Photo (above): Reception hall: Château Jemeppe - Photographer: Say Cheese
Article in collaboration with Château Jemeppe
Why couples choose a wedding weekend
According to Steven from Château Jemeppe, couples often choose a wedding weekend for practical peace of mind. He explains: ‘Couples usually arrive on Friday. If they wish, they can decorate and set things up in advance, avoiding the stress of an early drive on Saturday morning. Especially for couples coming from Flanders or further afield, that extra day is a real advantage.’
For those who are unsure, Steven is clear: "By making the final preparations on Friday, you can celebrate all day on Saturday and end Sunday quietly with a nice breakfast or brunch: it gives the whole wedding party a relaxed rhythm and the atmosphere of a weekend away. You enjoy it longer, really experience the castle grounds and create more time to be with your guests. After all, you only get married once, so that extra day often makes a big difference."
A castle estate that moves with you
The Château Jemeppe estate consists of a historic castle, a spacious square farmhouse and various indoor and outdoor spaces that flow smoothly into each other. Steven: "We often organise the reception in the castle's inner courtyard. This gives guests the opportunity to see the castle from the inside and not just from the outside. Couples really appreciate the overall picture. The dinner and evening party then take place in the large hall of the farmhouse."
When the weather is nice, the ceremony can take place in the garden. In winter, everything moves indoors, Steven explains: "For a winter wedding, the ceremony can take place in the lounge. The seats are then cleared to make room for a ceremony arch and chairs. Afterwards, the reception can start in the same lounge, while the great hall is prepared for dinner. It all runs very smoothly." This allows guests to move through the estate and experience each stage of the party in a different way.
Less organisation, more enjoyment
A wedding weekend requires extra coordination, but that doesn't have to be stressful. Steven explains how they guide couples from the start: ‘At the beginning, couples are given an extensive tour of all the rooms and possibilities. We listen carefully to what they want and, as far as possible, let them choose where their ceremony, reception and dinner will take place.’
- Château Jemeppe works with regular caterers who can take care of setting up the chairs and tables and other practical preparations. Steven takes care of the accommodation. "Many couples have their guests book directly with me. I check them in and make sure everything is in order. The couple simply tells me which rooms are for them and their immediate family. I arrange the rest with the guests, so that the couple does not have to worry about it."
Foto: Feestzaal: Château Jemeppe - Fotograaf: Say Cheese Complete castle experience
Couples often have their close family stay in the castle. The other guests stay in the farmhouse rooms. ‘This allows family members to enjoy the full castle experience and be further away from the hustle and bustle of the party. Older family members appreciate being able to sleep peacefully. Friday can also be a very enjoyable evening: if they are a small group, they sometimes dine in the castle after the preparations. This is a pleasant start, even before the other guests arrive.’
Château Jemeppe is also available exclusively for one wedding party during the weekend. ‘We are not a hotel, so there are no other guests around. That makes it a very special experience: you have the castle entirely at your disposal.’
Foto: Feestzaal: Château Jemeppe - Fotograaf: Say Cheese About Château Jemeppe
Château Jemeppe is a historic castle estate in the Ardennes with a square farmhouse, romantic gardens, courtyard, castle rooms and spacious farmhouse rooms. The estate combines its authentic, historic charm with comfortable accommodation, flexible spaces and personalised service.
Foto: Feestzaal: Château Jemeppe - Fotograaf: Say Cheese Read more about this topic via these links:
- Getting married in style: be enchanted by the Château Jemeppe estate
- Rain on your wedding day? Typically Belgian (but no less enjoyable for that)!
- The most beautiful reception halls for your autumn wedding
