Planning a wedding in Cornwall offers a unique opportunity to incorporate the county’s rich heritage, stunning landscapes, and local traditions into your big day. Whether you’re a local couple or have fallen in love with Cornwall’s charm, here are 15 ways to infuse your wedding with the true spirit of this beautiful region.
1. Choose a Coastal or Countryside Venue
Cornwall boasts breathtaking coastal venues and picturesque countryside settings. Opt for a cliffside ceremony overlooking the Atlantic, a historic manor house, or a rustic barn in the countryside to showcase Cornwall’s natural beauty.
2. Incorporate Cornish Pasty Canapés
No Cornish celebration is complete without a pasty! Serve mini Cornish pasties as canapés or late-night snacks to give guests an authentic taste of the region.
3. Use Local Flowers and Foliage
Work with a Cornish florist to incorporate locally grown blooms such as bluebells, foxgloves, and sea thrift into your bouquets and floral arrangements. Wildflower-inspired displays add a romantic, organic touch.
4. Arrive in a Traditional Cornish Vehicle
Make a grand entrance in a classic Cornish vehicle such as a VW campervan, vintage Land Rover, or even a horse-drawn carriage for a touch of nostalgia.
5. Hire a Local Folk Band or Sea Shanty Group
Music plays a big part in Cornish culture. Consider hiring a local folk band or sea shanty singers to entertain your guests and bring a lively, authentic atmosphere to your reception.
6. Serve Fresh Cornish Seafood
Celebrate Cornwall’s renowned seafood by featuring dishes such as fresh crab, lobster, and mussels on your menu. A seafood bar with oysters and smoked fish adds a luxurious touch.
7. Offer Cornish Cream Tea
A Cornish cream tea, complete with scones, jam, and clotted cream (always cream first!), is a delightful addition to your wedding breakfast or afternoon reception.
8. Feature Cornish Ale and Cider
Stock your bar with locally brewed ales and ciders from Cornish breweries such as St Austell Brewery, Skinner’s, or Healeys Cyder Farm to give guests a true taste of Cornwall.
9. Have a Surf-Inspired Wedding Theme
If you and your partner love the waves, embrace Cornwall’s surfing heritage with a relaxed, beachy wedding theme. Think barefoot ceremonies, surfboard décor, and bonfires on the beach.
10. Incorporate Cornish Language in Your Décor
Add a touch of the Cornish language to your signage, invitations, and table names. Words like ‘Kernow’ (Cornwall), ‘An Gove’ (the blacksmith), and ‘Hemma’ (home) add a unique local touch.
11. Opt for Local Artisanal Favours
Support Cornish artisans by gifting guests locally made wedding favours such as handmade soap, Cornish honey, or a small bottle of Cornish gin.
12. Include a Cornish Legend in Your Ceremony
Cornwall is steeped in folklore. Incorporate stories of King Arthur, mermaids, or Cornish giants into your readings or vows to add a whimsical, storytelling element.
13. Capture the Landscape in Your Wedding Photos
Cornwall offers incredible backdrops for wedding photography. Whether it’s a dramatic cliffside, a secluded beach, or a charming fishing village, take time for scenic wedding portraits that reflect the magic of the location.
14. Host a Traditional Cornish Ceilidh Dance
Encourage guests to take part in a Cornish ceilidh – a lively, fun folk dance led by a caller and a band. It’s a great way to get everyone involved and create lasting memories.
15. End the Night with a Beach Bonfire
If your venue allows, finish your wedding celebrations with a beach bonfire, complete with marshmallow toasting and acoustic music. It’s the perfect way to wind down and soak in the romance of Cornwall’s coast.
A Cornwall wedding offers endless opportunities to celebrate the county’s rich heritage, culinary delights, and natural beauty. By incorporating local elements, you’ll create a wedding that’s not only stunning but also deeply connected to this special place. Cheers to your unforgettable Cornwall wedding!
