Your Special Day...

Our Pledge: At The Atherstone Red Lion Hotel we understand how important it is to make sure everything is perfect for your special day.

Located in the centre of the historic market town of Atherstone, the hotel is a traditional coaching inn dating back to the 1500’s with up to the minute facilities and services.

The hotel is proud of the excellent, friendly and flexible service it offers making sure you will enjoy your big day.

Wedding Etiquette: Traditionally a Wedding Reception is organised as follows, however, today, many people prefer a more relaxed format. We will be happy to discuss and advise on plans with you for your day.

The Greeting Line
Bride’s Parents, Groom’s Parents, Bride, Groom, Bridesmaids, Best Man.

The Top Table
Best Man, Groom’s Mother, Bride’s Father, Bride, Groom, Bride’s Mother, Groom’s Father, Chief Bridesmaid.

The Cutting of the Cake
The Master of Ceremonies announces the cutting of the cake. The Bride holds the knife in her right hand and the Groom places his hands over hers, as they cut the first slice together. The cake is then taken away and cut into small pieces to be served with coffee. The top tier is traditionally saved for the Christening of the first child.

The Speeches
These follow the meal and should be made in the following order and announced by the Master of Ceremonies: The Bride’s Father proposes a toast to the Bride and Groom and the Groom replies on behalf of the Bride and Groom. He thanks the Bride’s parents for providing the Wedding, the guests for their presents and toasts the Bridesmaids. The Best Man replies for the Bridesmaids and toasts the Bride’s Parents.



"Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed, Something Blue and a Silver Sixpence in Your Shoe"

Something Old:
Something old signifies the life you had with friends and family previous to the marriage.

Something New:
Something new signifies your future life with your new mate.

Something Borrowed:
Something borrowed was usually something borrowed from a happy former bride to ensure the current bride's happiness.

Something Blue:
Something blue represents the bride's purity and faithfulness.

A Silver Sixpence:
The silver sixpence in the shoe is to ensure wealth to the couple in their married life.