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Top Tips for Planning a Stress-Free Wedding
Big decisions come first
The first decisions you make in your wedding planning process will feel massive, so take them one step at a time. Summer or winter? Intimate or grand? Church or civil ceremony? If you’re having trouble, try making a list of pros and cons with your partner and weighing them against each other. These first choices might feel scary – narrow them down early so you can start having fun!
Work out which dates to avoid
Marrying the love of your life should be the most important thing that happens that day – so when choosing a date, first make sure it doesn’t clash with any important anniversaries, birthdays, or engagements within your wedding party. It’s also wise to investigate any local events that might be taking place on your chosen date – no one wants their wedding procession blocked by a charity cycle race!
Send your save-the-dates early
Make sure you let your guests know when you will be getting married well in advance, particularly if you’re opting for peak season. Matters of detail can be finessed in your invitations nearer the time; in the first instance the crucial thing is to ensure that your friends and family will be able to make the big day.
Make your invitations clear
Formal invitations are the perfect way to spell out any policies and requests you want your guests to follow. For instance, if you don’t want lots of small children at your wedding, include something like: “Unfortunately we are unable to welcome little ones, except the children of close family members.” If plus-ones are a problem, specify: “Sadly we cannot accommodate extra guests unless by prior arrangement with the bride and groom.” Be polite but firm – it’s your day, and you make the rules!
Tailor your wedding to size
As a rule, between ten and twenty per cent of the guests you invite won’t be able to make it, so make sure you allow for this when choosing your venue. Washingborough Hall has three event spaces: for small, intimate weddings, the Sibthorpe Room is perfect, accommodating up to 36 guests. Our elegant Dining Room has a capacity of 50, while the Winston Room can comfortably seat up to 80.
Be prepared for bad weather
British weather is notoriously unreliable, so be sure to keep an eye on the weather forecast. Washingborough Hall’s magnificent, landscaped grounds are perfect for an outdoor photoshoot, but its indoor spaces make equally beautiful backdrops in the case of rain. For spring or autumn weddings, consider providing personalised umbrellas as party favours, thus giving your guests a cute keepsake and ensuring that your photos aren’t spoiled by clashing brollies or raincoats!
If in doubt, consult the experts
By saying “I do” to a Washingborough wedding, you are enlisting the help of our Director of Romance, who will work through all your wedding worries with you in preparation for the big day. Most importantly, she will ensure that the bride and groom get to make the most of their special moment without fretting over details, so you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the wedding of your dreams.