Why I should get married in The Cotswolds
GETTING MARRIED IN THE COTSWOLDS
Planning a wedding can be a daunting task, especially if it’s in an unfamiliar place like the Cotswolds. This picturesque region of England offers a variety of stunning venues and breathtaking views, making it an ideal location for a dream wedding. Here are some tips on how to plan a wedding in the Cotswolds from me, Pedge Photography.
INTRODUCTION
Hi there, so as you can see from the last paragraph above, my name is Pedge and I am a wedding photographer, operating under the business name of Pedge Photography. I have been a Cotswolds wedding photographer for a good few years now and having been raised in the area, I thought I would share some key hints and tips, based from experience, on why you should consider getting married in the Cotswolds. Here are some vital considerations that should be made for not only a Cotswolds wedding, but any wedding based in the UK.
Married in The Cotswolds – why the Cotswolds?
1 – Scenic beauty: The Cotswolds is known for its rolling hills, charming villages, and picturesque countryside, which provide a stunning backdrop for your wedding day. If I had to provide a visual summary of what ‘quintessentially British’ meant, I would do so with a postcard picture of somewhere in The Cotswolds.
2 – Rich history: The region is steeped in history and is home to many beautiful historical buildings and landmarks that can serve as a backdrop for your special day. You’ll also notice that many of the buildings or walls are made with cotswold stone.
3 – Quality accommodations: The Cotswolds is home to a range of high-quality accommodations, from cozy bed and breakfasts to luxurious country estates, that are perfect for you and your guests to stay in during your wedding celebrations.
4 – Fine dining: The region is renowned for its delicious food and drink, and you’ll be able to enjoy some of the finest local cuisine during your wedding celebrations. Some of the top chefs from all over the country have gained Michelin stars and other recognised rewards, honing their crafts in many of the cotswold venues.
5 – Wide range of wedding venues: The Cotswolds offers a wide variety of wedding venues, including historic manor houses, charming country inns, and beautiful outdoor spaces, so you’re sure to find the perfect location for your big day. A few personal favourites of mine ( but by no means limited to these options) are Ellenborough Park Hotel, Clearwell Castle, Birtsmorton Court and Matara centre.
Overall, the Cotswolds provides a beautiful, unique and memorable setting for your wedding day, and is sure to leave a lasting impression on you and your guests.
Married in The Cotswolds – what should I consider?
- Set a budget: Before you start planning, decide on a budget for your wedding. This will help you determine which venue and vendors you can afford and make it easier to stick to your financial plan. There are many venues dotted around The Cotswolds area and you’ll find a venue to suit your finances. Whether you are after something large and eccentric such as a castle like Sudeley Castle, stately, manor grounds like Manor by The Lake or something a bit more cosy like a barn conversion such as The Barn at Upcote or even a country hotel like The Pear Tree, the cotswolds really has it all.
- Choose a venue: The Cotswolds is home to a wide range of wedding venues, including rustic barns, elegant country houses, and grand castles. Consider your personal style, the size of your guest list, and your budget when choosing a venue.
- Book vendors: Once you have chosen a venue, start booking your vendors. This includes a catering company, florist, photographer (me of course 😉 ), and any other professionals you may need. It’s important to book vendors as early as possible, especially during peak wedding season, to ensure their availability. I can happily recommend suppliers I know and have worked with – contact me for more details.
- Create a timeline: A wedding timeline will help you keep track of deadlines and ensure that everything runs smoothly on the day of the event. Make sure to include key events such as the ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception, as well as any other special activities you may have planned.
- Consider the weather: The Cotswolds can experience unpredictable weather, so it’s important to have a plan in case of rain or other inclement weather. Consider having a backup indoor location for your ceremony and reception, or invest in tents and other outdoor structures to protect your guests from the elements. From a photography element, I have adverse weather conditions covered with my own lighting, umbrellas, experience of indoor shooting etc.
- Hire a wedding planner: If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the planning process, consider hiring a wedding planner. A wedding planner can help you navigate the logistics of planning a wedding in the Cotswolds, and ensure that everything runs smoothly on the day of the event.
Conclusion
In conclusion, planning a wedding in the Cotswolds can be a truly magical experience. With its stunning landscapes and picturesque venues, the Cotswolds offers the perfect backdrop for a dream wedding. By following these tips, you can ensure that your special day is both beautiful and stress-free. Life, away from the hustle and bustle of major cities, makes for a peaceful retreat, usually aided by acres of open space and country air. I love it here, I’m very privileged to call this place my home and I’m very proud to be able to offer my services as a cotswolds wedding photographer to couples wanting to get married in the cotswolds.
If you make that decision, and you book a venue in or near this region, I would love to go on your journey with you and be your photographer. Please don’t hesitate to contact me for a free, no commitments chat about your day, your plans and to hear about my services. I look forward to hearing from you and good luck on your initial journey!
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