In this episode of Yes to I Do, host Lydia Wakefield is joined by Meg, Maggie and Louisa to talk directly to couples who got engaged over Christmas and are now thinking: “Right… what do we do next?” They share practical first steps (date, budget, guest numbers and wedding vibe), advice on shortlisting venues without overwhelming yourself, and how to start booking key suppliers in the right order. It’s a reassuring, funny, no-pressure chat designed to help newly-engaged couples feel excited, not stressed, as they start planning.

Key Takeaways

Before you book anything, decide what matters most and how it all links together. Your time of year impacts style (summer/outdoor vs winter/indoor), budget and availability, and guest numbers can quickly change costs.

The team recommend doing your homework before you start touring. If you already know you want a barn venue (or a specific style), narrow it down online and then view a short list; otherwise, it can become confusing, overwhelming and hard to compare packages.

Work out roles early: who’s the spreadsheet person and who’s the mood-board person? Planning is easier (and more fun) when you decide who’s handling what. Some couples share every task; others split jobs. Either way, having clarity prevents stress later, especially when it comes to logistics like timings and setup.

Book in a sensible order and track payment dates. Venue usually comes first, followed by booking your ceremony (registrar or celebrant). After that, priorities vary (dress, photographer, catering, etc.), but the big watch-out is payment schedules: deposits, interim payments and final balances are all different by supplier, so keep a spreadsheet/diary to avoid surprise costs landing at once.

Ask smart questions on venue tours. They suggest key tour questions like:

• If you want an outdoor ceremony, what’s the wet-weather plan and is the indoor option just as nice?
• What’s included vs not included (so your budget is accurate)?
• Are there minimum/maximum guest numbers, and what are the timings?

Best Moments

“The first thing you should do is pop the Prosecco and celebrate.”

“If you go to loads of venues… it can be really overwhelming.”

“People remember the food… and the drink.”

“You have to make sure you like both, outdoor and indoor, because you can’t guarantee the weather. It’s Britain.”

About Coton House Farm

Set in the stunning Staffordshire countryside, Coton House Farm is an exclusive, luxury wedding barn venue designed for couples seeking a magical and unforgettable celebration. With beautifully restored barns, scenic outdoor spaces, and flexible layouts, it offers a seamless experience from morning preparations in The Stables to a breathtaking ceremony and lively reception. Whether you choose an elegant indoor setting or a picturesque outdoor backdrop, Coton House Farm provides the perfect setting for your dream wedding, filled with romance and charm.

Connect with Coton House Farm

Website: https://www.cotonhousefarm.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cotonhousefarm/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@cotonhousefarm

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Cotonhousefarmweddingvenue/

Pinterest: https://uk.pinterest.com/cotonhousefarm/

X: https://x.com/cotonhousefarm

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