Raising the bar:

Creating an unforgettable drinks experience at your
Bassmead Manor Barns Wedding

 

At Bassmead Manor Barns, we believe the drinks you serve should be just as unforgettable as every other moment of your wedding day. From your welcome drinks on arrival to last orders at the bar, every sip should feel like part of the celebration.

That’s why our bar team are dedicated to creating moments that feel thoughtful, personal, and full of personality. Whether it’s a cocktail mixed in front of you, a mocktail tailored to your tastes, or just a perfectly poured pint with a friendly smile, every drink served at Bassmead is part of the story.

At the heart of it all is our amazing Bar Manager, Marlon Williams. We sat down with him to find out more about what makes the drinks offering at Bassmead so special.

Introducing our Bar Manager, Marlon

Hello, I’m Marlon, and I’ve been part of the team at Bassmead Manor Barns for over nine years now.

At Bassmead, we believe that the drink experience should be just as memorable as the food. It’s not just about pouring a glass, it’s about creating a moment. Whether it’s a signature cocktail that reflects a couple’s love story or a perfectly paired wine to match the wedding breakfast, we ensure every sip
feels intentional.

 

A great drinks experience elevates the celebration

For me, a great drinks experience is one that feels personal and elevates the celebration. It starts with understanding the setting, the people, and the style of the day. I love talking with couples to find out their preferences. Bringing in those little touches, like a favourite cocktail from their first date or a drink that brings back memories of their hen or stag do, can make all the difference.

I remember one bride who requested Woo Woos (vodka, peach schnapps, cranberry juice) because it reminded her of her hen do with her bridesmaids. That drink became such a fun, personal part of her day. It’s those moments that really stick with you.

 

 

Designing the dream drinks menu

Designing a drinks menu is always a collaboration. I start by working with the couple to understand the theme of the day, the style of food, and their personal tastes. We match flavours, play with pairings, and sometimes get a bit creative. I especially enjoy working with fresh ingredients and herbs – my Orange & Rosemary Rumarita is a personal favourite (a twist on a Margarita with rum, infused orange rind, and rosemary syrup). It’s all about creating something unique, just like the couple.

And of course, we never forget the guests. From the moment they arrive, our team is on hand with well-trained, friendly staff who ensure everyone feels looked after. Whether it’s a luxury coffee on arrival, a perfectly poured G&T before the ceremony, or something a little special at the pop-up bar later in the evening, we make sure every guest feels the love.

 

 

If Bassmead were a drink…

If Bassmead were a drink, I’d say it would be a ‘Beautiful’, a classic blend of Cognac and Grand Marnier. It’s refined, elegant, and perfectly balanced. Just like the venue, once you try it, you’re hooked.

We get so much wonderful feedback from guests about our drinks, from the presentation to the flavour, but most of all, the care that goes into each one. I’ve had guests come back to the bar just to say, “That was the best cocktail I’ve ever had.” That’s the kind of reaction we aim for every time.

 

 

“I love experimenting with new ingredients. It’s fun to be creative and try different infusions – some work, some don’t, but it’s all part of it!”

Marlon

Always evolving

I love experimenting with new ingredients. It’s fun to be creative and try different infusions – some work, some don’t, but it’s all part of it! Being part of the Bassmead team means I get to do it alongside other passionate, like-minded people who care deeply about every detail of the day.

If I could design a drink for any famous person, it would have to be the cricketer, Brian Lara. I would create a frozen alcoholic drink with Bumbu Rum, Bumbu Crème, passionfruit puree, and Dekyper passionfruit syrup. It would be like a smoothie, and I think he would love it, being from the Caribbean.

 

Come and visit Bassmead

If you’d like to see Bassmead for yourself and start picturing your wedding day in this unforgettable setting, why not come and visit us? We would love to show you around.

 

 

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