Top 20 Best Wedding Venues in London
- Author: Natali Grace Levine
- Reading time: 16m 55s
- Publication date: 04/29/2026
- Updated: 05/01/2026
- Ashridge House
- Parnham Park
- Syon Park
- Hedsor House
- Blenheim Palace
- Kew Events
- Eastwell Manor
- Old Royal Naval College
- Hawkstone Hall
- Monkey Island Estate
- Goodwood House
- St. Pancras Renaissance Hotel
- Battersea Arts Centre
- Cliveden House
- The Dorchester
- Fairmont Windsor Park
- The Savoy
- Northbrook Park Weddings
- The Ritz London
- Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park
- Key Facts About London's Most Iconic Venues
- FAQ
- What are the best wedding venues in London?
- How much do wedding venues in London cost?
- How far in advance should you book a wedding venue in London?
- Can you have an outdoor wedding in London?
- Which London wedding venues are best for outdoor ceremonies?
- What makes London a popular wedding destination?
- When is the best time of year to get married in London?
- Which wedding venues in London have a historic vibe?
- What are the unique wedding venues in London?
The city is renowned for its timeless aesthetic, which is why finding the best wedding venues in London would not be a big deal while planning your perfect day. There is genuinely something for everyone, ranging from historic locations to modern areas designed for contemporary celebrations. These iconic ceremony spaces in London maintain their elegance through the decades.
When it comes to weddings, London is a dream playground. The city’s architectural diversity ensures that couples can find a perfect match for any aesthetic, whether they seek luxury wedding venues, or more intimate ones the capital is known for.
If you are still hesitant about choosing London as your destination, the following reasons will leave you with no doubt that it is the perfect place for your celebration.
- Global Accessibility & Easy Commute: As a major international hub, London makes it effortless for guests to fly in from across the globe or take a train from the other side of the country. Choosing a wedding venue in central London turns your wedding into a memorable journey for every guest involved.
- Cultural Richness & Exclusive Experiences: London’s multicultural environment allows a mix and match of various traditions.
- Historic Hotels & Iconic Settings: From grand historic London wedding locations to luxury hotels— the city offers a level of prestige that few other places can match.
- Access to Local Talent: Unique wedding locations in the capital provide you with the world’s best artists, florists, photographers, and entertainers.
As social media has become part of everyday life, most couples now start their venue search online. We scroll through Instagram, check tagged photos, read reviews, look at menus, ratings, and locations. In the digital era, nearly every venue maintains a polished online presence, making it easier than ever to compare options.
But popularity doesn’t always begin online. Long before algorithms and curated feeds, certain venues became well-known simply because people kept returning to them. Guests attended weddings there, recommended the space to friends, shared stories over dinner, and gradually — through word of mouth — those places built reputations that lasted for decades.
Venues with a long history carry a different kind of value. People appreciate continuity. They trust experience. There is something reassuring about celebrating in a place that has hosted generations before you, a place shaped by time.
Below is a curated list of 20 best wedding locations in London that showcase exclusive celebration venues you may find appealing and aesthetic matching your unique tastes and preferences.
Find Your Perfect Wedding Vendors
Ashridge House

Location: Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom
Capacity: Up to 300 guests
Style: Gothic Revival mansion with parkland estate
This place offers something different from central London wedding venues. Ashridge House is set within 190 acres of landscaped parkland. This former royal residence and 16th-century monastic site feels cinematic. It is one of the most beautiful wedding venues in London that couples consider for their big day.
The architecture combines Gothic detailing, vaulted ceilings, and dramatic staircases with manicured gardens and green lawns. Ceremonies can take place in the Main Hall or Gothic Room, while the grounds allow for elegant outdoor celebrations.
For Alicia and Josh Albanese, the venue set the tone for a day where music was at the heart of everything: "Our wedding was British-Italian, rooted in tradition, elegance and timeless grandeur. Set at Ashridge House in Hertfordshire, a former royal residence of Henry VIII, our vision drew on regal British formality and the ornate romance of Italian architecture."
As fellow musicians, the couple made sure music wove through every moment of the day: "Music was such an integral part of our day as we are both musicians. Our wedding was shaped by the music we love. We had different music throughout the day including a string quartet for our ceremony, a gospel choir during our religious blessing, a flamenco duo for the drinks reception, an accordion player for the wedding breakfast, then a four-piece band, DJ, saxophonist & percussionist for the evening."
They concluded by reflecting on how perfectly it all came together: "From our civil ceremony on the grand staircase, to our religious blessing in the beautiful chapel. It was a true fairytale from start to finish."
Parnham Park
Location: Parnham House, Parnham Park, Beaminster, United Kingdom
Capacity: Up to 100 guests
Style: Historic Grade I Listed Stately Home / Tudor-Gothic Estate
Originally built in the 1440s, Parnham Park is a spectacular historic landmark that offers a deep sense of heritage for a wedding celebration. Later redesigned by John Nash — the architect behind Buckingham Palace — the estate blends Tudor foundations with refined 19th-century elegance. Set within 133 acres of parkland, the house offers both intimacy and scale. The stone faсade, tall windows, and formal gardens create a setting that feels distinctly English and deeply rooted in history without being overwhelming.
Syon Park
Location: Brent Lea, Isleworth TW7 6AZ
Capacity: Up to 120 guests
Style: Botanical & Neoclassical
Syon Park is a wedding venue in west London. The location stands out as an incredible place that feels like a living greenhouse. The space is filled with lush greenery, both inside and out, naturally complementing any event with its vibrant, organic energy. It is exceptionally bright, defined by the iconic glass dome that allows the sun to pour in, creating a play of light and shadows across the stone floors.
There is something about the atmosphere that feels like a scene from Beauty and the Beast — a mix of grand history and botanical magic. The way the sunlight filters through the intricate glasswork makes the entire setting feel truly special, as if the outside world has stayed behind the garden walls.
Hedsor House
Location: Hedsor Park, Taplow, Buckinghamshire SL6 0HX
Capacity: Up to 150 guests
Style: Georgian Manor / Italianate Architecture
Hedsor House is a beautiful Georgian country home set within 100 acres of elegant parkland, just 40 minutes from London. The Italianate-style mansion, with a history on this site dating back to 1166, is located at a venue with a view of the River Thames. Even though it is located in Buckinghamshire, couples often prefer it as their wedding venue as it is easy enough for guests to commute to the location. Despite the mansion's grand size, it is easy to maintain a sense of privacy thanks to the 100 acres of enclosed area and a layout that keeps your celebration completely secluded from the outside world.
Blenheim Palace
Location: Woodstock, Oxfordshire OX20 1PS, United Kingdom
Capacity: Up to 600 guests
Style: Baroque palace / Regal estate
Blenheim Palace in Oxfordshire is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is one of the most famous wedding venues in London and the birthplace of Winston Churchill. That`s a top destination for those searching for luxury wedding venues in London.
Wedding ceremonies take place in several key spaces:
- Grand Hall: Suitable for large-scale ceremonies and formal celebrations.
- Orangery: Commonly used for receptions and seated wedding breakfasts.
- Temple of Diana: A smaller ceremony space overlooking the lake.
- Water Terraces & Palace Gardens: Used for outdoor moments and wedding photography.
Kew Events
Location: Richmond Upon Thames, London, UK
Capacity: Up to 230 guests
Style: Botanical Heritage / Victorian Elegance / UNESCO World Heritage Site
Kew Gardens in Richmond is one of those places people already know, even before they start planning a wedding. It’s a UNESCO site. Most weddings here move between different parts of the grounds. You might start in one of the glasshouses during the day, then later head to the Orangery for the evening.
Ceremonies are usually held in the Nash Conservatory, a bright glasshouse filled with natural light. Afterwards, guests gather in the Princess of Wales Conservatory for drinks, surrounded by lush, tropical plants. If the weather allows, part of the celebration can continue outdoors on the Sir Joseph Banks Lawns. In the evening, everyone moves to the Orangery for dinner and dancing.
Eastwell Manor
Location: Eastwell Park, Boughton Lees, Kent TN25 4HR, United Kingdom
Capacity: Up to 150 guests
Style: Historic manor house, countryside estate
One of the most romantic countryside wedding venues near London is Eastwell Manor. The ivy-covered facade, stone staircases, and landscaped gardens create a setting that feels distinctly English and quietly grand. The estate is especially beautiful in autumn, when the ivy turns deep red and gold, making it one of the most atmospheric wedding venues near London for seasonal celebrations. If a tranquil country estate resonates with you more than the bustle of central London, and you prioritise the ultimate privacy and relaxed atmosphere, book your dates before they’re gone!
Old Royal Naval College
Location: King William Walk, Greenwich, London SE10 9NN
Capacity: Up to 400 guests
Style: 17th-century Baroque, Grand, Historic
The Old Royal Naval College is one of the most iconic London wedding venues, situated within a UNESCO World Heritage site. The place is well known for its Baroque architecture and riverside setting with panoramic views. The Painted Hall is often described as Britain's Sistine Chapel due to its incredible 18th-century ceiling paintings.
This venue is all about grandeur. It is perfectly suited to couples who want a royal scale for their celebration, providing a stunning setting defined by classic English Baroque architecture and expansive views over the River Thames. The vibe is regal and magnificent, making it a standout choice for a large, formal London wedding ceremony.
Hawkstone Hall
Location: Marchamley, Shrewsbury, Shropshire, UK
Capacity: Up to 170 guests
Style: 18th-Century Mansion / Stately Grandeur / English Countryside
Hawkstone Hall is an 18th-century country house in Shropshire, listed as Grade I and known for its strong sense of English heritage. It sits within 88 acres of gardens and rolling countryside, and despite its history, the place feels well-kept and easy to use for modern weddings. Inside, there are gilded ceilings, wide stone staircases, and original details that give the house its character. It’s a setting that naturally suits couples looking for something elegant and a little more formal, with a romantic feel that comes through without trying too hard.
Ceremonies are usually held in the on-site chapel, with receptions moving into the ballroom afterwards. Outside, the grounds open up with Italian gardens, a lily pond, and a rose garden, creating plenty of space for drinks, photos, or simply spending time outdoors. The venue is also available for exclusive use, so the whole property feels private.
Monkey Island Estate
Location: Bray, Maidenhead (Private Island on the Thames)
Capacity: Up to 300 guests
Style: Private Island Luxury / River Chic
Accessible only by footbridge or boat, Monkey Island Estate offers a level of privacy that few of London`s reception venues can match. Set on a literal island in the River Thames, this venue feels like a hidden retreat far from the city’s pace. The overall feel here is easy and refined, without trying too hard. There are neat green lawns, white-brick buildings, and soft views over the river — the kind of place people naturally fall in love with.
It’s perfect for couples planning an intimate, weekend-style wedding where everyone stays together and the celebration unfolds naturally from welcome drinks to the final brunch. If you’re looking for something truly unique, where you can feel worlds away without ever leaving the UK, this serene estate is a perfect find.
Emily and Harry still remember their first impression of Monkey Island Estate: ``We fell in love with Monkey Island Estate the moment we entered the grounds. Both of us instantly knew that we had found our dream wedding venue.``
Goodwood House
Location: Kennel Hill, Chichester PO18 0PX, West Sussex, United Kingdom
Capacity: Up to 250 guests
Style: Georgian country estate / Exclusive-use historic house
Goodwood House is a historic Georgian estate set within 12,000 acres of parkland in West Sussex. The venue is offered on a personal basis, allowing full privacy for weddings and private events. Key spaces include the Ballroom for large receptions, as well as the Egyptian Dining Room and Yellow Drawing Room for more intimate celebrations. Additional rooms such as the State Apartments, Music Room, and Front Hall allow flexible event layouts. The great thing is that outdoor ceremonies and receptions can be hosted on the terrace and surrounding grounds with panoramic countryside views.
St. Pancras Renaissance Hotel
Location: Euston Road, London NW1 2AR
Capacity: Up to 250 guests
Style: Victorian Gothic Masterpiece
This is one of London's most recognizable buildings, located right at King’s Cross station. If you are looking for a wedding venue with massive architectural impact —St. Pancras Renaissance Hotel is a great choice. The most famous feature is the Grand Staircase, seen in countless films and music videos. It is a top spot for photography, though hiring the upper part of the stairs for receptions involves a separate fee. Large weddings are held in Hansom Hall, a high-ceilinged room with lots of natural light that was originally a driveway for Victorian hansom cabs. For intimate events, the Ladies Smoking Room is a historic space with a breathtaking ceiling and its own terrace.
For Josie and Sam Godfrey, the venue's remarkable features perfectly captured the mood of their 10-year anniversary celebration: "Our wedding was super special as it was our 10 year anniversary — we met on Halloween in 2015 and thought what better way to celebrate our love than with our nearest and dearest. We had a super small intimate wedding with 13 for the ceremony at the old Marylebone Town Hall and 22 for dinner at the St Pancras Renaissance Hotel."
From the moment Josie first walked in, she knew it was the perfect fit: "As soon as I visited the venue I knew it was the one — the stairs were absolutely breathtaking and with our gothic romance vibe it was exactly what we wanted. The suppliers we worked with really were able to bring my vision to life, and all our family and friends even now say what an incredible day it was as all the little details told mine and Sam's love story so perfectly. Having a London wedding is so special and so timeless — even if the weather isn't great there are so many iconic buildings."
Battersea Arts Centre
Location: Lavender Hill, Battersea, London SW11 5TN, United Kingdom
Capacity: Up to 800 guests (depending on layout)
Style: Historic Victorian arts venue / Industrial-heritage space
Battersea Arts Centre is one of the most spacious and original wedding venues in London. Set inside a restored Victorian town hall, it combines dramatic architecture with raw, character-filled interiors that feel both historic and creative. The Arts Centre is awarded by the RIBA for its architecture. The venue has also hosted iconic artists such as Fleetwood Mac and Nick Cave.
Cliveden House
Location: Taplow, Berkshire, UK
Style: Stately Home / Royal Heritage / Riverside Luxury
Capacity: Up to 250 guests
Cliveden House sits above the River Thames, surrounded by 376 acres of National Trust land. It’s a classic English estate — a Grade I house with a long history tied to aristocratic life and British royalty. Today it operates as a Relais & Châteaux hotel, but it still feels very much like a private residence. The views over the river are one of the things people remember most.
Around the estate, there are several spaces that work well throughout the wedding. The Cliveden Dining Room looks out over the Parterre gardens and is often used for more formal parts of the day. The Astor Grill is set in the old stables and has a more casual atmosphere — a good spot for a welcome dinner or a laid-back brunch. There’s also a cellar space for smaller, more private gatherings. Down by the river, Spring Cottage offers a quiet place to stay, away from the main house. The rest of the estate — gardens, lawns, and woodland paths — give plenty of room for photos and time outside.
The Dorchester
Location: 53 Park Ln, London W1K 1QA, United Kingdom
Capacity: Up to 250 guests
Style: 1930s Glamour / Mayfair Elegance
The Dorchester is a Mayfair legend that has set the standard for British luxury since the 1930s. Located directly across from Hyde Park, The Dorchester’s spot lets guests experience the true pulse of central London, where Mayfair’s historic grandeur meets the city’s finest dining and cultural spots. If you are looking for wedding venues located in the heart of London, this is the place.
This classic hotel meets modern comfort, offering rooms with antique furniture, marble, and premium acoustics in the heart of the city. As a premier choice for hotel wedding venues in London, The Dorchester takes care of everything, offering bespoke wedding planning, gourmet catering, and remarkable floral arrangements by their in-house florists.
Fairmont Windsor Park
Location: London, Bishopsgate Road, Englefield Green, TW20 0YL, United Kingdom
Capacity: up to 450 guests
Style: Modern Country Estate / High-End Luxury
This place is pure grandeur, with everything inside looking really elegant. The estate is located in the scenic county of Surrey, famous for its peaceful nature and fresh air. It’s an amazing spot for photos, where you can easily take both romantic couple portraits and huge group shots with your entire family. Fairmont Windsor Park impresses with its spaciousness; even with a full guest list of 450 people, the atmosphere remains open. For couples planning a larger celebration, this venue is a strong choice.
The Savoy
Location: Strand, London WC2R 0EZ, United Kingdom
Capacity: Up to 300 guests
Style: Edwardian & Art Deco luxury hotel
The Savoy is one of the most famous wedding venues in London and a long-standing symbol of British hospitality. Located on the Strand with views over the River Thames, the hotel combines Edwardian grandeur with refined Art Deco detailing, creating an atmosphere that feels both historic and glamorous. It is popular not just because of the aesthetics. The Savoy offers a range of spaces — from grand ballrooms for large-scale London wedding receptions to intimate salons suited for private ceremonies.
Rooms with river views offer an amazing London backdrop that many international couples look for. As one of the best ceremony locations for formal celebrations, The Savoy is known for seamless service, bespoke planning, and cuisine crafted by world-class chefs. For couples seeking a high-standard venue—this very place is a highly-trusted choice.
Northbrook Park Weddings
Location: Farnham, Hampshire/Surrey Border, UK
Capacity: Up to 200 guests
Style: 18th-Century Manor / Country House / Walled Garden Romance
Northbrook Park is an 18th-century manor on 120 acres in Hampshire, right near the Surrey border. The grounds include lakes and walled gardens with resident peacocks and swans. It runs on a dry-hire, exclusive-use basis, so you get the entire estate to yourself and full freedom to plan every detail.
The estate is divided into several areas for different parts of the day:
- Manor House Apartment: A suite used for morning prep.
- The Vine Room: A bright hall with high windows and a fireplace for ceremonies and dinner.
- Walled Gardens: An outdoor area for ceremonies and cocktails.
- The Orangery: The primary space for dinner and dancing, featuring glass walls and a private bar.
- Eco-Cottages: On-site rooms where guests can stay overnight.
The Ritz London
Location: 150 Piccadilly, London W1J 9BR, United Kingdom
Capacity: Up to 100 guests
Style: Louis XVI grandeur / Historic five-star luxury
Since 1906, this iconic five-star venue has continued to represent classic London elegance. The Ritz London is located in the prestigious Mayfair district and is a symbol of British high society. Weddings here are very intimate. The Music Room works well for smaller formal gatherings, while the private Ritz Garden creates a rare outdoor option in central London for summer receptions. What truly sets The Ritz apart is its service. Michelin-starred dining, bespoke menus, flawless coordination, and careful hospitality ensure a seamless experience from the ceremony to the end of the evening.
Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park
Location: 66 Knightsbridge, London SW1X 7LA, United Kingdom
Capacity: Up to 200 guests
Style: Edwardian Splendor / Royal Elegance
If you are looking for wedding venues in Westminster with actual park views instead of just city walls, Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park is a good one. The hotel sits right on the edge of Hyde Park in Knightsbridge. One of its features is a private entrance directly from the park, once reserved for royalty, which you and your guests can now use.
When you book this space, you also get a private terrace overlooking the park. It is a true luxury to stand on a private balcony in the middle of the city with a full view of the park. Hyde Park is what makes this place stand out among event spaces in central London.
Key Facts About London's Most Iconic Venues
Here are the summarised essential details of our top-tier selection.
| Venue | Location | Capacity | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ashridge House | Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom | Up to 300 guests | Elegant estate weddings near London |
| Parnham Park | Beaminster, United Kingdom | Up to 100 guests | Intimate heritage weddings |
| Syon Park | Isleworth, West London, United Kingdom | Up to 120 guests | Botanical weddings |
| Hedsor House | Taplow, Buckinghamshire, United Kingdom | Up to 150 guests | Private country house weddings |
| Blenheim Palace | Woodstock, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom | Up to 600 guests | Grand palace weddings |
| Kew Events | Richmond Upon Thames, London, United Kingdom | Up to 230 guests | Botanical London weddings |
| Eastwell Manor | Eastwell Park, Boughton Lees, Kent, United Kingdom | Up to 150 guests | Romantic countryside weddings |
| Old Royal Naval College | Greenwich, London, United Kingdom | Up to 400 guests | Grand historic London weddings |
| Hawkstone Hall | Marchamley, Shrewsbury, Shropshire, United Kingdom | Up to 170 guests | Elegant countryside weddings |
| Monkey Island Estate | Bray, Maidenhead, United Kingdom | Up to 300 guests | Private island weddings |
| Goodwood House | Kennel Hill, Chichester, West Sussex, United Kingdom | Up to 250 guests | Exclusive estate weddings |
| St. Pancras Renaissance Hotel | Euston Road, London, United Kingdom | Up to 250 guests | Dramatic city weddings |
| Battersea Arts Centre | Battersea, London, United Kingdom | Up to 800 guests, depending on layout | Large creative weddings |
| Cliveden House | Taplow, Berkshire, United Kingdom | Up to 250 guests | Luxury estate weddings |
| The Dorchester | Mayfair, London, United Kingdom | Up to 250 guests | Luxury hotel weddings |
| Fairmont Windsor Park | Englefield Green, Surrey, United Kingdom | Up to 450 guests | Large luxury weddings |
| The Savoy | Strand, London, United Kingdom | Up to 300 guests | Glamorous London weddings |
| Northbrook Park Weddings | Farnham, Hampshire/Surrey Border, United Kingdom | Up to 200 guests | Exclusive country house weddings |
| The Ritz London | Piccadilly, London, United Kingdom | Up to 100 guests | Intimate formal weddings |
| Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park | Knightsbridge, London, United Kingdom | Up to 200 guests | Luxury weddings with park views |
London truly impresses with the rich assortment of wedding venues available for every taste, mood, season, and budget. From grand historic estates and iconic luxury hotels to venues on the outskirts of the city, closer to nature, the range of choice is remarkable. There is no single right venue — only the one that feels right for you. The most important thing is to understand what kind of celebration you truly want, who you want to share it with, and where you see yourselves getting married. When couples listen to their own wishes and instincts, the decision becomes much clearer. The best wedding venue in London is the one that feels closest to your story.
FAQ
What are the best wedding venues in London?
The best wedding venue in London depends on the scale and style of your celebration. For absolute royal grandeur — Ashridge House, Parnham Park and Blenheim Palace. If you are looking for iconic five-star luxury in the city, The Ritz, Claridge’s, and The Savoy. For couples who prefer architectural drama and unique photo opportunities — St. Pancras Renaissance.
How much do wedding venues in London cost?
Pricing for London venues is highly individual and depends on factors like the day of the week, the season, and your specific requirements for catering and production. While a high-end venue hire in the city can start from £10,000, total budgets for luxury celebrations often range between £500 and £1,000 per guest. It is always best to request a bespoke quote, as many venues offer tailored packages that can vary significantly from their base rates.
How far in advance should you book a wedding venue in London?
For popular dates such as Saturdays in summer, most couples book 12 to 24 months in advance. The most in-demand locations tend to book out quickly, so if you already have a specific place in mind, it’s worth reaching out as early as possible.
Can you have an outdoor wedding in London?
Yes, many venues like Hedsor House offer licensed outdoor spaces for ceremonies. Since British weather can be unreliable, look for locations that provide indoor backup. It is essential to have a high-quality indoor "Plan B" ready. The best options are locations with grand conservatories or glass pavilions that allow you to keep the garden view while staying protected from the rain.
Which London wedding venues are best for outdoor ceremonies?
If having a ceremony outdoors matters to you, look at venues like Hedsor House, Eastwell Manor, or Syon Park. They offer beautiful gardens and landscaped grounds, but also have strong indoor options — which is important given the unpredictable London weather.
What makes London a popular wedding destination?
London is a premier wedding destination for couples worldwide due to several key factors:
- Iconic Landmarks: The city offers a unique blend of historic sights and locations.
- Venue Versatility: You can find everything from elegant townhouses to modern skyscrapers with panoramic views.
- Cultural Inclusivity: London is one of the most diverse cities in the world, capable of catering to a vast range of cultural traditions and specific wedding requirements.
- World-Class Suppliers: The city is a hub for top-tier industry professionals, including internationally recognised florists, caterers, and wedding planners.
When is the best time of year to get married in London?
Summer (May to September): Best for outdoor ceremonies and photography, offering the warmest weather and the longest daylight hours. Many couples choose September for its milder, drier, and more stable weather conditions compared to the height of summer, and the soft shift into autumn colours.
Which wedding venues in London have a historic vibe?
Some of the best London wedding venues with historic atmosphere are Parnham Park, The Ritz London and Ashridge House. These iconic locations offer a great opportunity to celebrate your wedding surrounded by centuries of heritage and breathtaking architectural details. These venues are incredibly stunning and offer the perfect backdrop for your wedding photos.
What are the unique wedding venues in London?
The most unique London wedding venues are Battersea Arts Centre and The Savoy. Each of these places has its own distinct personality, making them ideal for couples who want their big day to feel a bit more personal and out of the ordinary.