Love conquers all as weddings return to Guildhall

Published: 4 September 2020

Weddings have resumed at Exeter’s Historic Guildhall.

Helen Stephens and Stephen Hocking became the first couple since COVID-19 to tie the knot at the famous historical venue.

The couple, who live in Liftondown in Devon, were due to get married on 3 April but had to postpone the wedding because of the pandemic.

When ‘lockdown’ eased, the couple became the Guildhall’s first booking under new restrictions.

Helen said: “I’m originally from Somerset and Stephen is originally from Cornwall, so we’re meeting half way in Devon!”

“We were originally having a much bigger wedding but have had to reduce numbers to just 12 guests.  We are planning to have a blessing in a church in Lifton next year and a party in our paddock to make up for it!”

Stephen added:  “Usually weddings can be pretty stressful but having the complications of Covid intensified it. However the staff at the Guildhall have been extremely helpful and supportive and we are so grateful that the wedding was able to go ahead.”

Under new restrictions the Main Hall, which previously allowed up to 80 guests, is now limited to 30, with the Jury Room taking just 10 (previously 35).

Guests have to sit one to two metres apart and wear face coverings unless medically exempt and live music is not permitted.

To book a wedding or function at the Guildhall contact guildhall.weddings@exeter.gov.uk or ring 01392 265525