10 Essential Questions to Ask When Choosing Your Wedding Venue
Planning a wedding can be overwhelming, but choosing the perfect venue doesn't have to be. Whether you envision an intimate garden ceremony or a grand manor house, selecting the right wedding venue sets the tone for your special day. With so many options available, it's essential to ask yourself the right questions to find a venue that aligns with your vision and budget. In this article, I've compiled a list of 10 essential questions to ask when choosing your wedding venue. From location and capacity to cost and amenities, these questions will help you assess whether a venue is suitable for your needs. Are you looking for a rustic barn or a modern cityscape backdrop? Will the venue accommodate your guest list comfortably? What additional services does the venue provide, such as catering or event coordination? By asking these questions and more, you'll gain a clearer picture of each venue's offerings and be better equipped to make an informed decision. Finding the perfect wedding venue doesn't have to be stressful. By asking the right questions, you can ensure that your chosen location is the perfect setting for your dream day. Let's dive into the essential questions to ask yourself when selecting your wedding venue.
Hengrave Hall, Suffolk - Photo by Martin Beard
Importance of choosing the right wedding venue
Choosing the right wedding venue is one of the most critical decisions you will make during your wedding planning process. The venue sets the stage for your entire event, influencing everything from the aesthetic to the flow of the day. A well-chosen venue not only compliments your wedding theme but also enhances the overall experience for you and your guests. Whether you dream of a castle ceremony, a charming vineyard, or a classic ballroom, the venue will dictate the atmosphere, vibe, and emotional resonance of your special day.
Moreover, the right venue can provide a cohesive backdrop for your wedding photos, creating tonnes of memories. Guests will often remember how they felt at the venue, making its ambiance and details just as important as the ceremony itself. A venue that resonates with your personal style and love story can help create a unique experience that reflects both of you as a couple. Thus, investing time in selecting the perfect location is not just about logistics; it’s about crafting an experience that is meaningful and unforgettable.
Lastly, the wedding venue is pivotal in setting the tone for the event and guiding your wedding planning decisions. It can influence your choice of décor, catering, and even the attire of the wedding party. Understanding the importance of a venue allows you to prioritise features that align with your vision. By taking the time to find a venue that resonates with you, you ensure that your wedding day is a true reflection of your love story, making it a cherished occasion for years to come.
2. Budget considerations for wedding venues
When it comes to planning a wedding, budget considerations play a vital role in the selection of your venue. Different venues come with varying price points, and understanding your financial limits is essential. Before you start touring venues, create a comprehensive budget that includes all potential costs associated with the venue. This should encompass not only the hire fee but also VAT, extras, and any additional expenses such as security or insurance. Knowing your budget allows you to filter options efficiently and avoid wasting time on venues that are out of reach financially.
Additionally, consider what is included in the venue hire fee. Some venues offer all-inclusive packages that cover catering, decorations, and even coordination services, while others may charge separately for each aspect. This can significantly affect your overall budget. For instance, a seemingly lower hire fee might come with additional costs for catering and decorations that can quickly add up, making it more expensive than a higher-priced venue with comprehensive services included. Always ask for a detailed breakdown of what is included in the price to make an informed comparison.
Lastly, think about the timing of your wedding. Venues often have peak and off-peak seasons, and the time of year can greatly influence pricing. If your heart is set on a particular venue but it falls outside your budget, consider flexible dates or even a weekday wedding, which can sometimes result in significant savings. Understanding the budget implications and exploring different options will help you find a venue that not only meets your aesthetic desires but also fits comfortably within your financial plan.
North Mymms, Hertfordshire - Photo by Anna Beth Photo
3.Location options for wedding venues
The location of your wedding venue is crucial as it affects accessibility for your guests, the overall theme of the celebration, and even the logistics of the day. When considering location options, start by thinking about the vibe you want to create. Are you envisioning a rustic countryside wedding, a chic urban setting, or perhaps a serene lakeside ceremony? Each location comes with its own unique atmosphere that can enhance your wedding theme and personal style.
Accessibility is another important factor to consider. A venue that is conveniently located can significantly impact guest attendance. Think about your guest list and where most of your friends and family live. If a majority are local, a venue close to them may be ideal. However, if you have many guests traveling from afar, consider a location that is easily accessible, with nearby accommodations and transportation options. This consideration will not only ease your guests’ travel plans but also create a more inviting atmosphere for everyone attending.
Furthermore, think about the surrounding scenery and how it will compliment your wedding. A location with breath-taking views can enhance the beauty of your ceremony and provide stunning photo opportunities. Explore various towns or cities to find a place that resonates with your personal story as a couple. Ultimately, the location should feel special and significant to both of you, as it will serve as the backdrop for one of the most important days of your lives.
4. Capacity and size requirements for wedding venues
Determining the capacity and size requirements for your wedding venue is essential to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for you and your guests. Start by creating a comprehensive guest list that outlines who you would like to invite. This list will help you gauge the size of the venue needed to accommodate everyone without feeling cramped or too sparse. A venue that is too small may lead to discomfort, while one that is too large can make your event feel less intimate.
When assessing capacity, also consider the layout of the venue. Different venues offer various arrangements, such as theatre-style seating, banquet tables, or open spaces for mingling. Depending on your style of celebration, you may prefer a certain setup that aligns with your vision. For instance, if you plan on having a sit-down wedding breakfast, ensure that the venue can accommodate the necessary tables and chairs while still providing enough space for dancing and other activities throughout the evening.
Additionally, think about how the size of the venue will affect the flow of your event. Will the space allow for easy movement between the ceremony and reception areas? Are there designated spaces for cocktail hour or other activities? A well-planned layout can enhance guest experience and ensure a seamless transition throughout the day. By carefully considering the capacity and size requirements of potential venues, you can choose a location that fosters a warm and enjoyable atmosphere for everyone involved.
Primrose Hill Farm, Oxfordshire - Photo by Tom Durn Photography
5.Amenities and services offered by wedding venues
When selecting a wedding venue, it's crucial to consider the amenities and services that each location offers. Many venues provide a range of features, from basic necessities to luxurious extras that can simplify your planning process. Start by enquiring about essential amenities such as tables, chairs, linens, and sound systems. Some venues may include these items in their hire packages, while others may require you to rent them separately. Understanding what is provided can help you create a more accurate budget and save you from unexpected expenses.
In addition to basic amenities, consider what services the venue offers. Some venues may have in-house catering, which can streamline your planning by minimising the need to hire external suppliers. Others might offer basic event coordination services, helping to manage the logistics of your day and ensuring that everything runs smoothly. If you prefer a more hands-off approach, selecting a venue that provides comprehensive services can alleviate a lot of stress and allow you to focus on other aspects of planning.
Finally, consider any additional perks that may enhance your experience. Does the venue have a dedicated bridal suite for getting ready? Are there outdoor spaces for cocktail hour or ceremonies? Some venues may even offer unique features such as scenic backdrops for photos, on-site accommodations for guests, or customisable décor options. By exploring the amenities and services provided by potential venues, you can choose a location that will not only meet your needs but also elevate your wedding day experience.
6. Availability and booking process for wedding venues
The availability of your chosen wedding venue can greatly influence your planning timeline. Many popular venues book up quickly, especially during peak wedding seasons, so it’s important to start your search as early as possible. When you identify a venue that meets your criteria, enquire about available dates and how far in advance bookings can be made. Some venues might offer flexibility in dates, while others may have limited options due to prior commitments.
Once you have a few potential venues in mind, familiarise yourself with their booking process. Each venue may have different requirements for securing a date, including deposits, contracts, and payment schedules. Understanding the booking process can help you navigate the logistics more smoothly and avoid any last-minute surprises. It’s also wise to read through the contract carefully to clarify cancellation policies, payment terms, and any additional fees that may apply.
Additionally, visit the venue in person with family before making a final decision. This not only allows you to see the space and its amenities but also offers an opportunity to meet with venue staff to ask further questions. Building a rapport with the team can be beneficial as they will play a significant role in your wedding day experience. By taking the time to understand the availability and booking process, you can make a more informed decision and secure the perfect venue for your special day.
Butley Priory, Suffolk - Photo by Anna Kerry
7. Wedding venue style and ambiance
The style and ambiance of your wedding venue can significantly influence the overall aesthetic and emotional tone of your celebration. When selecting a venue, think about the visual elements that resonate with you as a couple. Are you drawn to a vintage, rustic charm, or do you prefer a sleek, modern setting? The architecture, décor, and surrounding environment of the venue will contribute to the style of your wedding, so it’s essential to choose a location that aligns with your vision.
Consider how the venue’s ambiance can enhance your theme. For instance, a garden venue with lush greenery and blooming flowers can provide a romantic backdrop for a spring wedding, while a historic mansion might be perfect for a classic, elegant affair. The choice of venue not only impacts the decor but may also guide your decisions regarding colour palettes, floral arrangements, and even attire. A cohesive theme can create a more immersive experience for you and your guests, making the day feel more special and personalised.
Furthermore, think about the overall atmosphere you want to create for your event. An intimate venue may foster a warm and inviting vibe, while a large, open space might lend itself to a more lively celebration. Consider factors such as lighting, layout, and acoustics when evaluating a venue’s ambiance. By carefully considering the style and ambiance of potential venues, you can select a location that reflects your unique personalities and enhances the overall experience of your wedding day.
8. Wedding venue restrictions and policies
Understanding the restrictions and policies of a wedding venue is crucial to ensure that your day goes off without a hitch. Different venues may have various rules regarding decorations, noise levels, catering options, and alcohol service. Before making a decision, take the time to ask about these policies to avoid any surprises that could impact your plans. For example, some venues may have restrictions on open flames for candles or may not allow certain types of décor, which could influence your design choices.
Another important aspect to consider is the venue's policies regarding suppliers. Some venues require you to use their in-house catering or preferred suppliers list, while others may allow you to bring in outside services. If you have specific suppliers in mind, it’s essential to confirm whether they are permitted at the venue. This can affect your overall budget and planning process, so be sure to clarify these details during your initial venue discussions.
Additionally, inquire about any time restrictions that may apply to your event. Some venues may have specific hours for the event, including setup and breakdown times. Understanding these limitations can help you plan your schedule effectively and ensure that you have ample time for all aspects of your celebration. By thoroughly reviewing the restrictions and policies of potential venues, you can make a more informed decision and ensure that your wedding day unfolds as you envision.
Blake Hall, Essex - Photo by Aurora Grey
9. Reviews and recommendations for wedding venues
One of the best ways to gauge the suitability of a wedding venue is by seeking out reviews and recommendations from past couples. Online platforms, wedding blogs, and social media can provide valuable insights into the experiences of others who have tied the knot at the venue you’re considering. Look for feedback on aspects such as service quality, venue cleanliness, and overall satisfaction. Positive reviews can give you confidence in your choice, while negative comments may serve as red flags.
Additionally, don’t hesitate to ask for referrals from friends, family, or wedding planners who have first-hand experience with certain venues. A personal recommendation can often provide a deeper understanding of what to expect, as well as insider tips for working with the venue. If possible, reach out to couples who have recently married at the venues you’re considering to ask about their experiences and any challenges they faced.
Finally, consider visiting the venue during an open house or showcase event, where you can meet with staff and see the space in action. This can give you an opportunity to ask questions and get a feel for the atmosphere. By leveraging reviews and recommendations, you can make a more informed decision about your wedding venue and ensure that it meets your expectations for your special day.
Wilderness Reserve, Suffolk - Photo by Sharon Cudworth
10. Finalising your wedding venue choice
Once you’ve navigated through all the essential questions and considerations, it’s time to finalise your wedding venue choice. This stage requires careful reflection and collaboration with your partner to ensure that both of your visions are aligned. Start by reviewing all the venues you have visited, comparing their pros and cons based on your priorities, budget, and guest list. This collaborative approach can help ensure that your final decision is one you both feel excited about.
Before signing any contracts, take a moment to revisit the venue and confirm that it still resonates with your vision. Sometimes, seeing a space again can provide clarity and help you visualise how your wedding will unfold. If possible, bring along any décor ideas or mood boards you have created to see how they would fit within the space. This can be an invaluable step in ensuring that the venue aligns with your overall vision and theme.
Finally, once you have made your decision, don’t delay in securing your chosen venue by signing the contract and making any necessary deposits. This will not only solidify your booking but also provide peace of mind as you move forward with the rest of your wedding planning. By following these steps and considering all aspects of your venue choice, you can confidently select a location that will serve as the perfect backdrop for your unforgettable wedding day.
Planning your wedding? Contact Hayley to enquire about support here.
A Welsh Wedding
Expert Tips for a Seamless Day
South Wales is a stunning location to host a wedding, offering everything from breath-taking coastal views to historic castles and charming countryside venues. However, planning a wedding in this region—especially if you don’t live locally—can bring about unique challenges. From managing logistics to finding trusted suppliers, navigating the details can be overwhelming.
As a wedding planner who visits South Wales frequently (born and bred), I understand the difficulties that couples face when organising a wedding, particularly in a location they may (or may not) know well. With my local insights and experience, here are some practical tips to help ease the process and ensure your South Wales wedding is everything you’ve envisioned.
1. Finding the Perfect Venue: Know Your Options
South Wales offers a wide variety of wedding venues, from luxurious manor houses to rustic barns and seaside retreats. The key to choosing the right venue lies in understanding your wedding style and the logistical needs of your day. Ask yourself:
How accessible is the venue for your guests?
Does the venue offer accommodation or are there nearby hotels?
Will the venue be able to accommodate the size of your guest list?
It’s also essential to consider the weather, especially if you're drawn to outdoor spaces. Always have a contingency plan for rain, particularly in a region known for its unpredictable weather. Many venues in South Wales offer beautiful indoor options or marquee setups as a backup, but this is something worth confirming before you book.
Photos: Staffordshire wedding photographers (samandlouise.co.uk)
2. Navigating Local Suppliers
If you're not from South Wales, finding trusted vendors can be tricky. Recommendations from friends or online reviews are a starting point, but nothing beats working with suppliers who have a proven track record in working with reputable suppliers. Local knowledge is invaluable when it comes to florists, caterers, and photographers who understand the nuances of South Wales' venues and landscapes.
One way to streamline this process is by working with a wedding planner who has connections in the area. Having someone on the ground who is familiar with local suppliers can save you time and ensure that your team of vendors will work seamlessly together. Additionally, a planner who frequently travels to the area can offer insights that may not be immediately obvious to couples planning from afar.
3. Planning from a Distance: Overcoming the Stress
Planning a wedding in South Wales when you’re based elsewhere, like Essex (where I currently live), can make certain tasks feel daunting. How do you know when to visit? How do you handle face-to-face meetings with suppliers? These concerns are common for couples planning a destination wedding.
A key strategy is scheduling visits wisely. Try to group venue visits, menu tastings, and supplier meetings into a single trip to make the most of your time. For the times when you can’t be there in person, consider relying on technology—many venues and suppliers offer virtual tours, online consultations, and video calls to keep the planning process moving smoothly from a distance.
If you’re looking for added peace of mind, having someone local or a planner who travels to South Wales frequently can help fill those gaps, ensuring nothing is left to chance when you can’t be present.
4. Tapping into Local Knowledge for Unique Experiences
South Wales is brimming with local charm, from its rich cultural history to its stunning natural landscapes. Couples looking to incorporate regional touches into their wedding can make use of the area’s treasures, whether it’s serving Welsh cakes as part of the dessert table or choosing a venue with a scenic view of the Brecon Beacons.
However, these unique experiences are best uncovered by someone who understands the area well. For instance, choosing a less-commercialised location might offer stunning backdrops, but knowing how to access and organise a wedding at such venues requires specific know-how. It’s helpful to have an expert who is familiar with the hidden gems South Wales has to offer, ensuring your wedding is both beautiful and hassle-free.
5. Managing Wedding Day Logistics in a Scenic Region
South Wales' scenic beauty is unmatched, but it can come with logistical challenges—particularly for rural or remote venues. One of the biggest considerations is transportation for guests. Some countryside venues may be harder to reach, and the area's narrow roads or limited parking options might cause headaches if not carefully planned. Offering coach services or shuttle buses can alleviate these concerns and ensure guests arrive without stress.
Additionally, consider how local traffic, weather conditions, or even seasonal tourism might impact the flow of your day. A well-planned timeline with built-in buffers can save you from unnecessary stress. Consulting with local experts or planners who have experience managing weddings in the region can help you foresee these potential hurdles.
6. Creating a Wedding That Reflects You
Finally, the most important aspect of planning a wedding in South Wales—or anywhere—is making sure it reflects your personality and values. Whether you're envisioning a romantic, intimate ceremony in the countryside or a grand celebration in a stately manor, it’s essential to prioritise what matters most to you as a couple. Don’t get bogged down in what’s trendy or expected; instead, focus on creating a day that’s authentically you.
Having someone by your side who understands your vision and can help you navigate the planning process ensures you don’t lose sight of what’s most important: celebrating your love in a meaningful way.
Planning a wedding in South Wales can be a magical experience when approached with the right mindset and resources. By staying organised, doing your research, and leaning on local expertise where needed, you can ensure that your big day goes off without a hitch.
For couples who want a little extra guidance, finding a wedding planner familiar with the region can make all the difference. While it’s certainly possible to plan from afar, having someone with insider knowledge can ease the process and ensure that your wedding is everything you’ve ever dreamed of—without the stress.
Happy planning!
If you're interested in discussing how we can make your South Wales wedding extraordinary, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. Together, we’ll create a celebration that reflects your style, personality, and the beauty of South Wales.
An elegant Suffolk Garden Wedding at WILDERNESS RESERVE
When Ariel and Charlie realised they needed some support wedding planning for their elegant Suffolk wedding at The Wilderness Reserve, they picked up the phone to me following a recommendation to them from one of my favourite luxury makeup artists, Emily Chantal.
Ariel and Charlie had this incredible vision for their day and wanted me to support them on the day itself with my ‘On the day coordination’ service. But we bonded on our first conversation and I knew this was going to be such a stunning wedding in many ways. To start with, some of my most favourite suppliers were also coming along for the ride!
The couple had chosen the sought after The Wilderness Reserve in Suffolk and trust me when I say this must be a place you visit. We met and walked around the venue along with their wedding coordinator at the venue and their caterer whilst we planned, tweaked and organised the logistics of the day and I fully grasped exactly how beautiful it would look once we’d spoken about everything.
In the morning of this gorgeous sunny June day, Ariel was being looked after by her makeup artist email and hair stylist Sally-Kate (Hair by Duboux) with her stunning Bridesmaids in the comfort of this dog friendly venue… see how Oakley and Willow feature in the wedding later on, it’s a treat!
Next revealed the most beautiful Armeria wedding dress from fashion designer Alena Lena and it could not have been any more perfect for the gorgeous Ariel. She wore designer Loeffler Randall shoes and accompanied the dress with delicate white florals from Figa and Co.
The ceremony was performed by family and contained the most sweetest readings filled with laughter and the occasion tear whilst the guests listened to the beautiful harmonies of Gemma Daltrey & Jonny.
Delectable Canapes and the wedding breakfast was served by local catering team, Gather and Feast in the outdoor stretch tent from Events Under Canvas with table decor provided by CMA Hire
Remember the cake from Pink Face Cakes I told you about earlier? Isn’t this the cutest thing…
Afterwards, everyone danced the night away and enjoyed an array of drinks and cocktails from the fabulous team at Beyond Bar hire - wow! What a party!
This wedding could not have been captured more beautifully than it was, courtesy of the incredible Sharon Cudworth along with second shooter Laura Williams and fabulously talented Mike Savory on video
So if you are looking for inspiration on an outdoor, romantic garden wedding, I don’t think you can get a more beautiful aesthetic than Ariel and Charlie’s wedding.
A dreamy Parisienne styled wedding shoot
Paris or Suffolk Wedding?
You may be sitting in your Suffolk home thinking about a destination wedding but feel like the logistics of getting family & friends to travel overseas is too much? Let’s face it, most of us like the idea of jetting off to some luxury, warmer location but when you start planning, it can seem like a minefield, especially without a wedding planner.
So, let me offer you an alternative… what about a sophisticated Suffolk wedding? Hear me out…
A creative team of us got together to make this Parisienne dream a reality and it did not disappoint.
The location for this stunning vibe was at the incredible Butley Priory. Don’t let this Grade 1 listed, 700 year old venue fool you, it is a deeply romantic, luxury and private wedding venue covering 20 acres and surrounded by a stone wall. It’s interiors, unique in design and incredibly appealing to any modern couple looking for that Parisienne feel.
With exclusive use, 20 bedrooms and room for up to 100 of your loved ones to attend the ceremony, 80 to dine (200 if having a tent/marquee) then Butley Priory should be top of your list.
This talented team of suppliers really did come together to make this one of the best shoots I’ve worked on. It’s something as professionals we can’t explain but when a couple comes to us with their own vision, we have the ability to see exactly what you mean even though a mood board may not fully pull that dream together. but I knew with this shoot it was going to be extraordinary.
Moral of this blog? Trust your suppliers to deliver your vision.
What do you think?
Suppliers:
Venue Butley Priory
Florist Charlotte Wild Floral Design
Photographer Sharon Cudworth
Second Shooter Images by Anna
Hair Glow Occasion Hair
MakeUp Emily Chantal Make Up
Videography Films from Lewis
Dresses Perlanova
Jewellery SV Bridal
Stationery Lucy Mcspirit
Cake RT Cakes
Suit Anthony Formalwear
Styling Styled By Lulabelles Suffolk
An elegant English barn wedding with a touch of Greek sophistication
As an Essex based Wedding Planner, I was recommended to Georgia & Alex in the build up to their wedding day by exceptional hair artist, Carly Williams. I instantly knew that if Carly was involved, this was a wedding I definitely wanted to be a part of and I wasn’t wrong!
When I met with Georgia & Alex, we clicked instantly and I knew the visions they had for their day would be met based on the fantastic suppliers on board. They had chosen beautiful 17th Century barn, Blake Hall for their big day and popular venue stylists JF Styling and The Blossom Company were on hand to transform the already beautiful barn.
On the morning of the wedding day, Georgia and her Bridesmaids were busy sipping Champagne whilst high profile makeup artist Kate Glanfield looked after Georgia, then Amy May and Rebecca Claire worked with the Bridesmaids before Georgia slipped into her stunning Ersa Atelier dress from Morgan Davies Boutique in London topped with a pearl headdress from Botias Accessories and the look was completed with iconic Dior shoes.
The ceremony took place at Blake Hall and the couples request for draping wisteria on the beams and elegant flower displays to line the aisle was created beautifully. Georgia walked down the aisle to her excited Fiancé whilst music played on the mezzanine by string quartet OM Strings and sung by her equally beautiful Chief Bridesmaid. Soon after they slipped through an archway of aromatic confetti from Shropshire Petals.
Wedding guests were then treated to Processo, Beer, Orange Juice and Cloudy Lemonade with a delectable selection of Canapes provided by Caterers Waters Edge.
To entertain the guests further, the couple had arranged for the fluffiest alpacas from Hilly Ridge to wander around which made for the cutest photo opportunities.
Meanwhile, JF Styling and The Blossom Tree company were busy transforming the main barn in preparation for the wedding breakfast. Tables were laid with gold detail crockery & cutlery with bespoke grey table linen. Stationary was lovingly crafted by Georgia’s friend at Mag & Marge whilst tasty biscuits laid on each place setting providing favours to each guest. A gorgeous unique 5 tier black cake made by multi award winning cake designer Amelies Kitchen stood in the corner of the room.
Making sure the couple made the most of Alex’s heritage, Greek music was played towards the end of the meal which was a great addition and really got everyone in the mood for an amazing night of music arranged by Creation Events.
Georgia quickly transformed into her Greek themed evening outfit from Erin Kelly Bridal with a stunning number from designer Catherine Deane and matching headpiece from Victoria Percival she looked simply breathtaking.
The whole day was captured by one of the most talented photographers I know, Alicia, owner of Aurora Grey photography whose Dad is also Greek so the couple had a great connection with her. She was accompanied by contemporary videographer Robbie from RJ Wedding Films who shot the day and all the magical moments that came along.
Thank you to Georgia and Alex for letting me be a part of your day and to the most amazing team who put this vision together. Georgia & Alex, I wish you endless years of happiness and love together.
Additional thanks to:
Lovelight Entertainment (Uplighters & Canopy)
Shropshire Petals
To enquire about hiring Hayley as your wedding planner, click here.
You don't NEED a Wedding/Event Planner
but how does a wedding or event planner organise your event?
You are absolutely right, you certainly don’t NEED a planner, thousands of people plan their wedding or event without a hitch, but… what I’m going to talk you about is why you should WANT a planner; your time is precious
I’m going to give you a scenario; when I was younger and I wanted to book a holiday, I’d go into a local Travel Agents and they would do it all for me (or I’d check Teletext holidays!) it was easy, they knew what they were doing, they’d even been to some of the locations I wanted to visit and were able to give first hand information on the location - perfect! They even made sure I got the best price and stuck to my budget. Then in came the DIY holiday packages, now don’t get me wrong, these are amazing, I love sitting there for hours and hours planning my own holiday, researching where to go and what to do, where to avoid and for some reason, I always like to research what the locals wear (don’t ask!)
But… this all comes at a cost, my precious time, my money, my patience, sometimes even my sanity. The worst thing is, I’ve travelled to some places and then discovered when I got home that someone I know had already visited and could have recommended the BEST restaurant on the island (that I ironically did not visit!).
My point is this, anyone with organisational skills can plan a wedding or event but wouldn’t you feel so much more comfortable hiring a professional who has unlimited experience managing weddings and events and can recommend the best ways to run the celebration, minus the stress. After all, we’ve experienced the hiccups, the power cuts, the suppliers not turning up, the family arguments… and luckily for you, we know exactly how to handle them.
“If I cry at my wedding it’s because I’m overjoyed that the planning is finally over”
Planners are extremely useful if you are planning a last minute wedding or event, trying to fit it all in is just too much and actually, not everyone is good at planning or event wants to plan their own event. There are also times when there are family conflicts and the thought of making decisions with fear of backlash is just daunting. Hiring a planner gives you the ability to ‘pass the buck’ - we don’t mind having difficult conversations with family/friends if we know something is important to you.
Bringing a planner in from the very start of your planning process means you get to work closely with them, they will get to know you and they will get to know what you like and don’t like. We are all extremely busy people and it is very difficult setting time aside to plan your wedding or event to perfection, the reality is you won’t understand how much time, effort and money goes into planning an event, especially if this is your first time, that is why I am here to support you. Make sure you check my amazing testimonials!
Regularly working with the best suppliers in the area means I am able to negotiate on costs for you, so if I am able to save you money, I will - this could then be put towards the costs of my services.
Specifically your wedding day should exude peace, love, calm and romance (oh and lots of FUN!), just don’t take the risk of things going wrong, get in touch for a FREE consultation and I can get to know you better and understand your vision and goals, I can’t wait! Let’s get planning!
Contact Hayley