Top Tips for Planning a Wedding When You’ve Never Planned a Thing Before

If the idea of wedding planning makes your stomach churn (and not in a butterflies way), you’re not alone.

For most people, planning a wedding is their first big event, and it comes with its fair share of spreadsheets, expectations, and “how the hell do people know how to do this?” moments.

The good news? It doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Here’s a set of honest, no-fluff tips from a team who’ve seen hundreds of weddings, from tipi setups in wild fields to elegant barn feasts in the Cotswolds.

1. Pick the Feel, Not the Theme

Forget colour palettes for a moment. Do you want your day to feel laid-back and joyful? Cosy and rustic? Stylish but relaxed? Start there. Your venue, food, and even your outfit will flow more naturally from the vibe you’re aiming for, not a Pinterest board.

2. Book Your Big-Ticket Suppliers First

The venue, the food, the photographer, these are your core. Good ones get snapped up fast, especially in places like the Cotswolds. You don’t need to know every detail to book them. A good supplier will help you fill in the blanks.

Pro tip: The best suppliers make the process feel easier, not harder.

3. Ask Suppliers for Their Real Advice

Not the polished pitch, the honest stuff. Ask caterers how things work on the day. Ask venues about their wet-weather plan. Ask florists what’s in season. When you open that door, you get insider help that makes everything smoother.

4. Don’t Try to Please Everyone (Because You Can’t)

You’ll have dietary requests, family opinions, and someone who’s upset about the seating plan. That’s weddings. What matters most is that the day reflects you as a couple. Feed your guests well, treat them kindly, and you’ve already nailed it.

5. Trust People Who Do This Every Weekend

You don’t need to be an expert, that’s our job. We’re here to guide, advise, and step in when needed so you can actually enjoy your own wedding. And yes, it’s totally okay to say: “I have no idea, what do you recommend?”

6. Make Room for Magic

Leave a little space in the schedule. Don’t over-plan. Allow time to breathe, laugh, cry, and maybe sneak off for a quiet toast just the two of you. The moments you’ll remember most aren’t on a checklist.

Need Food That Feels Like a Celebration?

We serve fire-cooked feasts, grazing tables, and relaxed outdoor dining across the Cotswolds and beyond. If you want food that’s part of the atmosphere, not just fuel, we might just be your people.

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