Love, Lorries & a Zoo Adventure

Looking for unique wedding ideas? Discover this unforgettable real wedding filled with vintage charm, a classic lorry entrance, a beloved dog, a live band, and even a trip to the zoo—perfect inspiration for couples who love to do things differently.

PREPARATIONS

The brides chose to get ready at Breckland Lodge, a hotel that is just 10 minutes away from Applewood Hall.

A UNIQUE WAY TO TRAVEL

As a lorry driver herself, Lizzie was picked up by a close friend of hers and travelled to Applewood Hall in the cab of a lorry. A great example of a personalised touch to their day!

CEREMONY

A beautiful spring day as the couple exchanged vows in our landscaped garden, framed by the soft twinkle of our fairy-light gazebo.

Sammy and Lizzie made sure their dog was part of the big day too – he even dressed for the occasion!  

THE DETAILS

With a beautifully nostalgic vintage theme, their day was styled in elegant shades of tan, nude and cream, complemented by gentle hints of dusky blue and pink.

Personal details made it uniquely theirs - pocket watches for the 'I Do' crew and delicate lace detailing on Sammy's nails, both perfectly reflecting their vintage vision.

SPECIAL MOMENTS

With Applewood Hall being right next door to Banham Zoo, Sammy & Lizzie took a short walk across to feed the giraffes and say hello to some zoo guests on their way!

(This is an added option couples can book directly with the zoo for an additional charge)



They walked the grounds to capture moments with just the two of them (+ baby bump!) and they stopped at our sign for a fun picture – our sister business Applewood Countryside Park offers camping & glamping should guests be looking for a place to stay with a difference.

ENTERTAINMENT

For their evening celebrations, they had a photobooth to get lots of fun shots of their guests throughout the night and the band The Do Ya Do’s to get the party started! 

SUPPLIERS

Florist https://thegardenshedflorist.co.uk/

Photobooth https://www.photoboothexpress.co.uk/

Band https://www.thedoyados.com/

Hotel https://www.brecklandlodge.co.uk/

Zoo Experiences https://www.banhamzoo.co.uk/at-the-zoo/animal-experiences#feeding

Photographer https://christiehartshorne.com/

Videographer https://diamondfilm.co.uk/


FIND OUT MORE:

If you’d like to find out more about holding your wedding here at Applewood Hall, contact our Wedding & Events team on 01953 715337 or book a one-to-one viewing appointment and let’s start planning your special day!


September 24, 2025
FALL ing in love – How to plan the perfect Autumn wedding. The air turns crisp, but the surroundings are warm in colour. Autumn sets the scene like no other season can, and there’s something really special about saying ‘I do’ in the heart of it all.
Sundown on the Sunset Social at Applewood Hall
August 20, 2025
What an unforgettable evening! On Thursday, 12th June, we had the absolute pleasure of hosting The Sunset Social right here at Applewood Hall and what a night it was. Hosted at one of South Norfolk’s best-kept secrets, our trio of event spaces; the Hall, Orchard Room and Garden set the perfect stage for an event that was anything but your typical summer garden party. From 4pm to 8pm, over 110 guests from across the region’s thriving business community came together to enjoy an afternoon of relaxed networking, vibrant entertainment, and the warmest of atmospheres. As the sun dipped, the garden buzzed with conversation and laughter. Casino tables brought out a spark of friendly competition, lawn games added a touch of whimsy, and guests connected over delicious canapés and summer-inspired drinks. It was a joy to see so many spontaneous moments of connection blossom just as the garden itself was in full bloom. We were delighted to partner with Naked Marketing and SLM Group to bring this unique event to life and support an experience that felt as relaxed and welcoming as it did memorable. Seeing our space filled with energy, joy, and new connections is exactly why we do what we do. To everyone who joined us, a big thank you. You brought the spirit that made the evening shine, and we’re so proud to have been part of it. We’re already looking ahead with excitement as talk turns to The Santa Social this winter. If The Sunset Social was anything to go by, we promise you something equally magical, festive, and full of heart.  Stay tuned and we hope to welcome you back again soon. View the Sunset Social photo gallery here.. – The Applewood Hall Team