Growing up in the countryside, Jessica developed a lifelong love of animals and country living. Her career began in the horse racing industry, working in sponsorship and corporate events at Sandown, Kempton and Epsom, before settling at Burningfold Manor where she and Richard raised their four children.

After 26 years of family life at the estate - hosting parties, charity events and weddings for friends - opening Burningfold to couples felt like a natural next chapter, allowing others to create memories in a setting the family has long cherished.

Jessica oversees every wedding at Burningfold, guiding couples from their first enquiry through to the day itself. She values the entire journey - getting to know each couple, shaping celebrations that reflect their story, and witnessing the emotional moments that make every wedding unique.

For her, what makes Burningfold special is simple: it has always been a place where people feel at ease - particularly in the walled gardens, a private haven that remains at the heart of the
estate.

Burningfold was acquired in 1999 along with 300 acres of farmland and historic buildings dating back to a 15th-century hunting lodge. With a long-standing involvement in horse racing and sporting ventures, the purchase was an easy choice.

Together with Jessica, Richard built family life at Burningfold before moving locally, creating the freedom to develop weddings, polo, hospitality and fun - built with family and friends and assisted by a skilled local cottage industry that makes the operation special.

He describes his role simply as the “fixer” - ensuring Burningfold is ready and presented, hopefully exceeding expectations. The charm and history can create the occasional challenge,
but it has yet to let him down. Checklist complete, it’s on with the show.

For Richard, one of the greatest rewards is seeing others experience joy in a setting that has been part of his family’s story for over two decades - watching individual celebrations come together with the support of Team Burningfold.

Having grown up at Burningfold, Georgina has a natural connection to the estate and many cherished memories of family life there - from long summer evenings by the pool to childhood games in a house full of history and character.
Today, her role combines creativity and communication.

 

Georgina manages Burningfold’s social media presence across platforms such as Instagram and TikTok, handles new wedding
enquiries and maintains ongoing contact with couples throughout their planning journey, ensuring they feel supported every step of the way.
 

She loves hearing each couple’s unique ideas and watching their individual style come to life. For Georgina, the speeches are always a standout moment - when heartfelt words, laughter and emotion bring the whole room together.

What she believes couples appreciate most is the warm, relaxed atmosphere from the moment they arrive - a setting where everything feels personal and truly special.

Originally from South Africa, Ashleigh grew up on a farm with a natural love of countryside living and bringing people together. Before moving to England, she spent several years working in events - gaining experience in organisation, hospitality and creating memorable experiences that translates beautifully to her role at Burningfold.

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Married to Harry, Richard and Jessica's son, Ashleigh is part of the Burningfold team throughout the summer season, supporting couples through their planning and on the day itself - ensuring everything runs smoothly so they can feel relaxed and fully present.

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Both she and Harry play polo, and alongside weddings she is closely involved in the polo side of the estate. For Ashleigh, the two worlds sit together naturally - both centred around people, celebration and the equestrian lifestyle that ties so beautifully into the spirit of Burningfold.

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What she loves most is the freedom Burningfold gives couples to make the venue entirely their own - and the genuine heart the team puts into making every wedding truly special.

Natasha brings a broad background in customer-facing and entrepreneurial roles to Burningfold. Her career began in the travel industry with Avis Budget Group, managing global partnerships with airlines including British Airways, before running her own personalised gift business and later an online South African yoga and pilates clothing brand. Alongside this, she has been actively involved in local voluntary roles within the community.

At Burningfold, Natasha is closely involved in viewings, pre-wedding planning meetings and wedding-day coordination.  From walking couples through the estate to working alongside
caterers, florists and suppliers, she helps ensure every detail follows the plan set out by the couple.

Having known Jess and Richard for many years, Natasha was drawn to the opportunity to help showcase Burningfold as a unique wedding venue in the Surrey Hills. She enjoys being part of a small team and values the individuality of each wedding.
 

For Natasha, the most rewarding moment often comes later in the day - seeing a couple pause in the gardens, surrounded by their guests, taking it all in. Her aim is always the same: that
couples feel complete trust in the team, relaxed and able to enjoy a day where their plans and ideas have come to life.