Q and A with Bath wedding venue Event Manager - Jake

If you have ever wanted to know what it might be like to work in an idyllic countryside wedding venue such as Priston Mill in Bath, here's your chance to get the inside scoop so to speak!

Jake started working on our waiting team at our sister venue Coombe Lodge at the age of 18, and within 6 years he had gained a degree and progressed through the company to become a full time Event Manager here at Priston Mill near Bath.

If you have ever met Jake you'll know that he's an all-round lovely chap, and he will go above and beyond to help you in any way he possibly can. 

 Jake, what is your favourite part of being an Event Manager here at Priston Mill?

One of the perks of the job has to be spending my working hours in such a picturesque setting and the two venues here at Priston Mill (The Tythe Barn and The Watermill) are both special in their own right.  It doesn’t get much better when you work at a beautiful countryside venue, set in rolling hills with one of the biggest working water-wheels in the country.  We're also located just outside Bath, North East Somerset, a city full of history with World Heritage City status, and famous for its Roman Baths.  It's a fantastic place to have on our doorstep and a real draw for couples who are planning a wedding at Priston Mill.  

What invaluable lessons have you learned so far in your career?

Preparation is key! For any new Event Manager just starting their career, reviewing the ins and outs of every wedding in the lead up to the event will give you the confidence to perform your duties to the best of your ability. Projecting your self-assurance to the happy couple in a considered and calm way will help them to relax and enjoy the best day of their lives – that’s what we are here for.

 What would be your top tip for future couples getting married with us at Priston Mill?

It’s your day so don’t worry about trying to please everyone when it comes to the food - trust that they will love the dishes that you choose. We have spent a lot of time creating a choice of amazing menus with so many combinations to choose from.  Please don’t feel also that you are constrained by these menus however – if you want to swap the potato on a dish or you want to change a sauce, we can do that for you. We love talking about food and so even if it feels daunting to you, don't worry as we'll guide you through it.  Our team of talented chefs prepare everything here in our kitchens at Priston Mill, just the way you would like it. It really has to be a memorable meal for the two of you and we're lucky that we have had some lovely feedback from previous brides and grooms that confirms just that.

 Do you have a favourite season for saying I do?

Well, that’s a difficult decision but I would have to go with late autumn, specifically after the clocks go back. Even though it could be a little crisp outside, our gardens look stunning this time of year and provide the perfect russet coloured backdrop for your drinks reception and photos. Just perfect if you are looking for rustic wedding venues. When the sun has set and it is time to call your guests for dinner, they will be greeted by a magical, candle lit banquet that will warm them right up!

 What would be your advice be to the groom and his ushers for the morning of the wedding?

After an “early night” all I can say is have a hearty breakfast, chill with your boys and arrive with plenty of time to meet with the Registrars (if you have planned a Civil Ceremony at Priston Mill). If you are getting married in church the same applies.

Your Event Manager will always be at Priston Mill before you or your guests arrive and so we are here to help with ties, pocket squares and buttonholes.

Don’t panic if your other half is late… in my 6 years I’m yet to have a no show! Remember to enjoy your day, it will be over all too soon.

  If you are recently engaged and would like further information about hosting a wedding reception at Priston Mill please give Jake or one of the team a call on 01225 423894 or drop us an email here.

 Priston Mill is a countryside wedding venue in Bath of which we are very proud, and we would love to show you around.