Photo (above): Venue: Lodewijk Van Male - Photographer: LUX Visual Storytellers
Article in collaboration with Lodewijk Van Male
A castle full of character
“You immediately feel that this is an authentic castle,” says Sara De Strooper of Lodewijk Van Male. “Anyone who loves charm and romance and steps inside is instantly won over. The entrance hall, the fireplace, the grand staircase and the impressive chandelier… those are elements we can’t or don’t want to imagine away. They give the castle so much atmosphere; from the very first visit you feel that romantic castle vibe.”
A romantic arrival… by horse & carriage!
You can already sense the charm of Lodewijk Van Male from the outside. Sara shares: “The garden is a major asset. Many couples choose to arrive here by horse and carriage, along the beautiful driveway. At the front we often roll out an aisle runner. That moment when the couple arrives, with the castle and garden in the background, is simply very romantic.”
The garden also offers an idyllic setting for your wedding photos and ceremony. “The pond with the swans, the little bridge over it, the trees all around… the garden provides the perfect setting for your open-air ceremony,” Sara smiles.
A castle that dresses itself
The venue at Lodewijk Van Male has its own distinctive character. Sara explains: “Large paintings from the past hang on the walls, along with a beautiful mirror. If you want to add your own touch, you absolutely can! One couple once had canvases printed with portraits of themselves in the same dimensions, to hang over the paintings. That way they truly made it ‘theirs’, while keeping the atmosphere intact.”
Still, most couples choose to let the room speak for itself. “Most couples want to keep the classic feel here and only add subtle, personal accents, such as a photo per table, table numbers or flowers in their colours. The castle doesn’t ask for much additional decoration: elegant details like white table linen, candles and flowers are enough, and they fit the space perfectly.”
Modern comfort
While the castle retains its authentic look, it also offers the necessary modern comfort today. Sara explains: “Our venue and restaurant have been modernised with respect for the historic elements, and outside there is a pavilion where we host receptions. That creates a beautiful contrast: outdoors the atmosphere feels a bit lighter and more contemporary, while indoors the true castle feeling takes over for the dinner and dance party.”
Personal guidance from start to finish
Sara and Frederic guide every couple from the first visit to the last dance. Sara says: “We do everything ourselves: we schedule the visits, discuss every detail, and we’re also there on the big day to set everything up and oversee it all. Couples know they’re in good hands with us. Frederic, the third generation of the Derycke family, is at the helm—and he’s also a permanent presence in the kitchen.”
That personal approach creates trust and peace of mind. “We are closely involved in every celebration. Our job is to make sure the couple can simply enjoy themselves. Whatever they wish for, we try to make it happen,” Sara smiles.
About Lodewijk Van Male
Castle Lodewijk Van Male, just outside Bruges, is a historic event venue with plenty of romantic charm. The rooms exude grandeur and elegance, while the garden with its pond and little bridge provides a fairytale setting for your ceremony and photo shoot. With in-house catering, an experienced team and a charming 19-room hotel, this castle is a special place for couples dreaming of a classic and atmospheric wedding celebration.
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