In this episode of Yes to I Do, host Lydia Wakefield is joined by Maggie, Meg and Louisa in Coton House Farm’s indoor ceremony barn to talk through the big questions every couple should ask their venue, the ones that help you avoid hidden costs, planning headaches and last-minute surprises. From capacity and availability to what’s included in the hire price, wet-weather plans, catering options, access times, guest logistics and styling rules, they share the questions they’re asked most (and the ones couples often forget).
Key Takeaways
Before you fall in love with a space, check that it can hold your numbers and whether your preferred date (or similar alternatives) are actually available. They also flag that prices can vary hugely by season and day of the week.
The team stress how important transparency is: some venues add surprise charges for things like staffing, lighting, heating, cake cutting, table linen, napkins, cutlery and glassware. Knowing what’s included upfront makes budgeting far easier and avoids awkward “by the way…” moments later.
Their advice is simple: in the UK you can’t guarantee the weather, so make sure your wet-weather option feels just as special. They also talk about covered walkways/canopies helping guests move around without getting drenched, and that some couples choose indoors even in summer for certainty.
Find out what food styles are available (formal wedding breakfast vs grazing/buffet vs relaxed evening food), whether the caterers can handle allergies/veggie/vegan properly, and when payments are due, because venue and catering schedules don’t always line up, and that can hit your cash flow.
Ask what time you can arrive, what time suppliers can access the venue, any noise/licensing cut-offs, and the venue’s rules on bringing your own alcohol (some don’t allow it at all; others charge corkage).
Couples should ask about decorating rules (especially candles, often LED-only), whether you can dress the venue yourself, use an in-house venue dresser, or bring external stylists. They’re all for personal touches — as long as it’s safe and workable.
One you might forget: exclusivity and other people on-site. They mention checking whether you have exclusive use, whether there are show rounds earlier in the day, and when the venue becomes fully “yours”.
Best Moments
“Wedding planning can be a bit of a minefield… It’s sometimes the first time they’ve done this before.”
“You don’t go to a bar and buy a drink and pay extra for the straw, the ice and the glass.”
“It’s so important that you love both options [outdoor and indoor], because if it rains, you’ll end up inside.”
“If the venue’s ticked 9 out of 10 boxes, you know you’re on to a winner.”
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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