In this episode of Yes to I Do, Lydia and Lauren sit down for a practical and reassuring conversation about the one week that couples fear most - the seven days before the wedding.
From last minute guest drop-outs and weather obsessing to beauty prep, food safety and the very real chance you will not sleep the night before, the pair share what they have seen from the venue side and what they genuinely wish every couple knew before that final countdown begins.
Key Takeaways
The final week feels intense because unexpected things crop up - not because you have failed to plan.
Everything seems to be in hand and then suddenly it is not. Accepting that surprises will happen, rather than expecting a smooth run, is the first step to keeping your head.
Stop trying to control the things you cannot control.
Weather tops the list. Every forecast says something different, rain can still make for a beautiful day and burying a sausage in the garden apparently works - just not at the venue, for obvious reasons.
Leave your suppliers alone - they know what they are doing.
A check-in email two weeks out is fine for peace of mind, but after that, trust the process. They have done this before and they will show up.
Delegate early and delegate properly.
Give each person in the bridal party a specific task. It keeps them occupied, makes them feel involved and - crucially - it means they are less likely to be in your ear asking if there is anything they can do.
Accept that you probably will not sleep the night before - and that is fine.
Do not spiral into worrying about being tired on top of being nervous. Every couple arrives exhausted and every wedding still turns out well. It always does.
Key Moments
\"Don't panic. That is our advice. So easy for us to say.\"
\"Bury a sausage - just not here. The cattle will have it.\"
\"Do not eat any chicken the night before. I mean it.\"
\"Take your own pillow. And your teddy bear. We're admitting a lot today.\"
\"It always turns out well. Always, always, always.\"
About Yes to I Do
Yes to I Do is the podcast from Coton House Farm for couples planning their perfect wedding. Hosted by Lydia and the team, each episode covers everything from food and drink to styling, planning tips and real wedding insights.
The goal is simple - to help couples feel confident, informed and excited at every stage of their wedding journey.
How to Get in Touch
To find out more about Coton House Farm or to book a show round:
Website: www.cotonhousefarm.com
If you enjoyed this episode, hit subscribe and share it with anyone planning their big day.
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