Samantha Gilchrist, Co-Founder and CEO of the UK's largest wedding venue collection, The Gilchrist Collection, shares her top tips on how to kick-start your wedding plans, taking away any unnecessary stress and disappointment in preparation for that special day.
Set a Date - possibly the most important aspect of planning as getting this date in the diary will allow you to move forward with your plans. When choosing a date, it's worth carrying out a simple checklist to help you nail that day down such as:
Think if there is a time of year you both always wanted to get married in? A season you both love or a month that is special to you is a great starting point.
Is there a type of wedding you would love? If it's an outdoor wedding, I always think May and September are most reliable when it comes to British weather
Avoid major clashes such as large sporting events scheduled on that day - do a quick online search to put your mind at ease.
Gather your guestlist - An idea on numbers for your day will help with exploring venues and understand your budget. I like to split it into an 'A,B,C' approach: A. Those who are essential to making your day special - they have to be there. B. Potential guests for your day or evening C. Evening only invites if numbers allow - those who will bring some party energy to dance the night away
Shortlist your venues - Whether you are a bride or groom that has had a dream venue your whole life, or someone who is unsure on the type of venue they are looking for, my advice is to do your research, check-out their social media accounts for real wedding inspiration and then schedule visits. Venues can be booked up to two-years in advance so it's worth getting in there quickly.
Book your photographer, florist, make-up artist & hair stylist - Many wedding suppliers open their books a year in advance to meet the demand, so as soon as you have your date it's worth pencilling it in with your chosen photographer, florist, make-up artist & hair stylist to avoid disappointment if they are already snapped up.
Enjoy your engagement - Once you've got your date, venue and some of your favourite suppliers locked in, it's time to get back to enjoying your love bubble. You've got the essentials covered.
Chiddingstone Castle Wedding Show hosted by County Wedding Events
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Port Lympne's wedding show is in September - hosted by County Wedding Events!
If you're newlyweds-to-be embarking on your wedding planning journey, pop along to the County Wedding Events wedding show at Port Lympne, in Kent, for inspiration on Sunday 13th September 2026 - 11pm - 3pm! Sister company to County Wedding Magazines, the event brings couples that are desperate for face-to-face wedding planning in touch with local professionals who are on hand to help plan the wedding day. From photographers to cake makers, musicians to florists you're sure to tick a lot off of your to-do list by attending one of our County Wedding Events.
