How Will Coronavirus Affect My Wedding? A 7 Step Guide to Dealing with the Outbreak.

At Bridebook, our mission is to make it easier for everyone to plan their weddings. However, if you are getting married in the coming weeks and months, we understand that you have concerns about how the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic could affect your wedding day. We’d like to help you navigate this tough time by providing a wedding-specific checklist to help you manage your wedding plans and any adjustments that you may need to make.

We also believe strongly in the power of community during times like these, so we have set up a Facebook group for anyone involved in planning a wedding. Join here for some practical tips from our team of experts, as well as friendly support from others in a similar situation.

1. Keep your loved ones safe

Wedding guests celebrating and clapping for the wedding couple

First and foremost, your number one priority should always be keeping you and your guests safe, especially those who are at a high risk (elderly people and those with underlying health conditions). As weddings are often a gathering of generations including parents and grandparents, try to be understanding if your loved ones are not able to attend your wedding. There’s no doubt that you and your guests will be frustrated, but remember that it is possible to celebrate your wedding from afar.

It also goes without saying that you should look to official sources (government, WHO, etc.) for specific guidance on what measures you and your wedding guests should take regarding gatherings, travel and social distancing. These recommendations are changing regularly and may affect your wedding in different ways, so it’s important to stay up-to-date with official sources.

Bridebook tip: Continue to check the government and other official sources to keep up to date with what guidance is in place.

Bridebook tip: Start thinking about ways to allow guests to participate in your wedding from afar. Consider live-streaming or recording some of your event if you are in a situation where the wedding can go ahead, but not everyone can attend. Ask if your venue has these capabilities or look at other DIY options, such as Facebook Live, Skype, or Zoom.

2. Talk to your wedding venue and suppliers

Woman holding phone to contact her wedding suppliers

The wedding industry is facing a very difficult and stressful time ahead to maintain their businesses. We know that they are hugely sympathetic to you all. Industry professionals care passionately about making couples’ days special and go to extraordinary lengths to do so. They are now facing a whole new challenge to balance this, while considering the short, mid and long term impacts on their business and livelihoods.

While the government only has suggested guidelines in place rather than official closure, you may find that there is little they can do that’s outside of what is covered in the contract. Your best bet is to ask them what their policy is at the moment, but be appreciative of the fact that they have no more information than you and will likely be responding on a day-by-day basis, depending on what new information is provided.

Bridebook tip: Check in with your venue and suppliers, but be understanding that they are just as concerned as you about the situation. They’ll likely have different policies in place so you’ll need to understand how your specific providers are managing these challenging circumstances.

3. Check your wedding insurance

Couple sitting at a kitchen table with a laptop focusing on sorting out their wedding insurance

If you have wedding insurance, check what you are covered for and under what circumstances. We understand that coverage varies across different insurance providers, so you’ll need to understand specifically what your policy entails regarding cancellations and postponements. Once you get in touch with your policy provider, share the details with your venue and suppliers where possible.

Bridebook tip: Ask the following questions to your insurance provider where relevant:

a) If we ourselves have to self isolate, will you cover our wedding being postponed?

b) One of our parents/grandparents could fall into a category that is forced to self isolate (age, health conditions). If this scenario were to arise, would we be covered to postpone our wedding?

c) Our Best Man / Maid of Honour lives overseas and is banned from travelling – will a postponement be covered?

d) We have planned for 140 guests. Would you cover a postponement if the government officially limits gatherings to under 100, 50 or 10?

e) What is your policy based on the government’s current advice? If the wedding is formally banned under any future government ruling, will you cover the cost of postponement?

f) If the wedding is unable to go ahead but I am offered an alternative date which would usually be cheaper (e.g. off peak), will you cover the cost differential?

4. Understand the travel guidelines for guests and your honeymoon

Wedding couple sitting on a log at the beach

Living, as we do, in a globally connected world, many weddings have guests from all over the world. Check to see if guests from other countries can make it, but plan with the expectation that they may not be able to travel. This may affect your guest transport and accommodation providers, so you should familiarise yourself with their policies if guests are unable to attend. Be aware that travel restrictions are changing daily, which may mean some people do not feel comfortable travelling at the moment.

Similarly, your honeymoon may be affected by travel restrictions. You should check what travel restrictions are in place for your honeymoon destination, whether it is within the UK or abroad. Check with your honeymoon transport and accommodation providers to see what policies are in place in the event of a cancellation or postponement. Additionally, if you have purchased travel insurance you should contact your policy providers to understand your coverage.

Bridebook tip: Check the FCO pages about travel guidelines here.

5. Discuss contingency plans with your partner

Couple holding hands while looking at a lake

With the situation changing on a daily basis, you may need to make contingency plans for your wedding. While there may still be some unknowns, it is good to have a think about the different scenarios and what you would do in each case. Talk to your partner and see what they feel about these plans too.

Remember that the purpose of getting married is to bring your and your partner together, and during this time you’ll need to make decisions together and rely on each other for support. Your wedding plans may get interrupted and altered which will be very frustrating, but you’ll get through these challenges together.

Bridebook tip: Discuss potential plans with your partner, so that you know what is important to both of you. Start with the following 4 questions:

a) If necessary, would you want to get legally married at the earliest opportunity but postpone the party? Or would you rather postpone both?

b) Who would need to be able to attend for you to be happy for the wedding to go ahead?

c) If we need to postpone the wedding, what would you rather do? Postpone for a short time (and use an off-peak season or weekday) or push back further to keep the plans as similar as possible?

d) What should we do about the honeymoon? Would you prefer to postpone it or change location (if possible)?

Bridebook tip: Prepare for potential changes to the event itself. Start by asking yourself these three questions:

a) What would we do if we need to reduce numbers to meet future government guidelines? How would we go about it? Use the Bridebook guest info collector in the guest list tool to collect email addresses. Just add five guests to the list and the feature will pop up.

b) How can we still make those not present part of the celebration? Can we arrange for someone to live-stream or record the ceremony?

c) What if a supplier has to pull out at the last minute? Do we have relatives or friends who can capture photos or videos for you, bake a cake, or create an amazing playlist? What really matters for the day?

6. Update your guests

Woman typing on a laptop while sitting on a bed

Whatever tools you are using to communicate to your guests (wedding website, email, paper), keep them informed about any changes in wedding plans that may affect them. Also, let them know how best to contact you if their RSVP status changes.

Bridebook tip: Communicate with your guests as early as possible, and let them know how to communicate with you.

7. Join our Bridebook community group on Facebook

We know that this is a stressful time for everyone planning a wedding at the moment, so we have created a Facebook group for all couples to join. We hope we can all help each other with practical tips, as well as find and connect with other people in similar situations. You are not alone!

Bridebook tip: Join the Facebook group today and find some comfort and support in these tough times.

Finally

We hope that you found this article useful and we look forward to seeing you in the Facebook group, so that we can offer more support in the coming weeks.

Stay strong, keep safe, and know that this will all be over at some point. In the meantime, we hope that Bridebook can be a source of support for you.

Finally, give us a follow on Instagram if you would like some funny/cute/inspirational distraction from the news.

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30 Fun and Inspiring Engagement Party Ideas

An engagement party is the perfect way to celebrate your happiness with your family and relatives. It’s a chance to unwind, have a couple of drinks and enjoy your engagement before the craziness of wedding planning gets into full swing. So, until you walk down the aisle, your engagement is the best way to share the joy among your guests and allows you to show off your engagement ring to a chorus of oohs and ahhs.

An engagement party can be anything you want it to be and you can be as wild or as low-key as you like. Whatever your style, taste and budget, there’s an engagement party type out there for you.

But where do you start? There’s so much to choose from, how do you know what’s right for you? In this post, we’ll run through more than 30 unique engagement party ideas so you and your loved ones can party the night (or afternoon, or weekend or brunch…) away in style.

Once you know what kind of party you want to throw, read our post on how to plan an engagement party to get things moving and make sure you don’t forget a single thing.

30 fun and unique engagement party ideas

If you’re looking for some inspiration for creative ways to throw a memorable engagement party, then look no further. Below are 30 ideas for throwing the perfect engagement celebration bash.

1. Hawaiian Luau party

Because we don’t have quite as many white sandy beaches and crystal blue oceans in the UK, Hawaiian Luau parties are pretty rare, so it’ll make for a fun and unique way to celebrate your engagement. With great Hawaiian party food (just no pineapple on your pizza, please), decorations and games, your Hawaiian Luau-themed party will amaze your guests and add a lot of fun, excitement and limboing to your engagement party.

2. Glamping party

Glamping parties are one of the trendiest engagement party ideas that will give a whole new look and feel to your engagement celebrations. You can enjoy games, BBQ, S’mores and some drinks as you envelop yourself in nature, play some games and tell spooky stories around the fire. It’s a great way to shut yourself off from the rest of the world and enjoy spending time with loved ones.

3. Casino night

As you’ve already won the jackpot of your life by finding your soulmate, you can keep that winning feeling going by arranging a casino party at your place. Get some dice and a couple of packs of cards and let your guests have fun in your very own casino. You could also hire casino tables and dealers to give it that proper Las Vegas feeling. Just remember it’s all for fun, so don’t bet all your wedding savings on black!

4. Couples costume party

A couples costume party is one of the trendiest engagement party ideas you can go for, bringing extra fun and mischief into the party mix. You can invite your guests to dress up in costumes related to famous couples, which will add a fun twist to your engagement party.

From Posh and Becks to Romeo and Juliet, your guests will enjoy getting into the celebrity couples’ characters. You can also make a game out of getting your guests to guess who everyone is dressed as.

5. Dessert party

If you have a sweet tooth, then throwing a dessert party for your guests is a great way to get your taste buds tingling. Instead of a standard buffet or sit-down meal, you can add a variety of desserts to your engagement menu and watch as your guests get high on your sugary supply.

From silky smooth white-chocolate parfait to unctuous chocolatey truffles with strawberries, you can offer a little slice of heaven. You can even plan to serve up a selection of various famous dessert wines like Riesling, Tawny Port and Sauternes to complement each dish.

6. Desert party

This one will really get your guests’ minds working. Surely they meant it’s a dessert party, they’ll say. Throw expectations on their head by throwing a party themed around deserts, with cactus-decorated cupcakes, cowboy-inspired barbecue food and even crispy salt and pepper scorpions. In the evening, you could sit around a campfire and crack out the guitar to sing a few tunes.

7. Mardi Gras

Let your hair down with extravagant outfits, flying beads and mouth-watering Cajun cuisine. In the UK, Mardi Gras is still a relatively new trend, so be ahead of the curve with this fun-filled way to party into the night.

8. Oktoberfest party

Embrace your German side with an Oktoberfest-themed engagement party. All it takes are some steins of beer, tasty sausages, salty pretzels and your finest lederhosen. Throw in a Bavarian Oompah band and you’ve got everything you need to get the party started whatever time of year it is.

9. Wine and cheese tasting

If you plan to throw your engagement party in the spring or summer, a wine and cheese tasting party is a brilliant option.

Hosting a wine and cheese tasting party is the best way to kick off the summer season with your family and friends. You can even embrace the beauty of the surroundings by adding flowerbeds, lights, candles, and as many decorations as you’d like. Just remember to get a wide selection of cheeses, both for those who like the smelly stuff and those who aren’t particularly adventurous.

10. Movie night

A movie night is one of the best options to enjoy and relax at your engagement party. Hire a projector and turn your engagement hall into a movie theatre, or your back garden into a makeshift drive-in.

To make your guests feel even more comfortable, you can keep it laid back by organising a cosy and comfy setup along with bundles of treats for guests, including classic cinema snacks like popcorn, nachos and pick ‘n’ mix. If you’ve invited friends and family with kids, remember to choose films a little closer to Jumanji than Scarface.

11. Beach bonfire

A bonfire at the beach adds a lovely vibe to your engagement party as you sit back, enjoy some food and drinks and talk with loved ones, all while the waves lap gently against the shore. You can also take a Bluetooth speaker and use your phone to play a few tunes as you hang out.

You can time the party in such a way that the guests have a moment to meet during the daylight before the orange and pink hues cover the sky. The whole setup makes for a romantic and memorable party. Just make sure you have permission to light a fire if you’re using a public beach.

12. Murder mystery

A great way to add fun and mystery to your engagement party is by organising a convoluted murder for you and your guests to solve. It’s impossible not to enjoy interacting with actors as you try to figure out who committed such a terrible act – you or your fiance might even be the murderer or the victim – or both. Scandalous!

There are plenty of murder mystery companies and am-dram groups that will come to you to host the game to make sure you have a killer engagement party.

13. Retro arcade party

If you want to bring out your inner child, a retro arcade party is the perfect option for you and your guests. Retro arcade parties offer a unique and competitive twist to your celebration, especially if you grew up playing a lot of the old classic machines.

From pinball to Pac-Man to Space Invaders, your guests can enjoy getting stuck in blasting, jumping and flying through various games. You can even book the arcades that have bars as well so that your guests can enjoy adult beverages while having fun – that’ll appease Grandma while the rest of you play a few games.

14. Roller disco party

Another retro favourite, a roller disco party is an amazing way to add fun to your engagement celebrations. You can arrange an adult-only disco party where you and your friends knock back a couple of drinks to help cushion the occasional fall, or include the kids for a crazy, laugh-filled skate-a-thon.

Throw in some classic tunes, a few slices of pizza and a cheeky drink or two, and you have all the makings of an unforgettable engagement party.

15. Brewery party

Breweries are fabulous venues for parties, with plenty of delicious drinks at your fingertips. Whether it’s a simple get-together among friends and family or a more elaborate engagement party with a featured brewmaster, organising the ultimate brewery party is as simple as… organising a booze up in a brewery!

16. Hollywood red carpet event

Add some Hollywood A-lister glitz and glamour to your engagement party with a red carpet, paparazzi and a few glasses of bubbles. You and your guests will feel extra special as you lord it up for the evening.

17. Globetrotter party

Celebrate the next adventure the two of you are about to go on by reliving your previous travel memories together. Serve international food and drinks and fill your venue with maps so your guests can plot their own around-the-world trip.

18. Masquerade ball

To add a unique and elegant feel to your engagement party, why not throw a masquerade ball? You can invite your guests to dress in their finest outfits and encourage them to design their own creative and extravagant masks.

To embrace the theme, you can serve your guests cocktails and Venetian-inspired food, and even decorate the venue in plenty of gold, with twinkling fairy lights and flickering candles to set the mood.

19. Garden party

A garden party is a great idea that will enhance the beauty of your engagement day. Put on a beautiful spread, cover the garden in fairy lights and glowing lanterns, and watch as the garden gets enveloped in magic as the sun starts to set. Keep food and drink on theme by offering elderflower and lavender cocktails and serving a selection of tasty plant-based dishes.

20. Pool party

A classic pool party is a huge crowd-pleaser, and because it’s not common in the UK, it has a massive WOW factor. Throw on some tunes, serve some mocktails and enjoy the sun as you play games and relax in the water. Check with your local pool or lido to see what kind of private party packages they offer.

21. Backyard BBQ

Why not keep things simple with a backyard BBQ? Everyone knows what to expect; some slightly overdone food, some ice-cold drinks and a few pesky wasps – but there’ll also be some laughs, music and fun with a relaxed and chilled atmosphere.

22. Cooking class

For something fun, different and challenging, a cooking class led by a professional chef is a wonderful way to get stuck in and make some delicious food. There are dozens of different cuisines you could try, from making sushi rolls to tossing pizza dough. And the best part is, you can sit down to enjoy your food and a few drinks afterwards.

23. Game night

There’s nothing quite like a game night, so why not bring a bunch of people together and play Charades or Pictionary, or some quick-fire versions of some of the classics? Guess Who?, Twister, Jenga, Hungry Hungry Hippos and if you’re really feeling brave, Monopoly. You could even play a selection of relationship- and couples-themed games, or a quiz all about your journey towards being engaged. Just remember not to get too worked up – it’s only a game after all!

24. Arts and crafts party

Crack out your creativity and rope your guests into taking part in some arts and crafts. It could be knitting, pottery painting, or even some still-life drawing if you’re feeling adventurous. Encourage your guests to take their creations home as a keepsake.

25. Karaoke night

If you and your loved ones love belting out a few numbers after a drink or two, a karaoke night is a hilarious way to get everyone in the mood to party. To keep it related to your engagement, select a playlist of romantic tunes or songs that mean something to the two of you.

26. Fairground fun

Enjoy some candy floss, toffee apples and burgers while trying to hook a duck or win at the coconut shy. You could even have a cake themed to a carousel with sugar work horses. Everyone loves the fun of the fair, so bring that joy to your engagement party.

27. Fairytale party

For a magical engagement party, embrace fairytales or Disney classics and ask your guests to come dressed as their favourite prince or princess. Themed food options could be not-so-poisoned apples, the grey stuff (we hear it’s delicious) and Mickey Mouse-shaped waffles.

28. Boat party

Instead of partying on dry land, why not take to the seas (or a lake or canal) in a boat? Let the current take you as you knock back some drinks, chill out with loved ones and soak in some sunshine.

29. Bollywood night

Embrace good food, a brilliant atmosphere and great entertainment with a Bollywood-themed party, complete with vibrant colours and fabulous Bollywood dancing.

30. Comedy club night

Tickle your funny bone by organising a trip to your local comedy club, where you can enjoy some drinks and a few sets by local comedians. Just make sure you sit on the front row so the two of you get picked on by the comics – it’ll leave your guests howling with laughter and give the two of you great memories of your big night.

Get started on your wedding planning

After your engagement party, you can focus on planning your perfect wedding. Sign up to Bridebook today to use our free resources and tools to plan your big day.

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Happy Planning!

Ultimate Guide to Wedding Invitations: Design, Etiquette, and Trends

When planning your big day, the first impression you’ll make on your guests is through your wedding invitation. It sets the tone for your wedding and gives guests a glimpse into the style and theme of the event. This guide will delve deep into every aspect of wedding invitations: from design and etiquette to the latest trends.

1. The Importance of a Wedding Invitation

A wedding invitation is not just a mere piece of paper. It’s a reflection of the couple’s personality, style, and the ambiance they wish to create for their wedding day.

2. Designing Your Wedding Invitation

Designing your wedding invitation is a creative process that allows couples to express their unique style and the essence of their love story. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown to help guide you:

Theme and Style: Before diving into colors or typography, decide on an overarching theme or style. Do you want a rustic charm, classic elegance, modern minimalism, or a quirky, offbeat design? Your theme will set the groundwork for other design elements.
Colors: Your color choice is paramount. Start with your wedding colors or those that resonate with your chosen theme. For instance, pastels are perfect for spring weddings, while jewel tones may suit a winter celebration. Don’t be afraid to play with color gradients or metallic shades for added flair.
Typography: Fonts play a significant role in conveying the mood of your invitation. Traditional weddings often gravitate towards script or calligraphy fonts, while contemporary designs might use bold, clean typefaces. Combining two complementary fonts can also add depth and interest.
Graphics and Illustrations: These elements can be the highlight of your invitation design:
- Floral Designs: Ideal for garden or rustic-themed weddings.
- Geometric Patterns: Offers a modern, chic look.
- Custom Illustrations: Personalized sketches of the couple or significant landmarks can make your invite truly one-of-a-kind.
- Monograms: Personalized monograms of the couple’s initials woven into the design add a touch of elegance.
Material: The choice of material can elevate the look and feel of your invitation:
- Classic Paper: Opt for textured or linen paper for a luxurious feel.
- Velvet: Adds a touch of opulence and is soft to the touch.
- Wood: Perfect for rustic or boho-themed weddings.
- Acrylic: This modern choice is sleek and can be paired with beautiful inks or even etching.
- Fabric: Cloth invitations or fabric scrolls can be an exotic and memorable choice.
Envelope Design: An often-overlooked aspect, the envelope is the first thing your guests see. Consider envelope liners, wax seals, or embossing for added sophistication.
Printing Techniques: The way your invitation is printed can drastically impact its aesthetics:
- Letterpress: This technique gives a debossed effect, where
- the design is pressed into the paper.
- Foil Stamping: Adds a metallic sheen to selected areas, perfect for luxurious invites.
- Digital Printing: A versatile option that allows for vibrant color reproduction.
- Thermography: Creates raised ink, giving texture and a classic feel.
Additional Elements: Consider adding ribbons, dried flowers, lace, or even semi-precious stones for a tactile and visual treat.

3. Wedding Invitation Etiquette

How long before a wedding should you send invitations?

Typically, wedding invitations are sent out 6-8 weeks before the wedding day. If you’re hosting a destination wedding, giving your guests more notice—around 3-4 months—is advisable, so they can make necessary travel arrangements.

What do I write on a wedding invitation?

A wedding invitation usually includes:

The names of the hosts (often the parents of the bride).
The couple’s names.
A request to attend the wedding, such as “request the pleasure of your company.”
Date and time of the ceremony.
Location of the ceremony.
Reception details, if different from the ceremony venue.
RSVP information.

Here’s a simple example: “Mr. and Mrs. John Smith request the pleasure of your company at the wedding of their daughter, Emma Smith, to Liam Johnson on Saturday, the fifth of June, at three o’clock in the afternoon at the Rose Garden Chapel. Reception to follow at the Grand Ballroom of Hillside Hotel.“

Whose name goes first on a wedding invitation?

Traditionally, the bride’s name precedes the groom’s on a wedding invitation. For instance, “Emma Smith and Liam Johnson.” However, modern invitations might not follow this convention, especially if the couple or their families have a preference.

How much time do you give guests to RSVP to a wedding?

It’s customary to ask guests to RSVP about 2-3 weeks before the wedding. This allows you ample time to finalize seating arrangements, catering headcounts, and other logistics dependent on the guest count.

4. Trending Now: Wedding Invitation Trends for 2023

Sustainable Invitations: Eco-friendly materials and digital invites are gaining traction.
Mixed Media: Combining materials like paper and acrylic, or paper and fabric, offers a unique tactile experience.
Interactive Invitations: QR codes that lead to a personal video or your wedding website are innovative additions.
Bold Colors: While pastels are timeless, bold and contrasting colors are making a statement this year.

5. Budgeting for Your Invitations

Remember, the cost isn’t just the card. Consider the price of stamps, envelopes, and any additional inserts. If on a tight budget, digital invitations or simpler designs can be more cost-effective.

Your wedding invitation is the first chapter of your wedding story. Make it memorable, personal, and a true reflection of your journey together. Whether you’re going traditional, trendy, or somewhere in between, ensure it resonates with the essence of your special day.

What To Include On Your Information Sheet

Starting to put together your wedding invitation suite? Then a big well done from us because that likely means you’ve sorted your Guest List – and that’s no mean feat! Now, if you haven’t already, you’ll want to take a look at our introduction to your wedding stationery and start off by getting to grips with all the different items you’ll need. Done that? Then read on to learn all about your wedding information sheet.

Psst! Need to know where to send your invitations? Try using our handy Address Collector to sort it all out in just one click.

What Is Your Wedding Information Sheet For?

Well, as we always say, your wedding is the celebration of the century – and while that means tons of fun, it also means lots of logistics! Since your wedding invitations only include the very basics (date, time, location), your wedding information sheet lets your guests know everything else: how to get to the venue, where they can stay, what they should wear… Plus, it lessens the chance that you’ll have to field a ton of last-minute queries on the day!

Bridebook.co.uk- order of service written on a blackboard — By Guy Hearn

What Information Should You Include On Your Wedding Information Sheet?

Well, every wedding is different – so your wedding information sheet will be specific to the details and requirements of your own wedding. The easiest thing to do is to put yourself in the shoes of one of your wedding guests and think about what questions they might have! To get you started, here are a few things we’d expect to find on most information sheets:

1. Directions

Always include directions to your ceremony and/or reception venue. You may also want to include maps of surrounding area for guests who aren’t familiar with the location. Bonus points if you throw in a list of local attractions and your recommendations for any guests combining your wedding with a getaway!

Psst! If you’re still looking for the perfect place to tie the knot, why not use our Venue Search Tool?

2. Transport Links And Taxis

It’s always helpful to add a list of transport links (eg. the closest train station, the best airport to fly into) for guests who don’t drive or are coming from further afield. It’s also a good idea to provide your guests with the contact details of local, reputable taxi firms or the details of any nearby car parking.

Bridebook.co.uk- guests sitting on hay bells — By Weddings Vintage

3. Accommodation

It’s more likely than not that at least a few of your guests will want to stay nearby so make sure to offer them a few recommendations for accommodation. If you’re not sure, ask your wedding venue where they recommend guests stay. And if you can, why not reserve a few rooms at a local hotel or bed and breakfast in advance? That way, you’ll know they’re not fully booked and you can just let your friends know to mention your name to secure a room.

4. Dress Code

If your wedding has a dress code, you will most likely have included it on your invitation – but now’s your chance to go into a bit more detail. For example, if you’re getting married in a marquee, you might want to let your guests know they’ll need “lawn-friendly” shoes. Or if you’re planning an outdoor ceremony in mid-winter, make sure to mention to your guests that they’ll want to pack their mittens!

5. Children

Are you planning on having children at your wedding? Your wedding invitation will most likely indicate in some way if you’re planning a “child-free” wedding but it’s always worth reiterating on your information sheet to make sure everyone’s got the message! If you will be including children but you’ve made any special arrangements (eg. providing a crêche), here’s where to go into detail.

cards and gifts table with a suitcase — By Guy Hearn

6. Presents

If you’re nervous about mentioning your gift list – don’t be! If you don’t put the details of your gift list on your wedding information sheet, your guests will just ask you directly instead. Or, if you want to be a little more subtle, you could always have your gift list details printed separately onto small cards you can slip into your envelopes alongside your invitations.

7. The Bar!

If you already know you’ll be having a cash bar, now’s a good time to let your guests know. Make sure to let them know any extra details too, like which cards the bar accepts and whether or not they’re cashless.

Psst! If you need some help deciding between an open bar and a cash bar, check out our guide to wedding alcohol here.

8. Carriages

Ever struggled to get everyone out at the end of a house party? Well, “Carriages” is an easy way to avoid that happening at your wedding! It lets your guests know the latest time by which they’ll need to leave the venue. Including it on your information sheet means they can make arrangements for getting home in advance.

9. The Day After

Are you planning activities for the day after? Whether you’ll be hosting brunch or organising a golfing trip, let your guests know the details so they can plan accordingly.

Of course, you don’t have to send out an information sheet – and not all couples do. A great alternative – whether it’s because you want to cut costs or reduce waste – is to set up a wedding website and include the URL on your invitations. Then you can host all the above information there – and update it for everybody any time. Make sure to include your contact details, as well as those of your best (wo)man or maid/man of honour, so that your guests can ask any additional questions.

How Much Does Wedding Catering Cost? The 2024 Average Revealed

When it comes to hosting a memorable wedding, food and drink are a huge contributing factor. Including canapés and arrival drinks, a three or four-course wedding breakfast and a spread for the evening buffet, your guests will spend a large portion of their time at your wedding enjoying some delicious food and drink.

But how much does wedding catering cost, so you know exactly how much of your budget you need to dedicate toward keeping your guests fed, watered (or wined!) and – ultimately – happy?

In this post we’re going to take a look at the average cost of catering a wedding and what can affect that cost – including the alcohol.

How does the pricing work?

Photo © Pure Indulgence Catering | See their Bridebook profile

The first thing you need to know is that, depending on the venue, catering can often be done in-house. But, if the venue doesn’t offer catering that suits your taste, you can hire caterers to come to your venue separately. Venues that include catering are usually priced per head, meaning there will be a set price for every guest which will include food (a buffet or sit-down meal), the venue rental and sometimes half a bottle of wine per person for the meal and some bubbly for the toasts.

If a venue is priced at a lump sum, it usually means that catering is not included and what you are paying goes towards securing the venue. For more information check out our post on the cost of a wedding venue.

What is the average cost of catering a wedding?

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How much your wedding catering costs depends entirely on how many people you’re looking to invite. The more people you invite the more hungry mouths there will be, and of course the higher the cost will be.

In our ultimate guide to budgeting a wedding, we outlined that to cater an 80- to 90-guest wedding you can expect to spend an average of £5,700 overall. This may initially sound like a lot, but it actually equates to just over £65 per person, which is quite reasonable when you consider it’s their food for the entire day. However, it’s also enough to make you think twice when liberally handing out those +1s.

Of course, if your wedding is more intimate than that – or more grandiose – it can drastically change that figure. Based on this, to cater a 40-guest wedding the average cost will be around £2,600, and a 160-guest wedding will cost around £10,400.

This is of course based on the average, and depending on your budget there’s a range of options available:

Affordable – £20 – £40 per head
Moderate – £40 – £60 per head
Luxury – £60 – £80 per head
Super luxury – £80+ per head

Is it cheaper per head the more guests there are?

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You may expect the price per head to reduce depending on the greater the number of guests there are, but this isn’t always the case when it comes to catering a wedding. It will usually depend on several factors, including the venue, the number of kitchen and wait staff required, and the dining style.

For example, the price per head will be cheaper if you provide buffet-style food or food trucks than it would with a four-course meal, regardless of how many guests are attending.

How much does a wedding breakfast cost?

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The wedding breakfast will generally be one of the most expensive parts of your wedding reception. They’re usually multi-course sit-down meals that are meticulously run from a busy kitchen like a well-oiled machine – and that kind of operation comes at a cost.

The average cost of a wedding breakfast will be around £30-40 per head, but certain venues and vendors can charge more than three times this amount.

To make sure you get all the information you need, check out our post on what questions you should ask your wedding caterer.

How much does an evening buffet cost?

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Your evening buffet is a far more relaxed meal, which offers a greater choice of food and the need for fewer servers. It also offers you the chance to fill the bellies of your guests who could only come to the evening reception.

The average cost of a buffet is usually around £20-30 per head, however, this can also vary depending on the selection of dishes on offer and the type of cuisine. For example, chicken and chips will be far more affordable than hand-made sushi!

What else can affect the cost of catering a wedding?

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The above costs are all averages, and you’ll make plenty of choices that will make that cost go either down or way (WAY) up. These include:

Style of service: the cost of a buffet, sit-down meal, or food truck can vary hugely. For example, for a sit-down meal, you would have to factor in the wages of the waiters (it’s recommended to have 1 per 11 guests) and a buffet would have a wider selection of food options. There are thousands of caterers offering a wide variety of options to suit all tastes and budgets.
Menu choice: The more options you offer your guests outside of the standard meat, fish or vegetarian/vegan, the more you’re likely to pay.
The venue: Does it have its own catering team? If you’re hiring a catering team separate from the venue, you may also need to factor in the cost of hiring a marquee and portable kitchen. These costs can quickly add up, adding several thousand to the cost of your catering. Some venues have a list of preferred caterers, so make sure you ask your chosen wedding venue if there are limitations.
The food: Some food is cheaper to make than others. If you’re keen to offer oysters and caviar, don’t be surprised if it’s more expensive than if you were to offer sandwiches and vol-au-vents.
The ingredients: Some caterers may offer premium ingredients, and if imported or organic produce is important to you then expect to pay a little extra.
The number of courses: Are you happy with a three-course meal, or would you like to offer hors d’oeuvres, a fish course, palate-cleansing sorbets, and mignardise? The more courses there are (and the more complex they are to make) the pricier it will be.
The date: you can expect to pay higher rates during peak times, such as during the summer and at weekends.

What about the alcohol?

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While it can be tempting to offer an open bar, a wedding is one of those rare occasions when people tend to let their hair down. As a result, many of your guests will want to partake in a drink or two (or five or six). The cost of an open bar can quickly become eye-wateringly expensive, which is why many couples opt instead for a bottle or two of wine per table, plus a glass of bubbles on arrival and for the toasts. Then, if guests would like any other drinks, they’re free to choose what they like from a cash bar.

Remember, if you choose to supply your own fizz or bottles of wine, the venue may charge a corkage fee, which can be around £5-11 per bottle.

For more information check out our ultimate guide to wedding alcohol.

Ready to plan your big day?

Need a hand (or two) with wedding planning? Join Bridebook and get all the tools you need to plan your big day from start to finish. Plan your wedding budget, find your wedding venues and suppliers, organise your guest list and more.

And if you’re looking for ways to save money on your wedding catering, we’ve got all the tips and tricks you need to help you keep costs down.

Happy Planning!

Outdoor Wedding Venues in London

We’re here to help you choose from our list of outdoor wedding venues in London, from the countryside to seaside, with nature’s scenery in your eyeline and wholehearted happiness in your heart.

There are so many ways to get married al fresco, and these London wedding venues don’t disappoint! From waterfront hotels and museums to manor houses and marquees, London is blessed with a multitude of open-air options. Here are a few you might want to check out!

1. Royal Botanic Gardens

The large, open plan design of the Orangery makes it the ideal venue for your wedding. With high ceilings and grand, arched windows, the room is filled with natural light. During the summer months, your guests can enjoy the large terrace with its spectacular views of the Gardens.

2. WWT London Wetland Centre

wwt london wetland centre set up for wedding ceremony.

WWT London Wetland Centre offers an unrivalled setting for civil partnership and marriage ceremonies. The venues, which are approved for ceremonies, are the Observatory and Wetland Living. Bringing the countryside into London, this is an amazing alternative wedding destination.

3. Chelsea Physic Garden

The Chelsea Physic Garden is a botanical garden venue with a large marquee as an optional hire. This outdoor wedding venue with glorious spaces is available for dry hire and has a Wedding Ceremony Room available for up to 70 guests but blessings in the gardens are welcomed.

4. Hill Garden and Pergola

Tie the knot in one of London’s secret beauty spots. The Pergola and Hill Garden is a licenced venue for weddings and civil partnerships. This beautiful and secluded place makes a wonderful location for such ceremonies.

5. Chiswick House Gardens

Chiswick house gardens decorated with flowers all over.

Do you dream of a wedding that is stylishly simple, or is your heart’s desire an elaborate party with every trimming? Chiswick House & Gardens is a hidden gem in the heart of West London, 65 acres of glorious landscaped gardens where your wedding will be truly unique and memorable.

6. The Hurlingham Club

As far as UK Country wedding venues go, this one is both unique and memorable. Many happy couples have made their special vows in the Club’s beautiful venue with many a celebration! They’re able to accommodate wedding parties between 8o to 1,000 for decadent sit down wedding breakfasts, to more informal buffets and dancing.

7. The Conservatory at Painshill

You’ll love saying your I Do’s within this stunning setting of a 160-acre park. The purpose-built marquee is situated within Painshill’s private walled gardens, creating a breathtaking venue for any special occasion.

8. Vanstone Park

You can find this beautiful woodland venue just outside Hertfordshire, close to both Hitchin and Stevenage. This marquee wedding venue partners with Country Tipis to add a fun factor to your wedding, and guests always enjoy them – They provide a great talking point.

9. Paradise Wildlife Park

newlyweds look at tiger at paradise wildlife park

The Marquee is located in a private area of the Park with a beautiful secret garden with pergola, stream and bridge; perfect for wedding photos either before or after the ceremony. Complete with a fully licenced bar and resident DJ our private marquee makes the purrrfect venue for your wedding ceremony and reception.

10. Selsdon Park Hotel & Golf Club

newlyweds pose with their classic car in front of seldsdon park hotel & golf club

Weddings here come with beautiful views stretching out across the gardens onto 200 acres of Surrey countryside grounds. As the only wedding venue in Croydon licensed to host outdoor ceremonies, you can also say your vows outside in a pretty pagoda in the hotel’s secret gardens.

You’ve chosen to have an outdoor Wedding for the space, where your guests can enjoy being outside instead of struggling to squeeze past each other at an indoor venue. Obviously, outdoor wedding venues in London are a lot of fun, unique and ideal for brides who don’t mind their guests bringing children to the venue (Bless them)!

If you enjoyed our list and want some more ideas, take a look at our outdoor wedding venues in Essex. When you’re about to start looking at wedding venues, it might be about time to look at some tools we have just for you like our Budget Planner, Checklist and even help with your Guestlist!

Don’t delay… Get booking today! From all of us at Bridebook,

Happy Planning!

Barn Wedding Venues in Cheshire

So you’re looking at Cheshire wedding venues, for something unique… something a little quirky and different. A barn wedding venue can offer an abundance of space for your big day. We think that barns make great wedding venues because they’re a blank canvas for creative couples.

We’ve found some awesome Barn wedding venues in Cheshire for you to take a look at. These rustic and charming, elegant and inspired spaces are the perfect place to begin a future with the person you love.

1. Sandhole Oak Barn

wedding ceremony set up at sandhole oak barn.

For your special day, nothing could be more idyllic than saying ‘I do’ in this stunning oak barn beside a tranquil lake. Sandhole Oak Barn’s wedding venue is set in 400 acres of rolling Cheshire countryside and offers a magnificent setting for your wedding day.

2. Heaton House Farm

Nestled on the hillside of a working farm and surrounded by the beautiful scenery of Cheshire and Staffordshire, the gorgeous setting for this incredible wedding venue awaits. This Family-run establishment will help you with something big and extravagant, or quaint and intimate.

3. Owen House Wedding Barn

newlyweds pose outside owen house wedding barn

One of the most beautiful Barn wedding venues in the UK and set on a working farm that is family run and offers a truly unique wedding experience. Situated in a stunning location you wouldn’t want to leave, allows for holding your ceremony and celebration at the same venue!

4. The Plough Inn

The Plough Inn is licensed to hold Civil Ceremony Weddings and offers the perfect setting for your special day. The historic Barn is ideally situated for formal or informal ceremonies and promises to make your wedding distinctive and unique with delightful gardens making the perfect setting for wedding photography.

5. The Oak Tree of Peover

gorgeous dining room with oak beams at the oak tree of peover.

Oak Tree of Peover is a unique contemporary venue is set in the heart of Cheshire surrounded by stunning countryside views. Oak beams and lots of natural light makes this venue fresh and bright whilst subtle lighting in the evening gives it a magical, romantic feel.

6. Stock Farm Wedding and Events Barn

Set within beautiful farmland situated on the edge of Tatton Park in Cheshire, one of the prettiest Farm wedding venues in the UK, Stock Farm wedding & Events Barn offers the perfect setting for your special day in an exclusive location with idyllic countryside views giving you and your guests complete privacy.

7. The Holford Estate

outdoors wedding ceremony amongst the trees in the holford estate.

One of our Barn wedding venues in Cheshire is a real hidden gem, The Holford estate secluded idyllic setting, is steeped in history, alongside stunning formal gardens and a state of the art contemporary wedding Barn.

8. Styal Lodge

Beautiful large wedding lunch decorated with long sheets and styal lodge.

A family run venue in the beautiful National Trust Village of Styal, in the grounds of Styal Golf Club. Built in 2009 a beautiful Lodge filled with natural light, a blank canvas & private gardens.

9. Curdlands Barn

Of all the UK Country wedding venues, this stunning location boasts unrivalled views over the Cheshire plains towards the Welsh hills and gives you complete exclusivity on your special day. The Barn is an airy indoor space with a fabulous terrace, perfect for the drinks reception or evening soirée.

10. Duddon Mill Farm

Duddon Mill Farm is a wedding and events venue situated near Tarporley in the heart of rural Cheshire. With mature apple orchards, pond, barns and a stream running right through the middle of the estate, there are endless photo opportunities for lovers of the outdoors.

Wow, we don’t envy you! There is just so much to choose from. Remember, your wedding can be as extravagant, or as intimate as your imagination allows. Choosing your wedding venue will be a big decision you’ll make as a couple, and it’s good to think of your options straight away.

To help you, we’ve created some handy tools for your Budget, your Checklist (very important!) and, of course, your Guestlist. And if all of the above venues aren’t nearby, check out our barn wedding venues in Essex or our barn wedding venues in Yorkshire.

For more wedding venues in the UK, go to Bridebook’s Wedding Venue Search to apply your own custom filters and find ‘the one’.

Well? What are you waiting for? HAPPY PLANNING!

Small Wedding Venues in Yorkshire

With modern weddings becoming bigger and more expensive than ever before, many couples are starting to turn to smaller, more personal options. So whether it’s in a Church, Chapel, Castle or Priory, there is something special and heartwarming in choosing one of these Yorkshire Wedding Venues.

Now we know that big is beautiful, but here in Yorkshire, EVERYTHING is beautiful, and sometimes dynamite comes in small packages. From urban history to the rural panoramas, these are truly some of the best intimate wedding venues in Yorkshire.

1. Grays Court

Whatever your event might be, there is plenty of room for you and around forty guests at this beautiful house steeped in history. Take pleasure in the antique character and luxury of your surroundings as they work hard to ensure that your memorable day runs smoothly.

2. The Grange Hotel

A special venue for your perfect day! The Grange is an exclusive, privately owned, 41 bedroom Regency townhouse of great charm and character, superbly restored and luxuriously furnished in classic country house style.

3. The Kilnwick Percy Resort

If you are looking for modern and unique wedding venues in Yorkshire, then look no further! Regarded as being one of the best small wedding venues in Yorkshire, this space overlooks 180 acres of glorious woodland and Yorkshire Countryside; providing the perfect setting for your wedding photos!

4. York Castle Museum

This venue pick for your intimate wedding at the beautiful Hospitium at York Castle Museum is not only oozing with character and style, it’s also a sensational venue for that idyllic fairytale wedding day that you’ve been dreaming of.

5. Howsham Hall

This one has made it onto our small wedding venues in Yorkshire, but by no means is it minor! Full event management and catering service is offered at this stunning Grade I listed Jacobean treasure near York. What a stunning venue for a perfect wedding!

6. Bedern Hall

With its soaring beamed ceiling, arched windows and warm stone walls, Bedern Hall in York is an intimate and individual setting for your wedding ceremony and reception. This cosy and authentic wedding venue is the perfect place to say I Do!

7. Applewood Weddings Ltd

Applewood provides the perfect backdrop for your romantic outdoor wedding. With ceremony area, seating areas, woodland walks and large decking in the heart of the trees with a large open area for your wedding structure that is reached by following the fairy light lit pathways.

8. Owston Hall Hotel

You’ve found the perfect partner, and now you’ve found the perfect place to celebrate your love, surrounded by friends and family. Whether you’re looking for an intimate celebration or a lavish party, if you’re looking at hotel wedding venues in the UK, look no further, you’ve found a Gem.

9. Pontefract Town Hall

Pontefract Town Hall is an 18th Century architectural jewel located in the heart of the town’s ancient historic centre and is a lovely venue for your wedding day, with a beautiful building, good facilities and an excellent location.

10. Burythorpe House

This is a truly idyllic and romantic manor house wedding venue. Burythorpe House holds a civil license, allowing couples to host civil weddings and civil partnerships at the hotel. This enables you to hold your ceremony, wedding reception and evening celebrations all at the same venue!

11. Marmadukes Town House Hotel

With a central location in York, Marmadukes Town House Hotel is an elegant small wedding venue with an award-winning restaurant and cosy spaces that is sure you make your wedding day extra special.

12. Priory Cottages

Surrounded by the stunning North Yorkshire countryside, the barns offer an intimate setting for smaller weddings or a marquee that can accommodate larger groups in this gorgeous setting.

There are many positives to having a small wedding. For instance, trimming the size of your Guestlist not only means you will save money, but it also means you can use your resources for quality, rather than quantity.

Make sure you have everything ticked off your Checklist! This is important. Use this tool to ensure things run smoothly.

Another helpful tool is for your Budget. With more flexibility, you have the option to splurge on the things that matter most, whether it be a stunning designer gown or a gourmet wedding breakfast!

If you’re looking for something further afield, we have a list of some of the best small wedding venues in London and small wedding venues near Essex.

And of course…. HAPPY PLANNING!!!

Top 10 Best Asian Wedding Venues in Birmingham

If you’re looking for a Birmingham Wedding Venue and have a wedding date for later this year or in 2020, planning the perfect Asian wedding takes time and patience. Your wedding is a once-in-a-lifetime event that will represent who you and your partner are as a couple, whilst seamlessly integrating your cultural beliefs so that you have the perfect fairytale wedding.

So, whether you’re planning a traditional Asian wedding or a more intimate affair, there are a variety of different options to explore to make sure your wedding is everything you want it to be. To help, we’ve put together a list of Asian Wedding venues in Birmingham to assist you in your wedding planning.

1. SK D’Grand Cabana, West Midlands

A premium wedding and banqueting venue suited to weddings in the Midlands. The New Owners are renowned for their Banqueting and Wedding Halls back in India with of over 15 Hotels and Banqueting Halls under their profile.

2. Hilton Hall, Staffordshire

beautiful outdoors ceremony at hilton hall.

Hilton Hall is a stunning 17th Century country house Wedding Venue on the outskirts of Wolverhampton. This impressive and romantic grade I listed building offers complete privacy and promises to be the perfect setting for your flawless asian wedding.

3. Nailcote Hall Hotel, Golf & Country Club, West Midlands

beautiful lake and gardens at nailcote hall hotel

Nailcote Hall Wedding Venue provides a picturesque backdrop for your Wedding, thanks to our 17th Century Country House Hotel, complete with panoramic views and an idyllic setting.

4. Ramada Solihull Birmingham, West Midlands

wedding dinner set up in tones of purple at ramada solihull.

This lavish venue, fondly known locally as ‘The George’ will ensure your Wedding is memorable for all the right reasons. They offer a flexible approach to each event, allowing you to make your special day individual to you.

5. Alrewas Hayes Events Ltd, Staffordshire

Alrewas Hayes is a Grade II listed Queen Anne residence in the heart of rural Staffordshire and set in beautiful parkland, providing a venue which is exclusively yours for the day. This Manor House wedding venue provides an exceptional setting for all special occasions, with beautiful scenery and grounds for those picture perfect photos.

6. Holiday Inn, Birmingham

This Asian Wedding venue in Birmingham is proudly able to offer weddings suited to your cultural needs. Their weddings coordinators are experienced in arranging multicultural weddings and will endeavour to tailor their venues to your needs as much as possible.

7. Ramada Park Hall Hotel, West Midlands

Wedding lunch at ramada park hall hotel.

This Grade II listed Georgian hotel is one of the most elegant and prestigious wedding venues in the West Midlands. Set within five acres of stunning landscaped gardens with distant views of the rolling Staffordshire countryside, this is the perfect location for outdoor wedding ceremonies.

8. Walsall Football Club, West Midlands

You are at the beginning of a very special journey, and this is a once in a lifetime occasion. why not have an unusual wedding venue and blow everyone’s mind! Enjoy your wedding at the home of Walsall Football Club, with flexible packages to provide the perfect Asian wedding experience.

9. The Belfry, Warwickshire

beautiful gardens at the belfry wedding venue.

This is the perfect venue for the most unique and memorable Asian wedding. With enough space to cater for up to 276 guests, The Belfry has the capacity and facilities to ensure an unforgettable celebration.

10. Heart Of England Conference and Events Centre, Warwickshire

wedding dinner set up at heart of england.

One of the most beautiful and unique wedding venues in Warwickshire, the Heart of England is the ideal place to start your new lives together. This venue has become increasingly popular as an Asian wedding venue and with photographic opportunities… Who can blame us!

All of these venues have a wealth of experience in hosting Asian weddings and we hope we have provided the finest inspiration for both extravagance and tradition and they don’t come any more special than these wonderful Asian wedding venues in Birmingham. If you’re looking for something completely different, go to our wedding venue search and find the perfect venue for you!

For more inspiration or if you’re looking further afield, why not see our finest London venues for Asian Weddings and, if you’re interested in that area, we have put together some beautiful Asian wedding venues in Essex for you to look at!

Please help yourself to our wedding tools to assist with your planning.

Wedding Budget
Wedding Planning Checklist
Guest List

From all of us at Bridebook, HAPPY PLANNING!

Unusual wedding venues in London

London is home to some very unique wedding locations if you are looking for a different kind of celebration. All of the unusual wedding venues in London offer picturesque settings you won’t find anywhere else. Indoors, outdoors, private or public … you name it, London has the perfect location for your big day!

Picture a beautiful wedding at the country’s most visited sites or walk down the aisle in one of London’s historical churches, which bring an element of rich history and old-fashioned elegance to any ceremony. Any way we spin it, we are sure you’ll find your happy place at one of these top London Wedding Venues.

1. ArcelorMittal Orbit

Say your vows at 250ft at the lower viewing platform, before moving to the upper viewing platform at 262 feet to experience a spectacular wedding breakfast, all set against the stunning panorama of London’s stunning skyline!

2. House Of Commons, Palace Of Westminster

house of commons set up for wedding dinner.

Steeped in history, the Houses of Parliament / Palace of Westminster in London provides a unique setting for a wedding celebration. Dominating the banks of the River Thames, the Palace’s façade heralds this UNESCO World Heritage site as one of the most iconic in the world.

3. The Kings Oak Hotel

newlyweds pose in front of the pool and the kings oak hotel

Whatever time of year you want your special day to be, the Kings Oak Hotel bordering Essex and London, and nestling in the beautiful Epping Forest will enchant you and your guests and provide Lifelong memories, not to mention the WOW factor!

4. RSA House

With its graceful Georgian architecture, stunning interiors and central location, the RSA House is the perfect venue for a quintessential London wedding offering Georgian grandeur, contemporary style and some surprising spaces all under one roof.

5. ZSL London Zoo

If you’re looking a quirky and unusual wedding venue in London, look no further! ZSL London Zoo has an event space to suit you. This usual wedding venue will blow your mind! Add some animal magic to your event, enjoy a roaring wedding celebration and arrange an animal encounter for your guests, making it a rip-roaring success!

6. HMS Belfast

newlyweds kiss outside in the HMS Belfast ship.

We think this is one of the most iconic and unique Wedding Venues in London. Steeped in history and naval charm, HMS Belfast promises an event your guests will never forget. Permanently moored between London Bridge and Tower Bridge, HMS Belfast is the most significant surviving Second World War Royal Navy warship.

7. Southbank Centre

Southbank centre illuminated with fairy lights at dawn.

For a wedding venue with unforgettable views and an esteemed cultural heritage, Southbank Centre is the perfect choice. Our pavilion spaces in Royal Festival Hall offer unique locations in a Grade 1 Listed building with romantic riverside views over central London and the Thames.

8. The Yacht London

chairs set up for an outdoors ceremony at the yacht in london.

The Yacht London is a permanently moored 1927 luxury steam yacht with a fabulous history. Situated on the North Bank of the Thames, between Waterloo Bridge and Blackfriars, in what is known as “The Mayfair of the River”. This is one of the most unique wedding venues, offering you fantastic views of the London skyline for a memorable and picturesque wedding.

9. Shoreditch Studios

Shoreditch Studios is a beautiful railway arch warehouse and studio space licensed for ceremonies and receptions. Unlike traditional London wedding venues which offer only fixed wedding packages restricting catering or decor, this unique wedding venue in London is a blank canvas at which you can unleash your creativity and make your own.

10. V&A Museum of Childhood

Gorgeous dinning room flooding with light and long tables.

This is one of London’s best-loved museums and offers a unique and historical venue on the edge of the City. In this magnificent, grade II listed Victorian building are remarkable spaces and many original 19th century features, including the elegant and historic Marble Floor laid by female prisoners from Woking gaol.

11. Cecil Sharp House

colourfully decorated wedding lunch setting at cecil sharp house.

An iconic Grade II listed 1930’s building near Regent’s Park in London, has 5 spaces to hire that can accommodate weddings of all sizes. As Cecil Sharp House is the home of the English Folk Dance and Song Society they would be happy to assist you with booking entertainment for your event.

12. London Eye

At 135 metres above the majestic sights of London,weddings at the London Eye include a flight in a private capsule, beautifully decorated with flowers for 2 rotations (one hour). Wedding capsules can accommodate up to 16 people in the ceremony capsule including the happy couple.

13. The National Gallery

Have you ever pictured yourself entertaining next to the world’s greatest artworks? Located at the very heart of London, The National Gallery is one of the best-loved art galleries in the world. This alternative wedding venue with a difference is full of culture, interest, elegance and romance.

14. Garden Museum

newlyweds coming down the stairs as guests cheer at the garden museum.

Situated by the River Thames and next to Lambeth Palace, The Garden Museum provides the perfect location for wedding receptions. From initial site visit up until the day of the event itself, they are on hand to offer advice, inspiration and practical ideas for making your celebration a unique and memorable experience.

15. Hoxton Hall

This beautiful Victorian Music Hall is perfect for your quirky East London wedding. Tie the knot in style in a beautiful venue home to artists, performers and pillars of the community. Each wedding at Hoxton Hall is unique and perfect for ceremonies, wedding breakfasts, banquets and parties.

16. Swan, Shakespeare’s Globe

fairy tale style wedding dinner at Shakespeare's globe.

There are few places that evoke centuries of romance like the Globe Theatre. From the youthful passions of Romeo and Juliet to the comic lovers in A Midsummer Night’s Dream, love has always been at the heart of Shakespeare’s plays at the theatre. A stunning exclusive use wedding venue in the heart of London with views looking out onto the Thames.

17. OXO2

This stunning riverside wedding venue in the iconic OXO building is a truly unique way to celebrate your Big day! OXO2 is a truly special place for couples to start their life together. The chic, contemporary space of OXO2 makes a breathtaking romantic setting for your wedding day.

18. Chelsea Physic Garden

Bride posing in the beautiful autumn gardens.

Hidden in the heart of London, Chelsea Physic Garden is a beautiful and magical setting for your special day. Chelsea Physic Garden provides the perfect backdrop for your wedding day, it is quite simply the ultimate garden wedding venue!

19. The Oyster Shed

newlyweds first dance at the oyster shed.

A wedding on the banks of the Thames – what could be more perfect? How about a wedding on the banks of the Thames in your very own elegant pub with a feast of glorious gastronomy? Thought so! This unique wedding venue in London boasts amazing views of The Shard through the impressive curved floor-to-ceiling glass windows.

20. Selhurst Park Stadium (Crystal Palace Football Club)

wedding lunch with tones of yellow and orange the selhurst park stadium.

The ideal venue for a football fan or someone looking for an alternative setting for their big day. Selhurst Park is a truly special place and provides a unique personal wedding venue filled with glamour and class.

We hope you’ve loved our list of unique and quirky wedding spots to say I do in! We had a lot of fun picking them out just for you. If you still couldn’t find “the one” on this list, head over to Bridebook’s Wedding Venue Search, when you will find the perfect place to tie the knot!

To help you get your planning underway, go over to our budget tool where we show you how easy it is to do all the planning yourself! We also have a checklist tool and even a guestlist tool that you can use free of charge!

HAPPY PLANNING!

How To Design Your Perfect Wedding Menu

Whether you’ve already booked your wedding caterer or are still considering options, you’re probably starting to think about what’s going to be on the menu. But half the time, it’s hard enough to decide what to eat for dinner on Tuesday night – let alone what to serve at your wedding! So here’s our five step guide to designing the perfect wedding menu.

1. What’s Your Theme?

If you have a theme (and we recommend you do!), use this to guide your decisions when it comes to your wedding menu. A hog roast, for example, is perfect for an informal, outdoor celebration – but not so good for a black tie wedding, where you’re more likely to want to serve elegant canapés and petit fours.

2. Do (Most) People Like It?

Well, there’s a reason chicken is such a wedding staple! More adventurous options like veal, venison, lamb and lobster can be more divisive and may result in some of your guests forcing down food they’d rather avoid. So you have two options: stick with something safe (and of course, what this is depends on the cuisine you and your guests are used to) or offer a few different options to make sure there’s something for everyone.

3. Do You Like It?

It’s your wedding – so what do you want to eat to celebrate marrying the love of your life? Remember, you’ll almost certainly need to accommodate the dietary requirements of at least a few guests – so if you can, serve what you want but offer alternatives for those who may not share your taste.

4. Will It Keep You Full?

You don’t want to end up in a food coma before the speeches – but we’d always avoid light bites in favour of something with at least a bit of substance. Remember, weddings can stretch on well into the night – and the last thing you want is your guests nipping out to McDonalds for a late night snack! Plus, we’re sure any guests who are drinking will appreciate the opportunity to line their stomachs…

5. Is It Low Risk For Allergies?

If you can, stay away from well-known allergens like peanuts, shellfish and soy – especially if you know one of your guests is at risk. Even if you can provide them with an alternative, avoiding allergens altogether will put your mind at rest.

Ask yourself these five questions and you’ll be well on your way to designing your dream menu. And if you’re still on the hunt for your perfect wedding caterer, why not check out our fabulous directory here?

Wedding Films : 4 Reasons Why You Should Book a Videographer

Book a Videographer

A wedding photo album is a wonderful thing! It captures the moments of your special day that can instantly be re-lived via a physical album or on-screen photos. For this reason, almost everybody books a wedding photographer. Without one, there would be no record of your day and you would be solely reliant on your own memory. Not so many people, on the other hand, book a wedding videographer. Many still do, but it’s not seen as a necessity. Here are 4 reasons why we think you should book a videographer.

1. Film trumps photo in capturing the moment

A picture speaks a thousand words. But a film speaks ten thousand. Capturing the sounds and movements of your day is a priceless treasure. The sounds of talking, music and laughter may seem insignificant, but they really do add an extra dimension. In the same way, facial expressions, hugs and dancing all come to life in film in a way they never could in a photo. The best way to demonstrate this is to look at a video on your smartphone and compare it to a photo. Which one captures the moment better?

2. Ceremony

The most important part of your wedding day! You don’t want to miss a moment. Guaranteed to be emotional and joyful all at the same time. A photo will capture this moment beautifully, but to capture the words, tears and wobbly voices, a film is the only option.

3. Speeches

You may or may not want to remember the speeches depending on whether you are the one who is giving one. The speeches however are often filled with lovely moments. Not just the jokes, quotes and touching sentiment, but also the unexpected moments of participation from the guests. A film of the wedding speeches is not something you would watch every day, but it is a beautiful memory to keep a record of. And in this case, a photo just won’t cut it!

4. First dance

The first dance includes many aspects that your photographer won’t capture: The first dance song, the cheers of your guests and…..the actual dancing. The first dance is one of the most intimate parts of your wedding day and this is reflected far more effectively in a short 3 min film.

Your wedding day is jam-packed with moments that you want to remember. You will of course be able to capture these moments in photos…..and you definitely should! Don’t do away with the photographer! But strongly consider booking a videographer too! Sure, it’s an extra expense, but this is a purchase that you benefit from for the rest of your life. If you need to cut costs with your decorations to make the funds available to book a videographer, it’s probably worth the sacrifice. Many wedding purchases last only 1 day(your wedding day), but a film of your wedding is a pleasure you can keep for life.

Are you convinced? Read our videographer checklist before booking.

How to Confirm Your Wedding Music List

Wedding Music List

The time has come to finalize your list of music with the band or DJ. If you haven’t created a playlist yet, read our guide on choosing your wedding music.

Once you have your final evening music list, pass this over to your band or DJ. If you have hired a band, they may not be able to play everything on your list but might be willing to learn a few songs. It’s best to ask bands for their song list before hiring them to ensure they will be able to play the songs you want. If you have hired a DJ however, they should be able to play anything you ask them to. You can read more about choosing a wedding band or DJ in our guide.

Once you have provided the band/DJ with your playlist, check with them if there is enough material to cover their set length. If there isn’t, they may be willing to add other suggestions to fill the gaps to save you some time. If you choose to go with this option, make sure they show you the final playlist before the big day or, alternatively, you can provide them with a “do not play” list which would include a list of songs that you DON’T want played. This is for the adventurers among us who want a musical surprise on the wedding day. This can be a fun option if you want to experience your wedding as your guests are experiencing it.

If you want to go SUPER ADVENTUROUS, try this. Provide your band/DJ with a small playlist of 4-5 songs and ask them to play other songs of a similar style. This is the “shuffle” of the wedding music world. You don’t know what’s coming next.

How to Write Wedding Invitations – A Template

How to Write Wedding Invitations

These days, customised wedding invitations are extremely popular. Beautiful designs and low prices make this a great option for many couples as it saves hours of making and writing invitations.

For this reason, much of the art of invitation writing has been forgotten with pre-built invitations being delivered to you needing nothing more than a name and address. This isn’t a bad thing as it’s one less thing for you to think about(let’s face it! You’ve got enough to do!). But, if you do want to write your own, where do you start? What is the correct wording?

Well the truth is….there is no correct wording. Wedding etiquette traditions have been reworked by a new generation as we have seen a rise of informal language gracing our wedding stationery.

Although the etiquette has been remodelled, it’s still important that you give your guests all the information they need. So here is everything you need to include on your wedding invitations. The order and wording is up to you. Just make sure it’s all on there:

Name of person and any +1’s
“You are invited to the marriage of” [a line making clear that they are invited]
Bride’s name &
Groom’s name
Date
Time of day
Location of wedding – Name of venue and full address
Reception information
Gift list information

If one(or both) of your parents are hosting, you can add the following at the beginning:

Names of parents
Request your presence(replaces line 2 above)
At the marriage of their daughter/son

Next up, it’s time to send your invitations

You may also find our hack on writing save-the-dates useful

What to Pack For Your Honeymoon

Ideally, you should try to complete this task before your wedding to allow you to jet off immediately. After the wedding, you will probably end up with a load of gifts, flowers, left over cake, decor etc. to take home with you. This will make packing your suitcase a lot more difficult so try to avoid this by packing beforehand. Just so you know what you need to pack for your honeymoon, we’ve made a list of everything you need.

Documents

Boarding pass/Airline tickets
Passport
Driver’s License
Reservation confirmation
Health insurance information
Photocopies of the above documentation
Credit card
Money
Prescription medicine in the original bottle

Toiletries bag

Toothbrushes
Toothpaste
Hairbrush
Deodorant
Razor
Shaving cream
Shampoo
Conditioner
Hand cream
Body lotion
Sunscreen
Insect repellant
Soap
Lip-balm
Floss
Makeup bag
Makeup remover
Cotton buds
Tweezers
Nail clippers
Antibacterial wipes
Plasters
Aspirin
Paracetamol
Ibuprofen
Antacid
Antihistamine
Asthma Inhaler
Contact lens solution
Period care toiletries and medicine

Clothing

Socks
Underwear
Bras
Dresses
T-shirts
Shorts
Shirts
Blouses
Sweater
Light sweater
Light jacket
Swimsuit

Shoes + Accessories

2-3 pairs of shoes
1 pair of old shoes
1 pair of sandals
Glasses or contacts
Spare glasses
Sunglasses
Canvas tote
Jewellery
Slippers
Evening bag
Light scarf
Sun hat
Canvas bag
Day excursion backpack
Hair accessories
Travel umbrella

Tech

Phones
Camera
Tablet/E-reader
Headphones
Chargers for all of the above
Electrical adapter

Other

Paperback book
Hair drier
Maps, Guidebooks
ID tags for luggage
Deck of cards

Wedding Venues : 4 tips for choosing the perfect venue

The Hunt for Wedding Venues

Arguably the most important part of your entire wedding is choosing the perfect venue. This single decision affects every other decision that you will make. But where do you start? How do you know choose from the vast array of wedding venues? Here are our quick tips to help you choose the ideal location.

1. Think about location

Sounds obvious, but if you have your heart set on a rustic barn wedding in the middle of nowhere, it might be difficult for some of your guests to get there. Think about transport solutions for your guests. Can large coaches get there with ease(i.e. are the roads too narrow? Is the driveway wide enough?). The best place to start is asking the venue what previous couples have done. As long as it’s not a brand new venue, they will have some good ideas on the practical aspects of getting people to and from the venue.

2. What’s included in the price

Do they include catering or is this an additional add-on? Are drinks included? Canapés? Evening snack? Many wedding venues supply you with a package that includes all of these things as standard but it’s worth checking as the costs can rack up quickly if they aren’t included. Think about the cost of the meal per person. It’s a good idea to get your guest list done before choosing your venue as it will make estimating your costs a lot easier.

3. Visualise your Wedding Day

When you visit a venue, think about how the venue can be used to make your day more enjoyable for yourself and the guests. For example, the venue may have a room that can be used for a drinks reception before you move to the main area for your meal. Small things like this can make the flow of your day more natural and interesting. Also think about photo opportunities. Do they have pleasant grounds? If it’s raining on your wedding day, what areas do they suggest you can use for photos inside?

4. Does it feel right?

You may visit a few venues. Hopefully, you will visit one and just know that it’s the right one. There are many guides you can read(like this one) which give you step-by-step instructions on how to choose the perfect wedding venues but in the end, you need to go with the one you love. Even if it’s the most impractical. It may be in the middle of nowhere. It may be a dung-filled cow shed. It may have no heating and only available on Christmas Eve, but if that’s the one you love, your guests will just have to put up with it. It’s your wedding, so do it the way you want.

Thoughts or concerns? Contact us at [email protected]

15 Cheap Wedding Venues in London

The average cost of a wedding venue in London can be well over £20,000. But if you’re planning your big day, don’t let that number scare you! There are plenty of creative methods to implement budget wedding ideas without sacrificing what matters most to you.

Researching cheap wedding venues in London is really the first step in planning a wedding – everything else hinges on the location. So start off your wedding planning right, by making the most cost-effective decision. Here are 15 ways to do just that.

1. The Kings Oak Hotel

Newlyweds toast in front of the pool at The Kings Oak Hotel

In the heart of Epping Forest lies the Kings Oak Hotel, a charming destination & award winning wedding venue offering the WOW factor & something different for your special day! Over 100 couples a year choose the Kings Oak as their preferred wedding venue.

2. The Dickens Inn

Wedding dinner set up with green and red tones at The Dickens Inn

This venue will surely meet your ‘Great Expectation’! It’s a picturesque restyled and reconstructed 18th-century pub and event venue nestled in St Katherine Docks. This is one of the more historic budget wedding venues in London and ensures a stunning setting for the most memorable of occasions.

3. London Shenley Club

Marquee set up for wedding lunch with greenery and autumn tones.

A unique and attractive year round location for the perfect wedding. Set in the idyllic Hertfordshire countryside – a stunning backdrop against which to capture everlasting memories! All you have to do is let them know what would make your wedding perfect and they’ll help you to create it.

4. Regency Banqueting Suite

The Regency is a beautiful & newly refurbished venue with crystal chandeliers & painted dome ceilings, carpeted and finished in tones of grey and white giving you a very modern, classy appearance. This stunning venue is the perfect backdrop special day.

5. Gilwell Park London

If you want to experience your wedding exactly the way you choose, then Gilwell Park is like no other. A quintessentially Georgian country house in a stunning rural setting perfectly located on the border of Essex and London, Gilwell Park is one of London’s best kept budget wedding venue secrets.

6. 5 Cavell Street

5 Cavell Street table set up with a pink background.

One of the new cheap wedding venues in London is this gem, a modern & well-recognized hotel located in the heart of East London, this venue offers couples the opportunity to celebrate both their Civil Ceremony & Wedding Reception.

7. The Register Office

If you’re looking through affordable wedding venues in London, here’s one for you! Simple yet traditional, and boasting a lovely garden, you can get married in the beautiful ceremony rooms in the heart of Southwark.

8. London Rowing Club

Tables set up inside the London Rowing Club, ready for a wedding lunch.

London Rowing Club, founded in 1856, is the oldest club in the world and offers glorious panoramic views of the River Thames. This exclusive use wedding venue allows you to decorate and adorn the space as you see fit and take pictures from the balcony overlooking the river.

9. Hackney Town Hall

Hackney Town Hall boasting with natural light.

A stone’s throw away from London Fields and Hackney Central Stations, this building boasts five separate weddings, event and meeting spaces all offering a mixture of period features, natural daylight and striking architecture.

10. The Dukes Head – Putney

Dad giving his wedding speech as guests laugh.

Riverside Grand Victorian grade II listed building, the Duke’s Head echoes with history, style and laughter, and has a brilliant array of gorgeous spaces available for any part of your special day.

11. Q vardis & the mallard suite

Exclusive wedding venue set in a picturesque location near the river & lake Fully licensed wedding room. packages that are not just unbeatable in cost but take so much of the stress away from you, leaving you to revel in your special day!

12. Langdon Hills Golf & Country Club

Chairs set up for wedding ceremony at Langdon Hills

Langdon Hills Golf and Country Club really is the perfect place for your special day. Both function rooms are licensed for civil ceremonies and partnerships and they are able to accommodate both small and large weddings. Both rooms are air-conditioned and offer fabulous views. The rooms even have their own music!

13. Sopwell House Hotel

Tables set up with big greenery pieces and dim lighting.

This manor house wedding venue, nestled on the edge of the Roman city of St Albans with its elegant period architecture, beautiful interiors and picturesque gardens create a stunning backdrop for your special day.

14. Blakes Events

Are you looking for a more an intimate ceremony on a budget? Blakes Events would be perfect for you! As one of the more affordable wedding venues in London, the views are magnificent with rooms overlooking their spectacular spacious surroundings. This wedding venue screams Photo Opportunity!

15. Glenmore House

Blue and white themed wedding lunch with large vases for centrepieces.

Since 1921, they have been welcoming discerning guests to this romantic venue of contrasts, rich in history and character. A landscaped park provides the perfect backdrop for wedding photographs. They will ensure that your special day is one that you will remember forever.

There you have it! That’s just a few of our budget wedding venues in London. If you want to look beyond Greater London, head over to Wedding Venue Search where you will find thousands of venues all over the UK.

To help you even further, why not use our handy bu d get feature to assist with your planning. We even have a special wedding planning checklist for you to follow as well as a Guestlist tool which will prove extremely useful when inviting those long lost cousins!

Happy planning!

15 Small Wedding Venues In Kent

If you’re planning to elope or tie the knot in complete privacy or if you’ve dreamed of a romantic, small & very personal wedding, surrounded by close relatives and family – then an intimate wedding venue in Kent is the ideal pick for you.

Often situated in magical, stunning landscapes and with amazing views, you have to see the small wedding venues in Kent we found for you! If you’re still left looking after this article, head over to Bridebook’s Wedding Venue Search and browse thousands of UK wedding venues.

1. The Barn, Tunbridge Wells

Happy newlyweds' confetti shot at The Barn.

An Intimate and Personal venue, The Barn in Tunbridge Well has a rustic feel with a modern edge, ideal for your low-key small chic wedding. It has been built in the traditional Kentish style with oak beams and columns and this creates a truly wonderful atmosphere.

2. Winters Barns, Canterbury

Newlyweds kiss surrounded by fairy lights in the garden.

There’s nothing like the romance of a beautiful barn wedding. No barns match ours for beauty, intimacy, and traditional Kentish character. With enchanting gardens and a stunning interior, Winters Barns is the perfect blend of old and new – a secluded historical venue steeped in history

3. The Lost Village Of Dode, Luddersdown

Two tables set up for an intimate wedding dinner in The Lost Village of Dode

This one makes it onto our list of top venue picks for your intimate wedding! It’s truly unique with no other venue offering the seclusion, history or atmosphere in an original medieval building and approached by a winding lane overhung with trees and lit by candles and braziers.

4. Hever Hotel, Edenbridge

If you’re looking for hotel wedding venues in the UK, then the Hever Hotel is one to visit! Situated in the beautiful village of Hever; a mile from the historic childhood home of Anne Boleyn – an idyllic venue, perfect for your special day!

5. George Vaults, Rochester

We are sure you’ve never seen anything quite so unique as this one! This was once a church, then an inn, and now provides the perfect intimate wedding venue for a wedding day in a remarkable 14th-century Vault! This is one of our favourite intimate wedding venues in Kent.

6. The Barnyard, Sittingbourne

As far as barn wedding venues in the UK go, this one is really special! Nestled in the heart of the Kentish Countryside surrounded by 150 acres of stunning landscape combining rolling hills, natural woodland and romantic orchards, The BarnYard is an enchanting setting for the most memorable day of your life.

7. St Martin’s Priory, Canterbury

Bride and her bridesmaids at St. Martin's Piory.

This is one of the most beautiful, intimate wedding venues in Kent and is nestled in the heart of Canterbury and located next to the oldest church in England. St Martin’s Priory boasts 2.5 acres of enchanting Gardens and breathtaking views of Canterbury Cathedral.

8. Knockwood Bespoke Receptions, Canterbury

Situated in the Garden of England, nestled in the countryside between the historic city of Canterbury and towns Maidstone, is the perfect wedding venue in Kent. With idyllic country surroundings in an area of outstanding natural beauty, you are free to create everlasting memories.

9. The Ferry House, Sheerness

Newlyweds holding hands in a field of wheat

Host your small but special occasion at The Ferry House. Peacefully set beside the Swale Estuary in the Kent countryside, this 16th century inn is the perfect hideaway place for an intimate occasion, with packages for 2-30 guests, award-winning dining and 4* accommodation for 70+.

10. The Bull Hotel, Wrotham

Seen as one of the cosiest hotel wedding venues in the UK, The Bull Hotel is a unique and beautiful country inn situated in the historic village of Wrotham. Boasting charm and character, The Buttery offers an intimate space for your ceremony and reception.

11. The Black Horse Inn, Maidstone

The Black Hourse Inn a cheap wedding venue in kent.

The Black Horse Inn is a relaxed and unpretentious, rural, family-run Inn set in the Kentish countryside and provides an intimate and relaxing location for your wedding. Being that this location is one of many small wedding venues in Kent, it’s hosted some excellent parties and weddings.

12. Cooling Castle Barn, Rochester

Newlyweds pose in front of castle tower at the cooling castle barn.

Large or small, formal or informal, Cooling Castle Barn has spaces for any kind of wedding and promises that no two weddings are the same! Kick back and enjoy this intimate wedding venue in the spotlight, along with a scrummy breakfast, elevenses, a glass or two of bubbles and the undivided attention of everyone around you.

13. Hoath House, Edenbridge

Bride and her bridesmaids pose in front of venue.

Hoath House aims to make your special day as you always imagined it would be. Get married under their wedding arch, or under a gazebo. Hoath House, a magnificent Tudor period building boasting idyllic history and wooden beam features, is the perfect wedding backdrop.

14. Whitstable Castle Trust, Whitstable

Named one of the best UK Castle Wedding Venues, Whitstable Castle boasts beautiful lawns, a fabulous fountain, multiple reception rooms, sea views and a roof terrace for drinks and photographs, what more do you need? Feel like a queen and say I DO to this fabulous intimate venue.

15. Elmley Nature Reserve, Sheerness

You have to see this one! Elmley is a 3,300-acre estate based on an island in the Thames, situated away from the bustle of North Kent, just an hour from London. A vast wilderness. The spectacular landscape, soul-stirring skies. An absolute sight to behold.

We couldn’t wait to show you these Kentish gems! We know it takes time, so if you haven’t found ‘the one’ yet, don’t panic. Bridebook.co.uk’s Wedding Venue Search is a quick and simple way of finding the right venues for you, so click the filters, choose your number of guests and type in Kent as your preferred location. We’re sure that your dream venue is just around the corner!

Don’t forget to use the budget, guestlist and checklist features while you’re there to get the most out of your wedding planning time.

Happy Bridebooking!

15 Cheap Wedding Venues In Kent

Your wedding is a special and important day. If you feel overwhelmed at the prospect of planning and booking a wedding in Kent, don’t panic! We are here to help you plan your ‘simply perfect’ and totally affordable Kentish wedding! Because of its abundance of orchards and hop gardens, Kent is traditionally known as “The Garden of England”. The stunning countryside, rolling valleys and the white chalk cliffs make it a very popular place to get married.

The variety of Wedding Venues in Kent is endless with manor houses, converted barns and Castles. Kent also offers Zoo’s, Farms and even Wildlife Parks to choose from! In recent years converted barn and castle locations have become extremely popular and cheap wedding venues in Kent. With great commuter links to and from London, this has resulted in Kent being probably one of the most popular counties for a wedding.

1. Hayne House

Hayne House is a family run venue, set in 35 acres beautifully landscaped grounds. Offering you exclusive use of the brand-new unique purpose-built Orangery, former Hunting Pavilion and pretty garden. Whatever season you have in mind for your wedding, the versatility of Hayne House makes it a unique setting for your big day.

2. The Barn

Wedding guests throw confetti outside The Barn. A cheap wedding venue in Kent.

The Barn is a unique venue which has been rebuilt from a centuries old Elizabethan barn in a Kent village to its present site some years ago. It has been built in the traditional Kentish style with oak beams and columns and is a rustic venue with a modern edge, ideal for your chic wedding reception.

3. St Martin’s Priory

Marquee set up for a wedding at St. Martin's Priory

Of all the affordable wedding venues in Kent, this one definitely has the WOW factor when it comes to event settings. Hidden away from Canterbury’s bustle, this picturesque venue includes a beautiful 2.5-acre tiered garden, which is the perfect backdrop for a marquee wedding venue, and can accommodate up to 200 guests.

4. The Bull Hotel

If you’re looking for something with Spark and Style, but also want a cheap wedding venue, then this Gem is for you! Situated in the historic village of Wrotham, near Sevenoaks and Maidstone, this 600-year old coaching inn boasts charm and character you won’t forget.

5. The Black Horse Inn

The Black Horse Inn provides an intimate and relaxing location for a Wedding and Reception. Situated in the Kentish countryside on the historic Pilgrims Way, the Black Horse Inn and it’s beautiful gardens provide a welcoming and spectacular location for hosting weddings and for the solemnization of civil marriages and partnerships.

6. Lordswood Leisure Centre

Purple themed wedding at Lordswood Leisure Centre.

The Wedding Suites are inside Lordswood Leisure Centre which is set in 14 acres of beautiful woodland surroundings. The venue is located within the Medway towns, both the M2 and M20 motorways are only a short 10-minute drive away. Easily accessible and beautifully scenic, this venue could be the one!

7. Greenhill Farm

This is no ordinary Farm Wedding Venue. When you choose Greenhill Farm for your special day you have their expert team to ensure the day goes to plan and you stay the blushing bride all day. Talk to them to planning your wedding and feel confident that every detail will be looked at to ensure your event runs smoothly.

8. The Hawkenbury

Add some spice and pizzazz to your wedding! The Hawkenbury Inn can accommodate your guests – whether it’s a small party of 18/20 to a full wedding for 90 guests, offering a dance floor, disco, hog roast and even live cabaret! Who doesn’t love a show? Say ‘I Do’ at one of the most affordable wedding venues in Kent.

9. The Thatched Barn

Newlyweds pose in front of helicopter at The Thatched Barn

Right in the heart of Kent lies the Thatched Barn, a beautiful 16th century building that’s a great choice for an idyllic and unique wedding day. Within the stunning grounds is a private helipad so if you are looking for the ultimate mode of transport for your wedding why not consider a helicopter! Fancy right?

10. Oakley House

Oakley House is a licensed wedding and civil partnership venue. Set in this ideal location and combining a tastefully decorated wedding room in which to hold your service with the convenience of a large banqueting hall PLUS in-house catering facilities, you can’t go wrong!

11. Riverview Manor

Wedding marquee decorated with lavender paper spheres.

Get in here and book for a place to marry. You will be so happy you did. Riverview Manor would love to help make your dreams become a successful reality at their very unique venue. This budget wedding venue won’t break the bank and the flexibilities and opportunities are literally endless. Yes, Literally!

12. Bewl Water

Breath-taking panoramic views across the reservoir and hundreds of acres of outstanding natural beauty make Bewl Water the picture-perfect location for your special day and one of the most unique Wedding venues in Kent on a budget. Choose to marry to the backdrop of the South East’s largest stretch of open water.

13. Tower House

Create your perfect day in our intimate and sophisticated venue, offering a touch of originality and a sense of grandeur. Tower House is fully licensed to host your wedding, civil ceremony or reception for up to 70 people at very little cost.

14. Beach Hut Weddings

Happy newlyweds and their friends dip their feet in the ocean.

Dream of getting married at a beach wedding venue? We think this one comes pretty close! Herne Bay has been purpose built to help create the perfect setting for you and your loved ones on your special day. Exchange your vows surrounded by all the charm and beauty that Herne Bay’s seaside has to offer.

15. Stonelees Golf Club

Newlyweds chat on the bride at Stoneless Golf Club, a cheap wedding venue in Kent.

This delightful and picturesque wedding venue offers a unique wedding setting that will leave a lasting impression on you and your guests. As one of the best wedding venues in Kent on a budget, they have a wealth of experience to inspire creativity and expression when planning the unification of your marriage.

Who says you can’t have the perfect wedding on the cheap? These are just SOME of the wonderful options Kent has to offer at affordable prices.

Take a look at our handy budget feature to help you keep your costs low, as well as well as a useful checklist to ensure everything runs smoothly. We also have a guest list feature you can use to make sure all the aunts and uncles are invited to share in your special occasion!

From here on, it’s up to you!

HAPPY PLANNING!

10 Vineyard Wedding Venues in the UK

Sweeping views over and through the vineyards make for beautiful wedding pictures and fantastic memories. Vineyard weddings are most often destination weddings. Couples and their guests board planes and travel to the most picturesque locales for wine-centred festivities. But budget or logistical constraints can thwart a couple’s plan to wed in Spain, France or Italy.

But fear not! Before abandoning the dream of throwing a soiree amid a verdant estate, consider booking one of these UK Vineyards. If you’re looking for a truly unique wedding experience, a vineyard wedding can offer the best of a destination wedding, with a local setting. Come with us as we explore the top Vineyard Wedding Venues to make your special day spectacular.

If you’re still left looking after reading this, use Bridebook’s award-winning wedding venue search to find your ideal spot to tie the knot!

1. The Vineyard, Berkshire

Newlyweds kiss outside the vineyard wedding venue in Berkshire

A special occasion deserves an equally special setting… from intimate celebrations to opulent gatherings, The Vineyard is the perfect destination for your Vineyard wedding. The Vineyard is a 5 star Relais & Châteaux hotel, renowned for its impeccable service, 3 AA Rosette restaurant & award winning 30,000 bottle wine cellar.

2. Knightor Winery, St Austell, Cornwall

Newlyweds walk through the pathway surrounded by greenery, in Knightor Winery.

Knightor is a very special, timelessly Cornish venue set in four acres of vineyards, pasture and orchards, with historic granite barns, beautiful rustic buildings and open countryside surroundings it truly is the ideal wedding location for English wine lovers!

3. Denbies Wine Estate, Surrey

Vineyards lit up with sunshine as newlyweds stare into each other eyes.

Celebrate your Wedding in the beautiful landscaped setting of the vineyard. Set in the heart of the Surrey Hills, an area known for its outstanding natural beauty, Denbies prides itself as one of the finest places to get married in Surrey.

4. Little Wold Vineyard, South Cave, England

Bride and her bridesmaids pose at Little Wold Vineyard,

When your venue’s main ambition is to ensure you and your loved ones can share an unforgettable experience in a magical setting, making memories that will last a lifetime, you know you have a keeper! This stunning site is set in the rolling hills of the Yorkshire wolds, in 30 acres of meadow grass, above Little Wold Vineyard.

5. Yorkshire Heart Vineyard, York, North Yorkshire

Bride and groom pose in the vineyard, the bride is sitting on a chair and the groom has his hand on her shoulder.

Yorkshire Heart Vineyard is a stunning picturesque venue for anyone looking for somewhere a bit different to hold their special day… you don’t get much more unique than a Vineyard wedding venue in the heart of York. The perfect outdoor wedding venue.

6. Hambledon Vineyard, Waterlooville, Hampshire

Couple poses happily in from of the vineyard on a foggy day.

For a quintessentially English UK Country wedding venue that’s memorable, unique and beautiful, Hambledon Vineyard has it all. Offering a reception that’s romantic, picturesque and stylish, this Vineyard wedding venue, nestled in the Hampshire countryside is your dream location.

7. Nutbourne Vineyards, Pulborough, West Sussex

This is quite the unique vineyard setting, boasting an exciting and unusual wedding venue. Nutbourne is a working farm and prides itself on being bigger on atmosphere than frills. Their facilities are charming but rustic and once you see it, you’ll be delighted at the possibilities!

8. Mersea Island Vineyard, Essex

This is a beautiful and unique outdoor venue with. This easily accessible location provides a spacious marquee wedding venue and a reception hall and is nestled within a stunning British vineyard.

9. High House Weddings, Essex

High House is a family run, stunning, award-winning, exclusive use wedding venue set in six acres of landscaped gardens and rolling meadow in the Essex countryside. This is the perfect setting, nestled within the rolling countryside of elegant English country gardens offering a spectacular backdrop to your day.

10. Froginwell Vineyard, Devon

A stunning barn nestled within twenty acres of beautiful Devonshire countryside makes this an idyllic wedding venue. Family owned and run, Froginwell has undergone a series of improvements over its years as a wedding venue, which has culminated in a stunning space.

With some special spaces for some special people, your wedding will be the talk of the town with dynamite photography in beautiful settings. These are the memories that will last a lifetime!

Start your adventure today by choosing one of these unique venues. While you’re at it, take a look at our budget, checklist and guestlist features to help you get a headstart on your Wedding Planning!

1. Keep your loved ones safe

2. Talk to your wedding venue and suppliers

3. Check your wedding insurance

4. Understand the travel guidelines for guests and your honeymoon

5. Discuss contingency plans with your partner

6. Update your guests

7. Join our Bridebook community group on Facebook

Finally

30 fun and unique engagement party ideas

1. Hawaiian Luau party

2. Glamping party

3. Casino night

4. Couples costume party

5. Dessert party

6. Desert party

7. Mardi Gras

8. Oktoberfest party

9. Wine and cheese tasting

10. Movie night

11. Beach bonfire

12. Murder mystery

13. Retro arcade party

14. Roller disco party

15. Brewery party

16. Hollywood red carpet event

17. Globetrotter party

18. Masquerade ball

19. Garden party

20. Pool party

21. Backyard BBQ

22. Cooking class

23. Game night

24. Arts and crafts party

25. Karaoke night

26. Fairground fun

27. Fairytale party

28. Boat party

29. Bollywood night

30. Comedy club night

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Happy Planning!

1. The Importance of a Wedding Invitation

2. Designing Your Wedding Invitation

3. Wedding Invitation Etiquette

How long before a wedding should you send invitations?

What do I write on a wedding invitation?

Whose name goes first on a wedding invitation?

How much time do you give guests to RSVP to a wedding?

4. Trending Now: Wedding Invitation Trends for 2023

5. Budgeting for Your Invitations

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What Is Your Wedding Information Sheet For?

What Information Should You Include On Your Wedding Information Sheet?

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How does the pricing work?

What is the average cost of catering a wedding?

Is it cheaper per head the more guests there are?

How much does a wedding breakfast cost?

How much does an evening buffet cost?

What else can affect the cost of catering a wedding?

What about the alcohol?

Ready to plan your big day?

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1. Royal Botanic Gardens

2. WWT London Wetland Centre

3. Chelsea Physic Garden

4. Hill Garden and Pergola

5. Chiswick House Gardens

6. The Hurlingham Club

7. The Conservatory at Painshill

8. Vanstone Park

9. Paradise Wildlife Park

10. Selsdon Park Hotel & Golf Club

Happy Planning!

1. Sandhole Oak Barn

2. Heaton House Farm

3. Owen House Wedding Barn

4. The Plough Inn