22 Mar HOW TO PLAN YOUR DREAM WEDDING IN THE BEAUTIFUL COTSWOLDS
Getting married in The Cotswolds can be a truly magical experience. The area is known for its picturesque villages, rolling hills, and stunning countryside, making it the perfect backdrop for a wedding.
Attracting around 38 million tourists a year, visitors enjoy country walks and cosy inns as well as very specific, picturesque architecture. The Cotswolds or, as it is officially known, ‘Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty”, was established in 1966, and covers over 800 square miles, crosses six English counties and stretches from just south of historic Stratford-upon-Avon to Bath in the south and Oxford in the east. It is an area of rolling hills, ancient villages, and market towns where time stood still, and when it comes to planning your dream wedding in the Cotswolds, you really are spoilt for choice.
Let’s explore how to plan your dream Cotswold wedding in this beautiful part of the UK.
Design your theme
With its postcard-perfect scenery of rural hills and meadows, it’s easy to capture the picturesque charm of The Cotswolds and incorporate it into a delightful theme. Think vintage touches such as birdcages, pastel colours or perhaps fairy lights to create a romantic atmosphere surrounded by natural beauty. With its charming English countryside feel, you could incorporate a romantic theme that is filled with rustic elements. For example, consider using vibrant green hues paired with neutral tones to evoke the beauty of the rolling hills adorned in colour. Pinterest is my absolute favourite place on the internet for wedding theme inspiration.
Find the perfect venue
The first step in planning your dream wedding in The Cotswolds is choosing your venue. This lovely countryside spreading from Somerset all the way to Warwickshire is filled with various wedding venues, there are so many options that it can be hard to choose! If you’re looking for something with a bit of luxury and sophistication, then one of the area’s many 4 and 5-star hotels is a great option. Why not consider one of the area’s country houses for something more rustic and traditional? Alternatively, if you’re hoping to get married outdoors, there are plenty of gardens and parks to choose from. No matter what kind of venue you choose, rest assured that it will be beautiful. Take time to research and visit potential wedding venues to find one that fits your vision and budget. Do your research and find a venue that matches your theme for your big day.
Consider the season
Keep the season in mind when planning your wedding. The Cotswolds are beautiful year-round, but the area can be particularly stunning in the spring and summer when the countryside is in bloom however the Cotswolds can be busy during peak wedding season (May-September) and availability may be trickier. You will also want to remember that the weather can be unpredictable in the UK, so make sure your venue has a wet weather plan just in case.
Choose your wedding suppliers
Once you’ve chosen your venue, it’s time to start thinking about who you want to work with on your big day. There are lots of great suppliers in The Cotswolds including photographers, caterers, florists, and much more! One way to make sure you hire trustworthy professionals is to read reviews online or ask friends and family for recommendations. Once you find suppliers that match your vision perfectly – book them as soon as possible. Look for vendors who have experience working in the area and who can help you create the wedding of your dreams.
Embrace the local culture
Planning a wedding in The Cotswolds provides an opportunity for you to embrace local culture and create an unforgettable experience. Opt for locally sourced food and drinks at your reception, featuring recently harvested vegetables and local craft brews that will tantalize your guests’ taste buds. Incorporate local decor elements such as bespoke pottery or hand-crafted items to bring a unique flavour of The Cotswolds to your special event. Make your wedding day one to remember by opening up to local culture and infusing it into every aspect of your celebration.
Hire a wedding planner
Finally – don’t forget about those small but important details when planning your wedding in The Cotswolds such as decorations, music selection and transport arrangements. These can play an essential role in making sure everything on your special day runs smoothly so don’t leave them until the last minute. You may even want to consider hiring a dedicated wedding planner who can help take some of the stress out of planning. A local wedding planner can help you navigate the area and connect you with the best suppliers. They can also help you plan your wedding from start to finish, taking the stress out of the process.
Planning a wedding in The Cotswolds can be an exciting task but also quite daunting at times – especially when faced with so many options. With careful consideration and research, however, couples will be able to plan their dream wedding day surrounded by beautiful scenery while enjoying all that The Cotswolds has to offer.
Follow these tips and enjoy every step along the way – good luck! If you have any questions at all about planning your dream Cotswold Wedding, do get in touch.