Ah Spring… The perfect season for a wedding.
These fresh dewy days are all about brightness after the winter months, life after a deep slumber and that thrilling flutter of hope as a new season begins.
Whilst this a stunning time of year to marry, there are some logistical and of course styling elements to consider. So let me guide you through my top 5 tips to help you find the perfect springtime wedding venue…
Top Row Left: Image by Yolande Snyders Photography via Southbound Bride. Top Row Right: Image by Campbell Photography via One Fab Day. Bottom Row: Image by Lily & Frank Photography at Axnoller.
# 1 Save The Date!
Just behind the halcyon days of summer, spring is a very popular time to for couple’s to say, “I do”. So if you have your heart set on a blossom-filled day then it’s time to think ahead.
Start with securing the right venue. Take your time and do your research, but if everything falls into place for you and your beau then feel confident in making the booking to secure your chosen date.
The same applies for suppliers, you don’t necessarily need to have all of your wedding day details planned at this point – your colour scheme, favours and even the dress can wait! But, those key suppliers such as caterers, florists and photographers should be booked early. Ask your wedding venue for recommendations, some venues may even have a preferred suppliers list to help with your planning. Enjoy your research, look through portfolios, meet in person and then, go with your gut and save the date with your fave folks!
Most companies will secure a date for you with the payment of a deposit leaving you to relax and start planning all of the finer details a little closer to the wedding day.
You may want to read our top tips on choosing your wedding suppliers here!
Top Row Left: Image by Sarah Gawler Photography. Top Row Right: Image by Weber Photography via Wedding Sparrow. Bottom Row: Image by Blooming Photography at Hyde Barn.
# 2 Let’s Celebrate…
Spring is a wonderful time for weekend-long wedding celebrations! With a number of Bank Holiday weekends and the Easter festivities, it’s a lovely opportunity to gather your family and friends and enjoy the party!
There are also lots of gorgeous venues with fabulous weekend party options, including exclusive use and onsite accommodation for your nearest and dearest.
For those keeping a close eye on budget, then booking a Sunday may save you a little on venue hire. It also gives you a little more flexibility if the venue of your choice is unavailable on those key Spring Saturdays! So don’t be disheartened, consider this rather overlooked weekend option. We married on a Sunday and it was perfect!
# 3 Rain is lucky right…?
It’s one of the only things we can’t control. Even the hardiest of Bridezilla’s will have to concede on this point. However, you can take control of your Spring Shower contingencies!
Save the glittering Choos for the dance floor and consider rain boots or wellingtons if you’re having an outdoor reception. The perfect rustic accessory.
Have umbrella’s available for your guests. If you’re having an in-door or marquee wedding there will be some guests who seek the fresh air. So ensure they’re not caught out by a little downpour. You can even find umbrellas to match your colour scheme! Cute yes…?
Top Row Left: Image by Kinsey Meredith Photography. Top Row Right: Image by This Modern Romance via Wedding Sparrow. Bottom Row: Image by Freckle Photography at Ever After – A Dartmoor Wedding.
Whilst warm sunshine, tweeting birds and hopping bunnies are the spring ideal, it can all be a little bit grey and chilly in reality. So think layers when it comes to you and your Bridesmaids. Try long laces sleeves and snuggly cashmere shrugs. Also, look at slightly warmer Bridesmaids dresses and leave the strapless chiffon for summer celebrations.
# 4 Bring the outside in…
So we’ve established that spring weather is unpredictable so consider the type of wedding venue very carefully.
The indoor / outdoor options are vital. Look for a venue that can offer the flexibility of an outdoor ceremony or reception, but who can accommodate your party indoors at the last minute, should the weather Gods not be on your side.
If you want to play it safe, look for venues with land or beautiful grounds where you can pitch a marquee. For indoor weddings or City affairs, look for airy spaces with large windows to let the spring light in.
Also consider bringing the outside in when planning your wedding décor. Line aisles with blossom, give your guests potted bulbs as favours and group moss dappled logs for an alternative Spring table centrepiece.
Top Row Left: Image via Design Love Fest. Top Row Right and Bottom Row: Images by Rebecca Goddard Photography at Narborough Hall Gardens.
# 5 Embrace the Season…
Yellows, pastels and pretty pinks are all classic springtime colours. But my absolute favourite has to be duck egg blue and dark luscious greens, highlighted by creamy whites. Did you see our own Spring Styled Shoot at Narborough Hall Gardens…?
I think any springtime wedding should reflect the natural scenery. Especially important if you’re planning a Rustic Romance party – think about idyllic and organic elements.
Look to nature when considering your bouquet, spring blossoms, dainty daffodils, hellebores, Anemone and Tulips are perfection. Oh and of course, the prettiest of wedding flowers – the peony is just coming into season. So mix with sweetpea for a pretty and delicate display.
Talk to your venue or chosen caterer for their take on seasonal food – think fresh and lovely. How about tasty poached duck eggs, Spring Lamb, fresh vegetables and a yummy elderflower and rhubarb sorbet.
I hope that’s given you some ideas for your spring wedding venue! Don’t forget we’ve got you covered in the Coco Wedding Venues directory with more venues being added daily for your perusing pleasure!
Lots of love…