Arranging your big day is an enormous project to take on, so when in doubt, consult industry specialists. Thankfully, Adele Cardani has done just that and gathered a wealth of essential advice... Suddenly, you’re faced with endless decisions to make and details to arrange. From managing budgets and creating the guest list to choosing your venue and saying “yes” to the dress, the process can be overwhelming – but it doesn’t have to be. Here, a handful of the industry’s top experts share their sage advice for stress-free big day planning.
![[Flower power: Ashridge House Chapel ready and waiting]](https://static.independent.co.uk/2024/11/15/16/Ashridge-House-Chapel%2C-www.ashridgehouse.org.uk.jpg)
Your venue, food, and beverage will eat up the biggest chunk of your budget. A good rule of thumb is to spend no more than 40 to 50 per cent of the overall budget on these elements – as “overspending here will limit what you can spend on everything else,” says Nicholas.
![[The beautiful and grand exterior of Ashridge House]](https://static.independent.co.uk/2024/11/15/16/Ashridge-House%2Cwww.ashridgehouse.org.uk---Photographer-Credits%2C-Brittany-Painter-Photography-%284%29.jpg)
“Most often, there is a price-per-head for catering services, so consider how the size of your guest list will greatly influence the overall celebration cost.”. “Then think about your vision for the day. Do you envision something formal or more casual? Indoors or outdoors? Will it be held at night or during the day? Would you like in-house catering or the ability to bring in all your own vendors?”.
![[It’s what’s inside that counts: the main hall at Ashridge House]](https://static.independent.co.uk/2024/11/15/16/Main-Hall%2C-Ashridge-House%2C-www.ashridgehouse.org.uk%2C-Photography-Credits%2C-Tom-Halliday-Photography-%28.jpg.jpg)
When conducting site visits, Bradbury says to ask these key questions: “Is the space licensed for civil ceremonies? Will we have exclusive use of the venue on our chosen day, or will other parties be present? Is there an on-site getting-ready suite for the wedding party? Consider access timings for the day and accommodation options. Does the venue have on-site lodging?” And if you select an outdoor setting, make sure to enquire about the contingency plan in case of any bad weather.
![[The Lady Marian Alford room at Ashridge House is a perfect setting]](https://static.independent.co.uk/2024/11/15/16/The-Lady-Marian-Alford%2C-www.ashridgehouse.org.uk%2C-Photographer-Credits%2C-Georgie-Josh-Photography.jpg)
