Learn all you need to know about a wedding at Glen Tanar right here where Shona, our Ballroom Coordinator, answers some of our most frequently asked questions. Ready, set, go!
What accommodation is available at the Ballroom?
"We have nine luxury self-catering properties at Glen Tanar … soon to be 10. All of which are situated on the estate in the heart of Royal Deeside. Three are within walking distance of the Ballroom, another three are on the main drive and the final four are just a short drive away."
Shona - Ballroom Coordinator
Can the cottages be booked for a weekend only?
"We offer midweek and weekend short breaks on seven of our cottages. We aim to be as flexible as possible during the wedding planning stage to make sure our bride and groom achieve their perfect wedding day and all wedding guests are catered for. Glen Tanar also has the perfect backdrop for engagement photoshoots as well as a range of activities that are perfect for the bridal party in the run up to the wedding. We run estate safaris which take you on a tour right into the heart of the glen so as well as spotting some of our wildlife you can scope out locations for your wedding photoshoot!"
How many guests do the cottages sleep?
"As a wedding venue we are able to provide luxury accommodation for guests. In total we can accommodate 47 guests throughout the cottages. For those wedding guests who wish to stay in a cottage close to the Ballroom we can accommodate 26. These guests will have either a short walk or a 5 minute drive to the Ballroom. We encourage you to view our cottages and speak to us if you require additional accommodation for your wedding guests."
Is there additional accommodation close by (hotels/B&B’s)?
"Absolutely! We work closely with local hotels and B&Bs in Royal Deeside. We’d be happy to recommend additional accommodation options for your wedding guests."
Can the bride and groom supply their own wine/champagne? And if so, is there a corkage charge?
"We are a flexible wedding venue, we don’t object if you want to bring your own wine and champagne. We don’t charge corkage at Glen Tanar. However, please note that some wedding caterers charge a price per head to serve the wine/champagne, but this can be outlined at the wedding planning stage."
Can we decorate or personalise the Ballroom ourselves?
"Absolutely, yes! We love it when brides and grooms put their own special touches to create their unique wedding. We just have to be mindful of the historic ballroom artefacts, but we would be happy to discuss your wedding decoration requirements and wishes with you and will advise if any particular aspects of your decoration plan are not feasible for the format of the venue. We would also be happy to discuss wedding decoration ideas with you if you need advice or feedback or perhaps want to engage a local wedding decoration provider depending on your theme and budget."
Will the fire be lit during the wedding reception?
"The fire is set ready for every wedding and lit when required. The large fire in the Ballroom can create a lovely atmosphere, making the Ballroom a uniquely special wedding venue adding extra glow to your wedding photographs!"
Is the Ballroom warm in the winter?
"The Ballroom has radiators as well as the fire which keeps the Ballroom nice and cosy when we get those chilly Deeside winters!"
Is the Estate accessible in winter?
"Of course, it snows in Deeside occasionally during the winter. The Council maintains the main roads, using gritters and snowploughs when the weather is wintry. Glen Tanar also has its own snow clearing equipment for the main estate and cottages, so we are well prepared for bad weather to ensure that your wedding runs smoothly and the wedding guests manage to arrive on time."
What does the facility fee include?
"It includes exclusive use of the Ballroom, tables, chairs, all the crockery, cutlery, glassware, microphones and stands, sound system, registrar table, highchairs and booster seats. Not to mention a grand piano, victorian easel, antique dinner gong, cake table as well as access to private grounds for spectacular wedding photos and drinks reception. A comprehensive list of what’s included in our facility fee can be provided."
When does the Christmas tree go up?
"We love Christmas and winter weddings. At Glen Tanar we get into the festive spirit early and the tree is up in the Ballroom by the middle of November. Winter weddings are special at Glen Tanar with the glow of twinkle lights, roaring fire and a large Christmas tree from the estate decorated for the festivities."
Are dogs allowed at the Ballroom?
"Absolutely! We love dogs, we have even a dog as a ring bearer!"