Congratulations David and Tara! A Magical Evening at Rufford Mill…

‘You surpassed all expectations and thank you for making it so special for my mum Marion as well’

David and Tara, Rufford Mill, 7th June 2025

Close-up magic during evening reception. Photograph courtesy of Rachael Phillips Photography.

I was delighted when the lovely Tara and David asked me to perform close-up magic during their evening wedding reception at the fantastic Rufford Mill. This is always a wonderful time for some ‘mix-and-mingle’ prestidigitation – when bride, groom and guests are relaxing after the wedding breakfast.

‘It was a lovely, complete surprise, your magic is amazing’ Marion (Tara’s Mum) Photograph courtesy of Rachael Phillips Photography.

The evening would be even more special as Tara’s Mum Marion is a big fan of magic, and has recently celebrated a very important birthday. The newlyweds had managed to keep my presence a secret, so it was a tremendous privilege to provide entertainment for the VIP guest!

It’s always a pleasure to entertain on wedding days! Photograph courtesy of Rachael Phillips Photography.

The exceptional Rachael Phillips Photography were present throughout the evening reception, and I am very thankful that Rachael has shared these tremendous images to display in this article. Do you require a first class photographer for your wedding or special event? Find out more about Rachael and her magnificent service at: Rachael Phillips Photography.

Entertaining Tara, David and close family and friends. Photograph courtesy of Rachael Phillips Photography.

One of the benefits of entertaining during the early evening reception is that I normally have an excellent opportunity to amaze the newlyweds. It was wonderful to provide both close-up sleight-of-hand and larger parlour illusions for Tara, David and close family and friends in the charming function suites of Rufford Mill.

It’s a privilege to create magical memories! Photograph courtesy of Rachael Phillips Photography.

Tara and David’s family and friends were a wonderful group to enthral with a variety of intriguing magical routines and illusions. Indeed, the delightful halls and rustic environs of Rufford Mill always provide the perfect backdrop for plenty of magical amazement on a wedding day! Awarded ‘Best Historic Wedding Venue’ in the 2025 Guides for Brides Customer Service Awards, find out more about this lovely locale at: Rufford Mill Venue.

A parlour show of magic for Tara and David. Photograph courtesy of Rachael Phillips Photography.

Many of Tara and David’s friends had a natural fascination with magic, and it was a pleasure to have the opportunity to perform mysterious mind-reading and prediction effects later in the evening. This branch of the magical art is known as Mentalism, and one of its most famous modern day practitioners is Derren Brown.

Some intimate psychological effects later in the evening. Photograph courtesy of Rachael Phillips Photography.

It truly was a wonderful evening at Rufford Mill celebrating the wedding of David and Tara. Congratulations and best wishes again to the newlyweds, happy birthday Marion, and thank you to Rachael Phillips Photography, and Seana, Carmel and the staff of Rufford Mill.

Rufford Mill. Artwork by David Fox. David creates his own artwork and it often appears within his magic shows!

Rachael Phillips Photography are based in Mansfield, Nottinghamshire.

Website: Rachael Phillips Photography

Telephone Number: 07779 127050

Rufford Mill is an award-winning wedding and events venue based in north Nottinghamshire.

Website: Rufford Mill

Telephone Number: 01623 888525

David Fox is a professional magician based in Nottingham who travels throughout the UK and beyond.

Website: David Fox Magic

Telephone Number: 07946 686258

Congratulations Kieran and Imogen – A Magical Wedding Day at Rufford Mill!

‘Thank you again so much. You were fab and everyone loved it.’

Kieran and Imogen, Rufford Mill, Nottinghamshire, 21st September 2024

It was wonderful to be part of Kieran and Imogen’s big day at the magical Rufford Mill, Nottinghamshire in September last year. The lovely couple and their guests were a joy to entertain during both drinks reception period (immediately after the wedding ceremony) and throughout the early evening reception (after wedding breakfast).

Rufford Mill is a fantastic venue for weddings and special occasions. Find out more at: Rufford Mill Nottinghamshire

Close-up ‘mix-and-mingle’ magic is ideal for wedding day entertainment, and it was a tremendous privilege to amaze Kieran and Imogen’s family and friends during the day reception. Curious card effects, intriguing illusions, and mystifying mind-reading routines were delivered both inside and outside the wonderful venue!

Situated within Rufford Abbey Country Park, there are plenty of outstanding locations for wedding day photos!

Magic is versatile and perfect for all age groups and situations on a wedding day. It can bring guests together who may have never met, and is always an interesting topic for discussion. Find out more at: wedding day magic!

Table-side magic for Kieran and Imogen’s lovely guests.

It is always a pleasure and a privilege to create some magical memories for the newlyweds – particularly during early evening reception when they can relax after the speeches! Child-friendly magic and balloon modelling are two other options I have within my repertoire – in order to entertain any younger guests who may be present too.

It is always magnificent to entertain the newlyweds along with their guests during evening reception on a wedding day.

Overall, it was a fantastic day at the enchanting Rufford Mill. Congratulations again to the lovely Kieran and Imogen! Thank you for investing your trust in me and inviting me to perform on such an important occasion.

Congratulations again Kieran and Imogen! What a fantastic day it was at Rufford Mill.

Rufford Mill is an exceptional wedding and events venue located in north Nottinghamshire, UK. Find out more about this unique location at: Rufford Mill Weddings and Events

David Fox is a professional entertainer who is based in Nottingham, UK. Find out more about him and his unique services at: David Fox Magic

Congratulations Trevor and Sue!

‘it was a fantastic day, thank you again for helping us celebrate’

Trevor and Sue, Eastwood Hall, 23rd June 2023

Some outdoor magic for Trevor and Sue’s guests

It was a tremendous privilege to be part of Trevor and Sue’s wedding day celebrations at the fantastic Eastwood Hall recently. I have been very fortunate to have entertained guests at this lovely venue many times over the years, and it is always great to return.

It’s always great to entertain family and friends on wedding days

I was delighted when Trevor and Sue asked me to provide close-up magic during the drinks reception and table magic throughout the wedding breakfast. This is a superb period to entertain all of the guests, and magic really helps to liven things up and bring everyone together before the evening revelries begin.

Classic table-side illusions for Trevor and Sue’s guests

It truly was a very magical day at Eastwood Hall, and thank you again to the lovely Trevor and Sue for investing your trust in me. The newlyweds’ family and friends were a real pleasure to mingle with and entertain.

Congratulations again to Trevor and Sue!

Eastwood Hall is a fantastic four star venue located in Nottinghamshire. Ideal for weddings, corporate events and parties. Find out more at: www.eastwood-hall.co.uk

David Fox is a professional magician who is based in the East Midlands. Find out more about him at: www.magician-midlands.co.uk

Congratulations Sarah and Jay

Absolutely brilliant! Thank you so much for making our day extra special!

Sarah and Jay, Cockliffe Country House, September 2022

It was tremendous to be part of Sarah and Jay’s wedding day celebrations at Cockliffe Country House, Nottingham in September 2022. It is always a pleasure to entertain at this fine venue, and I was very privileged indeed to mingle with the newlyweds’ close family and friends.

Sarah and Jay had a bright sunny day for their wedding, and it was a pleasure to perform magic in the gardens of Cockliffe Country House.

The period from the end of the wedding breakfast until the first dance is traditionally an excellent time for magic on a wedding day. It was fantastic to be able to provide close-up magic, child-friendly effects and balloon modelling too. Both day guests and evening guests can share in the entertainment during this time, and it brings everyone closer together. Sarah and Jay were blessed with fantastic weather, so guests were able to sit outside and enjoy the spacious gardens of Cockliffe Country House.

It’s always a pleasure to entertain all the generations on a wedding day

It truly was a magnificent occasion, and Sarah and Jay’s guests were a fantastic audience to entertain. One of the most wonderful aspects of performing magic on a wedding day is the appeal it has across the generations. I am always very fortunate to have the opportunity to entertain everyone from grandchildren to grandparents!

Congratulations Sarah and Jay! It was a magical day at Cockliffe Country House, and I am really looking forward to seeing you soon at Pat and John’s wedding this September.

Cockliffe Country House is a wedding and events venue in Nottinghamshire. Find out more about this exceptional place at: Cockliffe Country House

Cockliffe Country House – artwork by David Fox. As well as performing magic, David can also create images of special places.

David Fox is a professional entertainer based in the Midlands, UK. Find out more about him at: David Fox Magic

Congratulations Will and Amelia!

‘We just wanted to send a massive thank you for everything you did to make our day so magical’

Will and Amelia, Stubton Hall, 29th May 2022

It was a pleasure to be part of the lovely Amelia and Will’s wedding day celebrations in May at Stubton Hall. I was delighted when Laura (Amelia’s close friend) very kindly recommended my services to the bride. Amelia wanted the magic to be a special surprise for fiancé Will who is a big fan of prestidigitation.

Close-up magic in the beautiful gardens of Stubton Hall.

Throughout the many months of preparation for the wedding day, Amelia managed to keep my inclusion a secret from Will – a fantastic feat of magic in itself! It was tremendous to see the look of surprise on the newlywed groom’s face when we met during the drinks reception period. Indeed, this was a great time to mingle freely with Will and Amelia’s family and friends: performing close-up magic in the enchanting environs of Stubton Hall.

Mix-and-mingle magic for Amelia and Will’s guests.

Performing table-side entertainment was a massive pleasure!

Table magic throughout the wedding breakfast period was a marvellous privilege to perform. Amelia and Will’s guests were a fantastic group to entertain and it also provided an exciting opportunity to deliver some special routines for the top table. This is always great to do on a wedding day, particularly if the couple and close family have been engaged in group photo shots during the drinks reception period.

Laura takes the mysterious envelope out of the safe…

A very special thank you to Laura and Lee for keeping two predictions I made, and delivered to the venue two weeks prior to the wedding, securely locked up in the safe of Stubton Hall. These mysterious predictions had been sealed inside two envelopes and would later be magically revealed to Amelia and Will…

Amelia managed to keep my inclusion as a secret from Will throughout the many months of wedding planning – incredible!

I also really appreciate Amelia and Will’s decision to share these fantastic photographs for this article. The exceptional Darren Creswell Photography did an outstanding job in capturing all those very special moments throughout the wedding day. Find out more about the services they provide at: Darren Creswell Photography

Congratulations again to the lovely newlyweds Amelia and Will!

Congratulations Amelia and Will! It was fantastic to be part of such a magical and very special day at Stubton Hall.

Stubton Hall is a first class wedding and events venue located close to Newark, North Nottinghamshire, UK. Find out more about the outstanding services they provide at: Stubton Hall Venue

David Fox is a professional entertainer based in Nottingham, UK. Find out more about him at: David Fox Magic

The Legend of Robin Hood

Robin evaded the Sheriff of Nottingham by hiding in the limestone caverns

Robin Hood is first mentioned in the poem ‘Piers Plowman’

Robin Hood is Nottinghamshire’s most famous and enduring celebrity. An international icon, the mysterious man from Loxley has been honoured in popular culture since the late fourteenth century. From rousing medieval ballads, to multi-million dollar Hollywood movies, the archetypal champion of the underdog continues to capture hearts and minds.

Legend has it that Robin evaded the Sheriff of Nottingham by hiding in the limestone caverns of Creswell Crags. Indeed, to this day, one of the caves still bears the name of the famous outlaw. This area of Sherwood Forest would have been perfect for renegades such as Robin and his men to remain undetected for long periods of time. As well as plentiful supplies of fresh water, master bowmen would have enjoyed a sizeable selection of wild game to hunt. The caves themselves offered welcome sanctuary from the prying eyes of the Sheriff – as well as the harsh winter gales and snows.

The caverns and forest would have been perfect for outlaws like Robin to hide

However, Robin was not the first inhabitant of this magical limestone gorge and was merely following in the footsteps of his ancient ancestors. Creswell Crags boasts the northernmost displays of pre-historic cave paintings and etchings to be found in Europe. Evidence of habitation within the caverns dates back to Neanderthal times during the last Ice Age – well over 40,000 years ago!

Cave 2 — You can book a tour of Robin Hood’s Cave

Fossilised tools and weapons have been discovered in excavations since the Victorian era, and this incredible area of Nottinghamshire continues to yield priceless details about our ancient forefathers. Organised tours can now be taken deep into the caves, and visitors can marvel at Great Britain’s sole exhibition of Ice Age Cave Art! The Museum and Heritage Centre also offer a fascinating array of carefully preserved artefacts from the gorge.

Savour the mysteries, legends and enchantments of Creswell Crags during your next visit to Nottinghamshire. The Museum and Heritage Centre is readily accessible from the M1 (Junction 30) and within a five minute drive of Worksop town centre on the main A60 route.

The Major Oak is very close to Creswell Crags – Robin is said to have slept beneath this tree

Follow in the footsteps of the swashbuckling superstar and learn more about Robin Hood’s county! The gorge is also in close proximity to Sherwood Forest Visitor Centre and National Nature Reserve (the site of the famous Major Oak) and just over 30 miles from Nottingham city centre itself.

James Woodward’s famous bronze statue and carvings of Robin Hood can be viewed at Nottingham Castle.

The author of the article is David Fox, a professional entertainer and freelance writer based in the UK. Fid out more about him at: David Fox Magic.

Visit Creswell Crag’s website now at: www.creswell-crags.org.uk and book your exciting tour of the caves.
Further reading/links:

Creswell Crags Gift Shop Article

Wikipedia Article on Robin Hood

Visit Nottinghamshire Website for Attractions

Sherwood Forest Visitor Centre

Nottingham Castle Information

Magical Wedding Days at Swancar Farm

Swancar Farm has developed a sterling reputation as one of the Midlands’ finest wedding venues. Located in close proximity to Nottingham city centre, yet situated in several acres of idyllic rolling countryside, it offers unique rustic charm coupled with accessibility.

Couples can enjoy their dream wedding day in the seclusion and privacy of the garden, courtyard and spacious function suites. The diligent events team and exceptional in-house caterers will also ensure it truly is a day to savour and enjoy. It also offers immaculate accommodation for those who may prefer to remain in situ.

Swancar Farm is a venue I always thoroughly enjoy performing magic at. I have many fond memories of mingling with guests outside on glorious summer days, and of performing parlour magic in the elegantly furnished orangery. Most recently, it was a massive privilege to provide entertainment during Dave and Kerry’s evening reception immediately after the speeches. This is a venue which truly offers many exciting opportunities for my style of magic.

If you are currently seeking a wedding venue in the East Midlands, visit Swancar Farm’s website at: www.swancarfarmcountryhouse.com or for friendly support and advice telephone: 0115 930 6528.

For magic on your wedding day, please visit: www.magician-midlands.co.uk or text/call: 07946686258.

Happy Birthday Gem!

It was tremendous to be part of Gem Vending’s 50th birthday party celebrations. Photograph courtesy of Dave Fuller Photography.

It was a massive privilege to be part of Gem Vending’s 50th birthday party celebrations at Langley Mill United Cricket Ground. Gem have been providing state-of-the-art drinks and snacks vending machines throughout the Midlands and Yorkshire since the late 1960s, and their team hosted a memorable occasion. For more details, please visit their website at: Gem Vending.

Dave Fuller - Family Photographer-2018-1 — Langley Mill United Cricket Club is a family friendly environment – excellent for all types of event! Photograph courtesy of Dave Fuller Photography.

Langley Mill United Cricket Club was an excellent choice of venue and is in close proximity to Gem’s offices. The club boasts well-stocked bar facilities, function space, and a friendly and diligent events team. Visit their website at: Langley Mill Cricket Club

Dave Fuller - Family Photographer-2018-2 — Contact the sensational Joey of Party2Party today for top drawer children’s entertainment! Photograph courtesy of Dave Fuller Photography.

It was a real pleasure to work alongside the exceptional Joey of Party2Party who enthralled all the children present with his games, magic and fantastic bouncy castle. Joey provides a superb service and has a fantastic personality. If you are seeking first class children’s entertainment for your next special event, visit his website now at: Party2Party.

A party wouldn’t be a party without delicious catering, and Barlows Butchers were a tremendous hit with all of the guests. This family run business has been providing sumptuous meat products since the 1940s. If you are seeking a caterer for your next special occasion around the Langley Mill area, please visit their website at: Barlows Butchers.

I was delighted to meet DJ Eddy Lush again at the celebrations. I had last worked alongside him at a wedding reception several years ago and he was on fine form providing a great selection of tunes past and present for everyone to enjoy. Eddy also masterfully orchestrated a karaoke contest. The standard was very high indeed and it certainly added something very special to the proceedings. So expect to see the contestants appearing on Britain’s Got Talent very soon! Visit Eddy’s website now for a DJ at your next event: Walk on Entertainments.

dave fuller final — Well done to everyone at Gem Vending for organising such a lovely day! Photograph courtesy of Dave Fuller Photography.

Such an important occasion should most certainly be documented for posterity, and the highly talented Dave Fuller was present to capture those magical moments. I am very fortunate that Dave agreed to provide some of his exceptional photographs for this blog article. Professional, personable and meticulous, Dave is perfect for weddings, parties and promotional shoots around the East Midlands and beyond. Hire Dave Fuller for your next event and visit his website at: Dave Fuller Photography.

Congratulations to Gem Vending on your 50th anniversary! Well done to everyone at the company for hosting such a memorable evening. Here’s to the next 50 years…

The author of the article is David Fox, an award winning entertainer and freelance writer based in the UK. Visit David’s website at: David Fox Magic or phone him today on: 07946686258.

Stubton Hall – Winter Showcase – 9th December 2017 – 3pm – 6pm

stubton hall christmas.jpg

If you are planning a wedding or special event with a difference, make sure you visit Stubton Hall on 9th December for their spectacular Winter Showcase. The venue has established an exceptional reputation, and has to be experienced to be fully appreciated. Jess and her fantastic events team will be on hand during the day to guide you around the hall and respond to any of your queries.

Located close to both the major A1 artery and the historic town of Newark, Stubton Hall boasts idyllic grounds, elegantly restored banqueting facilities, and first class accommodation for you and your guests. It has been a tremendous privilege to have performed at so many fantastic events here over the past few years. The events team are masters at ensuring excellence, and every bride and groom I have performed magic for have always been delighted with the exquisite level of service.

spicer_314 — A special magical effect for Steve and Sophie, August 2016. Captured by the fantastic Paul Massey.

I have had the pleasure to have worked with many fantastic suppliers at Stubton Hall. The immaculate photographer Paul Massey, who is based in Lincoln, very kindly provided photographs from Steve and Sophie’s wedding at Stubton Hall in August 2016. Ever the consummate professional, Paul will ensure all of those special moments are captured on your wedding day. Paul’s website is: www.masseyphotography.co.uk

stubton

Visit Stubton Hall’s website at: www.stubtonhall.co.uk

Telephone number: 01636 626187

The winter showcase runs from 3pm to 6pm.

David Fox provides customised magic and entertainment for all sorts of special events. Visit his new website at: www.davidfoxmagician.co.uk

For a magician in Newark: Magician Newark

David’s Telephone number: 07946 686 258

Sponsor a Tree For Age UK

ageuk 1

Age UK Nottingham and Nottinghamshire are celebrating their 75th birthday this year and have set a target of planting 750 trees across the county. The project will help to provide invaluable support for the elderly as well as enhancing Robin Hood’s countryside for future generations.

ageuk 2 — Well known for their shops around the county, Age UK provide invaluable support.

The charity offers a range of vital services for older people throughout Nottinghamshire and has helped to empower thousands. Age UK recognises that independence, dignity and personal development do not stop when we decide to retire.

Indeed, the highly innovative ‘Men In Sheds’ project has been a great success. Elderly men now have the opportunity to share and learn new skills whilst making a valuable contribution to the local community. Society as a whole can benefit massively when the older generation is allowed to shine.

ageuk 3 — Sponsor a tree for Age UK. Provide a positive legacy for the future.

I think it is a tremendous idea and I am well aware of the fantastic contribution Age UK make. My friend Maggie Ross MBE works for the charity and recently told me about their plans. The last time I had the good fortune to work with Maggie was when she organised an exceptional Great Gatsby themed ball at the Walton Hotel. It was a fantastic success and raised considerable funds for Age UK.

Age UK are inviting the public to sponsor a tree. If you would like to participate in this very worthy cause, the free phone number is 0800 088 6349 or send an email to getinvolved@ageuknotts.org.uk

David Fox Magic

magician-midlands.co.uk – 07946 686 258

Tag: Nottinghamshire