One of the best things about getting married at Ash Barton? It’s not just about the day, it’s about the entire weekend.

With exclusive access to the estate, you’re not cramming everything into one whirlwind 12-hour window. Instead, you get space to breathe, celebrate, connect, and create unforgettable moments beyond the ceremony.

Here’s your guide to planning a full wedding weekend that flows beautifully… from Friday set-up to Sunday farewells.

Friday: Arrival, Set-Up & Settling In

The goal: Ease into the weekend, keep it light, and make people feel at home.

Afternoon: Arrivals + Venue Setup

Guests and helpers begin arriving, and excitement is in the air. This is the perfect time for:

• Decorating the barn or tipi

• Setting up signage, games, florals

• Sound checks and supplier run-throughs

Top Tip: Create a “who’s doing what” list ahead of time so setup runs smoothly.

Evening: Welcome Night

Once the work is done, it’s time to unwind. Consider:

• A courtyard pizza night or BBQ

• Garden games + beers on the lawn

• Fire pit s’mores + mulled wine

• A relaxed meet-and-greet for families or friends who haven’t met yet

Optional: A low-key playlist or even a bit of courtyard karaoke (yes, it happens and yes, it’s brilliant).

Saturday: The Big Day

The goal: Give yourself space to soak it in, without the chaos.

Morning: Slow Start

No early hotel checkouts or shuttle buses because you’re already here.

• Breakfast in the kitchen

• Hair and makeup in the getting-ready spaces

• Groomsmen suits and playlist prep in the barn

Photos Tip: Ask your photographer to capture these quiet moments — they’re some of the best.

 

Afternoon: Ceremony + Reception

Whether it’s under the oak tree, in the chapel, or in the barn, now’s your moment.

Don’t forget to build in:

• A few buffer minutes between events (trust us)

• Time alone post-ceremony to catch your breath

• A relaxed drinks reception before dinner

After dark: Let the barn transform into a disco, sparkler send-off, or late-night dance party under the mirror ball.

Sunday: The Wind-Down

The goal: End on a high, without rushing.

Morning: Breakfast + Goodbyes

This might be the most underrated part of the whole weekend:

• Brew pots of tea and coffee

• Lay out a casual buffet: pastries, fruit, bacon rolls

• Gather in the kitchen or courtyard one last time

You’ll hear stories you missed, relive the best dance floor moments, and say proper goodbyes without the rush of a taxi outside.

Bonus Ideas to Make the Most of the Weekend:

• Welcome Bags for guests with snacks, hangover kits, weekend itinerary, and a personal note

• Lawn Game Tournaments with prizes (think: “Team Bride vs. Team Groom” rounders)

• Photo Wall or DIY Polaroid Station for guests to leave a memory

• Playlist Moments for each part of the weekend (setup, ceremony, dance floor, morning after)

Weddings at Ash Barton are about more than a single day. They’re about community, creativity, and connection. When you take full advantage of the Friday–Sunday setup, your wedding becomes more than an event, and it becomes a story you’ll keep telling forever.

So don’t rush it. Soak it up. Make the weekend yours.

 

Explore Ash Barton Estate

– Simon