A rustic stone wedding barn at Chilli Barn in the Yorkshire countryside, featuring outdoor seating, hay bales, and a relaxed garden

MEET THE WEDDING TEAM

At the heart of Chilli Barn is a team of dedicated, creative, and passionate individuals who share one mission. To deliver exceptional Yorkshire weddings and meaningful experiences for our couples. Each member brings unique expertise, fresh ideas, and a commitment to excellence, allowing us to collaborate, innovate, and grow together.

We believe that great work starts with great people, and our team is the driving force behind everything we do.

Portrait of a man with short hair, beard and round black glasses, standing with hands clasped. He wears a dark jacket over a light blue shirt. The background shows a stone wall on one side and a light-coloured wall with warm string lights on the other

RICHARD

General Manager & Business Owner

Around 15 years ago, inspired by couples dreaming of a wedding in the Barn at Yorkgate Farm, Richard and his wife Anne began imagining a new chapter for the family farm, which had been in Anne’s family for generations. With vision, determination, and a love for creating something truly special, Richard oversaw the transformation of the farm into a beautiful wedding venue. In May 2014, Chilli Barn hosted its first wedding, and since then, Richard has grown the venue into one of West Yorkshire’s most sought-after, welcoming around 50 weddings a year. Every detail, from planning to delivery, reflects Richard’s and his fantastic team’s dedication, passion, and commitment to giving couples an unforgettable day.

OLI

Head Chef

As Head Chef at Chilli Barn, Oli has spent the last five years creating food for couples to enjoy on one of the most meaningful days of their lives. He is passionate about great food and loves helping couples with any requests or preferences to ensure their wedding menu feels just right for their celebration. With a strong foundation in vegetarian and plant-based cooking, he takes pride in serving vibrant, flavour-led dishes that guests genuinely enjoy and remember.

Portrait of a man with a beard standing with hands clasped. He wears a black chefs top navy striped apron. The background shows a stone wall on one side and a light-coloured wall with warm string lights on the other
Portrait of a woman with long hair standing. She wears a black top and back cardigan with white detail and belt. The background shows a stone wall on one side and a light-coloured wall with warm string lights on the other

LEAH

Wedding & Events Planner/ Coordinator

Leah has been part of the Chilli Barn team for over 10 years. As the venue’s Wedding Planner & Coordinator, she is passionate about guiding couples through their journey and bringing their vision to life with care, creativity, and calm. With a degree in Business Management up her sleeve, Leah thrives on organisation, clear communication, and creating a seamless experience from the first enquiry right through to the big day. Even after a decade, every celebration continues to inspire her, and she is proud to help make each wedding truly unforgettable.

LUCY

Operations Manager

Lucy brings 25 years of experience in the hospitality and wedding industry to the team, having joined Chilli Barn eight years ago. Always busy both front of house and behind the scenes, Lucy works tirelessly to ensure the smooth running of your wedding day and the venue as a whole.

Portrait of a woman with blonde hair standing with clasped hands. She wears a black jumper. The background shows a stone wall on one side and a light-coloured wall with warm string lights on the other
Portrait of a man with a brown hair standing with hands clasped. He wears a black chefs top black and white striped apron. The background shows a stone wall on one side and a light-coloured wall with warm string lights on the other

BEN

Sous Chef

Ben has been part of the team at Chilli Barn for five years, working across weddings as well as in the neighbouring café, Mistal Kitchen. During his time with us, he has developed his skills through hands-on cookery training, alongside a genuine love for food and life in the kitchen. Ben brings enthusiasm, care, and consistency to everything he does, and is always willing to go the extra mile to support the team and ensure every guest is well looked after.

MEGAN

Weddings & Catering Assistant

Megan brings over 8 years of experience in the hospitality industry, providing her with a strong foundation in exceptional customer service. She joined Chilli Barn in March 2025 and approaches her work with enthusiasm, dedication, and a genuine passion for creating memorable experiences.

Portrait of a woman with blonde hair standing with clasped hands. She wears a black satin top with neck detail. The background shows a stone wall on one side and a light-coloured wall with warm string lights on the other

To enquire about hosting your dream wedding at Chilli Barn

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