If you’ve started planning your wedding, you’ll already know that finding your perfect venue is one of the most important decisions you’ll need to make. So with that in mind, here’s our expert guide on how to find the right venue for you.
If you don’t know where to start, have a scroll through Bridebook’s Venue Search. We’ve got the biggest and best wedding venue directory in the UK, so it’s a sure-fire way to find “the one”!
In this video, Bridebook founder (and qualified wedding planner!) Hamish Shephard gives his tips on finding your wedding venue in three easy steps. Whether you’re after initial wedding venue ideas or wondering what questions to ask your wedding venue, this is the video for you.
1. Think about what you both want
This day is about you and your partner, and your venue should reflect that! Work together to find a venue that suits both of your tastes. Whether you choose a modern loft, a beach wedding or a grand country house (like Elmore Court, below), make sure it’s what you both want.
We know, it’s not our most romantic advice – but it is important. And we promise, you can find a gorgeous venue, even on the tightest of budgets! Sit down with your partner and work out how much you want to spend on your venue early on so you know what you’re working with. Need somewhere to start? Your Bridebook has a handy Budget Calculator which will let you know in seconds how much of your budget to spend on your venue.
Where you get married is one of your most important decisions. Between you and your partner, it’s likely there are friends and family spread out across the country (or even the globe!) so choosing the right location is key to making sure as many people as possible can attend. Keep travel connections in mind if you’ve got people coming from far and wide. If you have elderly relatives you’d love to be there, think about how far they can reasonably travel too.
4. Think about how much space you need
How long is your guest list? Who’s on your A List and who could you do without? Do you want 300 people in attendance or would you rather just have you, your partner and ten close friends? Thinking about how many people will be there and what you want to happen on the day is key to picking the right venue. You don’t want hundreds of people crammed into a space that’s too small for them and the ten-piece band you’ve booked… But you also don’t want fifteen people spread out across an enormous hall.
One of the most frequently overlooked elements of any wedding day is the lighting – but we can’t stress how important it is. After all, there’s no point in spending thousands on a gorgeous venue if no one can see it! Make sure to check out what lighting packages the venue offers and whether it will complement the space and work with your wedding theme. If you want a few pointers, our top tip would always be to stay well away from fluorescent and ultraviolet lighting (unless you’re having a glow in the dark wedding, of course!). And if all else fails, explore options for creating your own lighting.
On your big day, the number one thing you’ll want is for things to run smoothly from dawn until dusk. So do your research! Read reviews and get recommendations of potential venues to make sure you get five-star service.
7. Make a list of must-haves
Sit down with your partner and write a list of non-negotiables. These are your must-haves, the things you and your partner absolutely can’t do without on your wedding day. If you have your heart set on a particular caterer and a venue can’t accommodate that, they’re out. On the other hand, if you decide an ice sculpture is just the thing and they’re willing to make that happen, you might just have found your dream venue!
You won’t love every venue – but it might just be the venue you least expect that takes your breath away! Even if you think you know what you want, try to keep your mind open to new ideas, themes and locations. You might be surprised at what you find in our directory and how you feel when you visit it. Ever thought about tying the knot in a riverside cabin, at the zoo or in a gorgeous picturehouse?
9. Visit more than once
We can’t stress this enough. Always go and see your top venue choices at least two or three times before you make a decision. There’s no rush to sign on the dotted line, we promise. Take your time because your choice of venue affects every other choice you’ll make.
Okay, so this is something you’ll only know when you feel it. It’s a bit like getting butterflies… It’s the moment you step inside a venue and know it’s perfect. You can see yourself walking down the aisle, you can see yourself surrounded by your loved ones… That’s “the feeling” we’re talking about! And it means you’ve found your venue.
Hopefully, that’s helped get you well on your way to finding your perfect venue! Now you know the basics, you can use Bridebook’s Venue Search to start looking for “the one.” You can filter by name, capacity, type and style, as well as location. You can also use Bridebook for the rest of your wedding planning, including managing your budget, creating your guest list and booking the rest of your wedding team.
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. And what might make one couple watery eyed and besotted could indeed leave a different couple feeling…well…not very much at all.
But as the wedding industry landscape changes so too do the priorities of wedding planning couples, and whilst we cannot say in absolute terms what will make every bride or groom tick, we can’t ignore the trends we’ve identified whilst working with wedding venues throughout 2017.
What couples want from your wedding venue
Here are five key things that couples want from wedding venues today and key trends you should be aware of going into 2018…
1. Beautiful scenery
Unsurprisingly, couple’s look for impressive landscapes and beautiful backdrops when choosing a wedding venue. Couples want to achieve the wow factor and impress their guests, and they want beautiful scenery to form the background of their wedding photographs.
Now your wedding venue doesn’t have to be a manor house set in rolling countryside to reel in landscape-loving couples; success is dependent on how creative you are with the photography you use to advertise your wedding venue.
Include as much scenery in photographs as you can but if your venue is set in a city centre or has limited surrounding natural beauty make the most of nearby scenic opportunities. If your venue sits adjacent to a beautiful park include photos of a bride and groom there; if a village a few streets away makes for a great backdrop, grab your camera kit and take a few shots there.
It’s all about offering the best your local area has to offer and showing newly engaged couples what their wedding photos could look like should they choose your venue. You’re the expert of your local area so make your landscape work for you
2. Couples are willing to spend more for perfection
Couples are certainly still cost conscious but the majority are also more willing now than ever before to stretch their budget if you can offer them their perfect wedding venue.
And what makes your wedding venue perfect for each couple is heavily based on your ability to be flexible and offer each couple the opportunity to customise your venue to suit their big day.
You should focus on selling your space and ideas of how the couple in question could utilise different areas of your venue in different ways.
Empty rooms won’t get couples excited so if you can’t set up a demonstration of how their wedding could look be sure to talk through ideas and show photographs of rooms decorated for previous weddings.
Be sure to let couples know that they can decorate and transform your space to suit them – personalising lots of little elements to make their big day truly unique to them.
Tip: Be transparent with your pricing. Couples are willing to spend more if you’re open, honest and work with them to build a wedding package that fits. List your pricing parameters and share photographs and details of wedding open days at your venue on your Bridebook profile for free to attract more couples in 2018.
3. Photographs of real weddings at your venue
One of the most important marketing tools at your disposal are photographs of real couples and real weddings held at your venue.
Couples want to see examples of how weddings look and how certain spaces are used. This helps them to imagine their own wedding day at your venue which in turn, makes it much more likely that they’ll choose to book with your venue.
Getting hold of these kinds of photographs is largely dependent on you forging good relationships with local photographers. Strike up a deal in which you promise to include the photographer on your preferred supplier list in exchange for access to a handful of the photo’s they take for each wedding held at your venue. Or take your own photographs with a good quality camera and ask permission from the couple to use them after the wedding.
Tip: choose a photograph of your favourite real wedding to use as your Bridebook profile photo and show newly engaged couples what they could have if they chose to get married at your wedding venue.
4. The bar is a big deal
It’s no secret that us Brits know how to have a good time (ahem…drink). So it should come as no surprise to learn that bars are important business. Couples are more interested in having well stocked open bars at their wedding now more than ever before.
Ensure your wedding venue advertises a good bar space and include various examples and creative options on how to dress the bar and make it into a fantastic feature of the evening.
Couples are loving signature cocktails so include this as an option, and advertise a qualified mixologist as part of your bar package to wow couples and their guests. The bar is evening entertainment in itself.
5. Indoor / outdoor wedding options
Couples are loving the idea of outdoor weddings but unfortunately, the UK climate isn’t really best placed to reassure us that this is always possible!
Being able to offer both indoor and outdoor spaces to newly engaged couples is really important and could mean the difference between you securing a booking or not.
Work with whatever outdoor space you have to offer – whether a large lawn or a rooftop deck – and showcase photographs of the space being used for weddings on your website, on your Bridebook profile and on all marketing materials.
If you’ve not got any outdoor space to offer, try bringing a little of the outdoor indoors! Adorn your wedding reception rooms with bundles of floral arrangements and hanging plants to show how romantic flowers indoors can be as beautiful as anything anyone else has to offer outdoors.
Make the most out of your wedding venue
Now you know what couples look for in wedding venues today, make sure you’re marketing your assets in the right way to attract more couples and secure more bookings in 2018.
Have you identified any other trends in couples searching for wedding venues this year? Share your feedback in the comment section below.
The Bridebook.co.uk Wedding Awards 2018 are here! Whether you’re a fairytale castle or an alternative wedding dress designer, a self-trained florist or a french pastry chef, you’re all eligible to be recognised for the incredible work that you do in the British wedding industry.
The Bridebook.co.uk Wedding Awards 2018 gives all of our venues and suppliers the opportunity to win a prestigious Certificate of Excellence, and to be crowned the 2018 Winner in your respective category. The awards are free to enter. To do so, you simply need to collect reviews from your 2017 couples on your Bridebook profile. The Awards close on December 15th, so be sure to start collecting your reviews if you haven’t already! (Find your profile, under your respective category here).
Read on below for all the details you need and more…
Have any questions? Check our frequently asked questions below! If you can’t find the answer you are looking for below, you can email weddingawards@bridebook.co.uk directly.
FAQs:
What are the Bridebook Wedding Awards 2018?
The Bridebook Wedding Awards are our chance to shout from the rooftops about the amazing work done by Bridebook wedding venues and suppliers. From exceptional couple’s service, to jaw-dropping creativity, we’re lucky to be part of a world that just overflows with passionate and talented business owners. The annual Bridebook Wedding Awards is our way of sharing this enthusiasm!
This year’s Awards will be centered around reviews from real couples who tied the knot in 2017. Certificates of Excellence will be awarded according to the number of positive reviews for each supplier, and the Winners will be selected by a panel of expert judges from those suppliers. Read on below for the full details!
When are the Awards running?
The Awards will count all reviews made by 2017 couples or their family members up until 11:59pm on the 15th of December, after which any new reviews will not be counted.
The 2018 Certificate holders and the overall Winners will be announced on February 15th, 2018.
How can I enter the Awards?
We have good news – it’s completely FREE to take part! All registered Bridebook suppliers will be eligible to be awarded a Certificate and be considered for 2018 winner titles. By having no cost associated, we ensure that all suppliers can be represented and have the chance for recognition.
How do I get reviews?
Need a little guidance to get things started? Here’s our suggestions for the best way to gather those reviews and to move you one step closer to getting the recognition you deserve!
And don’t forget, for the reviews to count they must be made directly on your Bridebook profile.
Reflect on your 2017 and think about those couples you really connected with.
Ask your couples directly – email them, maybe starting with a personal anecdote, and explain what their support would mean to you. Don’t forget to include a link to your Bridebook profile!
Utilise the power of social media! With everyone online these days, simply sharing your profile and asking for reviews from your followers will have an impact.
Download these assets we made for easy sharing!
How are the Bridebook Certificates of Excellence awarded?
The Certificates of Excellence are designed to recognise and celebrate suppliers who have contributed to the wedding industry with exemplary service, regardless of their size or the amount of weddings they complete in a year.
Silver Bridebook Certificate of Excellence = At least 5 5-star reviews from 2017 weddings.
Gold Bridebook Certificate of Excellence = At least 15 5-star reviews from 2017 weddings.
Platinum Certificate of Excellence = At least 30 5-star reviews from 2017 weddings.
How are the supplier category winners chosen?
Each supplier category will have one 2018 Winner. (The only exception to this will be for venues, where each UK region will have one winner.)
Judging Process:
All suppliers who have qualified for a Gold or Platinum Certificate will then all automatically go through to the judging round.
Bridebook experts will choose the 2018 Winners and Highly Commended in each supplier category based on their Bridebook profiles.
The judging criteria of these profiles will include the supplier’s review score, their commitment and contributions to the greater wedding industry, and finally product quality.
The Winner Categories will be:
Wedding Venue of the Year
Wedding Photographer of the Year
Wedding Florist of the Year
Wedding Videographer of the Year
Wedding Caterer of the Year
Wedding Dress & Accessories Supplier of the Year
Wedding Music Supplier of the Year
Wedding Entertainer of the Year
Wedding Cake Maker of the Year
Wedding Stationer of the Year
Bridal Beauty of the Year
Menswear Supplier of the Year
Wedding Jeweller of the Year
Wedding Transport Supplier of the Year
Wedding Decor Supplier of the Year
Wedding Planner of the Year
Marquee Supplier of the Year
What can I win?
Certificate Winner:
If you qualify to be a recipient of one of Bridebook’s Certificates of Excellence you will be provided with a custom badge to proudly display on both your website and your Bridebook profile. Being a holder of such a badge will also boost your profile standing in the Bridebook listing. With your badge and a boosted Bridebook listing, Certificate winners can expect a lot more attention, more couples, more bookings, and more quality business leads for you! You will also receive a printable digital copy of your Certificate of Excellence to display with pride.
Venue & Supplier Category Winner:
2018 Winners will receive a personalised grand trophy to display at work or at home, a badge to display across your online channels, a boosted Bridebook listing and exclusive social media exposure to Bridebook’s 300,000+ followers!
How do you keep the awards fair?
One of our main priorities is to ensure all venues and suppliers feel that the Awards are a fair and exciting experience. Having taken on board feedback from last year’s Awards, we have decided to give the customers the say. Who better else to be the judges than the couples themselves!
Other efforts include having the Awards free and open to all venues and suppliers (not just those that pay an entry fee), just like how Bridebook is free to be listed on, ensuring all aspects of the wedding industry are fairly represented. Bridebook also has proprietary algorithms in place to check for suspicious activity on all reviews and will be implementing a thorough verification plan upon completion.
Which reviews count?
All reviews submitted by the couple or their family from a 2017 wedding up to December 15th.
All reviews submitted will be verified and posted within 24 hours.
All verified testimonials submitted by the profile owner before November 1st (the beginning date of the awards).
To ensure the authenticity of reviews, supplier-uploaded testimonials will not be counted towards the Awards after November 1st, but will still show on your profile.
How do you make sure the reviews are authentic?
Bridebook has taken a number of steps to ensure only authentic reviews are shared, including:
Proprietary algorithms in place to check for suspicious activity on all supplier reviews.
Requiring a wedding date, email address and an online authenticity agreement from all review submitters.
Reserving the right to request evidence of any feedback submitted.
Manual investigation and verification process for suspicious activity
Questions?
If your query isn’t answered in the information above, don’t hesitate to reach out to weddingawards@bridebook.co.uk and we’ll do our upmost to assist you!
Famous for its ties with The Beatles and RMS Titanic, Liverpool is a thriving Northern city, full of personality and soul. Are you looking for the perfect venue in or around Liverpool? Look no further!
Bridebook.co.uk has hunted down 25 of the best venues from in and around the city that are totally unique! Take a look at these magnificent places, or have a gander yourself by using our Wedding Venue Search tool and selecting your city.
This dazzling venue is often among the top wedding venues in the UK – and we can see why! Its glorious glass structure is filled with unique palms that will set off your photos like no other. Sefton Park Palm House is also right in the heart of Liverpool!
Are you and your partner avid Beatles fans? This is the place for you! The Beatles Story is an iconic attraction that can be made into the backdrop for your wedding day – imagine saying your vows in the super realistic replica of the Cavern Club!
In the rolling Lancashire countryside and less than an hour away from Liverpool, West Tower sits on eight acres of stunning land. Traditional on the outside and contemporary on the inside, this impressive country house is the perfect venue to suit all tastes.
Dating back to the 15th Century, this glamorous country house and it’s beautiful gardens in the walled estate can be exclusively yours for your unique wedding day. With a rich heritage and easy access to Liverpool, Knowsley Hall is an ideal choice for a stunning backdrop.
Right in the city centre lies the undiscovered gem of Alma De Cuba. The building is a former church that has a lengthy history dating back to 1788. Now a stylish restaurant and bar, you can hire these spectacular surroundings with bespoke service for your big day!
This 16th Century barn is set on 120 acres of country estate and is just 8 miles down the road from Liverpool. Original stone walls and exposed beams provide plenty of character, and spectacular rural views are on offer for you and your guests to enjoy at Crosby Hall.
Are you a huge Titanic fan, or really interested in it’s history? 30 James Street is the home of the Titanic, and you can now have your wedding in this iconic building. Offering picturesque views across the docklands and the Pier Head, this stunning venue has a classy, opulent feel with a nautical twist.
Inglewood lies within 38 acres of immaculate grounds and spectacular views across Cheshire. This grade II listed Edwardian manor boasts beautiful architecture, and not only can it accommodate outside summer weddings, but also ceremonies in front of the roaring fire during the height of winter.
SIREN Liverpool is a unique and versatile space in the city centre that can act as a blank canvas for you to create your perfect wedding theme. Make your dreams come true with this ultimately spacious venue.
Soughton Hall Hotel welcomes you with a breathtaking walled entrance and grand driveway. This spectacular venue gives off vibes of flawless luxury, and sits about 20 miles from Liverpool just inside the Welsh border. Can you imagine your romantic day here?
The infamous stage and auditorium at the exquisite Epstein Theatre could be your wedding venue! Built in 1913 and named in honour of the Beatles manager, the stunning decor will provide the perfect backdrop as you find your inner star and say your vows on stage!
Croxteth Hall is a historic Edwardian stately home just 20 minutes from the centre of Liverpool and it boasts an elegant oak-panelled dining room among other stunning settings in which to tie the knot. As the former home of the Earl of Sefton, you can feel on top of the world with this delightful country estate building as your venue.
The top deck of the beautiful Kathleen and May Schooner commands a striking view of the famous Liverpool Waterfront. Built in 1900 and restored in 2000, this unique venue is a stunning place to hold your wedding reception in the heart of Liverpool’s Albert Dock.
Always fancied being a King and Queen for your special day? Leasowe Castle Hotel is where you can feel like it! This fairytale venue boasts impressive sea views and is a truly luxurious setting just 20 minutes away from Liverpool.
Need some land for your own DIY wedding? Clawdd Offa Farm offers large areas of beautiful farmland with picturesque rural views across the Welsh border to hold your wedding day celebrations. You can hire the farm from Friday afternoon through to Sunday, so there’s no need to rush!
If you and your partner die hard Liverpool F.C. fans, then this is the venue for you! Anfield Stadium at Liverpool Football Club is equipped with an events team, first class catering and a beautiful set up for the celebration of your dreams.
Isla Gladstone Conservatory will stun your guests as you enter the dramatic surroundings of this converted Victorian glasshouse. The sun-flooded interior nestled in between rose gardens will bring plenty of enchantment to your big day!
Adjoined to the Titanic Hotel, the Rum Warehouse is a spacious building with a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for wining and dining with your loved ones. The restored 1950’s warehouse provides an ideal romantic setting for the larger wedding party up to 500 guests!
Less than 10 miles from the city, the 19th Century Thorton Manor is set within an impressive 120 acres. It provides grand rooms with elegant decor, a secret garden and a lakeside marquee for the ultimate rural manor house experience. Wowzers!
The Chester Fields allows you to dine alfresco with your nearest and dearest while enjoying spectacular views! This unique restaurant offers delicious menus and superb service to meet all of your requirements as you begin married life!
The stunning Grade II listed red brick building of Victoria Gallery & Museum sits in a peaceful location within the city of Liverpool. Expect vaulted ceilings, tasteful landscape and Victorian splendour in this gorgeous one-of-a-kind venue.
Situated in a rural area less than an hour from the city, Charnock Farm Restaurant breathes fresh air into wedding venues across the North. An exposed brick fireplace mixed with classy and contemporary decor makes this venue stand out from the crowd!
Liverpool Philharmonic Hall sees world-class acts pass through it’s doors regularly, so how about having your wedding there? Whether you’re wanting a huge celebration in the main hall or a simple set up in the bar, this venue can do it!
In the Cheshire countryside, Abbeywood Estate is a 45-acre family home that is dedicated to making your wedding day unique. The glorious gardens and stunning decor make it a truly romantic venue where your married life can start with a bang.
This magical wedding venue is located on it’s own private island in the heart of the Delamere Forest. Nunsmere Hall Hotel allows you to enjoy a luxurious and sophisticated wedding with a charming Italian sunken garden and panoramic views across the lake.
Still not found your dream venue? Or do you live outside of Liverpool and you’d like to extend your search? Do not fear! Use Bridebook.co.uk’s Wedding Venue Search and type in your preferred location, where you are sure to find the perfect venue for you.
The limits at Bridebook are endless – did you know we can also help you with your entire wedding planning process?! Fill in your guest list, budget and use our wedding checklist to make sure you remember everything on your special day.
Looking for your dream city wedding venue and can’t decide whether you’re after a contemporary or traditional setting? RSA House may just be the place for you, as this historic hidden gem combines Georgian splendour and rustic romance for your special day.
Imagine escaping from the hustle and bustle of London as you step into the tranquil surroundings of the breathtaking RSA House. On possibly the most special day of your life, the next few moments will be the most memorable as you walk through the doors and down the aisle in a grand Georgian room.
RSA House offers a variety of stunningly decorated rooms in which to host your wedding ceremony (and reception if you choose), but the spectacularly lavish Benjamin Franklin Room is a firm favourite. With its mixture of original architecture, a contemporary ambiance and a towering chandelier inspired by the man himself, it’s an unforgettable place to say ‘i do’ and take your first steps as a married couple.
Then head up the 300-year-old staircase (and pause for a snap) to your wedding breakfast, where a world of artistic wonder awaits you and your guests. The iconic Great Hall is brought alive with its dramatic artwork. The magnificent series of paintings “Progress of Human Knowledge and Culture” by James Barry, offers plenty of historical background and will become an incredible backdrop for your big day!
Now, to the wedding reception. The Vaults, with their exposed 18th Century brickwork and rustic ambiance, are a surprising contrast to the Georgian luster of the above rooms. These up-lit underground vaults are the perfect place to kick-off your wedding evening, with a combination of romantic air and party vibes. No need to limit your evening guests either, as the vaults can cater for up to 220 people without losing out on its feeling of exclusivity. You and your guests will have fun dancing the night away knowing that you’re in the best hands with the team at RSA House.
Key Features:
Exclusive use of the venue when you book for 100 guests.
RSA House is perfectly situated between the vibrant Covent Garden and Embankment, Central London. Enjoy great transport links here!
Weddings can be bespoke. Rooms and food to suit your requirements.
Nearby luxury accommodation can be sought at The Savoy, Corinthia and The Waldorf Hilton to name but a few of the best hotels in the area.
Wedding Coordinator, Rosalind, and the RSA House team have a strong wedding ethos: “We believe every wedding should be bespoke and encourage every couple to stamp their personality on their big day.”
RSA House can cater for a capacity of up to 140 guests for your ceremony or banquet, and up to 220 for your evening wedding reception. The venue’s packages start from £145+VAT per head, with an exquisite food selection from their specialist caterer H+J by Harbour and Jones.
Love this venue as much as we do? Book a show-round today by heading to their Bridebook profile and requesting more details.Trust us, the pictures just don’t it justice!
Are you dreaming of a fairytale autumn wedding where you have crackling fires and leaves crunching under your feet? We know just the place! Here at Bridebook.co.uk, we believe you should be able to enjoy your wedding day whatever the weather – so we’ve put together a list of the best autumn venues in the UK!
If none of these are for you, or you’re looking for a particular location, use Bridebook.co.uk’s Wedding Venue Search and type in your preferred area.
The stunning Dewsall Court is surrounded by 12 acres of countryside and boasts breathtaking leafy interiors to bring the outside in. Just perfect for autumn!
This newly restored Georgian House in the heart of Devon is a combination of traditional and modern features. Shilstone is sure to be a romantic setting as the leaves fall!
Butley Priory is a magical building dating back to the 14th Century and was originally a monastary. Get cosy in this one-of-a-kind venue near the Suffolk coastline.
This beautiful old Cotswold stone barn offers plenty of countryside features including a stunning open fireplace. Stay warm on your wedding day at Cripps Barn as the temperature drops!
Say your vows in front of a roaring fire at the gorgeous historic venue of Maften Hall Hotel – a striking countryside backdrop for your autumn wedding.
Boasting panoramic views of the Severn Valley, Blaisdon Hall is a grand venue finished off with elaborate decor and antique furniture. Feel cosy on your big day while enjoying the luxury!
Just an hour outside of London, Old Luxters Barn boasts exposed wooden beams inside, and a luxury marquee outside. A perfect canvas for creating your autumn theme!
Imagine your journey through crisp leaves as you approach the enchanted Leeds Castle! What could be more romantic than saying ‘I do’ in this magnificent venue?
Tunnels Beaches is a unique venue offering a hand-carved tunnel through the cliff leading to a private beach. Stun your guests with this dramatic backdrop during an autumn sunset! Get inspired by the UK’s best beach wedding venues.
This 400-acre sustainably-run farm is home to a thatched cider barn, beautiful farmhouse, and plenty of woodlands in which to tie the knot! Middle Coombe Farm is the ultimate venue for nature lovers getting married in the autumn season.
Birtsmorton Court is a lovely manor house with its very own moat. Watch while the team creates the perfect autumn wedding in front of your eyes with crackling fires, fab food, and even fireworks!
We hope you liked our choices of top autumn venues! However, if you’re still trying to find ‘the one’, use Bridebook.co.uk’s Wedding Venue Search and type in your preferred location.
Once you’ve got your venue secured, you’ll no doubt still have heaps to do! Make the preparations easy by using Bridebook.co.uk’s wedding guest list and wedding budget planner – not forgetting our wedding checklist so you don’t forget any important steps.
Fed up of trawling round boring venues that all end up moulding into one? It’s time for a venue change-up, and Bridebook.co.uk is here to help! We’ve found 25 of the best wedding venues near Newcastle that will put a spin on your big day.
Hopefully, you love these stunning venues as much as we do…but if you’re still not satisfied, take a look for yourself using our Wedding Venue Search tool.
Newcastle’s Assembly Rooms is a premier banqueting venue that offers a unique ambience and a classy way to dine on your wedding day. Just sit back, relax and take in the beautiful sights of this venue!
This classic Victorian Mansion House is a great choice if you require an elegant backdrop and impressive location for your wedding. Celebrate your nuptials in style, with this lavish venue!
The incredibly quirky As You Like It, just outside the city centre, really is a one-of-a-kind venue. This hidden gem strives to make your day extra special with heaps of imagination and maybe even a surprise or two.
4. Theatre Royal Newcastle
The recently restored Theatre Royal Newcastle are where dreams become reality! This incredible spaces has plenty of grace and class for your magical day – now it’s your turn to step into the spotlight!
Just a stone’s throw away from the city lies the oasis of Vallum Farm. This versatile venue offers rustic country features while still being uber-glam for your special day. Enjoy a laid-back barbecue or a fine dining experience at this incredible venue – where anything goes.
Surrounded by 300 acres of picturesque parkland, Mafton Hall Hotel is a magnificent building with lots of character. Head down the spectacular Great Hall staircase before saying ‘I Do’ in front of the feature fireplace. We couldn’t think of a more stunning ceremony moment!
If you’ve got a particular theme in mind, Event Northumbria is the blank canvas to create it! In the grounds of Northumbria University campus, this venue takes creativity to a whole new level with it’s range of flexible spaces and nearby location to the local registry office.
We fell in love with it’s name instantly…but now we love the venue! The Biscuit Factory is an art, craft and design gallery in a former Victorian warehouse, becoming a contemporary backdrop for your wedding. With a focus on culture and individuality, it is sure to be a hit!
9. Castlegate
In the heart of Newcastle, Castlegate offers the versatile space of the Turbine Hall, ideal for painting your perfect day as you dream it. It can comfortably accommodate larger weddings under it’s stunning structure, allowing you to invite everyone and not cut down the guestlist!
If you’re looking for something more intimate, Whalton Manor is a glorius venue set in a quaint countryside village just 30 minutes from Newcastle. The stone-built summer house and exquisite architecture are marvellous additions to your big day!
Lumley Castle Hotel has 600 years of history and boasts views over nine acres of parkland and the River Wear. The state rooms make a great set up for a grand dining experience, to make sure it is as spectacular on the inside as it is on the outside.
Art lovers – pay attention! Fancy hosting your most special day at an incredibly memorable venue, among Newcastle’s finest art? Laing Art Gallery is the place to choose if you want to say your vows next to your favourite works – your guests will be impressed too!
Situated 20 minutes away from the city, South Causey is a barn and wedding suite set up with a garden overlooking the Beamish Valley. The beautiful chapel-style Tanfield suite is the perfect place to begin your marriage, as this venue brings a warm and romantic vibe to the day of your dreams.
The Royal Station Hotel is a well-recognised building from the exterior, but have you seen inside? With a range of opulent suites to choose from, the world is your oyster with this magnificent venue.
Searching for an alternative venue with a quirkiness to it? The Quayside Exchange is ideal! Choose from the Grand Room, the Quayside Suite with nautical features, or the Vaulted Suite in the basement to sway your wedding theme whichever way you want to take it!
This one doesn’t need much explaining! If you’ve ever fancied being Queen of your own grand residence, Crook Hall is the place to be it! Enjoy spectacular landscapes of the Secret Walled Garden and a candlelit ceremony in the Medieval Hall.
This 13th Century friary in central Newcastle offers authentic features including stained-glass windows, chandeliers and rustic stone walls. The medieval Banquet Hall of Blackfriars Restaurant is an inncredible place to wine and dine your guests!
The former glasshouse and ‘Winter Gardens’ of Queen Elizabeth High School is a rather alternative wedding venue! It is airy and spacious with lots of natural light, plus you can enjoy the lush greenery even from indoors!
This venue needs no introduction! The stunning Healey Barn is a short drive away from the centre of Newcastle, combining Northumbrian countryside with rustic romance. Delightful!
Riverside views and breath-taking architecture means you have arrived at Sage Gateshead! This versatile venue is rated in the Independent’s top 50 venues from across the globe, and we totally understand why! Impressive.
The grand exterior of Jesmond Dene House and it’s wood-panelled Great Hall offers plenty of character to really add an edge to your special day. There are also lots of more intimate spaces too, as well as 40 bedrooms to accommodate your guests after your unforgettable event!
Fancy saying your vows under a T-Rex? Want your guests to dine among the Living Planet creatures? The Great North Museum is a spectacular way to entertain your guests and keep them talking about your wedding for several weeks after!
This is undoubtedly a rather quirky venue…but it really could make your wedding! This Gothic-style Victorian Institute building has a choice of spectacular rooms that are versatile enough for you to put your spin on it.
Within 200 acres of magnificent parkland, High House Farm Brewery boasts views of Hadrian’s Wall and is ideal for a rustic, rural theme. Bails of hay will complete the look for your ultimately bespoke wedding!
Only 10 miles away from the city centre, Horton Grange Hotel is situated in an area of oasis! Perfectly landscaped gardens, charming period features and a relaxing ambience come with this Grade II listed stately home.
So, that’s our top 25 picks for interesting and quirky venues near the city of Newcastle! If you’re looking elsewhere in the UK, use Bridebook.co.uk’s Wedding Venue Search and type in your preferred location.
If you’ve still got heaps to do with your wedding planning, Bridebook.co.uk can help! Use our guest list, budget and wedding checklist to make sure you don’t forget a single thing on the lead up to your big day.
Crowned as the happiest place to live in the UK and full of culture and vibrance, the seaside city of Brighton is a popular one! If you’re lucky enough to live in or around Brighton and are searching for the perfect wedding venue in the area, you’re in the right place!
Bridebook.co.uk has hunted down 25 of the most unique places to get wed, so you can sit back and enjoy the rest of your planning process! If you’re still stuck, use our Wedding Venue Search tool and marvel in wonder as you find your ideal venue.
In central Brighton, Fabrica is a one-of-a-kind venue with an unusual interior and striking exterior. Used as a contemporary art gallery, this unique space has a stained glass feature wall and gorgeous wooden balcony panels. Do with it what you will, as this exclusive use venue can be shaped into any theme you desire!
If you’re hunting for the wow factor, this venue is surely the one! All Saints Chapel in nearby Eastbourne offers intricate decor and breathtakingly high ceilings. The grade I listed chapel was built in 1874 and would be the most stunning backdrop for your romantic day.
Just an hour away from Brighton, Gate Street Barn lies on a working organic farm with beautiful landscaped gardens. It was built using wood from oak trees that were lost on the farm during a hurricane, so this venue has plenty of history and character to add to your special day.
Have a grand wedding ceremony in the stunning grounds of this beautiful castle for the ultimate romantic setting. Lewes Castle is an incredibly historical venue that has been standing for 1,000 years and is surrounded by the picturesque South Downs countryside.
On the outskirts of Brighton, Preston Manor is an exquisite manor house with an air of elegance and grandeur. This Edwardian building makes quite the intimate setting for your wedding day celebrations, where you can enjoy fine dining and sweeping views across Preston Park.
Thinking of a country wedding? Laughton Barns is the perfect venue for you! Expect rustic features such as gothic chandeliers and exposed beams, and the barns have been built with local oak, brick and stone. With panoramic views of the South Downs, this could be your ultimate country wedding setting!
The quirky elements of West Street Loft will make your wedding unforgettable! With plenty of space to decorate, and even a cinema screen to utilise during speeches, the relaxed and bohemian feel to this venue stands out from the rest.
Pekes Manor Estate is set within the natural beauty of the East Sussex Weald just a 40 minute drive away from Brighton city. Full of character and original wooden features, this Tudor house is sure to stun every single one of your guests!
Opened in 1910, this iconic art house cinema is now available for your unique wedding! Duke of York’s Picturehouse is a kooky venue that is perfect for film and cinema fans, while still creating the ultimate romantic feel that any Bride and Groom would require!
Pangdean Old Barn boasts magnificent oak-framed surroundings and rustic features for your big day. Built in 1720 and since having been excellently restored, the barn of this working farm provides a spectacular backdrop as you exchange vows.
Busbridge Lakes is a stunning marquee wedding reception venue with 3 lakes and it’s own private valley on site. Set in the grounds of a Heritage garden, this mesmorising place will stun guests young and old as they marvel at the sights.
The exotically beautiful building of The Royal Pavilion shows off it’s early 1800’s splendour with intricate Indian architecture and exotic interiors. It is situated in the heart of cultural Brighton – imagine the photo opportunities in front of this magnificent monument!
Amidst 70 acres of panoramic farmland, Blackstock Country Estate offers two lovingly restored barns to be the scenic backdrop for your big day. At just over 20 miles from Brighton, this beautifully rustic venue is also conveniently located close to the local church.
A mixture of historical features and contemporary additions make The Star Inn Alfriston a timeless choice of wedding backdrops. This newly refurbished setting is in the heart of a small Tudor village close to Brighton and can accommodate any size of wedding party!
Steeped in history, this elegant 18th Century manor house is one-of-a-kind. Stanmer House boasts 5,000 hectares of scenic grounds, opulent decor and luxurious chandeliers to give you the classy feel you require as you celebrate with loved ones.
So you’ve dreamt up your wedding theme, and now you need somewhere to make it happen…that’s where Yoghurt Rooms comes in! Make your dreams become reality on this stunning oak-framed blank canvas and let your imagination run wild as you sit back and enjoy the scenic surroundings.
The Old Ship Hotel is definitely a quirky choice of venue, with 450 years of history within it’s walls on the Brighton coast. The charismatic wine cellars hold more intimate weddings, while the Paganini Ballroom can hold up to 180 guests in a grand setting.
Peelings Manor Barns is a unique venue perfect for a DIY wedding! The charming features of this barn warmly welcome you Sussex, while remaining fairly basic to allow you to put your own spin on it. Bring on the festival themed weddings!
The grade II listed Elizabethan manor house belonging to Broyle Place is surrounded by ancient oaks and ponds. In the heart of rural Sussex, this venue offers a touch of sophistication to your magical summer wedding.
The winding lanes of the Sussex countryside lead up to Brookfield Barn, a newly built structure with contemporary features yet retaining a rustic feel. The sunny terrace, atmospheric lighting and wood burning stoves are lovely touches to this cosy setting.
With plenty of gorgeous rooms to choose from in this Georgian manor house, the world is your oyster! Gildredge Manor has a large focus on luxury and creating the ultimate bespoke experience for each bride and groom that come through the doors.
Overlooking the seafront of Brighton and Hove, Grade I listed Angel House is the only Historic Regency Town house wedding venue in the area. It holds the finest and most elegant decor with sweeping sea views to enjoy, which makes it stand out from the crowd!
Getting married in the Old Police Cells Museum…seems like a kooky idea! Located in the basement of Brighton Town Hall, this unusual museum puts a major spin on weddings – and you might even learn a thing or two as you celebrate!
A short 30 mile journey out of the city takes you to Dorset House Barn, which is nestled within 40 acres in a quaint village. Expect stunning river views, a Medieval walled garden, and a unique ampitheatre for outdoor blessings. Just perfect!
Barnsgate Manor offers a romantic venue with panoramic views over the forest of the South Downs. With a combination of stone structures and wooden panelled walls, this venue is sure to be a fantastic backdrop for your unforgettable day.
If you’ve still not found your dream venue or you live elsewhere in the UK, extend your search by using Bridebook.co.uk’s Wedding Venue Search tool and type in your preferred location. You might only be a few clicks away from your fairytale venue!
Did you know we can also help you with your entire wedding planning process?! Fill in your guest list, budget and use our wedding checklist to make sure you tick all the boxes in the lead up to your big day.
Leeds is one of the leading bustling and vibrant cities in the North, so it’s no wonder why so many people are looking to get married there! Are you looking for a venue with a difference in or around the city?
Bridebook.co.uk has found 25 of the best nearby wedding venues in Leeds that are stunning, heaps of fun, or just plain kooky! Take a look at these incredible places, or hunt for yourself using our Wedding Venue Search tool.
This beautiful gothic revival castle really is a venue to behold! Allerton Castle provides a stunning backdrop for your fairytale wedding day as you walk down the aisle in the Gothic Great Hall.
The Engine Shed is an utterly unique venue that really has the wow factor! This Grade II listed building is set over two magnificent floors and can become the blank canvas for your special day.
Set in the ruins of the Barden Tower and surrounded by picturesque hills and rivers, The Priest’s House is a stunning venue for your intimate wedding celebrations. Check out the stone interiors!
Lineham Farm is a country chic venue in a secluded area with surrounding woodlands to host your idyllic day. The farmhouse dates back to the 17th Century and has retained all the charm and character that you could wish for!
The 14th Century Hospitium is a gorgeous wedding venue with medieval stone walls and plenty of character included! Less than an hour away from the centre of Leeds, this versatile building is overlooked by the ruins of St Mary’s Abbey – a photo opportunity not to be missed!
The beautiful Jacobean Manor that is Holdsworth House Hotel dates back to 1633 and is brimming with history. Sunny courtyards, interesting architecture and pretty gardens can be found on site, as this venue comes to life on your very special day!
Just a stone’s throw away from Leeds lies Wharfedale Grange, the perfect spot to pitch your wedding tent! With this versatile area of farmland, you can do what you wish and watch your dream day come to fruition.
This old Yorkshire stone farmhouse has been lovingly converted to form the intimate Box Tree Restaurant. With tons of character, three Michelin stars, and just a half an hour journey from the city, this unique venue is the perfect place for your wedding breakfast.
The Majestic Hotel boasts elegance, grandeur and is definitely majestic to say the least! Situated in nearby Harrogate with 8 acres of beautiful gardens, this Victorian hotel is the ideal place to host a very majestic wedding!
Skipbridge Country Weddings is a green field venue complete with natural surroundings and even farm animals! It has homely cottages on site and plenty of space for camping or glamping, so you can truly make your wedding weekend a fab experience for all guests.
Stun your guests by having your wedding on a train platform at the National Railway Museum! This impressive and spacious venue will pull out all the stops (literally!) to guide you in your journey to married life.
The warm feel of East Riddlesden Hall will comfort you and your partner as you step into the Grade II listed barn. Dance the night away under exposed oak beams and fairy lights less than an hour from the centre of Leeds.
Amongst peaceful woodlands and the beauty of rural Yorkshire, Hazlewood Castle is a venue for a king and queen. Say your vows in the medieval chapel and let this historical setting make your wedding day dreams come true.
The unforgettable vibe of The Faversham is the perfect place to celebrate with your nearest and dearest. On the edge of Leeds City Centre, this venue offers a bespoke service within unique walls – especially the beautiful conservatory!
In the developing industrial area of Leeds sits New Craven Hall, a modern and vibrant wedding venue, perfect for a unique celebration. The New Craven Hall team offers a completely bespoke service, which means you can make all of your wedding day dreams come true.
This converted stone barn in rural West Yorkshire has become the beautiful Chilli Barn, an intimate wedding venue. Surrounded by endless meadows and woodland, the decor shows off character features with a modern touch.
The stunningly restored barns of Priory Cottages are undoubtedly a very special place to say your ‘I Do’s. Set in the idyllic countryside, this venue has a perfect mix of romance and enchantment to suit every couple that passes through it’s doors.
With it’s very own lake in a scenic valley of rolling parkland, Waterton Park Hotel & Spa is the ultimate setting for your special day. Gorgeous accommodation awaits you…but be sure to get a photo on the bridge first!
Seeking some luxury just outside of Leeds? Denton Hall offers charming 18th Century decor, crystal chandeliers and spectacular views across Yorkshire – have it as your very own exclusive country house for the entire weekend!
The peaceful grounds of Northorpe Hall Barn warmly welcome you to this alluring venue. Exposed wooden beams and stone walls enclose you and your guests and you celebrate your special day – and the best bit is that any profits from your day helps fund local projects for young people in need.
Just 30 minutes away from Leeds, Heaton Mount lies between a winding driveway and immaculate lawns. Dating back to 1864, this Italianate mansion boasts exquisite decor and breath-taking views for you and your guests.
The fairytale setting of The Sun Pavilion was built in the 1930’s but has recently been restored to become an utterly unique venue. It hosts an Art Deco glass dome and is home to stunning views over Harrogate’s Valley Gardens, to really bring the natural beauty indoors!
This 200-year-old barn, situated just 10 miles down the road from central Leeds, could be the ultimate romantic backdrop for your big day. The Old Barn at Esholt sits in a quaint location with plenty of character features to feast your eyes upon!
This spectacular country mansion with 11 acres of stunning ground has become Goldsborough Hall. The oak-panelled Jacobean library and beautifully designed drawing rooms are the ideal places to host your wedding celebrations.
The Queens venue offers a stylish backdrop overflowing with glamour for a totally classy wedding day. Right in the centre of Leeds, you will have spectacular views across the city from the terraced balcony of this beautiful building, as well as a bespoke service that will serve the largest or most intimate of wedding parties.
Cookridge Hall is the perfect backdrop for your big day. Located in North Leeds this beautiful grade II listed old hall was built in 1721 and set amongst an 18 hole golf course. If you are looking for a scenic wedding venue, look no further!
Have your special day at this stylish and incredibly romantic wedding venue in Leeds. Woodlands weddings are designed just for you in one of the best wedding venues in Leeds!
If you’re still unsure about which wedding venue to choose or you’re looking elsewhere in the UK, Bridebook is here! Use Bridebook.co.uk’s Wedding Venue Search and type in your preferred location, and we’re sure you will find ‘the one’!
Bridebook.co.uk doesn’t only help you find that perfect venue – it can also make the planning process much easier by assisting you with your entire wedding planning process. Fill in your guest list, budget and use our wedding checklist to make sure you don’t forget a single detail of your special day.
Birmingham, famed for its Bulls, Balti and Black Sabbath but also home to some of the most beautiful wedding venues in the UK…
Are you looking for a venue with a difference near Birmingham? Bridebook.co.uk has found 25 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 Wedding Venue Search tool.
1. 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 a perfect wedding.
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!
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.
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
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.
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 onboard bar, you’ll have your guests’ attention within seconds!
Hagley Hall is an incredible Georgian Palladian manor house on the border of the West Midlands. With its magnificent state rooms and acres of parkland, this venue is brilliant for your bespoke wedding.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
The beautiful surroundings of Aston Wood Golf Club make this wedding setting totally unique. This venue can cater for intimate celebrations in the oak-panelled dining room offering delicious catering and impecable wedding service.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Still unsure about which wedding venue to choose? Are you looking elsewhere in the UK? Help is at hand! Use Bridebook.co.uk’s Wedding Venue Search and type in your preferred location.
If you’ve still got tonnes to plan for your big day, Bridebook.co.uk can make the planning process much easier. Fill in your wedding guest list, wedding budget and use our wedding checklist to make sure you don’t forget about anything in your busy schedule.
By offering information on things newly engaged couples may not have even thought about, you’ll earn their trust and most likely, a booking too.
Newly engaged couples usually begin their wedding planning journey by choosing a venue.
This means that you’re faced with dreamy couples making big decisions that they may not be completely qualified to make this early in their wedding planning journey!
Evidently, the look of a venue is the key driver in a couple deciding which to choose, followed by price and capacity.
But there are a few other crucial questions couples often forget to ask whilst caught up in the moment.
Give your wedding venue the edge over competing venues by offering this information upfront and forcing them to ask the same questions of competing venues.
7 things wedding venues should clarify to help win hearts and bookings
1. Mention the wedding coordinator
If you’re going to be on hand throughout the wedding planning process but you’ll be handing over to an on-the-day wedding coordinator or qualified team member on your potential clients actual wedding day, mention this.
Be upfront and say that you’ve got an excellent wedding day coordinator who you’ll all work closely with throughout the planning process, and that this person will make sure everything runs smoothly on the day.
Reassure the couple that they’ll get a chance to meet this person before their big day once all of the important details have been captured accurately to make sure that they are comfortable that everything is in hand.
2. Let the couple know when they’ll have access to your wedding venue
If you’ve got another wedding planned at your venue around the same time, let the couple know this and if possible give an approximate time that they’ll be granted access to rooms in order to set up and decorate.
This conversation may seem a little premature but it’s something the couple will need to consider, and your forethought at this stage will be gratefully received and prove that you have thought of everything for them / not missed a trick.
3. How does everything fit in the space they’re looking to hire?
Create a vision for couples when you’re showing them around your wedding venue. It can be difficult to visualise a wedding if the room the couple is looking to hire isn’t set up for one at the time of their visit, so walk them around and mention where they could have the top table, the buffet and the dance floor.
By helping build a vision for the couple they’re more likely to imagine their wedding there and book.
4. Mention the entertainment equipment you have to offer
Lots of couples fail to ask about the logistics of evening entertainment and then fall short when they realise they need to provide their own equipment.
Let the couple know that they’ll be saving money on evening entertainment at your wedding venue because you already have a state of the art sound system with speakers and handheld microphones in place, which could be used for speeches and music.
If you’ve got cool lighting options for the evening, add this into the conversation too.
5. Give the option for a dinner the night before or brunch the day after
Help the couple to really make the most of their wedding experience by offering to host an arrival dinner for close guests the night before the wedding, or a brunch the day after.
Tagging on an additional meal will again help build a vision for the couple and show that you’re aware they’ll want to make the most of the time they have with their nearest and dearest.
6. Be bold and mention the weather
Although this applies particularly to weddings hosted outdoors (where discussing a plan B option in case of rain is vital) it also applies to indoor weddings, as it will affect photographs and will mean the possibility of soggy guests.
Mention the dreaded ‘R’ word and reassure the couple that if it happens, it won’t affect the smooth running of their day.
It’s also worth mentioning that if guests have brought coats, bags and umbrellas, your venue will operate a simple cloakroom or provide a rail or storage that is tucked out of the way.
7. Be open about any restrictions your venue carries
Whether your venue has noise restrictions after midnight or doesn’t allow flash photography in some areas, you’ll need to be open with the couple upfront to avoid problems later down the line.
In this scenario, it’s better to lose a booking by being honest than to disappoint a couple so much that you’re left with negative reviews and very unhappy clients.
Open the door to more information about your wedding venue and couples will love you for it
As a wedding professional, it’s important that you lead your clients to make the right decision for them and their wedding day.
Most information regarding space, equipment and service inclusions at wedding venues is limited – particularly at the early stages of planning when venues are being shortlisted – and details of what brides and grooms can expect to get for their money is unclear.
By offering an abundance of information on things the newly engaged couple may not have even thought about, you’ll earn their trust and most likely, a booking too.
In a world where competition is rife, isn’t it nice to think that wedding suppliers could help each other out? Here are 3 ways in which wedding venues and photographers can team up for maximum marketing opportunities…
“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much” – Helen Keller
Where no conflict of interest exists, why wouldn’t we form a partnership and support each other’s efforts?
Wedding venues and wedding photographers still typically tend to go it alone where marketing is concerned. But why, when the products and services at each others disposal are so perfectly fitting as the ideal marketing vehicle?
Wedding venues rely almost exclusively on photographs to sell their locale to newly engaged couples. They compete online with other local wedding venues firstly on aesthetics, and then on details such as price, package, dates etc.
And with so many competing venues showcasing beautiful imagery on their websites and sharing exquisite photographs on Facebook, Instagram and other social feeds, it’s never been more important for wedding venues to feature unique, artistic photography.
Similarly, wedding photographers are fast becoming hailed as one of the most important investments for couples getting married in 2017 and beyond. But competition is stiff.
What better way to get noticed for your photography skills than to photograph some of the most superb wedding venues in the UK, add them to your portfolio and share them online?
3 ways in which wedding venues and photographers can work together
1. Remember to tag each other when you promote your weddings online
Ok this may seem like an obvious one but it’s surprising how many wedding venues and photographers still don’t tag each other when sharing photographs on social media.
This is one of the easiest ways for both parties to extend the audience reach of their posts and get their content seen and shared by more people.
Clearwell Castle has the right idea. Here, they’ve re-posted a photograph taken at their wedding venue; remembering to tag the all-important photographer.
2. Extend photo opportunities beyond weddings
Blenheim Palace is a wedding venue that’s truly realised the benefits of partner photography and is capitalising on the fact that it’s a very attractive place for photographers (amateur and professional) to include on their portfolio.
Blenheim Palace is using #picoftheweek and #justgoshoot hashtags to promote photography of their venue on Instagram, and people are loving it.
Although the photo’s aren’t specific to weddings, they’re still advertising the venue and its grounds. By adding a few strategic wedding hashtags, wedding venues and photographers could subtly promote each other’s skills in a similar way.
Photographers swoop on the Palace to snap away – hoping that their pictures get chosen to advertise the venue and hoping that in doing so, a mention by Blenheim Palace on social media may get them noticed as a serious contender in the photography world. And in return, Blenheim Palace receives free marketing through the circulation of standout, original photographs.
3. Recommend each other
It is of course easier for wedding venues to recommend wedding photographers when brides and grooms book their weddings, however photographers can still return the favour by leaving reviews and recommendations for venues on their website, and by publishing social posts to promote their work at the venue in question.
Venues should ask this of partnering photographers as standard.
Wedding venues and wedding photographers can also leave recommendations for each other on their Bridebook profiles. Showcasing photographers and venues you work well with puts couples at ease and shows that you support other experts in the industry – helping both parties build a network of likeminded suppliers.
Wedding venues and photographers should make the most of free marketing opportunities wherever they can.
In a world where competition is rife, isn’t it nice to think that us wedding suppliers could help each other out?
Wedding venues and wedding photographers are a match made in heaven where this kind of mutually beneficial relationship is concerned.
Take free marketing opportunities where you can. Help promote each other’s products and services and publish photographs that benefit both parties on your website, social channels and on your free Bridebook profile – which should be packed full of all your important wedding business details.
Whether you’ve recently started to plan your wedding or you’re right in the thick of it, you probably noticed something fairly quickly – weddings can be costly. In 2024, the average cost of a wedding is £20,775, and that’s before you’ve even got to the honeymoon or considered the cost of the engagement ring. So if you’re trying to figure out how to plan your dream wedding and stay firmly within your budget, you’ve come to the right place.
In this post, we’re going to take a deep dive into how to save money on a wedding and offer you plenty of tips to make sure you don’t go over your wedding budget.
Before we go over the many ways you can save money on your wedding, make sure you have a solid idea as to what you want to (realistically) spend. To give you a helping hand, you can use Bridebook’s useful wedding budget calculator.
Throwing a lavish and expensive wedding is a fabulous way to spend your big day, but it’s important not to get too carried away. Have a chat with your partner about what’s really important for both of you and create a list that categorises the must-haves and the nice-to-haves so you know what can be cut if you get a little too close to the top end of your budget.
Planning a wedding is a lot of fun, but it can also be a stressful time. That stress, combined with spending a great deal of money, can be create challenges. Remember to be open and honest with your partner and try not to get your heart set on something before you’ve booked it. The last thing you want is to be disappointed if something doesn’t quite work out how you hoped.
What’s the average cost of a wedding in 2024?
Average UK Wedding Costs: With and Without the Engagement Ring and Honeymoon
As uncovered in our ultimate wedding budget breakdown, the average cost of a wedding in 2024 is £20,775, not including the ring and a potential honeymoon. When you factor the engagement ring and honeymoon into your budget, the average cost rises to £25,952, which is a huge amount of money to spend.
It’s important to remember that this is just an average, and the actual cost of your wedding will depend on many factors, including the cost of the venue, number of guests, time of year, and even how many tiers there are on your cake.
Of course, you don’t have to spend this amount, or anything close to it – couples have weddings which range from costing less than £1,000 to costing £100,000 or more. If you budget wisely, make some careful decisions and plan ahead, you can make significant savings while still ensuring you have your dream wedding.
What are the best tools for saving money on your wedding?
When the time comes to start planning your wedding in earnest, the excitement can take hold and before you know it you’re creating spreadsheets, browsing Instagram hashtags and Pinterest stores, and your Google search history is nothing but venues and flower shops. But before you dive into the deep end, why not consider a tool to help you save time, money and effort?
We recommend using Bridebook’s state-of-the-art wedding budget tool to keep track of your expenses and make sure everything is taken care of. We also have a wedding planning app so you don’t have to keep a stack of notebooks with you or carry your laptop around when you meet vendors – you’ll have everything you need right there on your phone.
Can you save money on your wedding by inviting fewer guests?
When you’re getting married, we understand that it’s a big deal and you’ll probably want to invite every family member, friend, colleague and acquaintance you have. However, having a set number of guests will ensure you keep the guest list limited, which will save you on the venue, catering and invitation costs. It may be tempting to invite everyone you know to come and celebrate with you, but doing so will increase the cost of your wedding and could push it beyond your budget.
To put it into perspective, the average couple spends around £200 per guest – that means, if you’re ruthless with your guest list and invite 100 guests instead of 150, you’ll save over £10,000. If you’re not prepared to make cuts quite that drastic, even just cutting back your guest list by five could save you around £1,000.
A twilight wedding is a wedding that starts later in the day and is a great way to lower the cost of your wedding. It not only means you’re using your venue for a shorter amount of time, but you also bypass the expensive wedding breakfast and you pay vendors and staff for fewer hours as well.
For example, Friern Manor Country House Hotel offers a twilight wedding package starting at £3,500 for 70 guests, compared to £7,995 for a traditional wedding – that’s half the price! That means you can have all the celebrations of every other wedding, only condensed into a shorter amount of time. It’s the perfect way to make massive savings on your wedding if you’re happy to have the ceremony take place later in the day.
If you’re planning a wedding on a budget or just looking to save a bit of cash, knowing how to break down your budget will be one of the most important parts of your overall wedding planning, but how to stick to it? In this video course, Bridebook founder (and qualified wedding planner) Hamish Shephard explains how to plan a wedding on a budget, sharing his expert money-saving tips on everything from your wedding venue to your catering and more.
If you haven’t set the date yet, you can find huge savings by avoiding the busy seasons, certain days of the week and popular locations. So, if you’re happy to not have a Saturday wedding in the middle of summer, slap bang in the middle of London, you could save thousands. For example:
Choose a midweek wedding. You’ll save on almost every wedding supplier by joining the 50% of couples who hold their big day on any day other than a Saturday, which is the most popular day to get married. To maximise your savings, the cheapest day to get married is a Tuesday. Suppliers are usually happy to offer reduced rates on days that otherwise wouldn’t be booked.
Consider areas outside London. Couples are now spending over £15,000 (or 77%) more to marry in the capital. So, like other savvy couples, why not consider having your wedding somewhere outside of the capital (both Wales, and Yorkshire and the Humber, are the cheapest regions to get married in)? Plus, not only is a wedding away from your hometown a great way to save money, it increases the feeling of magic, mystery and adventure.
Have a winter wedding. Try to avoid peak wedding season, which is between June and September, when costs are the highest. Costs are lowest in the winter, with January and February being the cheapest months in which to tie the knot (24% less than the UK average). So, if you don’t mind it being cold outside, it could be a great choice. And on the off-chance there’s frost or snow, it’ll give you the opportunity to take unique wedding photos.
It’s also worth bearing in mind that many venues offer discounts and special ‘late availability’ packages in off-peak wedding seasons or to fill a space left by a cancellation. This can make even the most premium ones a far more affordable option if you’re happy with a bit of last-minute planning and organising. A great example is Holdsworth House Hotel, an idyllic wedding venue with 32 bedrooms, charming courtyards and enchanting gardens.
If there’s one thing people remember about weddings, it’s the quality (and quantity) of the food. Whether you go for a four-course breakfast or an all-you-can-eat buffet featuring around-the-world cuisine, food is guaranteed to excite your guests. For that reason, you won’t want to cut corners when it comes to your food, but there are still some creative ways to save money while not compromising on quality. But, with couples spending around £5,700 on wedding catering, it can account for around a quarter of your entire wedding budget.
As we’ve already highlighted, you can slash these costs by cutting the number of guests you invite, as there will be fewer mouths to feed. Your friend’s boyfriend of two months? Sure, you like them, but do you like them enough to pay £62 per head for them to eat a three-course meal? Cutting out a table of eight will save an average of almost £500 on food and drink (as well as saving you in table numbers and stationery). Not to mention that cutting your guest list might also give you the ability to choose a smaller, more affordable wedding venue.
If you’re keen on having a lot of people there, why not invite them to the evening reception? That way, no one will get offended about not being invited, and you’ll save money by not having to feed as many guests at the wedding breakfast. Alternatively, why not skip the expensive wedding breakfast altogether and have a breakfast buffet instead? A buffet drastically reduces costs by only requiring limited staff, plus it offers guests a wider choice.
Many people enjoy a drink or two at a wedding, and the most obvious way to save money is by not offering an open bar. Save over £2,000 by offering a paid bar. This requires your guests to pay for their drinks themselves, and stops everyone from accidentally over-indulging. Plus, guests won’t expect an open bar, with two out of three couples opting to let their guests pay for their own drinks.
Another way to save money is by choosing a more affordable fizz for the toasts. Champagne may be a luxurious choice, but cheaper alternatives like prosecco, sparkling wine or Cava will still go down just as well.
You may also be able to hire your own mobile bar instead of going with what the venue offers. One of our vendors, Near and Far Mobile Bar Ltd, is an excellent option as they set up their mobile bar at the venue, provide staff and bartending service, and offer pre-wedding consultation. Whoever you hire, just make sure they have a license. Or, you could choose to provide your own bubbly. Just bear in mind that the venue may charge a corkage fee. This can sometimes be more expensive than going with what the venue offers.
Below are just a few tips for helping strip those costs right back, while still ensuring you get wonderful professional photographs.
Consider an express package. Instead of having the photographer spend the whole day with you, ask if they offer two or three-hour packages, where they come and take shots of the venue, the bridal party and your close friends and family. Opting for fewer hours is the best way to reduce costs, but does mean forgoing pictures of you cutting the cake and your first dance at the evening reception. Some photographers also provide a second camera person and opting out of this service can significantly lower the cost.
Hire a local photographer. Local photographers will usually charge you far less than those who have to travel far and charge additional fees for those miles. Here at Bridebook, we have a huge range of fantastic photographers, so you’re sure to find one who operates where you’re hosting your wedding.
Go digital. If you forgo professionally printed albums as 9 out of 10 couples now do, you could save £250+. Most modern photography packages include a link to your own online gallery, where you can browse and enjoy all your favourite shots at your leisure. You can then always use a photo-developing service, such as Snapfish, to print your photographs for a fraction of the cost later on.
While the majority of couples choose to have a photographer shoot at their wedding, a third of couples also choose to hire a videographer to document and capture their big day in a candid and natural way, with the costs in line with that of a photographer. If capturing your wedding on video is important to you, there are plenty of ways to save money on a videographer too.
One way to save money on a wedding videographer is by hiring a professional who might not have as much experience as others. An up-and-coming videographer, who is new to the business, will have plenty of enthusiasm and passion, but not quite as much of a portfolio. They may also not have a range of expensive kit, such as drones or 4K cameras, but should still be able to produce a beautiful video for a price that fits within your budget.
You may also be able to save money by asking not to have any complex editing or cinematography, which can add a lot of time to post-production.
One of the expenses that might take you by surprise is the price of your wedding flowers, at an average cost of around £1,100. This is due to florists having to source different flowers, create elaborate artistic displays, and transport them to the venue, which all requires time, dedication, skill and expertise. That being said, there are ways you can save money on wedding flowers which mean you can have a luscious wedding filled with flora while sticking within your budget.
Many wedding florists have years, if not decades, of experience providing flowers for hundreds of weddings. That means they’re equipped to work with any budget – including yours. Speak to your chosen florist, tell them what you’re looking for and trust them. As with all wedding vendors, communication is key.
Here are a few money-saving tips for choosing wedding flowers:
Choose flowers with big heads. Not only do they look gorgeous, but generally, the bigger the flowerhead, the fewer stems you need to fill out an arrangement, which can cost a lot less than having multiple small-headed flowers.
Go for flowers that are in season. While it may be tempting to ask for roses at your spring wedding, they’ll cost a lot more then than they would during late summer or autumn, because they wouldn’t be in season. Choosing flowers that are in season will naturally help keep costs down.
Choose a naturally beautiful venue. Go for an outdoor wedding with plenty of surrounding greenery, so you won’t have to pay for additional decor. Great outdoor venues can include vineyards, parks and private gardens.
Opt for foliage over flowers. Greenery is super popular right now and many couples prefer to go with garlands to adorn their tables or drape over the altar. The best part is, foliage is typically way more affordable.
Wedding decor peppers your personality across your big day, but depending on your theme, the costs can quickly add up. The average cost of professionally sourced wedding decor is £1,500, but there are plenty of ways to save money if you’re willing to compromise, such as by creating DIY decorations or sourcing them from specialist vendors. If you’re happy not to have personalised decorations, you can slash this amount to just a couple hundred pounds. Check out our blog post on how to save money on wedding decor for more inspiration.
Another expense is the cost of marquee hire, which averages around £4,200. This depends on the size and type of marquee you go for, so if you’re not set on either of these, you can make significant savings by having a more basic marquee type. Another way to save money on a wedding marquee is by avoiding peak times, such as Saturdays and/or the summer months, as prices can be much higher during the busiest and most popular periods.
Your wedding cake is most likely the most expensive dessert you’ll ever buy, with the average cost at around £400 – £500. After all, it’s not just hugely symbolic: you’re paying for an edible work of art. Yet just like the cake itself, there are layers to the cost. The larger your wedding party, the bigger the cake will be, and the more expensive it will be too. If you do have a lot of guests, a cake with a less complex or intricate design will help keep costs down. You could also consider a dummy layer that replaces a layer of cake with polystyrene – not as tasty, but generally cheaper (though this isn’t always the case).
Due to the skill and time needed to make them, fondant and sugar flowers will typically cost more, so you can save money by forgoing them where possible. A lovely and cost-effective option (not to mention fashionable) is a naked cake with fresh flowers or fruit. Not only does a naked cake require less buttercream and fewer time-consuming decorations, but it still looks and tastes amazing.
Wedding cupcakes are another cute option and usually cost around £4 per guest; they’re generally easier to make and decorate, look adorable in pictures, and are often cheaper than a showstopping multi-tiered wedding cake.
For entertainment, it ultimately depends on your wedding theme. To keep costs down, consider creating a DIY kid’s table if children are coming to your wedding. A collection of colouring books, crayons and a box of Lego will save you £500+ that you would have to spend on a kids’ entertainer.
When it comes to music, if you’re interested in a live act, unless you want Tylor Swift at your wedding, a solo singer will generally be far more affordable than a band, simply because you’re paying one performer instead of four or five. Similarly, a DJ is often a more budget-friendly option and is almost guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. You can actually save up to £900 by choosing a DJ over a live band (though a band will offer that unique touch to your evening reception).
Firstly, you can reach out to bridalwear boutiques and ask if they have any upcoming sales or bridal dresses at discounted prices. There’s every chance that in a week or two, there may be a sale that slashes the price of many of their dresses, saving you a bundle. And, it may be an awkward conversation, but asking your bridesmaids to pay for their own dresses could save you £300+.
Most bridal shops sell sample dresses in styles they’re either discontinuing or no longer want to sell at discounted prices. These are dresses you and other brides-to-be try on in the shops, but if you can look past this you can make significant savings. You can also opt for high-fashion brands – ASOS, Chi Chi London and Little Mistress all sell wedding dresses at super affordable prices (just note that these are unlikely to match the quality and service of a bridalwear boutique).
The amount of gorgeous second-hand dresses out there shouldn’t be underestimated, and you can save as much as £750 by finding a vintage or pre-loved dress. Plus, only 5% of brides buy a second-hand dress, which means you won’t face much competition if you opt for something pre-loved.
To save money on a veil, why not have it as your ‘something borrowed’ and ask a family member if you could use theirs? If you’re willing to compromise, you may also have other accessories at home already, including a belt and bowtie, or jewellery and handbag, which may already work with your wedding outfit.
It’s also worth checking the depths of your shoe cupboard to see if you have some shoes that will work. Just remember to give them a polish to make them extra shiny. And remember that, again, you might have to compromise on the exact look and quality you originally envisioned . Check out our dedicated post to discover more ways to save money on wedding accessories.
The thought of walking down the aisle, all eyes on you, is both exciting and probably a little nerve-wracking. But, when you look amazing, it can help you feel confident enough to melt those nerves away. This is one of the many reasons why hiring a professional to take care of your hair and makeup is important to so many brides and, in most cases, totally worth it – that and it’s one less thing for you to worry about on the day. But, with couples spending an average of £690 on hair and makeup (as well as other pre-wedding rituals) cutting costs where possible can be a lifesaver for budget-conscious couples.
The most obvious way to significantly save money on wedding hair and makeup is by biting the bullet and doing it yourself, or asking your bridesmaids to take on the responsibility. This could save you up to £330+, but comes with its own set of risks (which we set out in our article on demystifying bridal beauty costs). If the DIY approach isn’t ideal, you could instead consider hiring a makeup assistant , who won’t be as experienced as a hair or makeup artist but will still have worked closely with one at plenty of weddings.
Another cost-saving option is to travel to your stylist or beautician on the morning of your wedding, rather than having them come to you at your venue. This could potentially halve the amount you spend on beauty. Just note that you won’t get the same level of on-the-day care and attention, including last-minute touch-ups and veil adjustments, which might be stressful).
While not generally quite as pricey as a wedding dress, today’s couples spend an average of £700-900 on suits for their wedding. While a bespoke, tailored suit might be appealing, high-street retailers offer a great range of wedding suits for around £150 if you’re on a tight budget. You may also find a great suit or tuxedo at a local second-hand store or charity shop, but bear in mind you’ll likely need to have it altered to fit you perfectly (which will bump up the costs).
Another option to slash the price of a suit is through renting, which can cost as little as £50 per suit. Plus, if all the groomsmen rent their tuxes or suits from the same place, there’s a good chance the groom’s suit will be free, or at least discounted. And even if this isn’t an advertised offer, it’s always worth asking.
Your wedding ring is the one piece of jewellery you’ll rarely take off, so will be with you through thick and thin – which is why couples spend an average of £1,000 on their wedding rings. However, it is possible to save money on wedding rings by not relying on expensive metals such as gold and platinum, instead opting for something such as silver or titanium, which could lower the cost to as little as £50 per ring (and still be durable over years of wear and tear).
You may also want to seriously think about whether or not you want to choose wedding rings with set diamonds or other precious stones. While it may look incredible, it will be far more expensive than if you were to choose a plain band. Also, the thicker the band is, the more expensive it will be, so consider choosing a band that is on the thinner side to reduce the cost.
With Pinterest full of gorgeous and creative wedding invitation ideas, it’s hard to forgo a beautiful professionally-designed invitation in favour of a less aesthetic amateur one. But, you don’t necessarily have to do that to save money. Choose the invitation style of your dreams and go digital, and give your guests the option to RSVP digitally too. This will massively reduce the cost of your wedding stationery, on which couples spend an average of £400.
Almost a third of today’s couples don’t use paper stationery, such as menus and invitations, so consider joining them! Save money on wedding stationery by using sites like Paperless Post, or design your own beautiful digital invitations to email to your guests and save almost £300. At the wedding, a decorative chalkboard can explain the menu and agenda for the day – beautiful and often cheaper than paper (plus you can box it away as a keepsake post-wedding).
A registry office wedding is already one of the most affordable choices when it comes to a wedding on a budget, costing an average of £1,342. However, it’s possible to save even more money on a registry office wedding if you opt for the basic ceremony only, which means it could cost you as little as £57 (not including the £35 it costs for each of you to give notice).
It can also be cheaper to get married during quieter periods, so make sure you avoid peak times such as Saturday afternoons or the height of summer.
Hiring a wedding planner may sound like another cost you could do without – after all, the average cost of a wedding planner is £2,436, or about 10% of your overall budget. But, wedding planners can actually help you save money in the long run by ensuring you stay within your budget. Not only that, but being in the industry means that wedding planners also have plenty of contacts and connections and can help you land the best deals, discounts and savings as a result, and they’re expert negotiators as well.
One way to save money on a wedding planner is by hiring them to do a partial wedding planning service, which means they come in with a few months to go before your wedding to make sure everything is as it should be. It’s a far more affordable service, but obviously not as thorough as if you were to hire them at the very start of your planning journey.
A wedding celebrant is a wonderful way to personalise your ceremony, particularly if you’re not looking for a religious wedding or you’re a couple with mixed faiths. However, because a celebrant can’t legally marry you, there are further costs due to the need to also hire a registrar. And, with the average cost of a celebrant being £500, this can be an important cost to consider.
To save money on a wedding celebrant, consider compromising on the level of service involved. Ask if they’ll consider not meeting with you ahead of the wedding, and if they’re happy to rely on a questionnaire to personalise your ceremony. Similarly, many celebrants will want to speak to your family and friends about your relationship; cutting out this service may help to lower the price. Just be aware that you may not get as bespoke or thorough a service.
Go down the DIY route. DIY favours can really reduce your costs, and if you’re happy with them not being super personalised, you could get the cost down to less than £1 each.
Consider cheap sweet treats. Edible favours are usually a more budget-friendly choice, such as retro sweets, biscuits, or even homemade jam.
Keep packaging simple and practical. The simpler the design, the more affordable the packaging will generally be.
Donate to a charity. A charity donation made on behalf of your guests allows you to control how much you spend, and makes for a thoughtful and generous gesture.
Depending on your plans, you could spend a good chunk of the first half of your wedding day being driven from A to B to C and back to B again. For that reason, wedding transport can be expensive, with couples spending an average of £700 on the vehicle and driver of their choice.
To save money on wedding transport, consider hiring a venue that allows you to have the ceremony, breakfast, reception and accommodation all in one, so you only need to pay for an hour or so of time. Or, if you know someone with a classic car or something with some oomph under the bonnet, call in a favour in exchange for an invite and a night of free drinks.
Your honeymoon is your chance to relax and unwind after a year or more of full-on wedding planning. The honeymoon is non-negotiable for many couples and is one of the biggest splurges, costing an average of £4,300.
It can be tempting to book your honeymoon early to help you budget, but if you’re flexible with where you’re happy to go, you could grab a bargain by booking a last-minute deal a week or two before your wedding.
But if you have your sights set on somewhere in particular, reduce costs by travelling on off-peak days: Wednesdays and Thursdays are usually the cheapest for international flights. It also goes without saying that during busier times, such as school holidays or the summer months, it’s often expensive to travel. If your wedding is booked on such an occasion, why not postpone your honeymoon by just a couple of weeks and save money by travelling off-peak?
The cost of wedding insurance might feel like an unnecessary expense – as low as £30 for the most basic cover, to £100 -£180 on average, to up to £20,000 – but it can save you thousands down the line in the unlikely event something goes wrong.
You can save money on your wedding insurance by only choosing a basic policy, such as a policy which doesn’t include public liability. If you also forgo a marquee, you won’t need to add a marquee insurance extension to your policy, further bringing the cost right down.
Despite being a specialist type of insurance, comparison sites such as Money Supermarket let you compare quotes from various providers so you can secure the best policy. Just double-check that your chosen insurer includes everything you need and provides you with the right level of coverage.
Spending the ‘right’ amount of money on a wedding gift is something that plagues the mind of many wedding guests, but the cost of a wedding gift can vary dramatically based on several factors, including your relationship with the couple and whether or not you’re in a couple yourself.
But, there are ways to save money on a wedding gift. Why not club together with other guests, turning what would be several smaller gifts into a single larger one?
If the couple has a gift registry, it should include gift suggestions to suit a range of budgets. Don’t buy your gift from the first retailer you find it in – if you shop around you might be able to find a bargain, or at the very least something very similar with a far more affordable price tag.
Plan your dream wedding with Bridebook
There you have our top tips to help you save money on your wedding. For more information, check out our individual savings pages for even more ways to cut down your spending and make your wedding budget go further.
Here at Bridebook, we have thousands of wedding venues and suppliers to suit any budget. Sign up today and start planning your dream wedding!
Searching tirelessly for the perfect wedding venue near Greater Manchester? Bridebook.co.uk has compiled a list of the top 25 venues in and around the city to help you out! Take a look at these incredible places, or hunt for yourself by viewing all our wedding venues in Manchester.
In the centre of Manchester sits Halle St Peter’s, an incredible grade II listed church that has been recently reformed. High ceilings and original features will impress your guests as they enter this venue – a stunning backdrop for your wedding day.
Wonderful grounds and a chic interior welcome you Ashfield House Hotel. This exclusive venue is the canvas for you to put your own spin on your wedding day, making your biggest dreams become reality!
Dating back to 1421, Chetham’s is made up of medieval buildings with heaps of character. As you say your vows among oak-panelled walls and take photos in the breath-taking library, your wedding day will be immersed in history and charm at this venue.
Fun, quirky and magical are the three words often used to describe this venue. Complete with bails of hay, authentic farm items and llamas and donkeys to pose with during your photos, The Wellbeing Farm has it all.
Amazing Art Nouveau architecture brings class and style to your wedding day in the form of Belle Epoque. Only a short journey away from Manchester, the stunning interiors and Italian glass mosaic floors of this venue are the perfect surroundings for your wedding.
This stunningly epic grade II listed building is completely one of a kind. The Great Nave within The Monastery is filled with history and offers spectacularly majestic surroundings for you and your guests to enjoy.
The Ashes boasts a stone courtyard, 50 acres of lush grounds and original interior brickwork. It’s easy to forget you’re just outside of Manchester when you see the picturesque pond and stunning surroundings of this venue.
Nestled away behind Didsbury Park, this Victorian villa is full of charm. The relaxing atmosphere of it’s gardens will be the perfect setting for you wedding day.
Set in the Peak District just outside of Manchester, Upper House stands tall over tranquil gardens and magnificent woodlands. Steeped in history and with a medieval banqueting hall ready to wow your guests, your wedding will be a success with this hidden gem.
This family-run beauty is nestled within Styal Golf Course and provides the blank canvas for you to work upon with your wedding theme. Styal Lodge uses gorgeous wood panelling and natural light to breathe fresh air into your wedding.
The incredible 15th Century Manor House of Mitton Hall combines historical features and a contemporary feel. Oak panelled rooms make the interior cosy, while adding a touch of class to your wedding.
Step into the limelight in this fabulously unique venue. The art deco glamour of The Plaza auditorium will transform your wedding into an unforgettable event, and you even get your own private film screening with popcorn provided!
Magnificent high ceilings and stunning architecture make Whitworth Hall a truly incredible place to tie the knot. In the heart of Manchester, the gothic grandeur of this building is all you need to stun your guests.
This rustic barn is a charming backdrop for your wedding day. Beautiful beams and natural light give The Oak Tree of Peover a magical and contemporary touch to the Cheshire countryside.
This stately home is truly magnificent venue that shows off beautiful architecture inside and out. The Adlington Hall & Gardens is set within the countryside close to Manchester and boasts incredible interior design. Wow!
The Saddleworth Hotel is a venue full of chic interiors and luxurious features. Based a short drive away from the centre of Manchester, the perfectly preened gardens and spectacular views are the ideal wedding backdrop.
A Medieval-inspired period barn and striking exteriors belong to Sandhole Oak Barn, set in the rolling Cheshire countryside. Say ‘I Do’ in the Oak Clock Tower, and then party the night away in the impressive grounds.
One of the most quirky ideas near Manchester is a wedding day trip with Canal Boat Cruises. The wedding boat ‘Romance’ is transformed into a venue for your special day, and you and your guests can even help to open and close the locks on your journey!
Heaton House Farm is a former dairy farm with sandstone barns and a rustic exterior. As you step inside, style and contemporary chic make a glorious backdrop for your very special day.
A truly unique wedding day can happen in front of your very eyes within The Manchester Museum. You and your guests can walk among the dinosaurs during your wedding for the ultimate step back in time.
The classic and historic decor of Capesthorne Hall will give your wedding day an edge of class. With breath-taking views across the countryside and grand interiors, this venue is the ideal setting when becoming Mr and Mrs!
Owen House Wedding Barn is a bespoke wedding venue dedicated to give you a truly unique wedding experience. The converted barn still has original features and plenty of rustic charm to offer for your photo opportunities!
This spectacular venue is surrounded by acres of woodland and lush greenery to enjoy on your big day. Sparth House Hotel is equipped with luxurious features and a personalised service to help you relax on your wedding day!
If you’re still undecided about your wedding venue or you’re looking elsewhere in the UK, use Bridebook.co.uk’s Wedding Venue Search and type in your preferred location.
Feeling stressed about the plans for your big day? Bridebook.co.uk can help you out and make the planning process much easier. Fill in your guest list, budget and use our wedding checklist to make sure you don’t forget a thing in the lead up to your special day!
Are you dreaming of a beautiful barn wedding in South West England? Then go no further! Barns are spacious, versatile and offer heaps of character and charm to your special day. There are so many incredible barn wedding venues across the whole of the UK, but here are our top 29 barns based in Devon, Somerset, Dorset and even more that we’ve fallen in love with!
If you’re after a stunning barn to tie the knot in your area, use Bridebook.co.uk’s Wedding Venue Search, and choose ‘Barn’ in the filters. Happy planning!
Trenderway Farm is a Grade II listed farmhouse and restored barns based in the lush countryside of Cornwall. With beautiful oak beams and an original stone interior, this venue has lots of character to add to your magical day.
Within rural countryside sits Cripps Barn, a real gem of the Cotswolds. High stone walls and classic features such as the open fireplace and flagstone floors give this venue an incredibly romantic feeling for your special moment.
Offering a quaint Barn and stunning country views, The Barn at Cott Farm is a perfect spot to host your wedding. This spacious country wedding venue even gives you the option of having your ceremony outdoors! How perfect.
The Tithe Barn within the Symondsbury Estate is a 14th Century English barn in a tranquil village in Dorset. Glass entrances, stone floors and exposed oak beams give the venue interior a really elegant vibe for when you tie the knot!
Somerset’s no.1 wedding venue comes in the form of Quantock Lakes. With 200 acres of grounds and picturesque waterside views, the location of the newly-built Quantock Barn couldn’t get any better. Natural light and exposed wood beams make this barn a stunner!
The Great Tythe Barn, with its highly versatile space and lush lawns right outside, makes the ideal backdrop for any barn wedding. For a quaint ceremony or a lively reception party, this venue can handle it all!
Nestled in the Cotswolds, Hyde House & Barn offers a blank canvas for you to draw upon your creativity. The sleek-looking interior and elegant exterior of this venue allows you to put your own stamp on your wedding day.
The airy feel of Winkworth Farm makes it stand out from other barn venues. Natural light floods in, restored stone walls surround the space, and you can focus on having the party of a lifetime. What’s more, your guests can spill out onto the gardens and many acres of farmland.
Including an original farmhouse, threshing barn and organic farmland of 65 acres, River Cottage HQ totally suits a barn or country theme! Let your guests explore the land and relax in the yurt, while you host a celebration to remember!
The Dorset countryside wherein The Victorian Barn stands is the idyllic location for the best day of your life. The high ceilings and brick doorways give this venue just enough character for your wedding day without stealing the limelight from the Bride and Groom!
37 acres of countryside just south of Bath lies the 16th Century Barns at Wick Farm. Based on a farm with livestock and a duck pond, these 2 adjoining barns offer gorgeous stone walls and wooden beams that will set the most romantic tone to your wedding.
Nestled in the heart of Somerset and 200 acres of countryside, Huntstile Organic Farm is a 15th Century farmhouse with attached dining marquee. With a choice of ceremony rooms and even pet pigs on site, this unique farm is what dreams are made of!
Within Dartmoor National Park, Monks Withecombe brings sunny courtyards, stunning gardens, and several rooms to host your wedding celebrations. From intimate ceremony spaces to the meadows that can be filled with a marquee and hundreds of guests. Time for a barn dance!
Acres of lush countryside surrounds The Barn at Barons Hill Farm, where spectacular views can be seen. Rustic on the outside, yet contemporary on the inside, this venue is ideal for making your dreams come true.
This superbly unique and eco-friendly venue oozes rustic charm from every inch. Eggbeer Farm is a versatile space, perfect for holding weddings, and the barn is a stunning area for your themed celebrations!
Based right on the edge of a picturesque Devonshire lake, the barn of Duvale Priory offers a spectacular place to host your wedding celebrations. With lush green surroundings and idyllic views, no fairytale wedding would be complete without this location!
400 acres of land and a stunning thatched exterior welcome you to Middle Coombe Farm. The high-ceilings and magical vibe of the Cider Barn interior is sure to make your celebration special, while the exclusive use of the woodlands would be an incredible backdrop for your wedding photos!
As a distinctive 17th Century boutique building, The Manor Barn is undoubtedly breathtaking. It’s a traditional brick and flint stone barn with vintage gardens and is restored with a contemporary feel. Sat right on the doorstep of Stonehenge Heritage site, this venue is a real rustic retreat.
With iron chandeliers hanging from the ceiling and farm tools covering the stone walls, this venue is incredibly memorable. Kingston Country Courtyard has tons of character, ample outdoor space, and even it’s own wishing well. Let the party begin!
The elegance of the Georgian house and the country charm of the Mill barn come together to create the ultimate wedding venue, Launcells Barton. Original features shine through on the interior and exterior of this wonderful site, and views of the Cornish countryside give you all you need for your barn wedding.
Set on a farm amid the rolling countryside of the Cotswolds,Oxleaze Barnis a classic venue with lots of rustic charm to build your own bespoke wedding theme. The barn has been beautifully restored to reflect the earthy goodness and beauty of its surroundings, with exposed beams and stonework, an open fireplace and wide doorway that opens onto a private courtyard and garden.
Sat in a beautiful valley just down the road from Exeter, The Great Barn is a simply stunning wedding venue inside and out. Known as the “thatched cathedral”, the high ceilings and restored beams of this building offer plenty of space and inspiration for your barn wedding.
Nestled in the Gloucestershire countryside, Cripps Stone Barn is a gem of South West England. Gorgeous stone work will surround you and your guests as you celebrate your big day, while the rustic metal exterior makes a brilliant backdrop for photo opportunities. What more could you want?
400 acres of Wiltshire countryside is home to a working farm and the relaxed feel of Rye Hill Barn. Plenty of natural light and exposed wooden beams will make you feel at home in this lovely barn setting.
The spacious feel to Lower Stockbridge Barn in the Dorset countryside makes this venue truly unique. Everything from the magnificent exterior to the exposed wooden panelling inside set it apart from other barns and will add a very special backdrop to your wedding day.
Only a few miles from the Cornish coast, this barn is based on a working farm. With original wood features and a contemporary restoration inside, the world is your oyster at Nancarrow Farm!
Nestled within the Devonshire countryside, Forginwell Vineyard is an idyllic wedding setting. With plenty of outdoor spaces to entertain guests and distinctive vintage items around the site, your barn wedding will be unforgettable.
In the heart of Devon lies The Corn Barn, a wonderfully converted barn ideal for a wedding. Following through the building is a theme of tasteful exposed brickwork, and wooden beams give a rustic edge to this venue.
With a 6000-year history and having been built on the site of an Iron Age stone circle, Crasken Eco Centre is a mysterious and enchanting backdrop for your wedding. Surrounded by wonderful courtyards and green gardens, this barn is definitely not one to forget!
If you’re still struggling to find the perfect venue near you, try our Wedding Venue Search – and you may just stumble across the one. Bridebook.co.uk can also help you with all your other planning worries, such as suppliers, your personalised wedding checklist, and that all important budget!
Still looking for wedding venues in the UK? Here’s some inspiration to get you started:
Searching for that perfect venue ideal for your summer wedding? Bridebook.co.uk have done the hard work for you by listing the top 100 best wedding venues for the summer! These are the best of the best – and they suit sunny weddings down to the T.
If you want to look more locally for your dream venue, there’s always our huge Wedding Venue Search, with every venue you could possibly think of. You’re welcome!
The stunning manor house of Fennes set in the countryside of Essex is home to breath-taking gardens, perfect for hosting a summer ceremony. The bridge over the lake makes for incredible photo opportunities!
The shabby-chic style of East Quay Venue is perfect for a summer seaside theme. With a shingle beach and beach huts right on its doorstep, this makes it one of the best wedding venues in the UK!
The Granary Estates offer two incredible barns with a central private courtyard, this is one of the best wedding venues on the list, and it’s ideal for hosting a summer outdoor wedding reception.
As a former dairy farm, Heaton House Farm is home to rustic sandstone barns and infinite rural views, making it a brilliant setting for an outdoor ceremony. If a farm sounds like the perfect place to get married, check out 20 farm wedding venues we’ve put together for you!
Hengrave Hall is a stunning Tudor mansion in the Suffolk countryside and is a gem of the area’s medieval history. If you dream of a castle wedding on a summer night, this is the venue for you.
An outdoor wedding ceremony wouldn’t be complete without the backdrop of Tudor venue Leez Priory. 40 acres of parkland will ensure you have stunning surroundings on your special day.
While we’re on the theme of castles, this one is hidden in an enchanted forest. If you’ve always had the idea of a summer fairytale venue, check out these UK castle wedding venues!
This grand castle is fit for a King and Queen, with spectacular views across the Kent countryside. Feel on top of the world with a sunny wedding at Lympne Castle!
Heaps of character, history and warmth come with award-winning venue Iscoyd Park. The beautiful grounds are ideal for summer games and outdoor entertainment to charm your loved ones. Certainly one of the best wedding venues in the UK.
This white Palladian mansion boasts a 19th Century chapel and 40 acres of grassy surroundings, making Beaumont Estate perfect for your summer celebrations.
Set on 6 acres of meadows, High House showcases itself to be a striking summer wedding venue. With a Monet-inspired bridge over the pond, your wedding photos will look impressive!
The 750-year-old Elmore Court overlooks the Cotswolds and the River Severn, making it a great location to host a grand wedding. Elemore Court is a Grade 2 listed mansion house Elmore Court is a place of fun and maximum celebration. With an estate which is now rewilding and a wild swimming lake you could stretch your celebration over a weekend of festivities. Your summer wedding could take place in the walled garden, on the lawn, in the beautiful house or church nearby. Then let the party continue late into the night in the sound proof ‘future rustic’ Gillyflower, finishing round the fire pit in the meadow and back to the house for a night cap and a beautiful bed.
The beautiful country house comes complete with exquisite decor and high ceilings to make your special day feel like a dream. With Warwick House, you can dream away!
Flagstone floors, an open fireplace and heaps of character encompass Cripps Barn. With fire pits and sunny gardens, this is the ideal venue for the ultimate summer wedding.
Kilminorth Cottages is a beautiful wedding venue completely surrounded by countryside. So romantic! If you can picture yourself getting married in a setting like this, check out these 20 beautiful barn wedding venues!
A stunning red brick Tudor courtyard is the grand entrance to Fulham Place, a beautiful country house with lovely surroundings. You’ll forget you’re in London if you host your summer wedding here!
Dodmoor House is an award-winning grade II listed barn venue with four acres of grounds and a rustic courtyard, perfect for a breezy wedding celebration.
As a restored stone barn, the light and airy space of Winkworth Farm offers an ideal location for a wedding in the summer months – not to mention the 200 acres of organic pastureland!
On the edge of The New Forest National Park, The Old Vicarage is a country house and versatile outdoor space, which would be the ultimate venue for wedding garden games.
With a boutique interior and Georgian features, Nonsuch Mansion is excellent for an outdoor wedding – and you’d half expect to see something similar in a Disney movie!
Woodhill Hall is a truly unique venue full of character. With quirky outdoor features and stylish bedrooms, this location is perfect for a totally bespoke wedding.
If you’re after a venue that’s rich in glamour and luxury, The Kings Oak Hotel may just be the one. Set in Epping Forest, the gorgeous building and outdoor pool are perfect for partying on a summer night.
The 17th Century Queen Anne style Mansion House of Highfield Park stands elegantly among 35 acres of countryside and stunningly polished gardens. A perfect venue for a regal outdoor wedding.
Stunning grounds surround the immensely grand Clevedon Hall. With lake views and rural landscapes, this venue makes a great choice for a wedding in the summer months.
The wonderfully rustic yet romantic feel of Stratton Court Barn is ideal for your bespoke wedding theme. Party into the night with plenty of space on the barn grounds!
The 17th Century manor house Greenwoods Hotel & Spa is set in dazzling extensive grounds, ideal for a picture perfect wedding day. Choose to get married in the summer under the pretty gazebo and you’ll create a memory that will never be forgotten!
The 400-year-old barn of Lyde Court is a beautifully preserved venue. With a quirky interior and versatile outdoor space, this is a unique location to help your dreams to come true.
In the rolling Cheshire countryside sits Sandhole Oak Barn. With it’s lakeside location and decked outdoor space, it is an idyllic venue for a wedding in warm weather!
A sweeping driveway and incredible gardens are just the beginning of what Pembroke Lodge has to offer. This Georgian mansion also has remarkable views to enjoy on your special day.
The red brick 18th Century buildings of Shustoke Farm Barns are striking on the outside and inside. The gorgeous courtyards are ideal for celebrating with your loved ones in the summer months.
An amazingly restored 18th Century barn is set on stunning grounds and provides heaps of character and charm for your wedding day. This venue is The Garden Barn!
The award-winning Grosvenor Pulford Hotel & Spa is home to countryside backdrops, an Asian Sensory Garden, and a gorgeous lake. What more could you possibly want from a venue?
The grounds of Wotton House have stone pillars, water fountains, and a rather grand building to match. Where else would you want to host your summer wedding?
The Jacobean Manor of Holdsworth House Hotel has enticing gardens, rooms full of character and 3 acres of stunning grounds. Wake up and smell the flowers – quite literally!
China Fleet Country Club exudes tranquillity and romance for your big day. Sitting on the banks of the River Tamar, you also get magnificent views wherever you roam.
Complete with regal features and 30 acres of spectacular land, the Victorian manor house of De Vere Tortworth Estate is fit for the finest King and Queen!
A gravel driveway and elegant grounds lead you to the spectacular Brampton Grange Estate, where you’ll enjoy finding great spots for your wedding photos!
Compromising a classic house with a contemporary barn, Hyde House & Barn is definitely one of the best wedding venues on this list! Imagine your summer night party going ahead here.
Oozing tons of grandeur and luxury, Wood Hall Hotel & Spa really delivers for a summer wedding day – but why stop there? Make it a wedding weekend and take full advantage of the spa.
Offering 2 wedding venues and 500 acres of private parkland, Orchardleigh House & Estate is an elegant stately home that can cater for the ultimate summer wedding.
A 65-acre organic farm is where River Cottage HQ resides. With plenty of versatile indoor and outdoor space, this is a great venue to host the wedding bash of the season.
Traditional stone farm buildings and a wonderful sheltered courtyard belong to Healey Barn, an ideal setting for the most romantic of summer celebrations!
The pretty stone exterior of Crockwell Farm radiates rustic beauty, while the gardens give you the perfect location to celebrate with loved ones and enjoy the sun.
The elegant manor house of Dumbleton Hall Hotel is situated alongside the lake and backs on to extensive gardens with views of the Cotswolds. A perfect summer venue!
This 16th Century country house offers traditional charm with a contemporary twist. Your summer wedding at Swancar Farm Country House is sure to be one of romance and elegance!
The 200-year-old Threshing Barn and original rustic features, along with a modern vibe of the outdoor Collecting Yard, give you all you need to host the perfect summer night celebration at Southend Barns.
The long, grand driveway invites you in to the Grade I listed Hintlesham Hall. It has a charming interior and is nestled in the serene Suffolk countryside – brilliant for a tranquil wedding experience.
This spectacular purpose-built marquee sits within Painshill’s private gardens and has a glamorous feel inside. Not forgetting The Conservatory‘s fabulous outdoor space to entertain your guests!
Surrounded by the Staffordshire countryside, and with a fishing lake right on it’s doorstep, Blakelands Country House is a one-of-a-kind venue that will make your wedding day truly unforgettable.
The grand country house of Moor Hall is set on lush lawns and beautiful landscapes, perfect for enjoying your special day in the summer months. The unique sunken garden is a great photo opportunity!
Within Wales’ Brecon Beacons lies the magical wonderland that is Peterstone Court Hotel. Overlooking the Pen Y Fan mountain range, you can spend your summer wedding day enjoying the breath-taking country landscape.
Just off the North coast of Wales, Chateau Rhianfa and it’s architectural beauty stand tall over beautiful gardens and sea views. Let your dream come alive with a summer wedding here!
The stylish country mansion of Prested Hall is surrounded by stunning parkland and tranquil waters. Spend your wedding day here in the summer and you’ll have the most magical backdrop for your celebrations.
The Venue at Kersey Mill is set in the Suffolk countryside and offers many versatile spaces to make your wedding bespoke. Beams and original brickwork are displayed, and the Kiln Room is the perfect space for an intimate and romantic ceremony.
Perfectly-preened lakeside gardens could be the setting to your summer ceremony. The 16th Century Rookery Manor Hotel not only brings beauty and class, but plenty of luxury too – in the form of a spa!
The spectacular Birtsmorton Court has it’s own moat, so while you’re getting stunning photos taken, your guests can enjoy drinks in the sun and picturesque views from the court.
The Victorian country building and it’s lush gardens belong to Trunkwell House, which offers a luxury marquee for all of your guests and a truly unforgettable outdoor ceremony set up.
The Georgian Friern Manor boasts perfectly manicured lawns and exquisite menus to celebrate your first day as Mr and Mrs!
So, that’s our top 100 summer wedding venues to take into account when planning your celebrations within the summer months, wherever you are. Make sure you check out the rest of our wedding planning tools too – we’ve got a really powerful budget tool, an awesome guestlist function, and a directory overflowing with amazing suppliers to give you the day of your dreams.
If you liked what you saw here, check out some more wedding venue inspiration articles we’ve put together for you:
Looking for a wedding venue that will leave your guests speechless and melt your heart? Barns are incredibly versatile and they come in all shapes and sizes – from charming and rustic to suave and modern. And they always look good when decked out in fairy lights! Today, Bridebook.co.uk shines a spotlight on 38 beautiful barn venues across counties in the South East, including Kent, Surrey, Oxfordshire, West Sussex and more (if that’s a bit far for you don’t worry, we’ll be covering your region soon!).
Have a look through, click the links to find out more and message any that you like the look of on their Bridebook profile. And don’t forget that if you’re looking for barns in your area, you can find them all by going to our Wedding Venue Search and choosing “Barn” in your filters. Click here to see all the barn wedding venues in the UK. Have fun on your search and happy planning!
Historic Preston Court is a 600-acre private estate and farm offering three exceptionally unique spaces for your wedding celebration, including its enchanting 17th-century barn. With unique features such as a carousel, a magical moated island and farm animals – Preston Court has everything you could wish for and more for a magical wedding day and reception.
Whether you are planning an intimate civil ceremony, or a more lavish, opulent reception, Winters Barns offers an awe-inspiring, multi-functional space which you can freely decorate as you wish. Their belief that weddings should remain private means that this romantic setting is exclusively yours for your special day.
Set in the rolling hills of the Kent countryside, The Barnyard is the perfect backdrop for lovers of peace, tranquillity and privacy. Home to both a beautiful old barn conversion, as well as a truly luxurious grand marquee, you have the luxury of choice at The Barnyard.
Inspired by the surrounding country feel, this building has been cleverly converted to blend old oak beams with versatile modern facilities and its enchanting contemporary walled garden is somewhere to enjoy both privacy and tranquillity. There is a wonderful intimacy about Bury Court Barn that provides the atmosphere for a truly special wedding.
The beautiful oak-timbered 19th-century Fison Barn, and its secluded courtyard provides a unique and picturesque canvas for you to create your wedding day your way. The courtyard provides a wonderful backdrop for open-air blessings, reception drinks or the occasional hog-roast. And, to top it off, they even have a camping area for your guests so they can pitch up and stay the night with you. Glamping wedding anyone?
A magnificently restored historic barn beautifully located in rural Oxfordshire, and set in its own grounds near the ancient market town of Wantage, south of Oxford. The main barn consists of a majestic hall with huge barn doors opening onto the lawned courtyard. Catering is carried out in-house to a very high standard and offers a superb range of menus to suit your individual tastes.
Cooling Castle’s glorious high beamed Tithe Barn is a wonderful canvas for you to paint your own picture. The decorative choices you make whether grandiose, glamorous, sparkly, rustic, or understated, will reflect your own ideas and style. The team behind the scenes work tirelessly to make sure your day becomes a reality and if we’re honest, who doesn’t want a castle backdrop thrown in there too.
A Cotswolds Barn in a truly romantic setting, Caswell House offers a unique ambience created by a combination of stunning barns and exclusive use of the immaculate grounds. To top it all off, the Bride and Groom can enjoy the complimentary bridal suite after the festivities have ended!
Grade II listed wedding barns of different sizes for different ceremonies. Enjoy your ceremony in the cloistered garden, drink and dance in The Great Barn or the Small Barn, kick off your shoes and relax after all the dancing in the Engine House.
Millbridge Court is an idyllic rustic wedding venue with gardens that you and your guests will love, and a stunning barn, this could be the wedding venue of your dreams!
A wedding venue for all seasons, their purpose-built barn boasts stunning lakeside views and was designed with weddings in mind. Created using traditional techniques, it provides a rustic setting with integrated modern features including music system, atmospheric lighting and the option for web streaming the ceremony, meaning that no matter where in the world your family are, they can be by your side.
Your Day. Your Way. At Stratton Court Barn they offer a traditional converted barn, originally built in Cotswold stone in 1872. They pride themselves on providing a relaxed atmosphere, with an informal approach, to help you really enjoy your day. Their belief that your wedding day should reflect you, as a couple, means that you can let your imagination run wild and really create a bespoke to your day.
A 200-year-old wedding venue like no other, the barns are set in luscious landscaped gardens with hidden courtyards and tranquil lawns. As evening falls, the gardens are lit with romantic up-lights that show off the fantastic flint and log walls of the wedding barns. Here guests can gather around the relaxing Collecting Yard with its sumptuous sofas and fire pits to enjoy a truly magical evening setting; the perfect end to a perfect day.
The historic buildings of The Olde Bell, function as a village, the main Inn building for the overnight guests and locals, and the auxiliary buildings for private gatherings. The Tithe Barn is the largest of the spaces offering exposed beams, locally sources food and overnight accommodation.
Comprising of two beautifully restored interconnecting 18th century stone barns, they have been sympathetically converted to retain many of their original charm, along with the beautiful arrow slit windows, natural stone 2 foot thick walls, exposed beams and boasting two log fires. A setting that allows for a day couples will cherish for a lifetime.
Gate Street Barn is built in the traditional style using wood from oak trees lost on the farm in the 1987 hurricane. It boasts beautiful landscaped gardens and views of the working organic farm and a hobby herd of English Longhorn cattle. The dedicated team make you feel at home and support you every step of the way whilst creating your big day.
A unique 16th Century barn fronted by a large covered drinks patio and adjoined by a flower-laden pergola leading out to a large lake, beautiful gardens and woodland views.
A Traditional barn with ample romantic spots to take photos in the woodland. Open the floor to ceiling barn doors to reveal the magnificent dining area. The Starlight Barn offers a truly unique space where you and your guests can dine under the stars.
Offering a reception that seats 70 people, the 200-year-old barn is ideal for intimate weddings in a tranquil and rustic environment in the Kent countryside.
Positioned on the banks of the River Blackwater in Yateley, Hampshire, you’ll find Rivervale Barn. A wedding venue full of natural charm and elegance, built with beautiful weddings in mind. It boasts a selection of different barns to choose from for your ceremony, reception and dining – each unique and as captivating as the last and is equipped with a romantic bridge which, of course, is wedding photo shoot ready.
Rustic, elegant and simple. Dovecote Barn is a Grade II listed building, full of character and charm with exposed brickwork and oak beams. For larger wedding parties (over 100) they offer a bespoke marquee or two hat Tipi situated in one of their picturesque farm locations. The only limit to this venue is your imagination!
Feel like you’re a million miles away from anywhere as you embrace the site of the historic thatched clock sitting on top of the barn’s entrance welcoming you and all your guests into this enchanting venue. Surrounded by lush green foliage, the clock tower and detail inside the barn add unique style and pretty period charm to the countryside setting. You’ll be begging for time to stand still once you see this timeless venue.
Offering two refurbished wedding barns, one 500 years old, the other equipped with antique cartwheel chandeliers. Hire one, or both for the exclusive use of the whole estate on your special day.
The barn is set in the middle of a family farm. You will have exclusive use of the venue for up to three days and freedom to choose any supplier you wish. With views of a spectacular landscape, the only rule they have is that you respect the awe-inspiring nature you are surrounded in!
You have the choice of two 17th Century barns, one accommodating 200 guests, and for more intimate celebrations, the Barley Barn can seat 60. Include the farm animals in your photos and enjoy drinks on the manor house lawn before dancing the night away.
Say your vows in front of 80 of the most important people in your life in the most exquisite 16th Century barn. The barn at Elvey Farm Country Hotel is ideal for an intimate ceremony.
This Grade II listed barn features a handsome fireplace and Baltic pine wooden floor. Incredibly versatile and well equipped for any type of weather it is the ideal location for whatever time of year. Have the freedom to choose your own suppliers and enjoy the truly unique space and surroundings.
A magnificent barn wedding venue to celebrate in! Hidden amongst the trees of a private wooded estate is this magical blank canvas wedding venue where you and your partner can tie the knot in the most unique way, bespoke to you!
Located beneath the Selborne Hanger of the South Downs National Park, enjoy your day in the 16th Century Hampshire Barn, with glorious views over tranquil meadows. There is a fixed price all year round, so you can have your Saturday wedding in the summer for the same price as a mid-week wedding in November!
Charming flint barns in East Sussex, offering couples a beautifully unique space as a DIY venue. Hire of the barn includes porter loos, otherwise, you are free to choose any supplier and any decoration you wish!
Beautiful barns in the heart of the Cotswolds. Each of the barns are inter-connecting and open on to a beautiful flower-filled courtyard which means your guests are never too far from the celebrations. All three barns have their own individual characteristics giving your guests a surprise as they enter each barn.
Set in a region of impeccable beauty, this barn is full of character and charm. Party to music played by the DJ from the raised gallery, eat mouth-watering canapes from the in-house catering team and soak in the great atmosphere this 18th Century barn offers.
Set against the rolling South Downs, Pangdean Old Barn offers a unique setting in an 18th century Old Barn, charming courtyard, flint walled garden and working farm environment.
Open log fires and large doors opening onto the garden, this West Sussex venue is perfect for winter and summer weddings. The gardens featuring ponds and willow trees creating a beautiful photo backdrop.
In addition to these amazing barns, try entering your location and see which alternative venues are near you. Filter the results by what’s important to you and you’ll be sure to find gems of all sorts for your wedding!
We couldn’t be more thrilled to announce the Winners and Highly Commended suppliers of the Bridebook.co.uk Wedding Awards 2017!
With so many incredible and talented suppliers across our Bridebook family, picking the final winners was difficult to say the least. So we’d like to extend our sincerest warm wishes and thanks for all of those who participated – the wedding industry wouldn’t be where it is today without you!
Now, without further ado – the 2017 winners! Huge congratulations to all! (And if you’re an engaged couple, there’s no better place to start your wedding supplier search than with this fabulous list of award winners!)
Congratulations to all the winners and highly commended! If you’re an engaged couple, there truly is no better place to start than with this fabulous list of Bridebook suppliers. Be sure to check out their profiles to book these award winners for your own wedding!
Usually the news of engagement (wahoo!) results in the couple being swamped with endless well wishes, congratulations and bubbly. You’re also probably being asked the inevitable questions of when and where, which means that one of the first exciting jobs as a newly engaged couple is looking for the perfect wedding venue. Hurrah! Have a look at our venue directory (it’s the biggest in the UK, though we don’t like to brag too much) and get some cogs whirring – but before you start booking viewings, hold your horses and read our introduction on all you need to know!
1. Budget
Finding the perfect wedding venue is an important task, as prices can range from £1000 to as much as £6000, which naturally demands a large portion of your wedding budget. Even if you are working on a very tight budget, you can still have the venue of your dreams, especially if you read some of our venue saving tips here – there’s something for everyone!
2. Guests
Once you have decided on a budget, have a think about the number of guests you would like to invite. Don’t panic though, as exact numbers at this stage are not a necessity, just make sure you don’t go to viewings at smaller venues when you are planning to have 200 guests, and large venues when you are aiming for an intimate wedding of 20. Time is precious people!
3. Location
Location, location, location! Now’s the time to start thinking where you would like your wedding reception to be. If you are getting married in a church, the reception should not be too far away, so that you and your guests don’t spend half the day travelling and encountering potential traffic jams (this will only exhaust and stress you out).
If you want to get married at your reception venue, then we recommend you look for separate rooms within the building: one for the ceremony and the other for the party. It’s possible to have one room for both, but it takes time to turn the room around, so you’ll need to entertain the guests for the changeover.
4. Seasons
Consider the season in which you would like to get married and the style you want your wedding to be in. No longer are rustic weddings in gorgeous marquees limited to summer and chic hotel ballrooms reserved for winter weddings. With the proper organisation, you can have your perfect wedding in the venue of your dreams, no matter the weather (marquees can be heated and hotels often boast gorgeous outdoor terraces and balconies). Sneaky tip: make sure your theme and venue compliment each other and reflect your personalities as a couple. (Have a look at some of our venue ideas here)
5. Do your research
Once you have considered all of the above – research, research, research! Look at venue galleries, read reviews and get inspired. Once you have a collection of your favourites go ahead and book some viewings! Have a look at the questions to ask here – we are always thinking of you!
Booking the marquee makes everything seem real – you are actually getting married! And this will be the place where the party kicks off! A marquee is a fantastic way to display your individuality as a couple, as it is pretty much a blank canvas, so start thinking of ideas to decorate, arrange and spice up the dance floor. Before you move on to that, though, we want to support you through some of the more practical questions. Before you decide which company to book your marquee with, here are some questions to ask your vendor, to make sure you pick the one right for you:
1. Can we get in touch with other couples that have hired your marquees?
Other couples will be able to tell you if they received good service, if there were any difficulties or any extra information that you might find incredibly useful (like where they hired their portable heaters, for example!)
2. Is it possible to see one of your marquees while it is erect?
Seeing a marquee standing up will give you a clearer idea of what you want it to look like on your wedding day, as well as how it will look in the photos!
3. What size marquee should we have for our number of guests?
Don’t forget that in addition to fitting in the tables, you will also need to think about space for the dance floor. For example, 110 guests would need a 20×60 ft marquee (including the dance floor).
4.Can you visit our suggested location and see if it is suitable for a marquee?
A professional should not only be willing but should want to assess the ground beforehand and if they don’t, seek someone who will!
5. Can you talk us through the different shapes, sizes and arrangements that could fit in our space for our number of people?
Whether you want square or round tables, or if you want to include a lounge area for your guests, your marquee provider should give you specifications and choices for whatever it is you want.
6. When will you assemble and dismantle the marquee?
Normally the process will take a few days, so make sure you know exactly how long each stage will take and when you can start decorating the marquee to suit your theme.
7. Do you supply any of the furniture, like tables and chairs? Can we see the items, or pictures at least?
If you choose some of the providers’ furniture, make sure to get this in writing to avoid any surprises come W-Day.
8. Can your marquee be opened up if it’s hot? Can the marquee be closed up and storm-proofed if there is bad weather outside? And will you provide heaters?
We strongly advise you to prepare for any weather to make sure your guests are comfortable and having fun, you won’t want them escaping the dance floor for some air or huddling for heat!
9. Will we need an electrical generator? Can you provide this or recommend a provider?
You might need a generator for your band and/or DJ and any other electrical supplies, like ovens/freezers for your caterers.
10. How will the marquee be lit? Can candles be used?
If you want a romantic candlelit reception, make sure the marquee you choose allows open flames inside!
11. Do you provide the bathrooms?
Ideally, you would also want a separate bathroom for the bride, so that she isn’t left queueing!
12. Will there be lasting damage to the ground or underground cables?
Marquees can sometimes be damaging to certain surfaces, be careful you’re not left footing the bill!
13. Do you have insurance?
This is important to ask in case the marquee you have selected does end up damaging something! You don’t want to be liable!
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