Venue Showcase: Huntstile Organic Farm

Set in 200 acres of countryside, this magical 15th century farmhouse will make all your dreams come true!

Lizzie, partner at Huntstile Organic Farm, shares this wonderful venue’s story below.

Tell us about yourself!

I came to Huntstile Organic Farm in 2005 as a manager to diversify the business here. The organic farm is the basis of everything, set in stunning Somerset countryside with rolling hills, gentle fields of wheat and incredible starlit skies as a backdrop…it was easy to see this would be the perfect spot for special celebrations! My husband John and I have built the business up from scratch – at the time we were the only farm offering weddings.

My background is firmly based in both customer service and cookery. I am also a keen grower of organic vegetables and herbs. Nothing gives me greater pleasure than sharing a fresh plate of delicious, beautiful food with friends and colleagues. In my rare, spare moments I paint portraits and play dixie-swing jazz with a group of friends.

What drew you to the wedding world?

I love parties! And I really enjoy being able to provide everything from start to finish, keeping the bar high and doing it well – this is really important to me. It’s a real privilege to be a part of such a special occasion.

What do you think makes Huntstile unique?

A shot of Huntstile Farm from the outside. The building has a rustic look to it, with stone walls.

Apart from Huntstile being such a special place, it’s all in the detail.

Sarah, our wedding planner, and I really love what we do, our attention to detail is second to none. We meet the bride and groom right at the very start, on the first viewing, and we will be here all the way through the planning, the wedding day and even breakfast the following morning. Always on hand for advice and assistance – nothing is too much trouble.

The food we serve is excellent – locally sourced wherever possible, with a lot produced right here on the farm. As an organic grower I am very aware of our carbon footprint and we source everything as locally as possible.

How do you get to know your couples before the big day?

Inside of a white tent. Four long wooden tables are set for the dinner.

We meet our couples at the first viewing and go from there. Sarah and I are always here, on call, whenever we are needed. Couples are very welcome to come and visit us as often as they like, to bring family and bridesmaids, friends etc. We will be in touch and invite them along to various events and meetings so that we can discover the full story of what they are really hoping for on their special day.

What do you think makes for the perfect wedding?

Good planning, friends and family, delicious food, a few drinks, all in a lovely setting – what more could you need?

What’s the most memorable wedding you’ve had at Huntstile?

A newlywed couple hold sparkles while smiling.

Every wedding is different at Huntstile, and when Nicolas Cage turned up to his son’s wedding it was quite exciting! But from a pure joy aspect, I would say I think that would be Sarah and Emily’s wedding several years ago – it was such a joyous and relaxed occasion, filled with lots of live music throughout the day and evening, laughter and sheer happiness. We once also had the bride and groom depart in a hot air balloon and the guests arrive on a hay trailer – and even had a bride arrive barefoot and on horseback!

Why should a couple book Huntstile?

Newlywed couple exit the ceremony area whilst guests throw flower petals.

Huntstile is a magical place. We are a working, family run organic farm and the service we provide is extremely professional whilst maintaining a friendly and relaxed approach. We work in harmony with the nature around us and try to keep our environmental impact as low as we can.

Apart from the 15th century farmhouse, there are wild flower meadows, spring fed lakes, beautiful gardens and grounds and wildlife galore at Huntstile.

What is your #1 wedding planning tip for couples?

A white wedding cake covered in leafs and flowers.

Be prepared! It’s always good to organize as much as you can, as early as you can.

What’s the best photo spot at Huntstile?

The Stone circle has a beautiful backdrop, stretching out across Somerset to the sea.

What part of your business are you most proud of?

Guests holding champagne glasses and toasting.

Our team of staff are amazing! From the chefs to the planners, the barmen to the waiters and the chambermaids – we are all dedicated hard working people who want to make your day a total success.

How do you feel technology is changing the industry?

Websites like Bridebook are great as everything is gathered in one place. Email and video calling are really helpful, offering instantaneous responses when you are tight for time and social media is a great way to see new trends and colors, find out information, etc.

What is the one piece of advice you would give to couples that are currently struggling amidst the COVID-19 crisis?

Speak to the venues and suppliers, find out what options are available to you. Prepare and plan as many questions as you can ahead of time – but most of all keep safe and well.