In this episode of Yes to I Do, host Lydia Wakefield is joined by co-host Meg and newly married couple Sam and Lauren, who tied the knot at Coton House Farm in November. Recorded in Rolo - the venue’s beautiful preparation suite - the conversation dives into their venue search, winter wedding magic and how they planned their day in just 10 months.
From secret singers to lasagne wedding breakfasts and a raw Cumberland sausage buried in the garden for good weather (yes, really), this episode is packed with personality, organisation tips and honest reflections on planning a wedding that truly reflects you as a couple.
With laughter, behind-the-scenes insight and plenty of practical advice, Sam and Lauren share why trusting your gut, planning early and staying true to your vibe makes all the difference.
Key Takeaways
Go with the feeling.
You can look at multiple venues, but when it’s the one, you’ll know. For Sam and Lauren, it was the cosy winter atmosphere and instant connection to the space.
Winter weddings have their own magic.
Log burners, twinkly lights, blankets, sparklers and early sunsets create a cosy, romantic atmosphere and November guests tend to come prepared with coats.
Plan early and stay organised.
With just 10 months to plan, Lauren’s structured timeline and early supplier bookings made the whole process smooth and stress-free.
Entertainment creates atmosphere.
From a live ceremony singer and pianist to a magician, secret singing waiter and live band, their day felt like a full production - and guests loved it.
Don’t be afraid to do something different with food.
A hearty lasagne wedding breakfast felt personal, seasonal and memorable - proving you don’t have to stick to traditional options.
Build moments into your timeline.
Going table-to-table after the entrance for quick photos ensured they captured memories with every guest without losing momentum in the day.
Trust your coordinators.
Having an experienced team guiding the timeline means you can relax and enjoy the day - even if you’re a self-confessed “Type A bride”.
Key Moments
“It really is like a feeling when you walk into the right venue.”
“I couldn’t face a long engagement because I was too excited.”
“Is he here?” - the secret singer moment that had guests convinced a waiter had fallen over.
“We buried a raw Cumberland sausage in the garden for good weather - and it worked.”
“You can never please 100% of people, but you can 100% please yourself.”
About Coton House Farm
Nestled in the Staffordshire countryside, Coton House Farm is an exclusive luxury wedding barn venue offering couples a relaxed yet refined setting for their big day. With beautifully restored barns, scenic outdoor ceremony spaces and a dedicated coordination team, the venue supports couples from their first show round through to the final dance – helping bring every vision to life, whatever the season.
Connect with Coton House Farm
Website: https://www.cotonhousefarm.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cotonhousefarm/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@cotonhousefarm
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Cotonhousefarmweddingvenue/
Pinterest: https://uk.pinterest.com/cotonhousefarm/
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