When it comes to planning a wedding, choosing the right venue is critical! The wedding venue sets the tone for the entire day and will be the backdrop for one of the most memorable days of your life. To ensure you make the right decision, it’s important you visit all your potential venues and ask the right questions. Making the most of each visit is key. In this blog, we will guide you through some essential questions your should ask when visiting a wedding venue.
Not everyone wants a church wedding. And we get this…
We have held some of the most amazing and perfect weddings at Blackstock Estate. Our Tudor Barn is honestly the most romantic setting for any couple.
Find out here a bit more about our civil ceremonies.
One of the first questions your should ask is whether it is available on your desired wedding date. Popular venues tend to be booked up quickly months ahead in advance, so it’s important you establish their availability out of the gate. If you’re flexible, then mention this, as this may open the door to more options.
If you are on top of things and willing to be flexible then securing a venue should rarely be a hassle but it is always good to know.
Find out here a bit more about our civil ceremonies.
This is another key question that you should have the answer to by the time you leave the venue. The last thing you want to have happen is to be set on a venue but then find you have to make cuts to your guest list.
It’s also worth enquiring whether the venue can accommodate any specific requirements you have. Things like a dance floor or entertainment space are not standard at every venue.
At Blackstock Estate, we can accommodate up to 150 people which is a fabulous amount of people for a wedding.
An outdoor ceremony or reception can truly elevate the overall aesthetics and ambience of your wedding. Can you imagine exchanging vows or enjoying canapés and refreshing cocktails in the natural beauty of a garden, courtyard, or any outdoor space? If the answer to this is yes, don’t hesitate to enquire about the possibilities. You may be pleasantly surprised by the available solutions.
During the summer months, our outdoor gazebo will host the perfect outdoor wedding ceremony for you. With our “New England” style chairs and layout, it really is just beautiful.
The food options you serve on the day play a significant role in any wedding. It’s crucial you discuss the catering options available at the venue or if you need to look for a team of outside caterers.
Be sure to query specific dietary requirements. Can the menu be altered to accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or other allergies?
If there is an in-house catering team then you will likely have been offered a tasting session. Here, the bride and groom-to-be will get the opportunity to try a sample of some of the venue’s fabulous food. At Blackstock, we like to follow this up with face-to-face meetings to ensure all details of your day are carefully and thoroughly planned for.
If you have a specific decor idea or theme in mind, it’s always best to ask about the restrictions the venue has in place. Using candles or confetti may be prohibited at certain venues. Having a comprehensive understanding of the restrictions of the venue can help you plan and create a magical day for your wedding.
We are pretty laid back about decor, but being in the country, we do have a few restrictions, so please just ask.
Some venues may have a selection of suppliers that have previously worked at a venue. This familiarity with the venue allows for stunning results as they are experienced working in the space. They will know which areas are best to decorate and how to make the most of a room.
While the decorations they produce may complement the space wonderfully, they may not be quite what you had in mind. Take the opportunity to ask if they have any flexibility and if they would allow your preferred vendors. Some venues may have partnerships with specific florists or decorators, so it is well worth asking.
Having a known photographer will also be a bonus as they know the absolute best spots for great and memorable photographs.
We have a wonderful list of tried and tested suppliers – people we really trust and love to work with!
Most venues do not have any accommodation, unless they are an actual hotel.
At Blackstock Estate, we can help with everything, including a bridal suite! We have some wonderful choices of accommodation and would be happy to show you the different options if you want to book a private viewing.
Getting the venue right at your wedding is so important. It sets the stage for an unforgettable celebration! While each venue may have resources or recommendations online, it is vital you take the time to arrange a private viewing in person. Getting one-on-one time with the staff and a general feel for the environment is incredibly valuable. It may even make your final decision an easy one…
Do you want to immerse yourself in the atmosphere and find out everything there is to know about a wedding at Blackstock Country Estate? Please feel free to get in touch to arrange a private viewing whenever you are ready. Give the team a call on 01323 848 006 or email venues@blackstockestate.co.uk for any additional information.