So, You're Engaged… Now What?
First off — congratulations! You've said "yes," popped some fizz, and probably Googled "how to plan a wedding" at 1am.
If you're picturing a celebration steeped in countryside charm, rolling hills and stone walls that practically hum with history, then the Cotswolds is calling. This area isn't just beautiful — it's practically built for weddings.
But before you get lost in Pinterest boards and guest list politics, let's walk through how to actually start planning a Cotswold wedding — with your head still attached.
Why the Cotswolds?
It's not hype — the Cotswolds really does have something special. Think chocolate-box villages, ancient churches, breathtaking views, and barns that look like they've been waiting centuries for your fairy lights.
There's a reason it's one of the UK's top wedding spots:
- It's romantic without being pretentious
- It offers that picture-perfect charm without needing to fly to Tuscany
- You can go grand or intimate, rustic or refined — and it still works
It's not just a backdrop — it's part of the story.
When to Start Planning (Hint: It's Probably Sooner Than You Think)
The best Cotswold venues book up quickly — sometimes two years in advance. So if you've got a specific date or season in mind, start early.
Give yourself time to:
- Visit venues in person
- Secure key suppliers (photographer, caterer, your DJ/Host, ahem)
- Build in a bit of breathing room — because wedding brain fog is real
Planning well ahead means fewer compromises and more time to enjoy the bits that should be fun.
Picking the Right Cotswold Venue
You're spoilt for choice here. Think:
- Grand manor houses
- Cosy country pubs
- Converted barns with fairy-lit beams
- Outdoor spaces with panoramic views
But don't just fall for the look — ask the right questions:
- Is there a weather plan?
- Do they have a curfew?
- Are you locked into their preferred suppliers list?
And don't be afraid to go off-piste. The best weddings aren't the ones that copy a magazine spread — they're the ones that feel like you.
What Season Suits You?
The Cotswolds is a chameleon. Each season brings its own vibe:
- Spring: Blooming beauty and baby animals — lovely, if you don't mind a weather gamble
- Summer: Peak wedding season, but also peak costs
- Autumn: Glorious colours, crisp air, and underrated magic
- Winter: Fires, fairy lights, and the chance to wear velvet without sweating
Each has its charms — just plan accordingly (umbrellas, heating, shade — the usual British juggling act).
The Music? That Matters More Than You Think
Let's talk entertainment — because a beautiful venue without the right atmosphere is like a cake without the filling.
Music sets the mood. Whether it's acoustic vibes for the ceremony, smooth background sounds during dinner, or a full-on party that gets Auntie Jean on the dancefloor — it matters.
And here's where I can help.
Why I Might Be Your Perfect Match (Yes, I Said It)
You see, while I now live near the Cotswolds, I'm a London lad originally — and I bring a mix of laid-back country feel with a bit of capital-city edge.
Over the years, I've DJed in castles, cow sheds, and candlelit halls. I know how to read a room, guide a celebration without being a show-off, and make sure the day feels like you from start to finish.
Add in a few unexpected moments — maybe a personalised Love Story during dinner, some ice-breaking intros for the wedding party, or a Mr & Mrs game before the first dance — and suddenly, it's not just another wedding.
It's yours.
Final Thought: One Step at a Time
Planning your Cotswold wedding doesn't have to be overwhelming.
Take it step by step. Choose what matters to you. Build a day that makes you smile just thinking about it — not one that ticks someone else's boxes.
And if you'd like a hand making sure it flows, feels natural, and has everyone saying, "That was brilliant" — you know where to find me.