Barns that lack a ‘getting ready’ space
Have you considered where you are going to get ready when coordinating a barn wedding? Some barns have amazing spaces but many barns do not offer enough space for getting ready. Ask before you book what extra facilities are available to prepare for your wedding. Ask about nearby options, like hotels, B&Bs, etc., if the facility is not on-site. Couples who plan to change their outfits on the wedding day will need to consider this. The flow of the day will be disrupted if you leave your wedding and rush to another venue to change.
Hidden costs
The cost of a dry-hire barn wedding will be lower than other venues, as it may not include the standard facilities that are included with most other venues. When booking a barn venue, you will need to consider portable bathrooms, kitchen facilities, heating and air conditioning, as well as the availability of your hospitality team. For a Barn Wedding Venue Kent, visit //theploughatleigh.com/barn-wedding-venue-kent/
You will have a blank slate to decorate in dry-hire barns, which is exciting. However, you may also need to hire additional items, such as linen, tables, chairs and cutlery. These extras can quickly make what seemed affordable within your wedding budget parameters spiral out of control. Ask for the full breakdown of all the costs and look into the facilities that you might need to purchase separately.
No option for ‘British weather’
In case it rains, make sure your barn offers an indoor option for the ceremony. We have to accept that summer in the UK could be rainy. Your options on the day will be limited if you choose a barn venue that does not offer an alternative option for rain. If the weather is good, you can have a ceremony outside followed by a drinks reception outdoors before moving to the barn for your wedding breakfast and evening celebration. It sounds great! If it rains, the wet option would be an indoor ceremony with a soggy drinks reception outside while your ceremony room is being converted into your reception space.
Noise
If you are in a rural area, check to see if the surrounding areas have any restrictions on residential noise. It works both directions! Ask about the noises from nearby tractors, farm equipment and livestock if you are in a field. All of these things can have a real impact on your day if they are happening on a farm. It is important to speak with the owner to make sure if this is a concern. Don’t let a potential obstacle stop you from having your dream barn wedding. A bottle of wine, or an agreed-upon fee for a tractor-free event would be a great incentive.