Saying “I Do” - Choosing the Perfect Ceremony Setting

When it comes to getting married, the moment your guests look forward to most isn’t the first dance, the canapés, or even the cake - it's watching you exchange your vows. That’s why choosing the right ceremony setting is one of the most meaningful decisions you’ll make while planning your wedding.

We would love to be the place where you say “I do.” At Howard Court, we've made it easy to find a backdrop that matches your style, your story, and the atmosphere you want to create on your big day.

Many couples still choose to marry in a place of worship such as a church or a temple. But more and more are opting for an on-site ceremony - and Howard Court offers no fewer than five indoor and outdoor ceremony areas, with enchanting woodland weddings coming soon.

If the weather plays along, you can exchange vows under open skies in the Courtyard, the Secret Garden, or the Meadow. Prefer something inside? The Old Dairy and the Stable Barn provide warm, character-filled spaces that look beautiful in every season. You can browse some of our favourite ceremony setups in our Gallery here.

If you choose to marry on site, a registrar from North Yorkshire County Council will conduct your civil ceremony. You can keep your vows simple and traditional or personalise them to make the moment fully your own.

There’s also the option of choosing a celebrant, who can craft an entirely bespoke ceremony that reflects your story, values, and personalities. Just keep in mind that celebrants can’t legally marry you - so you’ll also need to arrange a quick legal signing at the registry office, which doesn’t have to be on the same day.

Whichever route feels right for you, we’re here to make sure your day unfolds smoothly, beautifully, and exactly as you’ve imagined. After all, your ceremony is so much more than a formality - it’s the beginning of your life together, and it deserves to be unforgettable.