A CHESHIRE entrepreneur has clinched a deal to turn a prestigious historic property into a wedding venue.
Rebecca Hartley, founder of events agency Saving Grace Events, is celebrating a new business partnership at The Barlaston Estate in Staffordshire.
The Knutsford businesswoman has been appointed co-director of the heritage private home, set to open its doors for private and corporate events from this month.
The inspirational mum launched her own business after battling breast cancer and conquering the disease eight years ago.
Saving Grace Events celebrated a phenomenal 400 per cent growth after turned over more than £1 million launching Cheshire's first Pop Up Festival at Tatton Park last year.
The business hosted another summer extravaganza with 35 shows this summer.
Claire and Cameron Gilchrest-Dick, owners of the historic property, are planning to share their home at Barlaston Hall, alongside the de-consecrated 12th century St John’s Church for weddings, civil ceremonies, naming ceremonies and renewal of vows.
Rebecca Hartley, 44, said: “I’m delighted to be bringing my events experience to Barlaston Hall and the launch of this incredible historic estate.
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“My role will be to transform our clients’ vision into unforgettable memories.
“Claire and Cam have such a stunning home and it’s a privilege to work in such surroundings.
“Saving Grace Events will be managing all enquiries for the property from launches to parties and the team are ready to help clients with their events.“
Barlaston Hall was built in 1756.
It has been Claire and Cam’s family home for the past two years and the couple felt the time was right to share the prestigious estate with a wider audience.
Claire said: “Cameron and I are delighted to be joining forces with Rebecca in our exciting new venture.
“This is a real passion project for our family as it’s our home and the church is set in our grounds.
“The whole family have been involved in the restoration of the church from grandparents down to our children.
“We’ve involved local people in the project including specialists in stain glass windows and parquet flooring.
“Seeing the church come back to life has been a wonderful experience for the whole family.
“Barlaston Hall has a rich and colourful history and we look forward to creating new memories in the future.”
The Barlaston Estate covers three acres of gardens and has space for marquee events, outdoor festivals or family fun days for up to 300 people.
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