WEDDING GOSSIP Where to Start? 1887 views

Remember BBC2's The Good, Bad and the Ugly when George Watts was thrown in the deep end and organised a wedding in six weeks? Since then, he has turned into a bit of a wedding expert and has some advice for WP brides...

So the big day has been set, the budget is planned and now all you need to do is find that place to say ‘I do’. Whether you are looking for city chic or a rural retreat, there really is something for everyone. I always advise every couple I meet to choose a space that represents them as a couple. Now for some, this can be quite extreme. Getting hitched down a coal mine or on the wings of an aeroplane is certainly not everyone’s cup of tea but it certainly is unique! For most of us though, the day itself is about cementing a union between two people and the venue should represent that union. Wow, I am getting quite teary already!

Ok, so, down to the nitty gritty. Where do we start? Well, generally the geographical location is the best place to begin. Once this has been decided you can work with the venues located in that area. Even if you have an ideal place in mind, I always advise to view at least 5 other spaces to spark ideas and inspire you both. During the first viewing make sure you probe the wedding co-ordinator for all the info you require including menus, wedding packages available and on-site accommodation. Try to get a real feel as to how the day itself will unfold. Make a list of questions beforehand and do not be afraid to ask. If you are concerned about the costs involved, tell them and see what they can advise. Hog-roasts and summer bbq’s for example, are all the rage at the moment and can often be much lighter on the budget than a traditional evening buffet.

Selecting a wedding venue is a bit like buying a house for the day. Make sure you ask lots of questions and trust your gut feeling. Sometimes if it just feels right then that is the venue for you! And finally, don’t just let the wedding coordinator put together a generic day for you. I recently went to a wedding where the space was entirely candlelit and I have to say it was stunning. Ensure you add those personal little touches and have some fun! Maybe you want to create your very own ‘wedding breakfast cocktail’ or invent a pudding in honour of your new surname! Whatever you do, remember my three p’s ‘personalise, personalise and personalise some more’ - oh and enjoy every second!

To find out more go to theweddingfairy.tv
To download questions to ask your venue, click here