'Sequel weddings' - with reception to be held when more guests permitted - proving popular at Northumberland hotel

Macdonald Linden Hall Golf & Country Club, near Longhorsley, has reshaped its offering to meet government guidelines on mass gatherings.

Intimate ceremonies can now be held in front of a small group of family and friends, with the venue offering the potential to add on a larger reception at a later date.

These ‘sequel weddings’ have proved particularly popular, with wedding coordinators working closely with couples to plan not one, but two special days.

Demand is also growing for ‘shift weddings’ which mean couples do not have to compromise on guest numbers, hosting one group of family and friends for the ceremony and another for an extended wedding breakfast the following day.

Bookings for larger weddings in 2021/2022 are also on the rise.

Tanya Hedley, wedding coordinator at Macdonald Linden Hall Golf & Country Club, said: “The last few months have created a lot of uncertainty within the wedding market, but we are now seeing a marked rise in consumer confidence.

“This period of lockdown gave us all time to reflect on what is most important to us, and couples are still focused on showcasing their love and commitment to one in other in front of family and friends and are happy to adapt so their special day can still happen.

“As we navigate these unprecedented times, it is the ability to be flexible which will get us through.”

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