QUESTIONS TO ASK A WEDDING VENUE

Before you fall for the first venue you see, get clued up on these must-ask questions from wedding planner, Jenny Granlund of Jenny Wren Weddings & Events

1. What is the capacity for a ceremony and reception?

2. Does the venue have a ceremony licence?

3. What ceremony locations are there, both inside and outside?

4. Is the venue exclusive use?

5. What is the availability like?

6. What is included in the price?

7. Will room turnarounds need to take place? If so, who will take care of this?

8. Are there any break-out rooms away from the party for older guests or babies?

9. Will there be a wedding coordinator on-site on the wedding day? What will they be taking care of?

10. Is furniture provided?

11. Is tableware provided?

12. Can you bring in your own suppliers and catering company?

13. Are toilets provided?

14. What time do the licences for music and alcohol run until?

15. Are there restrictions concerning music?

16. Is there the option to provide your own alcohol? Do they charge corkage?

17. What day and time can you have access from?

18. Is there accommodation on-site or close by?

19. Are fireworks allowed?

20. Is confetti allowed?

21. Are firepits allowed?

22. Are there dos and don’ts concerning decoration of the venue?

23. What time does the hire end?

24. Who does the clean-up afterwards?

25. Who’s responsible for taking away the recycling and rubbish?

Higher Holcombe

A dream setting in the heart of the Devon countryside, where wildflower meadows meet maturing woodland, Higher Holcombe makes a gloriously green canvas for a relaxed wedding bursting with style, atmosphere and personality. The rural retreat comprises a cluster of character-filled buildings, from the barn with exposed beams and floor-to-ceiling windows, to the farmhouse and Hobbit House, a quirky-cool honeymoon hideaway. There are also shepherd’s huts, giant Lotus Belle tents and overflow camping. For vows immersed in nature, hold your ceremony in the willow ‘cathedral’ or the secluded silver birch ‘church’ before feasting and taking your first dance in this magical woodland setting. higherholcombe.co.uk

Total capacity: 80 day, 100 evening

Civil ceremonies licence: Yes

Guest accommodation: for 40 for up to 220 guests, plentiful four-star accommodation, and even use of the wedding golf buggy! Tie the knot in The Oaks, a charming space with exposed beams and large windows framing views across the countryside, or the Atrium, a grand setting with chandeliers, mood lighting and stunning views. Why not make a holiday of it and gather your loved ones in this gorgeous part of Devon for trips to the nearby south coast with its pretty beaches and wild cliffs, before returning to the extensive modern facilities including a state-of-theart gym, pool and Aura Spa. woodburypark.co.uk

Total capacity: 250

Civil ceremonies licence: Yes

Guest accommodation: 54 rooms

Dog-friendly: No