Issue 59

PEOPLE
and friends to help out whenever we can. That said, we are looking to
employ more staff to ease the pressure going forward.”
INSPIRATION
So where did the inspiration for the venue design come from?
“I’ve got to thank my mum for teaching me from a young age to
be creative and think outside the box. She’s also very artistic, and
although we have different tastes, there’s no doubt that it was
her influence that enabled me to drive this project through to
completion. I should also thank her for donning her high heels to
safety-test the path to the venue!
“I tried not to be influenced by other venues and was guided
by what I felt couples would want from their day. Basically, I was
determined to give the complete opposite of the in-out ‘wedding
factory’ experience.” As well as the incredible entrance and
journey into the forest, a stand out feature has to be the infinity
view LED dance floor. “It had been used in a car showroom
previously so I was confident it would be tough enough!”
Aside from directory site Bridebook, Fraser promotes the venue
through social media and the website and handles much of the
photography and videography himself – another passion of his. “I
created a story of the venue’s build on social media, which drove
a lot of interest prior to opening,” he says. “That way, we hit the
ground running when we did open for business.”
Regarding future plans, Fraser is not planning to rest on his
laurels any time soon, as he explains: “We’re going to build an
outdoor cocktail bar (which brings the number of places you can
get a drink on the site to five…) and some very luxury but quirky
toilets. We may also build some glamping accommodation.”
On a more personal level, there is a very exciting event coming
up next year: Fraser’s own Royle wedding! “Yes, I’m going to
enjoy the guest experience first-hand,” he laughs. “I proposed
to my girlfriend last week, and she said yes. She has been so
supportive throughout the whole build, it would not have been
possible without her and I can’t. think of a better way to start our
life together than by celebrating here at this magical place we
created.”
DETAILS
Royle Farm Forest
Caldwell Road, Drakelow, Burton upon Trent,
Derbyshire DE15 9TU
www.royleforestweddings.co.uk
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