Planning a Wedding at Augill Castle?

Here’s Our Top 10 Do’s and Don’ts

Psst, want to know a secret? No one really knows what they’re doing when they start planning a wedding. From fumbling the engagement announcement and inviting too many people, to letting trends take over and rushing to book suppliers – there are so many common wedding planning mistakes to be made.

Here’s the good news: every single one is completely avoidable. We’re not saying you shouldn’t make mistakes – a few hiccups are all part of the fun, right? In fact, from our research 71% of couples on Hitched admitted to making at least a few mistakes along the way.

But what if you could sidestep some of the biggest wedding planning pitfalls? That’s where we come in. We asked our very own wedding guru, owner Wendy for some simple Do’s and Don’t to avoid just some of the pitfalls and this is what she came up with.

Let’s make your wedding planning as smooth as possible!

 
Do … what you want and don’t be swayed by fashion and insta
Your wedding day is all about you and your partner, so don’t feel pressured to conform to trends or societal expectations. Embrace what feels authentic and meaningful to you, whether it’s a traditional ceremony or a quirky celebration that reflects your personalities. Remember, your love story is unique, and your wedding should be too.
 
Do … what you want, when you want as a good venue will work timings around you rather than you having to work around them
Choose a venue that prioritises your needs and preferences, including the timing of your celebration. A flexible venue will accommodate your schedule, whether you prefer a morning ceremony followed by brunch or an evening affair under the stars. Your wedding day should unfold at your pace, allowing you to savor every moment without feeling rushed.
 
Do … eat what you want as food is so evocative and menus that reflect your personalities inject nostalgia
Food is a central element of any celebration, so why not make it a reflection of your tastes and memories? Work with your venue and caterer to create a menu that delights your senses and evokes cherished memories. Whether it’s comfort food classics or gourmet delights, choose dishes that speak to your personalities and celebrate your culinary journey together.
 
Do … think of yourselves, as by making your wedding about you it will be a personal and memorable event

Keep yourselves at the heart of your wedding planning process, and the result will be a celebration that feels truly personal and memorable. Infuse your special day with elements that resonate with your love story, whether it’s meaningful readings during the ceremony, personalised vows, or a signature cocktail that reflects your shared adventures.

Do … something personal for favours so they aren’t left on the tables for the bin

Show your appreciation for your guests with thoughtful and personalized wedding favours that they’ll treasure long after the celebration ends. Consider gifts that reflect your interests, hobbies, or cultural heritage, ensuring that each favour carries a personal touch and leaves a lasting impression.  Choose local suppliers if you can – something that means something local to venue can make all the difference too.

Do … see your wedding as a celebration with your most loved humans, as this way you’ll have fun planning

View your wedding as a joyful celebration of love and togetherness, surrounded by your nearest and dearest. Embrace the planning process as an opportunity to create cherished memories and share laughter, tears, and excitement with your loved ones. With the focus on love and connection, every decision becomes an opportunity for joy and celebration.

Don’t … try to insta your celebration but rather have it reflect your personalities

A big one in current times! Avoid feeling pressured to curate a picture-perfect wedding for the sake of social media. Instead, focus on creating an authentic and meaningful celebration that reflects your unique personalities and love story. Your wedding day is about creating cherished memories, not meeting Instagram standards.

Don’t … ask your guests to wait too long between the ceremony and food

Respect your guests’ time and hunger by minimizing the wait between the ceremony and the reception meal. Consider offering light refreshments, your signature cocktail or entertainment to keep guests engaged while they await the main event. Prioritising their comfort and enjoyment ensures that everyone has a seamless and enjoyable experience.

Don’t … be afraid to ask for donations either in terms of money or help

When it comes to wedding planning, don’t hesitate to ask for support from friends and family, whether it’s financial contributions or assistance with tasks. Many loved ones are eager to help make your special day unforgettable, so don’t be afraid to reach out and involve them in the planning process.

Don’t … have such an early celebration that you have to feed, feed and feed your guests repeatedly

Avoid scheduling your celebration too early in the day, as this may require multiple meals to keep guests satisfied. Opt for a midday or evening celebration that allows for a satisfying meal without the need for additional catering. This ensures that guests can enjoy a leisurely experience without feeling overstuffed.

Don’t … be afraid to ask questions about your venue as they do it regularly and you are doing it for the first/second/third time

When selecting a wedding venue, don’t hesitate to ask questions and seek clarification on any concerns you may have. Venue coordinators are experienced professionals who are accustomed to addressing couples’ inquiries and ensuring a seamless experience. From logistics to amenities, asking questions ensures that you have all the information you need to make informed decisions.

Don’t … scrimp & save and wait five years to get married as the wedding is just the start so do what you can in a reasonable time and get on with being together

Avoid postponing your wedding indefinitely in pursuit of a perfect or extravagant celebration. Instead, focus on creating a meaningful and memorable event within your means and timeframe. Remember, the wedding is just the beginning of your journey together, so prioritise your relationship and celebrate your love in a way that feels authentic and true to you

To book a tour of our own wedding venue here at Augill Castle, just outside Kirkby Stephen in Cumbria, set in 15 acres of grounds and offering a range of estate rooms and castle rooms, jump on email or hop on the phone (017683 41937), ask for Wendy – and we’ll love to show you what we do!

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