Choosing your bridal prep venue

As a bride, your wedding venue is one of the most important choices for your big day. There are so many things to consider – location, style, indoors or outdoors. As a wedding hair and make up artist I get to see some of the most beautiful wedding venues in Kent , everything from historic castles to quirky beachside homes.

Whilst many brides might fall in love with a venue to have their wedding day at , a lot of brides struggle when it comes to choosing where to get ready. Here are some important factors to consider when looking for your bridal prep venue and some things that you might not have even thought about…..

At your venue

By far the easiest and most simple of all the options is to get ready at your venue. A lot of venues have a private space for the bridal party to get ready and some can even offer you the option to stay with them the night before hand. Cooling Castle Barn offers you an entire large and spacious room , exclusive for you and your bridal party on the morning of the wedding. It means that you have the perfect backdrop for those all important bridal prep shots and enough space for everyone to relax and enjoy the morning with you. They even provide breakfast and are always on hand should you need anything.

Another great thing to consider about getting ready at your venue is that you don’t have to travel. There’s no need to allow any additional time for getting from one place to the next and no risk of getting stuck in traffic. Goodnestone Park offer their couples exclusive use of their fabulous venue and grounds meaning that not only can you stay on site, but your guests can too.

Local hotel or accommodation

Some brides choose to stay at a hotel the night before their big day. Hotels such as Hempstead House  mean that you can include spa options for a real relaxing treat the night before the big day. This is an ideal option if you want a chilled out evening with your bridesmaids and a bit of a pamper!

One of my favorite ‘hotel’ type options is the fabulous Green Farm House, this boutique B & B is filled with the most welcoming, warm, and attentive staff.  Its also home to some of the coolest looking chickens too! Nothing is too much trouble and the grounds and garden are perfect for your pre-ceremony photo opportunities.

Air B & B

I have been to some of the most beautiful hidden gems across Kent in the form of Air B & B rentals. Private hire means that often you can rent a house for an entire weekend. A great way to get the family together and perfect if you want to settle somewhere for more than just one night.

At home

If you’re a traditional at heart then maybe you want to leave from your parent’s house on your wedding morning, or even your own home. There’s certainly something special about being at the place where you grew up or the home that you love on the morning of your wedding day. For lots of brides being in their own surroundings help to relieve any stress and makes everything a little less overwhelming. Just remember to organise yourself with some breakfast so you’re fully prepared!

When it comes to your wedding hair and make up I can set up pretty much anywhere but the more space the better, and the more comfortable you’ll be. If you’re in a hotel then make sure you ask for a larger or family room so there’s plenty of space. If you’re getting ready for me to arrive at home then it’s ideal for me to be able to sit near a window so I have lots of natural light.

If you’re getting married in Kent and want some advice on finding the perfect venue to get ready at then let me know and I can happily offer some suggestions!