Hygge was first recorded in 18th century Denmark and has been a huge part of the Danish lifestyle ever since; however, it’s only this year it’s hopped over and taken the UK by storm. This Danish way of life has become very trendy in 2016 and we think elements of it would be perfect for a cosy winter wedding.
While there is no direct translation, it’s taken to mean living cosily: taking pleasure in simple, soothing things. As a luxury bolthole for people to share precious times together, Lower Barns is perfectly suited for all things hygge. With roaring fires, cosy saunas and a celebration of nature, there is plenty of opportunity for hunkering down and getting a serious dose of hygge here. Interested? Here’s how to hygge up your wedding!
Small and intimate
Ultimately hygge is about an experience rather than material goods, so spend some time creating a small but perfectly formed guest list. Not only does this mean you’ll be surrounded by those you truly care about, you’ll also be able to spend quality time with each person.
Big weddings work for some people, but there is no denying that it means you sacrifice having proper conversations with a large proportion of your guests. Here are Lower Barns we offer weddings packages for two to twenty guests. A small and intimate guest list nods to the hygge culture of togetherness, so go on and whittle that guest list down in the name of hygge!
Go natural
Danish interiors are well known for embracing natural elements, so reflect this in your decoration for an authentically Danish day. We’re talking natural wood, pine cones and seasonal or dried flowers. Eat your evening meal in The Shack which features huge, handcrafted tables and benches scattered with warm blankets and cushions. Take a look at our gallery for some more inspiration.
Coffee and cake
At the end of the evening choose an area to retire to with some coffee, tea and wedding cake and reconnect over the day’s events with your nearest and dearest. Bonus points if there is a roaring log fire. Alternatively, serve up something a bit boozier but equally as comforting such as mulled wine or an Irish coffee.
Let there be light
Creating the right atmosphere is very important where hygge is concerned. For example, strip lighting does not lend itself well to creating a cosy ambience. Candlelight, on the contrary, does. In fact, Danes are so into candles that they burn more candles per head than anywhere else in Europe. So do it like a Dane and stock up. You can also let in the light with soft lamps, tea lights in lanterns and strings of fairy lights. We’re big fans of this style of lighting and in The Shack you’ll find plenty of glittering fairy lights, twinkling candles and a beautiful log fire.
Dress up
Hygge is all about savouring little moments and it’s hard to do that if you’re freezing cold! So make sure you’re comfortable and snug throughout the day: for example, throw on a faux fur wrap or a pair of wellies for outdoor photographs.
Cheers for cocoa
Instead of a sweetie bar, why not keep guests warm with a hot cocoa bar? Add extras like cream, marshmallows and stir in chocolate sticks. As you probably know, we operate a BYOB policy so feel free to bring something a bit naughtier along for the grown-ups.
For more details of our intimate wedding venue email or call us. Maybe you would like to visit.
Love Janie x
