When Stef married a farmer she didn't realise that owning a wedding venue would be on the cards. Having held her own wedding on the farm, she realised there was a huge opportunity to open up the farm to more couples. Now Stef runs a successful wedding venue and today she shares her story. We talk about the highs and lows of running a venue, the importance of business training and a training opportunity she has coming up in October!

Join the training day on October 2nd at Bennetts Willow Barn.

Use the code BECCA for a discount on your ticket

Follow Bennetts Willow Barn Weddings on Instagram

Time Stamps:

Introduction to the Podcast (00:00:00)

Stef shares her thoughts on learning and the importance of attending paid events for growth.

Stef's Background (00:00:53)

Stef discusses her journey from solicitor to wedding venue owner and her personal wedding experience.

Transition to Farming (00:01:43)

Stef explains her decision to leave law due to family needs and her husband's farming career.

Life on the Farm (00:04:47)

A glimpse into the busy daily life of Stef's family on the farm and its demands.

Starting the Wedding Venue (00:06:53)

Stef recounts how her wedding led to opening the farm for other weddings and events.

Diversification of the Farm (00:07:11)

The initial diversification into glamping and the planning of their wedding venue.

Building the Venue (00:09:07)

Stef describes the construction of the yurt for their wedding and subsequent bookings.

Creating a Unique Experience (00:10:13)

The venue's laid-back approach and how it caters to couples' desires for personalization.

Flexibility in Weddings (00:12:03)

Stef emphasizes the importance of flexibility in wedding planning and making it personal.

Highs and Lows of the Business (00:14:49)

Stef reflects on the rewarding moments and challenges faced in the wedding industry.

Relationships with Local Suppliers (00:17:43)

Stef discusses the significance of networking with local suppliers and building strong partnerships.

Tips for Suppliers (00:20:51)

Stef offers advice on how local suppliers can approach venues and build rapport.

Introduction to Supplier Relationships (00:20:58)

Stef discusses the importance of genuine connections with suppliers rather than cold outreach.

The Need for Training and Development (00:23:08)

Stef emphasizes the necessity of training for informed decision-making in business.

Understanding Business Numbers (00:24:29)

Stef highlights how knowing business numbers is crucial for evaluating performance and making improvements.

Upcoming Training Day Announcement (00:26:15)

Becca announces her visit to Bennett's Willow Barn for a training day in October.

Details of the Training Day (00:26:31)

Stef outlines the schedule and topics for the interactive training day, including networking opportunities.

Importance of Networking (00:28:56)

Becca stresses the value of building relationships and networking within the wedding industry.

Ticket Pricing and Discounts (00:30:28)

Stef shares ticket prices for the training day and a discount code for listeners.

Future Plans for Bennett's Willow Barn (00:31:43)

Stef discusses plans to consolidate and improve the venue while enjoying recent successes.

Reflection on Business Numbers (00:33:02)

Stef expresses a wish to have prioritized understanding numbers earlier in her business journey.