial Room is located. It is equally eye-catching with elegant decor, flower arrangements and plush seating for more than 40 people. Outside, the grounds offer some stunning photo-opportunities before and after the ceremony.

The Council, together with the Bracknell News and South Hill Park Arts Centre, is offering one deserving local couple the chance to win a wedding at the Syrett Suite for themselves and up to 50 guests, on Friday, May 22, 2009.

The 12 noon ceremony will be followed by a delicious buffet reception at the Arts Centre’s Garden Room, with its lovely views over South Hill Park. The winning couple and their guests will have exclusive use of the room for the whole afternoon.

To enter the competition, Bracknell Forest borough residents should write no more than 50 words on why they deserve to win and send in a photograph of themselves, either by post or email. Entries can only be accepted on forms to be found in the Bracknell News and the closing date is Thursday, March 12.

The three finalists will then be invited to meet the judging panel made up of representatives of Bracknell Forest Council, the Bracknell News and South Hill Park Arts Centre and the winners will be announced in the paper on Thursday, March 26.

All entrants to the competition will be invited to an open day at the Syrett Suite on Saturday, April 25, where they can meet the registrars who will be happy to answer questions and show visitors what the venue has to offer.

Bracknell Forest Council