Reflecting on the one year anniversary of our new wedding & events team at Bryngarw House.
Andrew Williams, Hotel Manager
Today marks one year since I started my journey at Bryngarw House and what a year it has been! Looking back on this incredible experience, I’m filled with gratitude for the opportunity to grow both personally and professionally.
From day one, I've had the blessing of being respected, valued and empowered by Awen's executive leadership team, and I have been able to bring in new colleagues to compliment existing team members which completed an inspiring team. We have tackled exciting challenges together and all contributed towards our goal of making Bryngarw House achieve its potential and solidify its identity in the industry. The journey has been full of learning moments, both big and small, and I’m proud of what we've accomplished together.
Some of the highlights from this year:
- Providing so many happy couples with their perfect day and great memories for the rest of their lives.
- Being trusted to execute numerous refurbishments at the venue - which have received glowing feedback from our couples and guests
- Improving the service levels and reputation of the business
- Exceeding our targets and putting the business on a great future trajectory
I’m so thankful to be part of Awen whose mission is to Make People’s Lives Better by providing space and opportunity for people to enjoy vibrant cultural experiences that inspire and enhance their sense of wellbeing. Awen really live their values of Creative, Collaborative, Empowering and Fair. I’m excited for what the future holds and can’t wait to continue contributing to our shared success.
A huge thank you to my amazing colleagues, as well as Awen's Trustees and executive leadership team for their trust. Here’s to another great year ahead!
Holly Dyke, Wedding & Event Coordinator
My first year as a Wedding & Events Coordinator a Bryngarw House has been everything I’d hoped it would be! The relationships I have built with our brides and grooms have been so beautiful - from the giggles during night-before aisle rehearsals, to the happy tears and morning-after hugs, it’s been an absolute delight helping couples bring their dream days to life in our beautiful venue. I’m so lucky to be part of such a brilliant and supportive team, who have witnessed all the love and laughter together along the way too. Here’s to many more unforgettable “I do’s” at Bryngarw House!
Janey Owen, Wedding & Event Coordinator
The last year has flown by. They say time flies when you are having fun - that is so true! I have loved getting to know the wedding & hospitality industry. Bryngarw House has changed in so many ways since I started, with the new Bridal Lounge, small bar and the fabulous tweaks to our marquee. Elevating the standard and appearance of our house to bring it up to date.
I couldn't possibly choose a favourite moment. I can honestly say I enjoy every wedding for so many reasons. I thoroughly enjoy getting to know the couple and their families. Our showcases are probably the most memorable. As a team, we share ideas and meet the nicest couples.
Working with the team is the best part of my job. I laugh every day. I have learned so much from the knowledge and guidance of Andrew and Sam. It has been really pleasant working closely with Head Chef and his team. We are working very well and exploring new things and collaborating for future events.
Having support from my peers is a real blessing. From our CEO to our Head of People to our maintenance man, there is no doubt that everyone shares the same vision, passion and drive for our house and our future. Exciting times ahead!
Michael Guy, Head Chef
Reflecting on the past year, I feel incredibly pleased and proud of how the House has excelled—it's been such an enjoyable and rewarding journey. Working alongside the new team has made coming to work a truly wholesome experience; we've become a family away from home.
One of the highlights for me has been collaborating on menu development and dish presentation. It was especially fulfilling to see my passion mirrored by the team during our recent menu cook-off. Watching Bryngarw House evolve into more than just a wedding venue—hosting events like Afternoon Tea and Faulty Towers, to name a few—has been a refreshing and exciting development.
Over the past year, being entrusted and empowered to lead menu development has been both liberating and exhilarating. Watching the new Sunday lunch menu roll out at a more elevated level is a proud milestone—and a clear step forward in our mission to drive the standards across everything we do. The support I've received from the new team has been truly unparalleled in my career. I can't overstate the positive impact it's had on my wellbeing and work-life balance.
Overall, I feel deeply proud—and admittedly a little emotional—about everything we’ve accomplished together. It’s only strengthened my commitment to the House and the journey we’re on.