Tag: Venue

How Much Does a Wedding Marquee Cost? The 2024 Average Revealed

Since 2021, the laws surrounding outdoor weddings in the UK have been relaxed to allow couples a greater amount of choice when it comes to getting married. Now, if you’re looking to get married outside, or in a marquee surrounded by glorious countryside, you’re absolutely free to do so.

However, there are costs and considerations you need to be aware of when it comes to hiring a marquee for your wedding. In this post, we’ll take a look at the average cost of a wedding marquee, what factors can push that cost up, and why a marquee might not necessarily suit every venue.

What’s the average cost of a wedding marquee?

Photo © Original Marquees | See their Bridebook profile

As explored in our ultimate wedding budget breakdown, couples spend an average of £4,200 on a wedding marquee. However, the bare bones of a marquee aren’t likely to provide you with a dream location for you to host your wedding ceremony, breakfast or evening reception. So, you’ll also have to budget for wedding decorations to ensure it’s personalised to your tastes and every bit as beautiful as you’d hope for your big day.

On top of the cost to hire the marquee, there are other costs to bear in mind:

  • Site rental: This could be free if you own the land, or £1,000+ if not
  • Furniture hire: £500+
  • Catering: The average cost of catering starts from £15 per head
  • Toilets: £100+
  • Staff: £100+ per member of staff
  • Decor: Couples spend an average of £1,000 on non-DIY wedding decor
  • Power: Generator rental costs are around £100

Do all types of marquee cost the same?

Photo © Sami Tipi | See their Bridebook profile

Due to the differences in style and size – which can affect storage, set up, take down and transportation – not all marquees cost the same to hire. There are several types of marquee that are often used at weddings, with each type suitable for a slightly different purpose. Just some of the marquee types include:

  • Pole marquees: Wooden poles support a canvas roof. They provide an elegant look for a more traditional wedding.
  • Clearspan marquees: Modern and high-tech with a metal frame which allows for more flexibility. However, they’re also more expensive.
  • Stretch tents: A popular choice with material – as the name suggests – stretched over internal poles.
  • Tipis: Tipis are full of character, but creative use is important as interior space can be limited.
  • Yurts: Yurts are constructed using circular wooden frames and can be visually striking, especially from the inside.

For something a little different, you could even hire a circus tent to really make sure your wedding is remembered for a long time to come. In fact, Bigtopmania allows just that, with prices starting at £100 if you have a smaller budget. If you’re looking for something a little more modern but still just as unique, BAYA Hire provides incredible dome tents, with prices starting from around £4,600.

What is the most commonly used marquee at a wedding?

Photo © Abacus Marquees | See their Bridebook profile

Despite there being so many choices available, the traditional marquee remains a firm favourite thanks to its versatility, large capacity and highly customisable interior space.

What factors can affect the cost of hiring a wedding marquee?

Photo © The Events and Tents Company Ltd | See their Bridebook profile

On top of the type of marquee you decide to go for, there are many other factors that mean the price you pay may begin to creep up (and up and up if you’re after a lot).

Some of the factors that can affect the cost include:

  • The size: The bigger the marquee the more you’re likely to pay.
  • Location: Is the venue in a remote location? Does the space mean set up and take down will be difficult?
  • Duration: If you need the marquee for multiple days then the cost will be higher than if you only need it for one.
  • Date: If your wedding is taking place at peak times such as during the summer or at weekends the rates may be higher than off-peak times.

Is it cheaper to use a marquee over a traditional reception venue?

Photo © Bigtopmania | See their Bridebook profile

The average cost of a wedding venue is over double the cost of a marquee. Initially, it may seem like a no-brainer that a marquee is a more budget-friendly option than a traditional venue. Here are a few ways a marquee may be a cheaper option:

  • A greater level of flexibility when it comes to location, size and layout
  • There are far lower rental costs
  • Venues often have certain restrictions which marquees don’t
  • Vendors can provide off-peak discounts

On paper, a marquee is a great option for couples with a smaller budget. But, before you start hammering tent pegs into the nearest field, there are additional costs to be aware of.

What are the potential additional costs?

Photo © Coastal Tents | See their Bridebook profile

When speaking to your chosen vendor, make sure you know exactly what you’re getting for the price you’re quoted. If you’re after a marquee and it just fits within your budget, then check it includes everything you’re hoping for – otherwise, you could be in for an unwelcome surprise.

For example, not all marquees will be big enough for you, your guests AND catering, so will a second smaller marquee be required for the caterers? Similarly, what about a bar and a dance floor? Or lighting and heating? You may also need to hire a generator to make sure there’s power and toilets because…*ahem*. All of these additions will considerably bump up the cost, so if they’re needed make sure they’re factored into your budget before you hire your marquee.

For more information check out our post on the questions to ask your marquee hire company.

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And if you’re looking for ways to save money on your wedding marquee, we’ve got plenty of money-saving tips to help you make your budget go further.

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How to Plan a Boho Themed Wedding

When it comes to planning your dream wedding, one of the most important decisions is choosing your theme. The possibilities are endless – from formal black tie and season-themed weddings to all-black weddings and media-based pop culture weddings. One other very popular and currently trending wedding theme is the boho wedding.

If you’re a free-spirited individual who would LOVE a natural and earthy outdoor wedding with rustic themes, lavish floral arrangements, flowing light linen drapery, woven decor elements, and DIY projects aplenty, then you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we’ll discuss everything you’ll need to plan the boho wedding of your dreams.

What is a boho wedding?

Photo © Wilderness Wedding Venue | See their Bridebook profile

Before we get to the planning stage, let’s clarify exactly what a boho, or bohemian, wedding is. The bohemian lifestyle means embracing your free spirit and becoming one with nature. The ‘boho chic’ trend began gaining popularity around the 2000s while being heavily inspired by the ’60s and 70s Hippie era.

Now, you don’t have to follow the hippie culture A-to-Z or have a complete boho wedding; instead, you can pick and choose what you like to have in a wedding that follows your vision. The best part about this is that you won’t go wrong with anything you choose. With a boho wedding, blending your natural surroundings with touches that reflect your personality is all you need for perfection.

If you’re a couple that prefers structure and a clear-cut plan, then incorporating macrame and boho-inspired stationery, such as handwritten calligraphy, botanical prints, and watercolour  designs would look amazing. But if you’re a more free-spirited couple, an eclectic mix of colours and textures should be the way to go.

How to plan a boho wedding?

Photo © The Wellbeing Farm | See their Bridebook profile

There’s a lot to consider when planning a wedding. A boho wedding is no different: you can opt for a romantic, vintage, or natural boho wedding with different elements thrown in. To help you out, we’ve created a guide that will help you with shortlisting and finalising your options:

1. Say “I do” at the best bohemian venue

Photo © Northside Farm | See their Bridebook profile

Your venue is one of the key elements that will show your passion for the bohemian lifestyle. Boho wedding venues are laid-back, natural, and generally in an outdoor setting, with possible rustic or vintage touches. The best thing about these is that they cost less than traditional weddings, so you can get the real fairytale wedding without breaking the bank.

You can get married in:

  • A famous local park
  • Natural reserve
  • Beach
  • Farmhouse
  • Ranch
  • Orchard
  • Barn
  • Cottage
  • Even in a well-decorated backyard or garden

Some of the lush and green places in the UK that would make a perfect setting for a boho or outdoor wedding are:

  • The Lake District: With its stunning lakes, mountains, and forests.
  • Cornwall: With its golden beaches, rugged coastline, and beautiful gardens.
  • The Cotswolds: Known for their scenic villages, rolling hills, and gorgeous countryside.
  • The Scottish Highlands: With their wild and beautiful landscapes, dramatic mountains, and ethereal forests, you can’t get a more boho wedding venue than this.

Top tip: don’t forget to consider the local climate and weather when choosing a location.

2. Set the scene with boho wedding decor

Photo © Velvet Rose Flower Studio | See their Bridebook profile

When choosing the decor for your picturesque boho wedding, choose decor that works with your venue. If you have an outdoor wedding in a garden, park, forest, or beach, focus on natural, earthy elements that will make the venue pop. You can never go wrong with Pampas grass and driftwood accents.

For the floral arrangements, you don’t have to follow structure or have manicured bouquets with matching flowers. Mismatched wildflowers with succulents and big boughs of greenery are popular options in the boho wedding scene. You can even match your bouquet and flower crown, if you choose to wear one, with the floral arrangements.

You can save on budget for the rest of the decor by making it a DIY project or thrifting. Here are a few other decor items to consider:

  • The arch: you can go with a fun and spirited geometric arch or macramé fringes for a whimsical setting. If you want to take a more natural route, raw wood and florals can create an arch that will awe your guests.
  • Rugs: rugs can be used to line the aisle for a softer and easier walking path and also the dance floor for a coachella-esque approach.
  • Rustic decor: The options are numerous: feathers, candles, bottles and jars, and glassware.

3. Don a Bohemian wedding dress and accessories

Photo © Francis Bridal | See their Bridebook profile

Boho wedding dresses tend to be more casual, whimsical, and often not white. Some have off-the-shoulder designs with flowing sleeves; others are covered from top to bottom with lace. Since they’re more minimalistic than their traditional counterparts, you can get a boho wedding dress for a lot cheaper. If we’re selling you on the budget-friendly options, trust us, most boho weddings are that cost-effective.

For accessories, you could pair the dress with vintage jewellery, flower or lace headbands, and even cowboy boots and a hat for a fun twist.

Here’s a list of ideas for boho wedding dresses:

  • Flutter sleeves or lantern sleeves
  • Non-white wedding dress, such as cream, champagne, light pink, or any soft pastel colour
  • A goddess-style boho wedding dress with an inner corset, flowing sleeves, and mermaid skirt
  • Plus size boho wedding dress with sweetheart neckline and bishop or long puff sleeves

Here are some popular boho wedding accessories to consider:

  • Crystal headbands
  • Flowers and lace woven into your braid
  • Flower crowns with flowing hair
  • Beads and crystal jewellery

4. Send out your boho wedding invitations

Photo © Dove and Lace | See their Bridebook profile

Like with the decor and everything else – boho wedding invitations are best to keep casual, fun, and whimsical. For a spiritual touch, a metallic mandala embossed invitation would give off elegant yet mystic vibes. For a more laid-back option, deckled edge or kraft paper invitations would look amazing. Following an eclectic theme, your invitations can be mismatched with funky colours.

If you want to check out our range of boho wedding invitations, check out our stationery section.

5. Dance the night away with boho wedding music

Photo © Michael Mulholland | See their Bridebook profile

As we all know, the vibe of any place is set by good, relevant music. For a boho wedding, you want to set the mood with music that follows your wedding theme and breathes life into the venue. Your guests could end up disappointed with a generic DJ or band who doesn’t understand how to enthral the crowd with music that fits.

For a classic boho wedding, you could skip the DJ and opt for instrumental pieces or even violin and piano music. Acoustic wedding singers could also make the evening magical with a personalised playlist: Michael Mulholland, Matthew Turner and Ed Peczek are some of Bridebook’s most in-demand acoustic wedding singers.

6. Wow your guest with a boho wedding cake and bohemian menu

Photo © Artisan Weddings | See their Bridebook profile

Food brings everyone together, and what better way to make your wedding memorable than having a unique spread with foods from cultures around the world? You can contact a catering company and work with them to design a custom menu, or if you want to go down a simpler path, having a simple buffet with dishes from different parts of the world is a good option too.

You can get locally-sourced food from farms and ranches around you with rustic selections like a charcuterie board, fruit platters, local wine, vintage elements like a vintage food truck, or DIY food stations.

And for the heart of the wedding, the wedding cake, you can take inspiration from the ground and the sky above. There’s nothing dreamier than a celestial-inspired cake featuring geodes and gemstones. Alternatively, naked cakes adorned with flowers and lush greenery are also a signature bohemian wedding staple.

FAQs

Check out some commonly asking questions about planning a boho wedding ceremony, along with their answers. 

How many people use boho weddings?


While there are no clear-cut stats on the percentage of people opting for a boho or outdoor wedding, boho weddings are one of the most popular wedding themes for 2023. With more and more people embracing the minimalistic, free-spirited approach, boho weddings will only be gaining popularity.


How can you make a boho wedding bouquet?

There’s no ‘one’ way to make a boho bridal bouquet. Instead, you can match the wedding bouquet with your dress, accessories, or venue. Pampas grass is an evergreen option; you can pair it with rust-coloured florals. Or, a bouquet of wildflowers tied together with lace is a great option too. If you need some inspiration, check out these boho floral arrangements on Pinterest.

What should grooms wear to a boho wedding?

The essence of a boho wedding is freedom; naturally, it also extends towards the groom. He can match his clothes with the bride’s or opt for something completely different such as no shoes or a cream shirt with suspenders – think Leonardo DiCaprio in Titanic.

What is the colour of boho?

There is no single “colour of boho” – it’s a blend of different tones ranging from earthy to stunning jewel tones, encompassed in neutral and warm colours such as white, grey, brown, yellow, orange, blue, red, white, etc.

Now you have the perfect guide to planning the boho wedding of your dreams. For hassle-free and cost-effective A-to-Z wedding planning, get started on Bridebook today!

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How to Plan a Twilight Wedding Ceremony

Picture this: you and your partner are gathered beneath the emerging stars as flickering candlelight casts dancing shadows on your outfits as you walk down the aisle. Slowly, the sun sets on the horizon as you exchange vows in front of your closest family and friends, then you pose for some of the most incredible wedding photographs you’ll ever see.

Sounds magical, right? Twilight weddings are fast growing in popularity as couples seek increasingly more unique, romantic and affordable ways to spend their big day.

When it comes to planning a twilight wedding ceremony it’s not all that different from a traditional daytime wedding, but you’ll make several big decisions that are critical towards its success. These include what time to hold the ceremony, choosing the perfect venue and the potential hiccups you may need to overcome. In this post, we’ll take a look at everything you need to think about when it comes to planning the perfect twilight wedding.

What is a twilight wedding?

A twilight wedding is a wedding that is held during the latter half of the day – specifically any time after 3.30pm – though is usually timed to coincide with sunset. Whereas traditionally weddings take place over an entire day, twilight weddings start much later to take advantage of the enchanting and romantic atmosphere that builds as the sun goes down.

To take advantage of the setting sun, twilight weddings are often held outside, in locations that accentuate the natural beauty that comes with that time of day, for example on the beach or in a landscaped garden. But, we’re all too painfully aware of the unpredictability of the weather here in the UK, so venues that are covered but allow for a creative use of lighting also make for a great choice.

How popular are twilight weddings?

Twilight weddings are becoming more and more popular, thanks in part to outdoor weddings having now been legalised. Today’s couples now have more freedom than ever over where they can get married. More and more venues are starting to offer couples the option of a twilight wedding package, which is enough evidence to prove that interest continues to grow. But twilight weddings are still not quite in the mainstream, which ensures that if you do plan a twilight wedding, your ceremony will be a unique and memorable one.

Photo © Crowne Hill Plaza Solihull | See their Bridebook profile

Here’s what some of our venues have to say about the popularity of twilight weddings:

  • “Relaxed and romantic, our Twilight Wedding Package is becoming more popular, with couples looking to move away from the formalities of a traditional wedding breakfast followed by a reception. It removes the pressure of entertaining their guests for an entire day as well as reducing the costs.” (Nicola Corfield, expert sales and marketing manager at Crowne Plaza Solihull)
  • “Our Twilight Wedding Package has been extremely popular with our couples. Moving forwards, couples are often looking for that ‘non-traditional’ day where they can have all of their nearest and dearest there from the beginning – skipping the traditional sit down meal and heading straight for the party. This does tie in nicely with our outside wedding ceremonies as the vibe turns into a garden party feel. Twilight weddings are definitely here to stay.” (Pippa Attwood, experienced wedding co-ordinator at Slater’s Country Hotel and Inn)

What time is a twilight wedding?

Twilight weddings take place in the evening, usually around the time the sun begins to set. This means the time the ceremony takes place can vary depending on the season, but will always be some time after 3.30pm.

For example, during late December sunset starts around 3.35pm, while in June it starts around 9.30pm. That’s not to say that summer twilight wedding ceremonies have to start that late – after all, not many guests will want to wait until midnight to have a slice of cake – and the time your ceremony starts is purely down to your own personal preferences.

If you’re planning a twilight wedding for the spring, you may expect your order of service to look a little something like this:

  • 4pm – 5pm – guests arrive and enjoy some pre-ceremony canapés
  • 5pm – 5.30pm – guests are seated
  • 5.30pm – 6.30pm – the ceremony takes place
  • 6.30pm – 7.30pm – photographs and drinks
  • 7.30pm – 1am – evening reception including drinks, dancing and food

During the ceremony and later into the night as it starts to get much darker, additional lighting will help to keep the magical atmosphere alive, especially if it’s taking place outside. Torches, candles, fairy lights and even bonfires ensure warmth and beauty if the temperature starts to drop.

Photo © Slater’s Country Hotel and Inn | See their Bridebook profile

Here’s what some of our venues have to say about the timing of twilight weddings:

  • “Couples may need to be flexible with the day of week, as availability for evening-only weddings may not be available at venues during high demand wedding months and days of the week. Twilight weddings are perfect for a Friday afternoon, especially when wedding guests may have flexible working allowing them to finish early to attend the nuptials.” (Nicola Corfield, expert sales and marketing manager at Crowne Plaza Solihull)
  • “Twilight wedding ceremonies usually take place at 4pm followed by a relaxed drinks reception and canapés and on to the evening party with a BBQ or buffet. Brides and grooms have reported that they enjoy having the whole day to get ready with no pressure or time constraints and this makes a more relaxing experience on the whole.” (Pippa Attwood, experienced wedding co-ordinator at Slater’s Country Hotel and Inn)

What’s the best venue for a twilight wedding?

To make the most of the fabulous light and colours brought by the setting sun, twilight weddings are usually held outside at venues that accentuate the natural beauty. However, outdoor weddings aren’t for everyone, and many indoor venues can work just as well. Below are just a few options for you to consider:

  • Outdoor venues – beaches, gardens, parks, fields or vineyards are already beautiful outdoor venues, with that beauty accentuated further as the sun sets.
  • Rustic venues – barns, cottages, halls, courtyards and farms make for stunning rustic venues, especially when well lit using fairy lights and candles.
  • Rooftops and terraces – what better way to make the most of the twilight than by being up high so you can see for miles and miles?
  • Historical sites – wonderful historical sites, such as castles or the grounds of a manor house, make for jaw dropping backdrops, especially into the evening.

Crowne Plaza Solihull would also recommend considering hotels that are licensed for civil ceremonies specifically: “These work well for twilight weddings, as they can host the entire celebration, including hosting guests overnight, seamlessly and all under one roof.”

What are the benefits of having a twilight wedding?

We’ve already covered how magical a twilight wedding can be, but there are plenty of other benefits that might make it a better choice for you than a traditional wedding.

  • Cost because the ceremony and reception only take place during the evening, the costs involved can be much less.
  • Unique while growing in popularity, twilight weddings are still not as common as daytime weddings.
  • Romantic and intimate – sunset is already an enchanting time of day, add a stunning wedding into the mix and you have a recipe for a magical wedding.
  • Flexibility it can be difficult for all of your loved ones to attend a daytime wedding, especially if it takes place during the week, and a twilight wedding helps more guests be with you on the day. You may also find it’s easy to secure your preferred vendors if they’re not committing to a whole day.
  • Fewer formalities – if you’re keen on having a wedding but not looking forward to the formality of an all-day event, a twilight wedding condenses it, which relieves some of the pressure.

Should you consider a twilight wedding?

Whether or not a twilight wedding is right for you depends on your preferences and the time of year you’re looking to get married.

If you’re set on getting married during the winter, then you may want to think long and hard about an outdoor wedding – after all, your guests won’t be dancing at the reception if they’re still frozen to their seats. However, an indoor venue that allows for great views, or a covered venue where heaters can be used, also make for a great choice.

Certain aspects might have to be cut or trimmed down, such as the wedding breakfast and some of the speeches, so if you’re big into all the traditional parts of a wedding, then consider that there might not be time for everything. Remember, it will be difficult to squeeze every part of an all-day wedding into just five or six hours.

That being said, nothing can match the ambience of a twilight wedding, nor the photographs you’ll have thanks to the incredible lighting. As it gets dark and the candles, torches, and fairy lights begin to shine, it will transform an already beautiful venue into one that is truly breathtaking.

What are the risks involved with a twilight wedding?

If your twilight wedding takes place at an indoor venue then there are no more risks involved than there are with any other wedding – so you get all of the benefits with none of the stress.

However, if the ceremony is due to take place outside, then you’ll be checking the weather forecast obsessively for days and even weeks ahead of the day. So, in the event the dreaded rain cloud appears beside the date of your wedding, it’s best to have a backup plan to avoid heartache and disappointment. This could be something as simple as a marquee or other indoor space that you could switch to should the heavens threaten to open.

How much does a twilight wedding cost?

Because you’re using the venue for a shorter amount of time and paying vendors for fewer hours, twilight weddings should be cheaper, right? Well, generally they are, yes. For example, Slater’s Country Hotel and Inn twilight wedding package costs significantly less than their traditional package. However, depending on your chosen venue, it might not be as significantly cheaper as you might hope. It’s important to remember that even though your wedding isn’t using the venue throughout the entire day, it’s stopping other weddings from taking place that may have done. That being said, you’ll still make savings elsewhere, which makes a twilight wedding an enticing option for couples conscious of their budget.

Do all venues offer twilight wedding packages?

Not all venues currently offer a twilight wedding package, but as they grow in popularity they’re becoming increasingly more common. Below is a selection of just a few venues that offer twilight weddings and how much they cost:

Tips for the planning the perfect twilight wedding

Excited to start planning your twilight wedding? Here are five tips to help you create a beautiful and unique day.

  1. Choose the venue carefully – the most stunning venue on paper may not be the most practical, especially if it’s outdoors. Make sure there’s a back up option available if the weather takes a turn for the worst, and the sun isn’t blinding your guests as it sets.
  2. The timing is everything – if sunset is at 6pm, then don’t start the ceremony at that time. To get the most out of the fading light, make sure the ceremony starts around 20-40 minutes before.
  3. Dress for the occasion – even if it’s not raining, the weather will still play a big part, so dress appropriately and consider whether you want goosebumps on show in your photos. You may also want to consider offering guests blankets for their laps, which can double up as unique wedding favours.
  4. Have the right light – your ceremony may start while it’s still light, but it will soon darken, and having the right lighting, such as candles and fairy lights, will add further delicate beauty.
  5. Use the darkness to your advantage – as it gets darker it’ll help you to introduce new and exciting ways to entertain your guests. You could consider glow-in-the-dark decorations, give guests colourful glow sticks to use for photographs, or have a bonfire burning so guests can make their own s’mores.

Start planning your twilight wedding today

Now that you know what to think about when planning a twilight wedding, why not start planning your own wedding with Bridebook today?

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Top Tips For Your Destination Wedding

A destination wedding can be a memorable and unique way to celebrate your special day with your friends and family. But planning one can be a daunting task! There are so many decisions to make and details consider. That’s why we’ve put together our top tips for planning a destination wedding. They’ll help you make your big day a success, no matter where you are in the world. From choosing the perfect wedding venue, to being aware of the legalities, we’ve got you covered.

1. Choose the right location

Photo © The Art of Now | See their Bridebook profile

The location you choose for your destination wedding is crucial. Consider factors like climate, accessibility, price and venue availability. You may want to choose a place that has a special meaning to you and your partner. How about where you first went on holiday together? Or somewhere with stunning, picture-perfect scenery for your wedding photos?

If you’re not sure where to start, check out our handy guide on the top 10 destination wedding locations. From a romantic Mediterranean beach wedding on a Greek island to a cosmopolitan urban getaway in New York, the world is your oyster!

2. Give your guests plenty of notice and information

Photo © Papier | See their Bridebook profile

When planning a destination wedding, give your guests plenty of advance notice. This will allow them to make travel arrangements and organise their holiday time accordingly (particularly important for very far-flung locations). Send out save-the-date cards at least 6-8 months before the wedding to give your guests plenty of time to plan, and the invitations 3-4 months in advance.

Be sure to include all the important details on a separate information card along with the invitations themselves. We recommend the following as a bare minimum:

  • How to reach your destination and where to stay (include your venue’s address)
  • Information on the weather at the time of year (so your guests can plan their outfits)
  • Tips for places to visit and eat in the area (ask your venue for recommendations)

We recommend listing any extra wedding-related activities, like dinner the day before, or lunch the next day, on your RSVP card. That way, your guests can tick off which ones they’ll be attending.

3. Hire a specialist local wedding planner

Photo © Angela Salzano Destination Wedding Planner | See their Bridebook profile

Hiring a local wedding planner can be a game-changer when planning a wedding abroad. They’ll help you create the perfect wedding itinerary and handle all the necessary logistics, so you can focus on simply enjoying your big day and being present in the moment.

A local wedding planner will have specialist knowledge of the area and wedding suppliers, and can help you navigate any language or cultural barriers. Let them serve as your personal directory of recommendations, from accommodations and restaurants, to activities and attractions.

4. Choose the right wedding dress and attire

Photo © HEMYCA | See their Bridebook profile

When it comes to deciding on your dress code, be sure to consider both the location and nature of your wedding. Depending on the destination, you might need to choose materials that are comfortable in the heat or cold, and shoes that are suitable for the terrain.

If you’re getting married on the beach or very hot country, consider wearing slip-on sandals or going barefoot for a more relaxed feel. If you’re getting married somewhere cold like Iceland, think long sleeves and plenty of warm layers you can change into if necessary.

5. Plan group and honeymoon activities

Photo © FICO by Betty | See their Bridebook profile

An overseas wedding is a great opportunity to spend quality time with your guests. You can organise a rehearsal dinner or post-wedding lunch to extend the celebration and make a holiday of it. Plan group activities to create fun, memorable experiences. We recommend beach bonfires, water sports like snorkelling, hikes and day trips, or food and wine tastings.

Or plan activities for your honeymoon, to make the most of your flight tickets and journey! In fact, with honeymoons being a top splurge for newlyweds, combining your destination wedding with your honeymoon can be a great way to optimise both your budget and your time.

6. Don’t forget the legal details

Photo © Chloe Palmer Photography | See their Bridebook profile

If you’re hoping to tie the knot in a foreign country, be prepared to navigate some legal requirements that might be different from what you’re used to in your home country.

  • Make sure your marriage or civil partnership is recognised by the law back home. This might involve getting certain licenses or translations of documents (for example, if you’re a Brit marrying abroad, a certificate of no impediment (CNI) from the UK government).
  • Make sure you follow all the necessary procedures in the country where you’re planning to get married abroad. You’ll need to reach out to the local authorities to learn what to do.

The bottom line is that you don’t want to get caught out by any legal technicalities that could put a damper on your big day. So be thorough with your research!

Planning a destination wedding requires a bit more effort than a traditional wedding at home, but the results can absolutely be worth it. By following these top tips, you’ll be well on your way to planning the destination wedding of your dreams with all of the joy and none of the stress.

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Happy Planning!

Venue ‘Platinum’ Best of Bridebook Winners 2023

The Best of Bridebook 2023 winners have been announced! This list showcases UK venues with the most 5-star reviews from 2022. Have a peek at the venues in your area below:

North West

North East

Yorkshire and The Humber

West Midlands

East Midlands

East of England

South West

London

South East

Northern Ireland

Scotland

Wales

“The UK’s greatest wedding businesses have been chosen! We are so proud of the 450+ winners, especially after a difficult few years for the industry. We are excited to recommend the best wedding services. Huge congratulations to this year’s winners”. – Hamish Shephard, CEO & Founder, Bridebook.

Supplier Showcase: Veganuary Edition

Sustainable and ethical weddings are on the rise. Back in the day, very few venues and suppliers would cater for such requirements, or when they did, would do so with little creativity (cue sad stuffed mushroom and limp lettuce leaf). But now, there’s a demand amongst today’s couples for more locally sourced, ethical menus, as well as vegan and cruelty-free wedding choices. And so, celebrate the month of Veganuary, we’re showcasing our favourite vegan venues and suppliers.

1. The Wellbeing Farm

Photo © The Wellbeing Farm | See their Bridebook profile

The Wellbeing Farm is one of our favourite sustainable wedding venues…period. It offers a fun, unique farm-based barn experience, is the first B Corp certified venue in the UK, and has just become members of the Sustainable Restaurant Association (which you can’t enter if you haven’t got sufficient vegan and other dietary credentials). Their general ethos is around wellbeing, and minimising stress for its couples. And ensuring every single one of your guests has a creative and tasty meal – whether they’re vegan, gluten-free or lactose-free – is a huge part of that. Their innovative Head Chef sources natural, local produce to create vegetarian and vegan menus that are big in both quality and taste, and even went on a course specialising in vegan desserts (so no more lonely fresh fruit salads!). A lot of venues may offer a single vegan option, but this vegan-friendly venue prides itself on offering a range – a range of starters, a range of mains, a range of desserts. So you’ll be spoilt for choice! For the meat lovers out there, they use Meatless Farm and Beyond Burger as meal substitutes, so you’ll hardly notice the difference.

2. Wilderness Weddings

Photo © Wilderness Weddings | See their Bridebook profile

Stylish and sustainable, relaxed and boho, there’s so much to love about Wilderness Weddings. Set in a protected nature reserve, it features woodlands, giant tipi tents, and a lakeside boathouse. Their seven accredited caterers provide a wealth of dining options, catering for all tastes and budgets. For vegetarians and vegans in particular, choose Scott Anderson catering, who pride themselves on designing bespoke menus around each couple’s requirements. Look no further for creative canapés, scrumptious sharing wedding breakfasts, and exquisite evening platters!

3. Lettice Events

Photo © Lettice Events | See their Bridebook profile

Lettice Events is one of the country’s leading names in luxury catering, known for its innovative and creative food design, cutting-edge presentation and stylish service. Their team of talented chefs can cater to specific dietary restrictions, including a completely vegan menu. From vegan cream cheese and smoked carrot ribbons on light rye wafers, to roast pumpkin skewers, you and your guests are sure to be delighted. With pre-event tastings available, you can effortlessly sample different flavours and select your favourite dishes ahead of your big day.

4. The Hogless Roast

Photo © The Hogless Roast | See their Bridebook profile

Two veggies unable to stomach another bean burger, Matt and Ross, a.k.a. The Hogless Roast, have reimagined the traditional hog roast for a new generation, whether you’re a vegan or simply trying to reduce your meat consumption. Their smoky BBQ vegan burgers use the best plant protein out there – lathered in apple sauce, topped with homemade stuffing, and loaded into a toasted vegan brioche bun. They’re packed with protein and fibre, gluten-free, and, most importantly, keep pigs off plates! Plus, they only use eco-friendly packaging, and are members of the NCASS.

We’ve taken the best plant based protein out there, infused it with smoky BBQ flavours, lathered it in apple sauce, topped it with homemade stuffing and packed it into a toasted vegan brioche bun. Then we’ve thrown in some naughty vegan crackling for good measure!

5. Bee Vegan Bakery

Photo © Bee Vegan Bakery | See their Bridebook profile

For bespoke wedding cakes made vegan, look no further than Bee Vegan Bakery – whether you’re vegan yourself, want a more inclusive option for all of your guests, or have allergies or dietary requirements. There are also plenty of other sweet and savoury vegan treats available, from meatless carrot ‘bacon’ and almond ‘feta’ canapés, and bitesize vegan pastries.

6. Bakehouse Revolution

Photo ©Bakehouse Revolution | See their Bridebook profile

From cute cupcake favours to magnificent multi-tiered showstoppers, Bakehouse Revolution works with you to personally design, bake and create stunning wedding cakes for your special day. Everything is 100% vegan, and will leave a smile on everyone’s faces, whether vegan or not.

7. Tanya Westley Vegan Hair & Makeup Artist

Photo ©Tanya Westley Vegan Hair & Makeup Artist | See their Bridebook profile

Tanya Westley is a vegan wedding hair & makeup specialist based in Oxfordshire. Her kit consists of a carefully curated list of cruelty-free, vegan products, from brands such as Charlotte Tilbury, Cover FX, Face Atelier and Illamasqua, to Kenra, Paul Mitchell, Moroccan Oil, Living Proof and more.

8. Becx Beauty – Makeup Artist & Beautician

Photo ©Becx Beauty – Makeup Artist & Beautician | See their Bridebook profile

Becx Beauty offers a bespoke makeup service for your special day, to ensure you look incredible while everyone looks on in awe. She is fully qualified, insured and accredited by BABTAC (The British Association of Beauty Therapy & Cosmetology), and also Barbicide certified. All of the products are vegan and cruelty-free. As a makeup artist, she has built up a strong reputation and portfolio, becoming one of the most sought after vegan and cruelty-Free MUA in the North East.

9. Lauren Marie Studio

Photo © Lauren Marie Studio | See their Bridebook profile

Lauren Marie Studio creates hand-painted, bespoke, eco-friendly wedding stationery that tells your own unique love story, with lots of detail. She is passionate about providing conscious and sustainable stationery, and uses a gorgeous range of eco-friendly papers, sourcing ethical, vegan-friendly materials wherever possible in her exquisite designs.

10. Vegan Wedding Photography

Photo © Vegan Wedding Photography | See their Bridebook profile

If you’re a vegan, and keen to choose a wedding photographer whose personal values and lifestyle align with your own, be sure to check out Vegan Wedding Photography. Denis is passionate about the environment, nature and sustainability and follows a vegan lifestyle.

Whether you’re a vegan yourself, want to create a more inclusive wedding for your guests, or simply want to reduce the impact of your wedding, the vegan-friendly venues and suppliers above are a great place to start . If any caught your eye, be sure to check out their Bridebook profiles!

Venues’ Top Tips for Engaged Couples

Congratulations on your engagement! Your wedding planning journey awaits! To help you get started, we reached out to our venues, and asked them to share their top tip for newly engaged couples. From choosing your wedding venue, and knowing what to look for, to checking venue availability and dates, we’ve rounded up all their expert advice to share with you.

1. Remember that it’s your big day

Photo © The Duke of Cornwall Hotel

“Our top tip when you’re planning your big day is to remember that it is YOUR day. So decide together what you both want, agree a budget, and then make a list. Aside from saying I do, choosing your venue is also a big decision. So do your research and make appointments with the wedding managers for viewings early in your planning. Make sure your quotation covers everything you need and that there are no hidden costs. And have fun with it, it is YOUR big day!” – Rebecca Prust & Kim Downer, The Duke of Cornwall Hotel

2. Book your show round in early

Photo © Offley Place County House

“Our top tip for newly engaged couples is to get your show round booked in. By seeing lots of different types of venue, you’ll be able to narrow down the one that’s just perfect for you.” – Hayley, Offley Place County House

3. Think about what’s important to you

Photo © Larchfield Estate

“So, first of all, congratulations! One of my top tips for newly engaged couples would be to sit down and have a think about what it really important for you for the day when it comes to looking at venues – how you want it to feel, how you want it to flow. And when you start to enquire with venues, and when you start to visit them, discuss those things with the team. It will give you a very good sense of whether it’s the right place for you – if their vibe matches yours, and also if their values as a company match up with your values as a couple as well.” – Hannah Watson, Larchfield Estate

4. Look for a venue’s unique features

Photo © Deer Park Weddings

“Congratulations – you’re newly engaged! When you’re looking around wedding venues, my top tip is to always look for the unique features of a wedding venue. Some will be really obvious – otherwise the event manager or wedding coordinator can talk to you about them. So have a look for them and find out what they are. It’s so important – not only for you, because it’ll make your day so special, but also for your guests to talk about for years and years to come. And also, the people behind the venue, supplier or service are so important. They will be such a big part of the day, so get to know them and ensure their style of working is right for you.” – Harry South, Deer Park Weddings

5. Know what your personal requirements are

Photo © Roundwood Function Centre

“My number once top tip for selecting your venue would be to make sure you find somewhere that has the flexibility and scope to make sure they give you the day that you’re after, making sure to take into account all your ideas and your own personal requirements. Don’t rush any decisions and always have a notebook for any questions to ask people – otherwise you will forget!” – Luke Howard, Roundwood Function Centre

6. Take lots of notes

Photo © The Keddleston Country House

“The one thing I would recommend is having a wedding planning book, to bring with you when you have your planning meetings and appointments. Then you can make notes as well, as sometimes it can be overwhelming when there’s lots of information to go through. You can ask any questions and not feel as though it’s all in you’re head, because you’ll have it all written down. That will really help you stay organised. It’s also a great thing to keep with you forever. You can get them off Etsy or Amazon – they have lots of different prices, whether £10 or £18.” – Sarita Toor, The Keddleston Country House

With these top tips in mind, you’ll be planning the wedding of your dreams in no time! Keep on top of it all with our free wedding planning checklist – here to guide you every step of the way to ‘I do’.

Henrietta and Thomas – Real Wedding (Vintage, Antique & Stylish)

Henrietta and Thomas had a Vintage, antique & stylish wedding at Howsham Hall in Yorkshire, it was a day filled with glamour and luxury. 

Henrietta and Thomas wedding was held in early March.  This wedding has lots to love! With a groom dressed in his military uniform, a bride with a two designer wedding dresses and their love of vintage, this was a great choice!

Howsham Hall offered the couple the perfect setting for their vintage wedding day, the couples choose colour theme of blue and golds was classic and elegant. 

Catering: Dine Catering events Instagram @dine.co.uk, @dinevenues @howshamhall

Wedding Dress Designer: Day Dress – Rasha rashalondon.com/ Instagram @rashalondon

Evening Dress – Jenny Packham – jennypackham.com/bridal-collections/ Instagram @jennypackham

Bridesmaid Dress Provider: JJ’s House jjshouse.co.uk / Instagram @jjhouseoffical

Cake Provider: Poppy Pickering Cakes – poppypickering.co.uk/ Instagram @poppypickeringcakes

Makeup Artist: Charlotte Elizabeth – charlotteelizabeth.com /Instagram @makeupbycharlotteelizabeth

Florist: Twig and Twine – www.twigandtwine.co.uk/ Instagram  @twigandtwinehelmsley / Facebook – @twig&twine

Colours: Blue and Gold| Styles: Luxurious, Classic, Vintage, Formal, Military and Glamourous 

 

Could this beautiful luxury exclusive use wedding venue be the venue for you? Click here to find out more about Howsham Hall!

Have a look at some more beautiful real weddings here:

Still in the mood for some wedding-y reading? Check out some of these articles:

Venue Showcase: Rise Hall

Rise Hall is a luxury exclusive use wedding venue, perfect for a wedding staycation! Nestled in the peaceful Yorkshire countryside, Rise Hall is your very own ‘stately home from home’.

We talked to Rebecca Barker, the Sales & Business Development Manager at Rise Hall  to find out more this spectacular country house, that with modern and  luxurious comforts. 

Tell us about yourself!

I have been in the wedding industry for 17 years! I ran my own family business for 12 years, so enjoyed every aspect of the job, from wedding planning and looking after brides, to sales and more! I have two children, Florence age 6 and Benjamin, age 3, so it is a very busy household. In my free time, when I get it, I like to cook (my family love my chicken ham and leek pie) I also like spending time with the kids, going out to lovely places to eat and an afternoon tea when I can!

What drew you to the wedding world?

Well my story is a little different, many moons ago, my parents decided to renovate a holiday cottage on our land. From there, it became apparent that there was a market and with a country house also on the estate too, it became the perfect spot for guests to enjoy. One day, a lovely couple rang and asked if they could hire all of them for wedding. Having never done a wedding before or had any experience, we took the gamble and said yes!! That year we ended up doing 9 weddings and the next year we did 38 weddings. From then the business went from strength to strength, as did my passion for all things weddings! They do say, you sometimes find your calling in unusual places and I certainly found mine.

What do you think makes your venue unique?

Rise Hall is complete unique, as it is a true home from home feel, with the grandeur of a stately home. The service is personal and comforting for couples, with the added atmosphere of the homely touches, makes them feel at ease. Through in years of experience, super food and drink, the perfect match for the perfect couple. Our events team are famous for going above and beyond, helping out in every way they can! With their events boxes stocked with everything you couple possibly need and more, no problem will be too big!

How do you get to know your couples before the big day?

It is really important for all the team to get to know our couples and from the moment they book, they are treated like VIPS. We send little gifts throughout the planning process, invite them to events and also are present at meetings. Been an ear to listen is the perfect way to become part of their family, as weddings are often a whole family affair.

 

What do you think makes for the perfect wedding?

What makes the perfect wedding? The perfect timeline!! I have said it time and time again, nail that timeline and everything will be a smooth, well oiled machine. There isn’t time to ‘lets see how it goes’ you need the confidence to know the team are on it! When the timings run well, everyone is happy!

What is your #1 wedding planning tip for couples?

Couples should book Rise Hall because they will be looked after from the moment they book, all throughout the planning process and beyond. We take great pride in our service and this isn’t just on the wedding day, but every minute of the planning too!
 

What do you love about Bridebook?

What do I love about Bridebook? EVERYTHING!! I think the fact that the app allows you to plan your whole wedding, makes for less stress and that is a massive bonus in my world!!
 

What’s the most memorable wedding you’ve had?

We one had a wedding where the groom arrived on a camel!! A spectacular event and one that won’t be forgotten.
 

Why should a couple book Rise Hall?

Couples should book Rise Hall because they will be looked after from the moment they book, all throughout the planning process and beyond. We take great pride in our service and this isn’t just on the wedding day, but every minute of the planning too!
 

What’s the best photo spot at Rise Hall?

Our grand staircase!! Ii is the jewel in the crown at Rise Hall and I just LOVE it!
 

What part of your business are you most proud of?

I am most proud of where Rise Hall is today, with a strong booking calendar, the future is extremely bright!
 

How do you feel technology is changing the industry?

I am most proud of where Rise Hall is today, with a strong booking calendar, the future is extremely bright!

 

Any final advice for a couple?

Don’t forget, a wedding is about you as a couple, do what feels right for you!! Don’t forget to eat the cake!
 

A huge thank you to Rebecca Barker for answering our questions. Check out Rise Hall on Bridebook!

Looking for more venues in East Riding of Yorkshire? Find your unforgettable venue by searching venues here.

Are you looking to promote your beautiful venue to our community of couples? Contact our Venue Consultant team at [email protected]

25 Top Birmingham Venues

Are you looking for a venue with a difference near Birmingham? Bridebook.com has found 58 venues in and around the city that are stunning, fun, or a little bit quirky! Take a look at these incredible places, or hunt for yourself using our Venue Search tool.

1. Packington Moor

Bridebook.co.uk Packington Moor

Just outside of Birmingham and surrounded by acres of woodland and countryside, Packington Moor makes jaws drop. This authentic stone barn with rustic beams gives off a light and airy feel for the most perfect wedding.

2. Birmingham Repertory Theatre

Bridebook.co.uk Birmingham Repertory Theatre

This stunningly quirky venue holds productions throughout the year…and also weddings! Birmingham Repertory Theatre is ideal for couples who want a hint of dramatics included in their wedding day. Let’s get the show started!

3. The Kitchen Garden Cafe

Bridebook.co.uk The Kitchen Garden Cafe

The Kitchen Garden Cafe is a totally unique place to host your special day. It is an eco-friendly gem in the centre of Birmingham which offers heaps of charm for your wedding setting.

4. Hampton Manor Hotel & Peel’s Restaurant

Bridebook.co.uk Hampton Manor Hotel

Inside the majestic exterior of Hampton Manor Hotel, you will find stylish and contemporary decor with a deep history at the heart of the venue. Surrounded by lush gardens, and only half an hour from the city of Birmingham, this venue is a rather grand oasis!

5. Bawdon Lodge Farm

Bridebook.co.uk Bawdon Lodge Farm

In Charnwood Forest lies Bawdon Lodge Farm, the perfect place to set up a magical tipi or marquee wedding. Event professionals will be on hand to help your dreams become reality in this countryside haven!

6. Deckerdence – Unique Mobile Venue

Bridebook.co.uk Deckerdence

This stunningly quirky idea is great if you want to create an unforgettable experience. Deckerdence is a double decker bus that creates the centrepiece to your marquee and, with an on-board bar, you’ll have your guests’ attention within seconds!

7. Hagley Hall

Bridebook.co.uk Hagley Hall

Hagley Hall is an incredible Georgian Palladian manor house on the border of the West Midlands. With it’s magnificent state rooms and acres of parkland, this venue is brilliant for your bespoke wedding.

8. Shustoke Farm Barns

Bridebook.co.uk Shustoke Farm Barns

These gorgeous 18th Century barns are just 20 minutes from Birmingham and have striking high-ceilings for a dramatic look. Shustoke Farm Barns is made up of several red-brick buildings that you can use as you wish for your special celebrations.

9. Birmingham Botanical Gardens

Bridebook.co.uk Birmingham Botanical Gardens

Fancy saying ‘I Do’ among the flowers? This is your chance! Birmingham Botanical Gardens offers fascinating landscapes and 3 beautiful event spaces that are sure to please all of your guests.

10. Gorcott Hall

Bridebook.co.uk Gorcott Hall

With an incredibly distinct exterior, Gorcott Hall is a 16th Century, Grade II listed Tudor building. Inside, the character continues with timber beams and open fireplaces to add loads of warmth to your big day.

11. New Hall Hotel & Spa

Bridebook.co.uk New Hall Hotel & Spa

New Hall dates back to the 13th Century, showing off its glorious exterior and wonderful grounds. The oak panelled rooms and sunny terraces welcome you to New Hall Hotel & Spa, which is fit for a King and Queen!

12. Redhouse Barn

Bridebook.co.uk Redhouse Barn

A combination of contemporary style with original features is present in the outstanding setting of Redhouse Barn. Within 5 acres of Worcestershire countryside, this one-of-a-kind venue is bound to impress!

13. Swinfen Hall Hotel

Bridebook.co.uk Swinfen Hall Hotel

The 18th Century manor house of Swinfen Hall Hotel is a sanctuary of interior decor, ornamental gardens and has a deer park in the grounds. Perfect for feeling like a princess on your wedding day!

14. Dudley Zoo & Castle

Bridebook.co.uk Dudley Zoo & Castle

Make your wedding day unforgettable by choosing Dudley Zoo & Castle as your special location. With a renovated sensory garden, 40 acres of beautiful grounds, and over 1,000 animals from across the globe, you can’t go wrong with this venue.

15. Bordesley Park

Bridebook.co.uk Bordesley Park

Nestled in the Worcestershire countryside, Bordesley Park‘s 16th Century manor house is the perfect setting for a fun and relaxed wedding day. Stunning decor, lush gardens, a luxury marquee and even a trampoline are included to take away the stress from your day.

16. Moxhull Hall Hotel

Bridebook.co.uk Moxhull Hall Hotel

The beautiful surroundings of Moxhull Hall Hotel make this wedding setting totally unique. Only 20 minutes away from Birmingham, this venue can cater for intimate celebrations in the oak panelled dining room or larger groups in the magnificent marquee.

17. The Elms

Bridebook.co.uk The Elms

In rural Worcestershire, you will find the grand structure of The Elms. This beautiful Queen Anne manor house provides elegant lounges and stunning decor in every room to add the icing to your cake on your special day.

18. Mythe Barn

Bridebook.co.uk Mythe Barn

The contemporary setting of Mythe Barn is based in an idyllic location just outside the hustle and bustle of Birmingham. From ceremonies in the Oak Barn to wedding breakfasts in the Grain Store and outdoor courtyard celebrations, this venue is a special one.

19. Pendrell Hall

Bridebook.co.uk Pendrell Hall

Sat on the edge of woodland in the Staffordshire countryside, the character and romance of this venue will complete your magical day. Pendrell Hall offers crisp, stylish interiors, The Morning Room – a haven of wooden features perfect for ceremonies, and 3 bridal suites to choose from!

20. Stoneleigh Abbey

Bridebook.co.uk Stoneleigh Abbey

Rich in history and full of regal charm, Stoneleigh Abbey is an incredible fairytale venue just 25 miles from Birmingham. It brings elegant rooms with timeless features, and the famous Saloon which Queen Victoria once dined at!

21. Wootton Park

Bridebook.co.uk Wootton Park

Wootton Park is a barn style venue overlooking a lake and island for the most stunning photo opportunities. The landscaped gardens and 16th Century farmhouse in their own secluded valley are yours to do with what you wish on your big day!

22. Alrewas Hayes Events Ltd

Bridebook.co.uk Alrewas Hayes Events Ltd

In nearby Staffordshire, the very lavish Alrewas Hayes venue will put a spin on your wedding day. Boasting traditional rooms with period features and the luxury Lakeside Marquee, anything is possible here!

23. Compton Verney House

Bridebook.co.uk Compton Verney House

This beautiful Grade I listed Georgian mansion is also a renowned art gallery and is surrounded by 120 acres of picturesque parkland. Compton Verney offers the striking Adam Hall, perfect for ceremonies and wedding breakfasts on your special day.

24. Grand Station

Bridebook.co.uk Grand Station

A stone’s throw away from the city of Birmingham lies Grand Station. The decadent and timely nature of this venue’s function rooms will stun your guests and give you the grandeur you require for your special entrance.

25. Erasmus Darwin House

Bridebook.co.uk Erasmus Darwin House

If you fancy something a little more quirky, Erasmus Darwin House is for you! With 250 years of history and doubling as a museum, this venue will add heaps of charm and character to your Birmingham-based wedding.

Venue Showcase: Holdsworth House Hotel & Restaurant


Built in 1633 this venue is a four star family owned hotel, packed full of character and history. They have been hosting weddings for 60 years and know how to make your day perfect. You’ll find open fires, cosy lounges, fine antiques and tapestries that together create a sense of history, calm and comfort

We talked to Claire Nicholl, the Wedding and Events Manager at Holdsworth House Hotel & Restaurant to find out more this award winning restaurant and historic venue.

Tell us about yourself!

I’ve worked at Holdsworth House for almost 25 years, so in that time I’ve helped arrange probably 3000 weddings. We ‘re exclusive – we only allow one wedding per day, but we average around 120 weddings per year. I love dogs, so when I’m not working, I’m walking my dog.

Venue Showcase: Holdsworth House Hotel & Restaurant

What drew you to the wedding world?

25 years ago, I suppose the job really suited me. I’m a stickler for detail and people joke that I have a photographic memory, as I do tend to retain facts, figures, couples’ names and all their wedding details! Today, I can’t imagine doing anything else. After 25 years there’s very little that can catch met out or no problem that can’t be resolved. Weddings provide a very happy working environment: it’s a nice, feel-good job to be involved in. It’s not just an office job, I’m often on my feet too meeting people and walking them round the venue.

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What do you think makes your venue unique?

The hotel sells itself from a physical standpoint: it’s a beautiful, historic building in three acres of well-kept gardens. But I don’t think you can put a price on experience. It’s not just me that’s been here a long time. Many of us in the wedding team have built a career at Holdsworth House. Tracy, our Master of Ceremonies, has been here over 30 years, our General Manager around 10 years. When you have such a consistent, experienced team the confidence rubs off on guests and couples; they can relax fully and enjoy their day knowing they’re in safe hands. I also believe that because Holdsworth House is independent (owned by the same family since 1962), there’s a level of care, love and attention that you feel compelled to give; you truly go out of your way because its personal. We really are a family at the hotel.

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How do you get to know your couples before the big day?

We have an initial meeting, and we discuss lots of ideas. Essentially, we listen first. We need to understand the couple’s needs, expectations and their personal touches/requirements. We then invite them in for a series of meetings or wedding menu tastings. By the time the wedding comes, it’s like we’re close friends! I’m really proud that people open up to me but it’s important that I remain professional – in the run up to a wedding, many people want to be given clear, detailed advice, and they look to me as the provider of that assurance. In many cases I’m holding couples’ secrets too, whether that be a surprise element of the day or some deeply personal information that they don’t want to reveal to guests. I must always remain completely discreet and supportive. Throughout the lead-up to their big day, our coupes will meet all the team within Holdsworth House. When they come for their wedding tasting, they’ll get to know the award-winning kitchen and restaurant team. When they select their accommodation, they’ll bump into our fantastic housekeepers. And, of course, everyone is always warmly greeted by our reception staff who have incredible knowledge and a can-do attitude. By the day of the wedding, our operations team has already been fully briefed and is ready to spring into action – it’s like watching all the cogs of a well-oiled machine working together.

 

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What do you think makes for the perfect wedding?

For the couple it’s when you can completely let go and be in the moment. Inevitably things will change because people – like the weather – are unpredictable. But when you can truly trust the team around you to deliver, and you can look back on your wedding day with multiple ‘wow’ moments, then that’s when you’ve had the perfect wedding. It’s not about quantity, it’s 100% about quality.

What is your #1 wedding planning tip for couples?

Make sure you book your venue and registrar (if applicable) early. Once that’s in place everything else can follow on in due course.

What do you love about Bridebook?

We meet so many amazing couples through Bridebook. Each has a unique story and it’s a privilege to be part of such personal events. Bridebook is excellent for helping guide couples and help them plan, it’s very much in line with our ethos.

What’s the most memorable wedding you’ve had?

I love it when couples bring their dogs to weddings to as ring-bearers. We also get Eric our resident cat photo-bombing some wedding pictures. Whilst most of our weddings are for 80 – 100 guests, we have some absolutely stunning small and intimate weddings. Our Stone Gazebo, in the hotel gardens, is the smallest licensed venue in England and only accommodates 10 people, so super-romantic ceremonies in here are just gorgeous. Most weddings here are traditional white weddings, but we also enjoy seeing the alternative events. From outdoor garden ceremonies to super-cosy winter weddings, vintage or Steam Punk dress codes to kilts and swords and military events – every wedding is different. In October 2021, we hosted the wedding of a couple who had met at a literary event we’d held at the hotel the previous year. There were so many poignant moments, you couldn’t help getting sucked into the fairy tale. Our couple had been inspired by the TV Show ‘Gentleman Jack’, which was filmed nearby in Halifax. Not only did the true story of Anne Lister inspire them, but they were able to track down suppliers that the TV show had used – like the jeweller who made the costume jewellery for the actors. They were an incredible, fun couple and they just celebrated what the essence of being married was all about – LOVE!!

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Why should a couple book Holdsworth House Hotel & Restaurant?

Honestly? You can relax completely here. We’ve been hosting weddings for over 50 years, not many venues can say that and we’re not going anywhere; we’re a very robust business. We’re flexible, knowledgeable and great with people obviously! At the end of the day, as beautiful as a venue is it’s the people – the interaction between the guests and the team – that make the difference. The fact that we have stunning photo backdrops and gardens is of course a huge bonus! The other reason is that we make hosting your wedding so easy. Some venues are forever putting in barriers, saying what you can’t do. We say what you CAN do, and we’ll pull out the stops to make your dream wedding happen. We really do take care of everything, with genuine care and attention. The whole team is involved so you’re not rely on one person for everything – what if you can’t get hold of that one person?

What’s the best photo spot at Holdsworth House Hotel & Restaurant?

There are lots of Insta-friendly spots at Holdsworth House. If you’ve got a dress with a train, then a photo going down the stairs is beautiful. Our restaurant and halls have been called a ‘photographer’s dream’ by a well-known Insta photographer (for its natural light and character). But my favourite spot is out the front of the hotel in the gardens with the historic facade behind you – it’s completely timeless.

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What part of your business are you most proud of?

The team, without a doubt and our honesty and integrity. We’re a friendly bunch and we do have a laugh. Everyone is very professional, truly cares and takes things personally.

How do you feel technology is changing the industry?

It really helped during the pandemic when couples were restricted on numbers of guests. We had live-stream weddings, which meant people who couldn’t be there in person could still witness the event. Technology has changed how some couples use suppliers, we see lots of people designing and printing their own stationery, people discussing their flower arrangements over Zoom or email, and looking for inspiration from Instagram and Pinterest.

Any final advice for a couple?

Food is a very important part of your day, so be sure your venue includes menu tastings. Ask your venue if it runs a ‘fresh banqueting service’ like we do at Holdsworth House i.e., do they cook your wedding breakfast fresh rather than plating and reheating? It’s surprising what a difference it can make to the taste and quality. If the last 50 years has taught us anything, it’s how to turn out the kind of food served in our fine-dining restaurant on a large scale.

A huge thank you to Claire Nicholl for answering our questions. Check out Holdsworth House Hotel & Restaurant on Bridebook!

Looking for more venues in West Yorkshire? Find your unforgettable venue by searching venues here.

Are you looking to promote your beautiful venue to our community of couples? Contact our Venue Consultant team at [email protected]

Venue Showcase: Applewood Hall

Situated in the quaint village of Banham, one of Norfolk’s best-kept secrets Applewood Hall offers an undeniably unique wedding venue for your special day.

Once the grounds of the Grove Farm orchard, Applewood Hall served as the store during the harvest season. Now an elegantly decorated entertaining space, it offers a licensed bar, dance floor, stage and seating for up to 200 guests. Applewood Hall is a harmonious combination of rustic charm and contemporary style.

We talked to Kiera Goymour , Wedding Executive at Applewood Hall

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Tell us a little bit about yourself

Hello I’m Kiera…
I’m a lover of gin and our unofficial wedding cake taster. I always enjoy a piece of cake with my morning coffee the day after a wedding! I’m also the owner of resident hound and team mascot, Frankie Sausage. You’ll usually find me dashing about in flats, there’s a reason I wear a step counter! And one thing you might not know, I have locked myself in the wedding garden at least 5 times (just this year!), which has meant having to climb over a very tall gate to get out!

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Credit to @jackboskett

What drew you to the wedding world?

Having worked in the corporate events world in London for 10 years, I felt the pull to return to Norfolk where I grew up. I missed the drive and challenge of being involved in the family business. Due to my events background, my Dad asked me to take on the management of Applewood Hall and its sister business, Applewood Countryside Park (family camping and glamping). Four years on and I haven’t quite found the work/ life balance I was hoping for but I wouldn’t change it. Helping couples plan the wedding day of their dreams and seeing it all come together is so rewarding. There’s no job quite like it!

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What do you think makes Applewood Hall unique?

Applewood Hall is located right next to the award-winning family attraction Banham Zoo. So if couples fancy something a little bit different, whether it’s a giraffe feeding experience, private Bird of Prey display, a ceremony within the zoo grounds or photos with some of the stunning animals – anything is possible!

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How do you get to know your couples before the big day?

When couples make a booking with us, we start with a planning meeting as it really helps us get to know our couples; along with their style, how they picture their perfect day and what we can do to make it happen. This process really helps to pinpoint the small things that will make their day feel extra special and unique to them. For example, we have recently introduced bespoke cocktails and mocktails, offering couples the opportunity to choose seasonal flavours, favourite ingredients and personalise the cocktail names so they tie into their theme or tell a story!

What do you think makes for the perfect wedding?

Fun, laughter and a tipple or two. It’s that simple!

Photography credit @meganduffieldphotography
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Photography credit @photographyby_lucy.s

Why should a couple book Applewood Hall?

Applewood Hall is a proudly family run business, offering a personal and friendly service. Our aim is to ensure that every couple is able to bring to life the day of their dreams no matter their budget. We achieve this by going above and beyond, getting creative with ideas, ingredients and scale to ensure we can give each couple a unique experience.

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Styling by @ido_photography_norwich

What is your #1 wedding planning tip for couples?

It’s YOUR day, so don’t be afraid to be a bit selfish when it comes to things like your menu choices, drink selection and seating plans. Prefer to have canapés during your drinks reception rather than a starter, why not! If you want an indulgent, gooey chocolate dessert, go for it! If you’d prefer to have a classic G&T rather than bubbles for the toast, do it! If you want the seating to be more informal with no seating plan, be bold! These small things will help your day feel special and unique to you.

What’s the best photo spot at Applewood Hall?

Our wedding garden! This beautifully landscaped space features a stunning gazebo, contemporary outdoor furniture, lots of lush greenery, fire pit tables and festoon lighting. The perfect backdrop for wedding photos and alfresco drinks in the sunshine!

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Photography credit @dblakephotography111

What part of your business are you most proud of? 

Our team! We have a small, dedicated team, which means our couples experience a friendly, hands-on approach from their initial enquiry and showround appointment to their menu tasting, planning meetings and of course, the big day itself.

How do you feel technology is changing the industry?

Couples are planning their weddings online more than ever before. We have been making use of Facebook Live to host virtual tours and hosting monthly #wedminwednesday sessions to help couples along their wedding planning journey.

What is the one piece of advice you would give to couples that are currently struggling amidst the COVID-19 crisis?

We are in this together and and we will all get through this together. If you’ve had to postpone, it must be heartbreaking to move from your original date and to have to wait a bit longer for your wedding, but it will be so worth it. We want your day to be a day of celebration, love and special memories; focused on you (not coronavirus, that’s had enough attention!).

What do you love about Bridebook?

It’s great to be able to showcase everything we offer all in one place; from pricing and photos to reviews and offers. Tracking enquiries and following our analytics is super simple too.

Are you looking to promote your beautiful venue to our community of couples? Contact our Venue Consultant team at [email protected]. Also, if you enjoyed this article, see more here.

Venue Showcase: The Manor House

Nestled within Castle Combe village in the wooded Bybrook Valley lies the 14th century Manor House and there is no more idyllic or romantic a setting in which to celebrate your marriage.

We talked to Jennifer, Wedding and Events Manager at The Manor House and Cassie the Wedding Executive at The Manor House.

Tell us about yourself!

We have both worked in weddings for a couple of years now but have been in the hospitality industry our whole careers. In our free time, we love to read, go for walks and bake sweet treats!

What drew you to the wedding world?

There is something incredibly rewarding about making someone’s big day go smoothly. Seeing the happiness on the couples faces on the day when all of the planning comes together, knowing we contributed to that, it’s a great feeling.

An archway that is part of the building serves as a place for the ceremony.

What do you think make The Manor House unique?

We are so blessed to have the beautiful hotel and grounds that we do, but what makes us unique is our people. From housekeeping preparing the bedrooms to our chefs creating the perfect wedding breakfast, the whole team has a passion for creating exceptional guest experiences. Our couples will not only be provided with the highest level of service and great attention to detail, but character, passion and laughter along the way.

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How do you get to know your couples before the big day?

We make sure we always take time to get to know our couples from the very beginning of their enquiry. It’s all about them. Taking the time to sit, have a coffee and a chat and learn about their story is so important. It also makes it so much more enjoyable along the way- it’s as if we are helping friends plan their wedding!

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What do you think makes for the perfect wedding?

A beautiful location, with delicious food in a room filled with great company, love and laughter.

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What is your #1 wedding planning tip for couples?

It’s all about you! Make sure that every decision you make is what you both want, try not to think about other people’s opinions too much. Enjoy the experience building up to the big day! It can pass by you in a flash so enjoy every single moment including all the planning.

What do you love about Bridebook?

All of it! It’s incredibly handy and easy to use. It helps us communicate effectively with all enquiries and helps the couples keep on track with their planning!

What’s the most memorable wedding you’ve had at The Manor House?

A summer wedding had a family fun day including dodgems and a carousel on our lawns – it was amazing!

Why should a couple book The Manor House?

Why not?! We have the most stunning location, amazing food and exceptional service so it really will be the best day of their lives.

What’s the best photo spot at The Manor House?

We have so many beautiful spots but our favourite is our entrance bridge over the Bybrook river that has a gorgeous shot of the whole of the Manor in the background.

What part of your business are you most proud of?

Definitely the people, we are like one big family. Everyone works incredibly hard and always supports each other.

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How do you feel technology is changing the industry?

In terms of wedding planning, it is a game changer! There are so many apps, websites and companies that can help you now, it’s great! It takes away a lot of the stress.

What is the one piece of advice you would give to couples that are currently struggling amidst the COVID-19 crisis?

Firstly, I hope you are ok! We have seen first hand how the pandemic has affected couples, and made what should be a really enjoyable time, really stressful. Please just know we will be here to support you the whole way, and do whatever we can to help make it easier and as special as it can be.  

A huge thank you to Jennifer and Cassie for answering our questions. Check out The Manor House on Bridebook!

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Looking for more venues in Wiltshire? Find your unforgettable venue by searching venues here.

Are you looking to promote your beautiful venue to our community of couples? Contact our Venue Consultant team at [email protected]

Venue Showcase: Lainston House

Lainston House is a 17th-Century luxury hotel. Set in 63 acres of gorgeous Hampshire countryside, five-star Lainston House could be the perfect setting for the wedding of your dreams.

We talked to Sophie Mitchell-Bird, Wedding Executive at Lainston House.

Tell us about yourself!

I’ve been very lucky to have worked in the wedding world for almost 3 years and have enjoyed every second. I have a miniature dachshund called Rolo and a cat named Tabitha. I’m a massive foodie so enjoy going out for dinner and trying new places… I’m a sucker for a good cocktail too!

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What drew you to the wedding world?

Honestly, I think the wedding world found me! My background has always been theatre and this is what I graduated from uni in, so I’d always expected to go straight into something related to this instead. After university, I worked as a comedy producer, organising monthly charity stand-up comedy nights. That was great fun and where my love for events planning begun — and shortly after, I found my passion… Weddings!

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What do you think makes your venue unique?

For a start, the grounds of Lainston House are breathtaking… The photo opportunities are endless! The venue is rich with history too, with so many interesting facts and stories. What makes our space even more unique is the people. The team is made up of the most hardworking, dedicated and passionate individuals I’ve met… We’re like one big family!

How do you get to know your couples before the big day?

I will be in touch regularly, either by phone or email, and I love it when my couples do the same. I love to hear all about what you’ve both been up too, your holidays, you name it! It’s also great to see my couples in person and enjoy a cup of coffee together in the lead up to the wedding.

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What do you think makes for the perfect wedding?

Picking things you both like, not just what you think others will like! After all, it’s your special day and you only do it once!

What is your #1 wedding planning tip for couples?

Begin thinking about your table plan early as this can sometimes be the hardest part to figure out, so this will take pressure off you… But most importantly, enjoy it!

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What’s the most memorable wedding you’ve had?

We recently had a stunning tipi on our South Lawn which was breathtaking… The South Lawn is perfect for it! We’ve had a few singing waiters over the summer which are also so fun and a real surprise to all your guests.

Why should a couple book Lainston House?

We’re a beautiful, luxury, five-star manor house where dream days happen. By hiring out the venue exclusively, you can feel like royalty for the day, with your nearest and dearest around you. Local produce is super important to us so the majority of our suppliers will be local to either Winchester or Hampshire, with our onsite Kitchen Garden also growing our own produce. With 63 acres, the photo opportunities are endless — adding that “wow” factor for your guests and creating memories to cherish forever!

What is the best photo spot at Lainston House?

This is a tricky one as there are so many stunning photo spots… But outside on the terrace with the beautiful avenue of lime trees is a must!

What part of your business are you most proud of?

I couldn’t pick just one part as I’m proud of all departments at Lainston House who all help achieve dream wedding days!

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How do you feel technology is changing the industry?

Technology is making it easier for couples to plan, especially wonderful platforms like Bridebook where you can plan your whole day. Wedding websites where your guests can RSVP and let you know dietaries and you can to give information quickly… What a great idea!

What is the one piece of advice you would give to couples that are currently struggling amidst the COVID-19 crisis?

Everything will come together in the end. After all, nothing can stop love! If you’re struggling at the moment, please do reach out to your venue or suppliers so they can help. You’re not alone.

A huge thank you to Sophie Mitchell-Bird for answering our questions. Check out Lainston House on Bridebook!

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Looking for more venues in Hampshire? Find your unforgettable venue by searching venues here.

Are you looking to promote your beautiful venue to our community of couples? Contact our Venue Consultant team at [email protected]

Venue Showcase: Pennyhill Park

Pennyhill Park is a 19th century Mansion House that is surrounded by lily ponds, landscaped gardens and plenty of greenery whereas the inside of the hotel also provides stunning architecture.

We talked to Jodey Hatch, Wedding Manager at Pennyhill Park to find out more about this stunning venue.

Tell us about yourself!

I have been in the wedding industry for 9 years, pretty much my whole career. I love spending time with friends and family as much as I can, going out for meals, travelling and exploring anything new. I have one gorgeous black cat but if I had my way I would have many more and dogs too!

What drew you to the wedding world?

After leaving school I wasn’t too sure what I wanted to do, I thought some customer service experience would be a good start so I got a job waitressing at a hotel which included working at weddings. After a while I began running them operationally and knew I loved them and had to continue this as my career.  I finally got a role as a wedding coordinator and it has just snowballed from there.

What do you think makes Pennyhill Park unique?

Pennyhill Park is unique in many ways; however I do feel the people that work here is what stands us out from the crowd. We take time to get to know our couples, we understand this is the biggest day of our couple’s lives and when they spend months or even years planning this they expect the best.  We welcome our guests on that first showaround with a glass of bubbles and personalised sweet treats just to get started!

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How do you get to know your couples before the big day?

Every couple is unique, which is one thing that makes me love my job so much! I find it’s important to listen to each couples needs and get to know them as an individual. They then get the chance to build trust with their dedicated event coordinator; this might be done with many visits to our bar over a cup of coffee or even when it comes to meeting the head chef to discuss their menus. 

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What do you think makes for the perfect wedding?

For me I think that a wedding that shows the couples personality have been the most perfect. Ultimately this day is about the two of you, so to put on little touches that represent you, are the perfect Weddings. You’re guests will absolutely love this as they are here to share this special day with you.

What is your #1 wedding planning tip for couples?

Try and keep it fun, it’s easy to feel stressed about the planning but this really should be the most enjoyable part! When it’s all over you will want to do it all over again and wish you had enjoyed it more.

What do you love about Bridebook?

It’s a really good tool to help us know what our couples are looking for before they have even come to see us. It’s also a great platform to let couples know about us as a venue and really showcase ourselves.

What’s the most memorable wedding you’ve had at Pennyhill Park?

One bride at Pennyhill Park did trust me with planning a very special surprise for the Groom; it was a group of storm troopers that were going to walk don the aisle! The Groom of course was a massive star wars fan and this was a complete surprise to him and all the guests. Everyone loved it and it was so memorable even all the team here wanted to come out and watch as when do you ever have a wedding with storm troopers walking down the aisle! All the guest were there waiting for photos with them, star wars fans or not it was a great talking point for the guests for the rest of the day.

Why should a couple book Pennyhill Park?

We have something for everyone, if it being fantastic food you are looking for then come meet our Michelin star chef and discuss your menus with our amazing team at the Latymer restaurant. If its luxury accommodation we have 124 individually designed bedrooms that will give all your guests that wow factor. Not to mention our stunning 120 acres of Parkland with ample photo opportunities for our couples to remember and look back on for years to come.

What’s the best photo spot at Pennyhill Park?

This is hard as there are so many good ones! But I have to say our secret garden is just wonderful photo opportunity for our couples. With its a running waterfall and wild flowers surrounding, it makes it feel like a bit of fairytale, which I think is what most couples are looking for on their big day.

What part of your business are you most proud of?

Another tough one, but we have an amazing team here who all strive on wanting the same thing of creating happiness in an amazing place. I honestly feel this is what our couples comment on most after their wedding day is how well they felt looked after, from the very first step through the door by our reception team, to meeting the chef at their menu tasting and to the fantastic team who personally look after their big day for them.

How do you feel technology is changing the industry?

I think the last 18 months have defiantly taught us a lot, opening us up to Zoom show rounds in times when we couldn’t see each other in person has been so beneficial for businesses and couples. It meant that wedding planning could still go ahead; giving couples something to look forward too.  I do find mainly we all much prefer to see each other in person, but this has given us the chance to even plan a few destination weddings now we are all up to speed with different technology tools available to us.

What is the one piece of advice you would give to couples that are currently struggling amidst the COVID-19 crisis?

Keep going, I can’t imagine how hard it must have been for couples but just keep planning. Keep in touch with your suppliers so they know your concerns so they know how to help you.

A huge thank you to Jodey Hatch for answering our questions. Check out Pennyhill Park on Bridebook!

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Looking for more venues in Surrey? Find your unforgettable venue by searching venues here.

Are you looking to promote your beautiful venue to our community of couples? Contact our Venue Consultant team at [email protected]

Venue Showcase: Fanhams Hall

Fanhams Hall is a luxury and unique wedding venue with outstanding warming open fires in winter, tumbling waterfalls in summer and beautiful private rooms. With stunning features of the original Grade II listed Jacobean manor house all year round.

We talked to Symphonie Wolzak, Wedding Manager/ Executive at Fanhams Hall to find out more about this stunning venue.

Tell us about yourself!

Fun fact: I was named after the Hershey’s Chocolate candy bar- hehe! I was born in San Antonio, Texas so am in love with and super proud of my Tex-Mex culture (Texas-Mexican). I consider myself to make the best homemade tortillas in England, as have yet to come across a Mexican restaurant where they are as good as mine! I love to cook, if you haven’t guessed already and my favourite cuisine is my home-land original Tex-Mex of course…very different from Cali-Mex! I’m super blessed my husband loves his spicy food, because to be honest I really don’t know how to not have a bit of chilli in any of my dishes.

What drew you to the wedding world?

The wedding world found me! A friend of mine was working in events and I just graduated university. Lost, confused, and no work family to tag onto in the big city (NYC), she rung me and said, “Hey come try this!”. My first day helping run a wedding with her, I was sold! The excitement and love in the air was so addicting, like sweet cotton candy; you couldn’t leave the room in fear you’d miss out. The adrenaline you get when something goes wrong last minute like the father of bride is running late, or the zip of one of the bridesmaid’s dresses broke just minutes before announcing them into the room! I love having to think in seconds on how to fix it or stall the wedding without the couple finding out or having enough time to worry; these are the moments I live for! Knowing you fixed it and helped make the couples day absolutely perfect without them realising the storm the team went through to get there. What a buzz!

What do you think makes Fanhams Hall unique?

Our team honestly. We all genuinely want the best day for our couples and understand that every wedding is unique, so we really do our best to be flexible and deliver any of their special requests they may have.

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How do you get to know your couples before the big day?

Once booked with us, we usually know a bit about our couples already. We like to “Sit and Love” with our couples when they first come to meet with us and see the venue, before they even book with us. Listening to the couple about what is important to them and connecting through their excitement and anticipation of one of the most important days of their lives. We believe that a connection before booking with your couple is so important, because it really helps set up the trust relationship between us and the couple, so they have the best planning experience with us. We also do little check ins with our couples to see if they want a coffee catch up to discuss any questions or a zoom call if they can’t make it all the way back to us (like my fellow American couples!).

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What do you think makes for the perfect wedding?

Hmmm…perfect wedding? I’m a cheese ball…I have to say the couple themselves. They are what make the day perfect because they are starting an amazing journey together that is a life changer. I mean what’s more perfect then marrying your best friend? If I have to be choose a materialistic idea…having everything in one place to help make it easier for you and your guests. Accommodation, ceremony, reception, things like this, even the rehearsal dinner if you can. It just make it less complicated in planning, because then you know that the venue you are with (who you choose in the first place!) will be doing their best to make sure you have the perfect wedding celebration whilst there!

What is your #1 wedding planning tip for couples?

When looking for your venue, be sure either to visit it on a rainy day or at least envision the venue in the rain…because if you love it when it’s raining, you’ll love it even more when the suns out and not be too disappointed if it does rain. Let’s be honest we live in England, so better to prepare from the beginning! Oh, and also clear umbrellas. …these are the best for photos on our grounds or wherever you end up choosing. It will still get you outside for gorgeous photos on our grounds and capture the beauty surrounded by you.

What do you love about Bridebook?

How easy it is to use for both couples and us as a venue! Love the little blogs they write and tips they give out. So easy for couples to organise themselves using their nifty tools from guest lists to gift lists, hehe!

What’s the most memorable wedding you’ve had at Fanhams Hall?

Being a hairdresser for the little flower girls, minutes before they walked down the aisle. This involved me taking out my own hair and using hair pins on them, because the bride totally forgot about their hair and was running out of time! Also, another time was sewing up the bridesmaid in her dress (I might have mentioned this before!). Her dress split just before we were to announce them into the reception, and here I am with another colleague just sewing her in completely. I think I even ended up using a stapler at one point, because I didn’t have enough thread! Oh and another time was me having to go under the brides dress to adjust her because she felt something rip…it was minutes before she had to walk down the aisle, so had to go under and quickly see what ripped…was just a simple button that needed re-buttoning. Done it and she was off! There’s more of course, but too many to share. Ahhh… just love the whole thrill of being able to help make their day absolutely perfect!

Why should a couple book Fanhams Hall?

A couple should choose Fanhams Hall because not only are we a beautiful 17th Century Jacobean mansion with gorgeous unique Japanese style gardens and an authentic Japanese Tea house! What wedding venue in England can say they have authentic Japanese style gardens?! Another reason why couples should book us is that we love weddings! We love weddings so much we really try to meet our couples unique requirement to make their day that more special. We’ve been flexible from our menus (Asian- English infusion anyone?) to creating a couple’s signature cocktail for the day for their guests to order from the bar. We love being apart of our couples special day from beginning to end, and genuinely want to help make it a day they wont forget, so the little unique requests we can do, we will!

What’s the best photo spot at Fanhams Hall?

Ohhhhh there are so many!!!! I have to say two if that’s okay?! First one is in the main grounds outside our formal gardens with Fanhams Hall in the background. Second one is in the fields near the main entrance, surprising I know! Lots of people think I would have said our Wisteria walk or near the rose garden, which are both really beautiful, but I do love the fields in August and September where the grass is over grown and you get these really beautiful rustic and dreamy photos…you could be anywhere in the world, but it’s so gorgeous!!! Makes me want to put on my wedding dress and take photos there! Haha!

What part of your business are you most proud of?

Fanhams Hall, which is part of the Exclusive Collection Group, has become the first ever hospitality business to receive a B-Corp accreditation. This means being recognised as a sustainable business. B-Corp will improve the value we create for our customers through the service we give, and help improve our impact on the planet by learning how to practise environmental stewardship. It really is a fantastic accomplishment and am super proud to be apart of this milestone.

How do you feel technology is changing the industry?

For couples, technology allows people to shop in the comfort of their own homes! It’s easy access for them. It really give them the chance to really search what they are looking for and not  waste time visiting venues face to face, or having in person meetings with loads of different suppliers trying to decide what is right for them. Social media especially helps them “stalk-shop”- Instagram is great for this! For us as suppliers, it helps us reach more potential couples looking for support on their wedding. We can have all of our information readily available for them to see and even experience for themselves. We can reach a whole other country even, like America or South Africa! We currently have American couples getting married here who have found us online and loved our photos and videos on our Instagram page. Technology has helped us get them to see the venue, book and plan their wedding with us here at Fanhams Hall. We are not just focusing on one country; we are able to reach the whole world this way, which is really amazing!

What is the one piece of advice you would give to couples that are currently struggling amidst the COVID-19 crisis?

Talk to each other. Communication is so important, you may both find you two are feeling the exact same way about things. If you are both are struggling, then find a professional to talk to together to help you both overcome this struggle together. It’s not a bad thing to find a un-bias mind out there to help guide you through these trying times, because fact is, this is not normal and its okay to struggle with it all. Find peace and reassurance in the fact that if you two can get through this together, you two can make it through anything. Keep each other positive about the wedding. If one of you starts feeling upset or down about the wedding plans, pick each other up. Have a fun distraction like date night, or start making the wedding favours together and imagining how the day will go.

What is your favourite part of the wedding day?

If you haven’t guessed already, we love weddings! My favourite part of a wedding day is when I get to fluff the brides dress before she walks down the aisle. Goosebumps every time watching them take those final steps to marry their best friend!

A huge thank you to Symphonie Wolzak for answering our questions. Check out Fanhams Hall on Bridebook!

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Looking for more venues in Hertfordshire? Find your unforgettable venue by searching venues here.

Are you looking to promote your beautiful venue to our community of couples? Contact our Venue Consultant team at [email protected]

Venue Showcase: Black Horse Beamish (Red Row Estate)

Featuring one of the only lavender fields in the North East with panoramic views of the Beamish Valley countryside. The Black Horse Beamish and Orchard Marquee is set in 37 acres on Red Row Estate, featuring stunning lavender fields, woodland, filled with wildlife and farmyard antiques.

We talked to Grace Fountain, the Venue Manager at Black Horse Beamish (Red Row Estate) to find out more this unique and contemporary venue.

Tell us about yourself!

We are a family owned business and have been proudly welcoming our guests for over 20 years. Although the original 300 year old pub has been in my family for over 20 years and I’ve grown up listening to conversations about it around the dinner table, I officially started working for the company 10 years ago. Since then the business and building have undergone an extensive refurbishment, expansion and development programme. In my free time I love to walk my dog around our glorious 40 acre sprawl, the stunning lavender field is one of the only in the North East, we have woodland riddled with wildlife and lots of farmyard antiques!

What drew you to the wedding world?

I always had a passion for hospitality and once I completed my degree there was no question where I was going to work. I’ve had the privilege of working in numerous different roles including wedding coordinator and have been able to grow as the business has grown, which I think has been a fantastic and unique experience. Red Row Estate is, in my opinion, one of the most beautiful areas of the North East so being able to market that and convert ideas into a reality is something I love.

What do you think makes your venue unique?

My colleagues are undoubtedly what makes our venue so special, we are a small close-knit team. The key to our success is planning, planning, planning! You have to be extremely organised, passionate, and have a keen attention to detail. One of the most important skills, which isn’t often taught in this industry, is to be an unofficial therapist, councillor and shoulder to cry on when needed. Weddings can be very emotional and stressful, and I pride myself on doing my upmost to put everyone’s mind at ease. Every wedding and special occasion is unique, and therefore every client relationship deserves as much time, attention and passion as possible so we can work together to make the big day perfect.

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How do you get to know your couples before the big day?

Our coordinators have their own mobile and are on hand to call/text/whatsapp/email at anytime during your wedding journey with us, we feel this gives a lot of comfort to couples. By the end of the wedding journey we really feel like we have made lasting relationships with our brides and grooms. We seem to have the most wonderful couples that come back to visit time and time again.

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What do you think makes for the perfect wedding?

Amazing food, an open bar tab, memorable entertainment and of course a beautiful ceremony where you are surrounded by your family, friends and loved ones.

What is your #1 wedding planning tip for couples?

It’s your day, so don’t be afraid to be a bit selfish when it comes to the guestlist, things like your menu choices, drink selection and seating plans.

What do you love about Bridebook?

I love how easy it is to navigate, shortlist and contact suppliers and venues. It really is like your own little black book!

What’s the most memorable wedding you’ve had?

Our first wedding was in July 2012 and since then enquiries have never stopped rolling in! Every wedding has its own special moment so it’s difficult to single out a particular wedding. Most recently being a part my sisters wedding in The Orchard Marquee was very special. It was lovely to be a guest for the day and it’s safe to say she went all out making good use of our extensive list of local supplier contacts.

Why should a couple book Red Row Estate?

As a unique venue with extensive grounds and panoramic views over our peaceful valley, the setting could hardly be more idyllic. We provide an unforgettable setting for all styles of celebration, grand or intimate, indoors or out…it will be a unique and memorable celebration.

What’s the best photo spot at Red Row Estate?

Definitely the beautiful lavender fields in full bloom.

What part of your business are you most proud of?

Our customer service to couples and guests. We pride ourselves in investing in our team to make sure we have only the best set of people to look after you on your journey with us. Our wedding team have a wealth of experience hosting weddings meaning you’re in very capable hands.

How do you feel technology is changing the industry?

Technology has transformed how we now work and we have had to fully embrace new technology during the past 18 months of Covid. It has been an essential part of improving and streamlining our customer journey from the initial enquiry to ease of booking venue viewings. Zoom calls and facetime have enabled us to continue showing couples our beautiful venue and even resulted in couples booking from as far field as Dubai after only viewing on facetime.

What is the one piece of advice you would give to couples that are currently struggling amidst the COVID-19 crisis?

Have faith, your dream day will happen despite all the setbacks and remember why you are getting married.

A huge thank you to Grace Fountain for answering our questions. Check out Red Row Estate on Bridebook!

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Looking for more venues in County Durham? Find your unforgettable venue by searching venues here.

Are you looking to promote your beautiful venue to our community of couples? Contact our Venue Consultant team at [email protected]

Venue Showcase: 41 Portland Place

In the heart of stylish Marylebone, 41 Portland Place is beautiful Grade II* listed Georgian Townhouse. The perfect setting for an intimate and exclusive Central London wedding. The fantastic location, sophisticated rooms, excellent food, and dedicated event management team will ensure you leave with treasured, everlasting memories.

We talked to Olivia Parrott, Sales & Marketing Manager at 41 Portland Place to find out more this grand and elegant venue, set at in the heart of London.

Tell us about yourself!

I have been in the weddings world for over 5 years! In my spare time I love to binge watch my favourite series on Netflix (I may or may not be able to re-enact every episode of friends… oooops!) I love socializing with friends & family, hitting the best brunch spots and exploring new places.

What drew you to the wedding world?

How personal it is! The feeling of making couples dream wedding days a reality is what sold it. Seeing the look on a couple’s face when they walk into the venue will never ever get old.

What do you think makes 41 Portland Place unique?

Our approach is to adaptable and flexible, we know each and every couple is different which means our approach is different. 41 Portland Place is one of London’s finest exclusive Georgian Townhouses. It is surrounded by elegant grandeur and in the heart of Marylebone, the Grade II* listed Georgian Townhouse is the ideal setting for a stylish, exclusive and chic London wedding. We are with our couples every step of the way and the relationship doesn’t end after their wedding day at RSA, we have created real amazing friendship with alot of our couples

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How do you get to know your couples before the big day?

We get to know them as people! Regular drink catch ups, video calls, venue visits, supplier visits! Getting to know the family is also a big thing for us too!

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What do you think makes for the perfect wedding?

Personality! Having seen more marvellous weddings than we can mention, the team here at 41 Portland Place know a thing or two about personalizing weddings so if you’re looking to put your own stamp on your big day, you’re sure to find some inspiration, or a little extra confidence to do your own thing, right here!

What is your #1 wedding planning tip for couples?

Trust your venue and your suppliers, they are experts and will go above and beyond to create the most incredible day for you!

What do you love about Bridebook?

The support from the incredible team, they are always so lovely and will go above and beyond always!

What’s the most memorable wedding you’ve had at 41 Portland Place?

This is a hard one as we have seen so many memorable weddings! I remember a summer wedding which was hosted on the tranquil terrace which just oozes sophistication and is the perfect spot to enjoy a refreshing summer cocktail with friends & family shaded from the sun by gorgeous olive and eucalyptus trees. By night, the space transforms into a fairy light lit oasis in the city. The client opted with a relaxed family feasting BBQ style menu followed by an interactive dessert station, a chef’s favourite!

Why should a couple book 41 Portland Place?

For this, I would say actions speak louder than words and have a look at testimonials! However, knowing their wedding contributes to the Academy of Medical Sciences charity which is funded research to improve health which is more important now than ever, is an incredible thing to know. Booking 41 Portland Place means you are in for a fun and memorable time planning the most incredible day of your lives and that we promise.

What’s the best photo spot at 41 Portland Place?

The Terrace!

What part of your business are you most proud of?

Our incredible behind the scene team, the people who make dreams a reality and it wouldn’t be possible without every single one of the team

How do you feel technology is changing the industry?

In an amazing way! Virtual tours, Instagram, wedding videos and galleries of images allow couples to imagine their day even more

What is the one piece of advice you would give to couples that are currently struggling amidst the COVID-19 crisis?

If your wedding cannot go ahead postpone do not cancel, we are all in this together and talk to your loved ones. We will get through this and your wedding celebrations will be more amazing than ever before!

A huge thank you to Olivia Parrott for answering our questions. Check out 41 Portland Place on Bridebook!

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Looking for more venues in London? Find your unforgettable venue by searching venues here.

Are you looking to promote your beautiful venue to our community of couples? Contact our Venue Consultant team at [email protected]

Venue Showcase: Plas Dinam Country House

Plas Dinam Country House is a truly beautiful historic mansion set in the hills of Wales. Exclusive use, DIY, with amazing glass roof Stables for your evening party and exclusively yours for at least 2 days.

We talked to Louise Edmunds, the Wedding Coordinator at Plas Dinam Country House to find out more this unique and amazing venue, set at the foot of glorious Welsh hills with spectacular views

Tell us about yourself!

I am relatively new to the Wedding Industry but my previous experience was working in Hospitality in the UK and France. I have had a great summer with Plas Dinam as wedding coordinator, loved every minute of it, and can’t wait for next year. I am a big outdoor lover and when possible will be out running, mountain biking or trying new wild swimming spots. During the winter I try to fit in a ski trip, and get back out in the snow. A few years ago I also joined the Army Reserves, so throughout the year I spend a few weekends training with them. I am expecting my first child in a few weeks, so trying to get ready for the next life adventure!

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What drew you to the wedding world?

I absolutely love the creativity of the wedding world, and I was lucky enough to find a job at a venue that is unique in what it offers to couples as well as being a beautiful place to work. It is great to work with couples from day 1, from when we show them around to their wedding day. It is such an exciting time for them and all the positive energy is in abundant on the day, you can’t not be happy doing this job. I love to the see the flower creations, the food menu choices and especially the chosen wedding dress and outfits. Every wedding is different.

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What do you think makes Plas Dinam Country House unique?

It is a family business and we want every couple to make it their own. We encourage them to use all the grounds and space at Plas Dinam, from the beautiful glass roof stables to the tennis courts and the secret lake for wild swimming. It is like renting a big home for a family holiday as well as getting married at the same time. We have fire pits, a pizza oven and BBQ, to croquet on the lawn. There is plenty of space for the couples and guests to explore and really settle into the house for a few days. From Day 1 of showing the couples around our venue I work with them to help with the planning of their day. I am there on the day to make sure it all goes smoothly, they don’t have to think about anything, and just enjoy it.

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How do you get to know your couples before the big day?

I love getting to know the couples and their families, and we love to show them around as much as possible. I am always on hand via emails and zoom calls. We will do a planning meeting at Plas Dinam a few months prior to their wedding day so they get to look around a final time before coming back to get married. This can normally be combined with their food tastings which happens in the Stables, and is a great time for them to really feel like their wedding is happening.

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What do you think makes for the perfect wedding?

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Having all your friends and family together to celebrate.

What is your #1 wedding planning tip for couples?

Wedding planning is fun, please don’t stress over it. It will all come together on the day with our support.

What do you love about Bridebook?

Bridebook have been great throughout covid-19, thinking of new ways to advertise and help us, with monthly phone calls and assistance looking at our listing to make it couple friendly. Bridebook are a great way to start the planning process for your day.

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What’s the most memorable wedding you’ve had at Plas Dinam Country House?

The couples getting married make it memorable. Their personalities and their ideas that they put into the day really make it for me. Our first wedding in June this year was very memorable, they had postponed 3 times due to covid and we were so excited for them to be getting married. They were such a fun couple, they had great friends and family with good chat, and all loved to party.

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Why should a couple book Plas Dinam Country House?

So the couples can spend a few days with their friends and family staying in a large Country House, relaxing, eating, drinking and getting married. They have the whole grounds exclusively to themselves and a beautiful glass roof stables to hold their wedding meal and party. They can arrive and completely make it their own. No pressure from anyone, it is their day and they can have it how they want.

What’s the best photo spot at Plas Dinam Country House?

In the Wild Flower meadow or the old greenhouse

What part of your business are you most proud of?

All of it, we have a great team that work super hard to make sure everything is perfect.

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How do you feel technology is changing the industry?

We have seen the increase of virtual tours since covid-19, but it is a positive- being able to offer a tour over zoom from the couples comfort of their lounge has been wonderful. We have been able to give them a real view of the venue and grounds, they can ask all the questions and still come away wanting to book with us.

What is the one piece of advice you would give to couples that are currently struggling amidst the COVID-19 crisis?

It is super tough having to postpone or not know if it will go ahead, but we are on hand to support you. We can help with any suppliers, and assist in finding new dates. It is still your wedding day so we want it to be special, and being able to spend it with family and friends is so important. Do not take too much stress on, relax, and it will happen.

A huge thank you to Louise Edmunds for answering our questions. Check out Plas Dinam Country House on Bridebook!

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Looking for more venues in Wales? Find your unforgettable venue by searching venues here.

Are you looking to promote your beautiful venue to our community of couples? Contact our Venue Consultant team at [email protected]

Venue Showcase: Tudor Barn Eltham

Tudor Barn Eltham is Set in acres of beautiful Instagrammable parkland and gardens, and dating back to 1525, the Tudor Barn is the perfect place for special celebrations. We’re ready to host your wedding.

We talked to Jade Hayward at Tudor Barn Eltham the to find out more about this hidden gem of a venue.

Tell us about yourself!

I have been in the wedding industry since I was 17 years old! Approaching 8 years now. I have a beautiful little girl who gave birth to during the pandemic and in my free time I love to design posters, birthday cards, photobooks as well as photography.

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What drew you to the wedding world?

Simply by chance! I worked in central london for 2 years and could no longer deal with the constant bad energy and the need to get everywhere 100 miles an hour! A friend of mine actually asked me to do some photography for her sons holy communion at Tudor Barn Eltham and I fell in love with the building. Such a beautiful little gem right around the corner from where I live.

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What do you think makes Tudor Barn Eltham unique?

I find some venues are like a conveyer belt whereby they just want 7 weddings a week sometimes more than 1 a day and that is just simply not what we are about. Tudor Barn Eltham is a family run business and each and every wedding is unique and becomes a part of history as Tudor Barn Eltham is the last remaining Tudor Barn in London dating back to 1525. We want to be a part of our couple’s planning process, we want to help them decide which table plans will work best, which colour schemes work beautifully with the barn and all the little bits in between. We have found this approach not only puts our couples minds at ease but makes what can be a very difficult planning process so much easier and dare I say it… lot’s of fun!! We want them to not only remember the big day but remember just how exciting it was to plan with our team.

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How do you get to know your couples before the big day?

Our events team offer 4 meetings with our clients, on the viewing we are able to understand who they are and what they want which really helps us begin our planning process, after they are invited to a tasting which again helps us understand what type of food and drinks they like and offer our advice to what we think could work for their big day. We then offer a planning meeting where the clients have access to their function sheet and it’s almost a step by step checklist of what they need to do, this allows us to understand exactly what they want from their big day in terms of decor, entertainment, timings etc and again we can focus in on these areas. Finally, at the final meeting we can look at all the tiny little details which we know our client’s would love to have as we have built a relationship with them for on average 9 – 18 months! On the day of the wedding we will know everything we need to know about our couples to ensure their day is perfect.

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What do you think makes for the perfect wedding?

I think everyone’s idea of perfect is unique and that’s what makes a wedding perfect, your own very unique, different ideas coming together to create a day that truly represents you and your partner.

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What is your #1 wedding planning tip for couples?

Be prepared for anything to happen! Sometimes the best things can come from it

What do you love about Bridebook?

How we can show off our venue as the unique wedding venue as it is with ease!

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What’s the most memorable wedding you’ve had at The Petersham Hotel?

We held a wedding a few years ago and the groom was a firefighter who actually attended the grenfell tower tragedy – he was a real life hero! Seeing him and his colleagues in their dress uniform’s it was truly something special.

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Why should a couple book Tudor Barn Eltham?

To become a part of history in a beautiful unique 16th century barn

What’s the best photo spot at Tudor Barn Eltham?

Within the stunning gardens by the Moat Bridge

What part of your business are you most proud of?

The staff

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How do you feel technology is changing the industry?

I feel that everything is becoming more digital! We totally expected this change and we are moving with it and taking it all in our stride! We will continue to have a personal 1 to 1 approach for some parts of the planning as we believe this is really important.

What is the one piece of advice you would give to couples that are currently struggling amidst the COVID-19 crisis?

Love conquers all! You will have your perfect day and your family will be so excited to be able to celebrate an amazing milestone in your life with you.

A huge thank you to Jade for answering our questions. Check out Tudor Barn Eltham on Bridebook!

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Looking for more venues in Kent? Find your unforgettable venue by searching venues here.

Are you looking to promote your beautiful venue to our community of couples? Contact our Venue Consultant team at [email protected]