Now also a fantastic wedding venue, tourist attraction The Thursford Collection plays host to our fabulous, fun, wedding inspired fashion shoot.

Great British Life: The Garden Pavilion at ThursfordThe Garden Pavilion at Thursford (Image: Archant)

WHETHER YOU want to ride with your guests on a vintage gondola or fancy a classic seven-course dinner in a beautiful garden setting, The Thursford Collection can offer a unique wedding experience.

Last year, the popular attraction began hosting weddings in its new Garden Pavilion, drawing on the creative and organisational skills which makes its famous Christmas shows such a big hit.

“Whether you want a white wedding or something more relaxed, we really can create anything,” says Charlie Cushing, operations manager and events co-ordinator.

“Here at Thursford, your imagination really is your only limitation. You can get married in our charming barn full of Norfolk character, then head into the museum where you and your guests can enjoy a go on all the rides – you could have your photographs taken on the gondola or carousel, or if you are a really avid enthusiast of all we have at Thursford, you could have your actual ceremony in the museum and have Robert Wolfe play the Wurlitzer for you. Then in the Garden Pavilion, the celebrations can begin.”

Great British Life: Celebrate your day in style at Thursford; www.thursfordgardenpavilion.co.ukCelebrate your day in style at Thursford; www.thursfordgardenpavilion.co.uk (Image: Submitted)

The pavilion has the atmosphere of a pretty marquee but the benefits of being a permanent building.

“We thought we would use our creative, theatrical skills and expertise in putting on our shows to create fantastic weddings. At some points in the season we are dealing with 3,000 people a day for our events, so I think that gives couples confidence in our service,” says Charlie. “The venue has its own dance floor, and sound system and unique lighting which can be any colour the couple want. We also have five different caterers we recommend people use who will provide everything from a seven-course Norfolk banquet of the finest local produce to something less formal such as a hog roast and barbecue.”

Get the look:

Great British Life: Working on the Thursford fashion shootWorking on the Thursford fashion shoot (Image: Archant)

The shoot was staged by Norfolk Pproduction, and stylist Susie Lloyd was inspired by her memories of childhood visits to The Thursford Collection.

“I already knew what a magical place it was before going to shoot there. It houses the most incredible pieces that are full of excitement, nostalgia and fun,” she says. “I wanted the clothes to reflect this sense of playfulness, but to also make a big statement in such a huge scale, dramatic location!”

Susiehe used a range of beautiful gowns, accessories and menswear from Norfolklocal wedding specialists La Belle Angele and Pure Brides, along with Norwich stores Lulu Vintage, Jarrold’s and Winsor Bishop to create some exciting looks and ideas to inspire.

“I took inspiration from eclectic vintage wedding styling, from 1920s head pieces to 1980’s dinner jackets.”

Make- up artist Katie Barnes says she used a medium coverage foundation which left her face clear and dewy.

“Last year saw a huge trend in contouring and strobing, particularly with brides, so I used a mixed foundation palette to gently add some depth, then highlighter to accentuate her high cheekbones, temples, forehead and upper lip.

“My top tip is to use a damp make-up sponge to blend out any darker contour affects will help absorb some of the product, which will result in very subtle shading instead of dark streaks.”