NEW Bride: “Planning My Dream Manor House Wedding!”
Planning My Dream Wedding at a Manor House: Tips, Tricks, and Why I Chose De Courceys Manor
If you’re reading this, you’re probably just like me—a newly engaged bride with dreams of a magical manor house wedding. After experiencing my fair share of excitement (and a few jitters), I quickly dove into the world of planning. I always pictured myself walking down the aisle in a beautiful, historic setting with that “wow” factor that only a manor house can provide. The search for the right venue was a journey, but I’m thrilled to say I found my perfect match at De Courceys Manor in South Wales. Here’s what I learned along the way, along with tips for finding your own fairy-tale venue!
The Allure of a Manor House Wedding Venue
Manor houses have this timeless beauty that brings a touch of elegance and romance to any wedding. With their rich histories, and lush gardens, they make the perfect backdrop for a wedding that feels like stepping into a fairy tale. For me, a manor house setting captured everything I envisioned—a classic atmosphere, beautiful grounds, and just the right blend of vintage charm and modern luxury.
Tip: Before you start booking tours, jot down what’s most important to you and your partner in a venue. This will help narrow down the options and make the decision process smoother.
Finding “The One”: Searching for a Manor House Wedding Venue
When searching for the ideal manor house wedding venue, I quickly realised there were several factors I needed to consider. It’s easy to fall in love with a beautiful building, but making sure it aligns with your vision, guest count, and budget is key. I kept three main priorities in mind: exclusivity, service quality, and ambiance.
I wanted a venue that felt private and personal—a place that was just for us and our guests on our special day. I also valued great service, knowing that I’d need a team who could bring my vision to life. Lastly, I wanted that “wow” factor, a venue with personality, beauty, and a story.
Top Tips for Choosing a Manor House Wedding Venue
After a lot of research, emails, and visits, I discovered some valuable tips that helped me (and can hopefully help you too!) find a perfect match.
- Consider Exclusivity
One of the first questions I asked on every tour was about exclusivity. Some venues book multiple events at once, but I wanted a space that was fully dedicated to us for the day. De Courceys Manor stood out because they offer exclusive use of the entire property. Knowing that the whole venue was ours added a level of intimacy that was hard to find elsewhere. - Look at Ceremony and Reception Options
Manor houses often offer both indoor and outdoor spaces, so it’s a good idea to check out both if you’re unsure. I was thrilled that De Courceys had a beautiful indoor option and a picturesque garden setting—ideal for our civil ceremony. With both spaces available, we had options regardless of the weather, which is a must in South Wales! - Assess the Capacity and Layout
I knew that our guest count would be around 100, so finding a venue that could comfortably host our group was essential. During our tour at De Courceys, the event coordinator helped us envision where everything would take place, from the ceremony to the reception, and even our photo opportunities. If you’re still unsure, ask for a mock setup so you can get a real feel for the space.
De Courceys Manor: My Dream Manor House Wedding Venue
After touring a few places, De Courceys Manor stole my heart. Located near Cardiff, it offers the charm of a classic manor house with all the modern amenities we needed. It felt like an exclusive hideaway, with beautifully landscaped grounds and gorgeous buildings. The manor offers a perfect balance of luxury and warmth, making it feel both elegant and inviting.
Unique Features That Made De Courceys Stand Out
One of the things I loved about De Courceys was how customisable it was. Their packages catered to different preferences, from intimate gatherings to larger celebrations. And being so flexible meant we could personalise every detail to reflect our vision.
Another standout was their food! The chefs source fresh ingredients to create incredible dishes. Reading their reviews, we just know that our guests would be treated to an amazing dining experience, it’s a big plus for us.
Touring the Venue: A Must-Do for Every Bride
I can’t stress enough how important it is to tour your top venues in person. Pictures are helpful, but nothing compares to the feeling you get when you step inside. During my tour at De Courceys, I could picture every detail of our day—from the grand entrance to the lush outdoor spaces where our photos would be taken.
The team were wonderful, answering all our questions and offering ideas I hadn’t considered. We could tell they genuinely cared about creating a magical day for us. If you’re planning your own wedding, don’t skip the venue tour.
A Few Extras to Keep in Mind
When choosing a manor house venue, it’s helpful to think about the extra details that can enhance your experience:
- Accommodations: Check if the venue has nearby accommodations for guests or on-site suites for the bride and groom. De Courceys Manor offers luxurious wedding accommodation, perfect for getting ready in the morning and for a great night’s sleep!
- Weather Plans: South Wales weather can be unpredictable, so having a backup plan for outdoor ceremonies is essential. De Courceys’ indoor space offers a beautiful alternative if needed.
- Photography Spots: Manor houses are perfect for romantic photos, but take a walk around the property to find the best backdrops. De Courceys has endless spots, from garden paths to the charming façade of the manor itself.
Why De Courceys Is “The One” for Us
In the end, it was the personal touches and dedication of the team that made De Courceys the clear choice. From the start, I felt supported, heard, and inspired – I can’t wait for our big day! They genuinely want our wedding to be perfect and offered insights and suggestions we hadn’t even thought about. Knowing our wedding will be in such capable hands gives me peace of mind.
The exclusive atmosphere, elegant spaces, and focus on high-quality food aligns perfectly with our vision. I couldn’t be happier with our choice and am so excited to see everything come together on our special day.
Final Thoughts for Other Brides-to-Be
Finding a manor house wedding venue that feels right is a journey, but it’s worth every step. De Courceys Manor offers everything I was looking for: exclusivity, elegance, flexibility, and a fantastic team to support us. If you’re on the same journey, I hope my tips help you find your perfect venue.
Good Luck!
Mrs Gallway-to-be
Ready to start planning your dream wedding? Request a brochure from De Courceys Manor or book a tour to see why this venue could be the perfect setting for your wedding day.
Here’s to finding your dream venue and celebrating a wedding that’s everything you’ve ever imagined! 🥂
