Planning a day to remember
We know that to some couples planning the wedding and choosing your wedding suppliers can be very exciting. But for some it is an overwhelming task. At Ashridge Great Barn we have a wealth of experience in planning and support. We are located in the beautiful rolling hills of Devon and are full of ideas. So whatever stage of planning you are at we can hopefully help you!
It is always a good idea to book wedding suppliers in as early as possible. Some suppliers can get booked up several years in advance. We don’t recommend you rush the decision, just bear in mind that popular companies may already have a booking.
Photography by: Chris Armstrong
What is your budget?
Before making any decisions about wedding suppliers, be realistic about budgets and where you want to spend your money. Prioritise what elements of the day are most important to you. This will help you realise where the majority of your budget should be allocated. Sit down and have a chat through this with your partner, to make sure you are both on the same page.
What is your wedding style?
This will also dictate some of your suppliers. Will it be a festival style wedding with a teepee tent village? Or a rather formal sit down affair? A feast with fairground games in the garden? Or do you want an eco-friendly low key day with all your special people? The list and options are endless really. Identifying your style can help you choose key words to search the internet or Pinterest for inspiration and supplier details.
We can help with all of these options if needed. At Ashridge we have plenty of space and props to play with so let us know your plans if you need any more help we are here for you!
Photography by: Perfect Story Photography
How can you find the perfect wedding suppliers?
To help you on your way we have compiled a list of local wedding suppliers here Ashridge Wedding planning and our Instagram and Facebook pages are also full of real weddings and inspiration, there should be supplier links on our images but just let us know if you see something you like!
When you have established your vision and priorities for your big day then the fun can start the fun by researching! The internet obviously holds a wealth of wedding information so why not try the directories in Hitched or Bridebook or use the google search option for local businesses. Pinterest is great for defining your style and wedding inspiration and you may even find your ideal wedding supplier there.
Don’t forget to talk to people, your friends and family may have been to or even had an amazing wedding and have some supplier gems to recommend which can be really helpful.
Wedding magazines such as Wed Magazine and wedding fairs are great if you are looking locally in Devon.
Photography by: Melanie Barnfield
Found some great suppliers, what next?
Once you have a shortlist of suppliers, it is a good idea to check out their reviews on google/social media as well as the ones on their website to avoid any unwelcome surprises!
If they have a budget indication on their website check that it fits with your expectations.
If all looks good then make contact with them to ascertain they are available for your wedding date, if you still aren’t sure then book in a consultation or meeting with them to check that their values and ideas align with your vision.
At the end of the day you probably have a good idea which suppliers will work for you and speaking to or meeting with them will help you make the final decision, good luck wedding planning and have lots of fun!
Photography by Emwoz Photography
