2018 has been quite a year! Here are just a few of our memorable moments.
In March, the Beast from the East and partner Storm Emma played havoc with the country. Along with other local venues, we had to cope with a wedding at the time. Our catering supply didn’t get through so Plan B came into action and the menu was changed to reflect what was available, while Sir John Michael Kennaway drove off in search of potatoes which he sourced from a local farmer, fresh as they come! On the day of the wedding the roads became passable and the wedding party arrived as scheduled, with only four guests unable to attend. Everyone loved the log fires!
In May we had a fabulous wedding photo shoot at the house, organised by The Prop Factory. Set in the Library, they created a Victorian ‘travel’ theme so cleverly. Their array of props transformed the room and the wedding ‘couple’ looked stunning.
Well, what a summer we had. So wonderful for all the wedding parties to be able to enjoy beautiful sunshine and make the most of the garden for their wedding photographs.
In June, a volunteer team from Simpkins Edwards joined The Tale Valley Trust to clear the banks of the River Tale of the invasive Himalayan Balsam species, with some work taking place on Escot Estate.
The weather stayed lovely for guests at the 373 Awards in July, who enjoyed drinks on the terrace before the awards ceremony took place. Amongst the canapes we provided, the chocolate brownie cheesecake drew the most accolades! It was a super event with lots of local businesses being recognised.
A well-known local lady celebrated her 60th birthday in August and chose Escot as the venue for her knees up. The house was packed with friends and family. Another beautiful evening so most people ate outside before coming inside for a dance.
We were thrilled to welcome the Beautiful Days festival to Escot once more. With such lovely weather, the ground was dry for once! Acts included Manic Street Preachers, Suzanne Vega, The Hives, Shed Seven, Richard Thompson and so many more. We’re already looking forward to next year.
In December, we hosted a fantastic Artisan Market organised by Helen Bottrill and Eleanor Yeo of the Creative Business Network. This was the first event of this type we’ve held in the house, and it was a roaring success. The artisan makers showcased stunning wares, and customers arrived in drove to snap up unusual gift items. The bar was open, we had caterers in the courtyard and everyone had a great day.
Throughout 2018 we have hosted many conferences, seminars and workshops for local and national businesses. We always receive lovely comments about our organisation and catering and we look forward to welcoming many more delegates next year.
The last event of 2018 is a Jolly Running run in the grounds of Escot Estate. This festive event, ‘Extremely Jolly’ is also fundraising for charity Kids Run Free. Good luck to all the runners, hope the weather stays fine!
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from Sir John Michael and Lady Kennaway and the Escot team.
