Question 1

We're planning our wedding at a heritage venue; what advice can you share with me?

Accepted Answer

A venue with an illustrious historical pedigree and a reputation for service will invariably have an interesting story, which is a great conversation starter, especially if guests are unfamiliar with each other. Find out if an authorised expert can educate guests about the venue's history. Loved ones will be impressed with a prestigious address and location incorporating historic themes or landmarks. Events often require additional décor expenditures, but costs can be saved if this is inherent in the venue itself. A strong maritime theme is pervasive throughout Trinity House, with oversized ship models and the Brass Bell of the Royal Yacht Britannia. Some heritage venues charge guests for access to museum-quality treasures and artefacts such as crested crockery, cutlery, glassware, silver presentation tables, menus, napkins, chairs and more. Ask for free use of Trinity House's impressive ceremonial sword to cut a cake or open a bottle of Champagne for some added wow factor. Our venue hire charges include tables and chairs, which is often not the case elsewhere. Many historic buildings provide a list of preferred caterers and event support services; always select one. These companies know the venue well and pay a little extra, if needed, for familiarity with the venue, which frequently ends up being cheaper than costly last-minute disasters. Although there are sometimes restrictions on heritage buildings that make adopting certain sustainable practices difficult (mandatory incorporation of existing single pane windows), ask what the venue is doing to comply with and adopt sustainably-oriented policies. We encourage the selection of caterers who manage their waste responsibly, such as delivering food waste to registered charities or industrial agencies who employ an 'anaerobic digestion process' to convert waste into biofuel or fertilisers.

Question 2

We're just starting our big-day journey, and neither knows what to look for when booking a venue. What advice can you share?

Accepted Answer

Choosing the venue for your big day is a big decision. View as many different properties as possible to decide your must-haves and any compromises you're happy to make. Some couples don't want to worry about the British weather, so look for somewhere with plenty of inside spaces. Some lovebirds never want their special day to end, so ask about a late licence too! The Bedford in Balham is perfect if you want a venue where everything can happen in one place, from getting ready, the ceremony, wedding breakfast, evening reception and accommodation.

Question 3

We're just starting our venue search and would love somewhere with outdoor options. What tips can you share for finding the perfect setting?

Accepted Answer

Firstly, no matter what month you tie the knot in, the weather might not be on your side, so you need to be prepared. Always look for a venue where you love the indoor and outdoor spaces equally. The Rosendale in leafy West Dulwich offers both options, including large and small private rooms and three picturesque gardens. Ask if you can decorate the outdoor area. We're very happy for you to decorate our Side Garden at The Rosendale so it's in-keeping with the rest of your theme. Would you like food cooked outside too? Our hog roasts are always a big hit with guests. Does your outdoor setting have the option of shade? We have large umbrellas as well as plenty of space for sun worshippers. Remember, photos look great with natural light, so look out for lots of great backdrops. Our couples always choose outside our entrance for their pics, which is particularly beautiful. Check whether the outdoor space has any additional entertainment, such as a children's play area. We benefit from having that along with table tennis and boules to keep guests young and old entertained.

Question 4

We're just starting our venue search and can't decide what we're looking for. What are your top tips to help us find the perfect setting?

Accepted Answer

It's no secret that many of the most popular venues tend to get booked years in advance, so viewing your favourites as soon as possible is vital. Even if you're looking to get married sooner rather than later, it's still worth calling your favourite venue about their availability. Sudden cancellations do happen, and you might be in luck. And if you're considering a mid-week or even winter wedding, there's every chance you can bag a date much sooner than you would for a peakseason wedding. When you visit your shortlisted venues, be sure to check out the range of wedding spaces on offer as well as the grounds, guest rooms and restaurant areas. This all comes together to create the whole experience and that's vital in making sure that you and your guests have the best day possible. West Lodge Park is a grand North London wedding venue with magnificent grounds, reception rooms and exquisite guest suites. Our expert staff and talented chefs work tirelessly to ensure that your celebration is one to remember. We have a range of room options, within our hotel or grounds, which can host up to 80 for your ceremony and up to 200 for your reception. And in spring/summer our beautiful Garden Pavilion is the perfect place for your ceremony. Its oak structure and adjacent lawns will provide a beautiful backdrop for you and your guests. Contact our friendly wedding planning team to arrange a private viewing or attend our wedding open day to see how we can give you the day of your dreams.

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