Richard – Venue Owner

Richard is the proud owner and driving force behind Hockwold Hall. His journey into the wedding world began in 2015 when, after planning his own wedding, he and his wife fell in love with the idea of creating a venue where couples could truly be themselves. What started as a personal passion quickly grew into a vision for a warm, welcoming space where celebrations feel authentic, relaxed, and deeply personal.

Richard is involved in every aspect of Hockwold Hall, from the big-picture vision to the small details that make each wedding run smoothly. He takes great pride in maintaining the character and charm of the venue while continually evolving it to meet the needs of modern couples. His hands-on approach means couples often meet Richard during their journey, whether at viewings, planning meetings, or on the wedding day itself.

Outside of Hockwold Hall, Richard enjoys travelling, skiing, and getting lost in a good book — pursuits that reflect his curiosity and love of new experiences. These interests often inspire fresh ideas and thoughtful touches around the venue.

Richard’s favourite part of the job is without question the couples who walk through the doors. Being able to share his love for Hockwold Hall, hear their stories, and watch their wedding days unfold is what makes everything worthwhile. For Richard, no two weddings are ever the same, and that’s exactly how it should be.

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Here are some questions we asked Richard so you can get to know a little better:

1: What’s the first thing you do when you arrive on site on a wedding morning?

I check the ceremony space, the entrance, the weather, and the little details

2.What’s one wedding moment that still makes you smile when you think about it?

We had all the Groomsmen dressed in Dinosaur Costumes doing the most incredible ceremony entrance.

3.What’s the best meal you’ve ever had at a wedding?

I love Street food style vendors at a wedding with Paella being the King

4.What’s one thing you always have in your pocket or bag on a wedding day?

A phone charger — closely followed by safety pins. Honestly, those two items have saved more weddings than anything else.

5.What’s your guilty pleasure after a busy weekend of weddings?

Bubble Tea

6.Have you ever had to think very fast at a wedding? What happened?

Plenty of times — but the golden rule is that guests should never notice. Weather turns, suppliers run late, timelines shift. One time we moved an entire ceremony indoors in under 10 minutes. The couple thought it was all part of the plan.

7.What’s your favourite time of day at a wedding, and why?

Just after the ceremony. The nerves are gone, the smiles are real, and everyone relaxes into the day. You can almost feel the energy change — it’s magic.

8.What’s a trend you secretly love?

Couples doing things their own way — shorter ceremonies, non-traditional entrances, ditching anything that doesn’t feel “them.” It makes every wedding feel fresh and personal.

9.What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever heard about weddings or life?

If something goes slightly wrong, no one will remember — unless you do. Laugh, let go, and focus on the people you love. That’s what lasts.

10.What’s the funniest most unexpected request you’ve had from a couple.

Being asked if we could “brief the peacocks” not to interrupt the ceremony. We did our best…