Yes to I do

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 TakeawaysThe 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 DoYes 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 TouchTo find out more about Coton House Farm or to book a show round:Website: www.cotonhousefarm.comIf you enjoyed this episode, hit subscribe and share it with anyone planning their big day.

In this episode of Yes to I Do, hosts Lydia and Lauren share their top tips for creating a calm, organised and enjoyable wedding morning. Drawing on their experience at Coton House Farm, they discuss everything from choosing the right people to be around you, planning hair and makeup, and creating the right atmosphere, to avoiding common last-minute stresses. They also explain why preparation suites, timelines and a few thoughtful details can help couples start one of the biggest days of their lives feeling relaxed rather than overwhelmed.Key TakeawaysThe People Around You Matter: A calm wedding morning isn't just about good planning—it's about surrounding yourself with people who help you feel relaxed and supported. Don't feel obliged to include everyone if you would prefer a quieter start to your day.Preparation Reduces Stress: Booking hair and makeup trials, listening to your suppliers' advice and creating a realistic morning timeline can prevent unnecessary pressure and help everything run more smoothly.Create the Right Atmosphere: Music, breakfast, snacks and a comfortable preparation space all contribute to setting the tone for the day. Small touches can make a big difference to everyone's mood.Think Beyond the Ceremony: Reserving seats for the bridal party, ensuring decorations are organised and double-checking essentials such as the wedding rings can prevent avoidable last-minute panic.Make the Morning Personal: Whether it's having a first look with your dad, siblings or bridal party, choosing who joins you while getting ready or putting together an emergency kit, the morning should reflect what makes you feel happiest and most comfortable.Key Moments"Sometimes it's not a planning issue—it's the people around you that make the biggest difference.""Always have a hair and makeup trial. If you don't like it, you can change it before the big day.""A little playlist goes a long way—it helps set the mood and eases the nerves.""The wedding morning should be about creating the right vibe for you—not what everyone else expects."About Coton House FarmSet in the stunning Staffordshire countryside, Coton House Farm is an exclusive, luxury wedding barn venue designed for couples seeking a magical and unforgettable celebration. With beautifully restored barns, scenic outdoor spaces, and flexible layouts, it offers a seamless experience from morning preparations in The Stables to a breathtaking ceremony and lively reception. Whether you choose an elegant indoor setting or a picturesque outdoor backdrop, Coton House Farm provides the perfect setting for your dream wedding, filled with romance and charm.Connect with Coton House FarmWebsite: https://www.cotonhousefarm.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cotonhousefarm/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@cotonhousefarmFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/Cotonhousefarmweddingvenue/Pinterest: https://uk.pinterest.com/cotonhousefarm/X: https://x.com/cotonhousefarm

In this episode of Yes to I Do, the team at Coton House Farm answer some of the most frequently asked questions they receive from couples planning their wedding. From choosing the right package and understanding venue access to accommodating dogs, booking registrars and working with suppliers, they share practical advice that helps remove the uncertainty from wedding planning. Packed with real-life examples and plenty of humour, this episode is an essential guide for couples wanting to feel confident and organised before the big day.Key TakeawaysUnderstand Your Venue Package: Take time to compare what each package includes. Consider access times, catering options and the overall style of the day to find the package that best suits your wedding vision.Book Your Registrar Early: After securing your venue, booking your registrar should be one of your first priorities. Leaving it too late could mean missing your preferred ceremony time.Use Your Wedding Coordinator: Your coordinator is there to simplify the planning process, answer questions, coordinate suppliers and make sure every detail comes together smoothly. Don't be afraid to ask for guidance.Communicate with Suppliers: From arrival times and parking to catering and entertainment, good communication with suppliers helps avoid unnecessary stress and ensures everyone knows what to expect on the day.No Question Is Too Small: Whether it's bringing your dog, accommodating accessibility needs or asking about parking and accommodation, asking questions early helps avoid surprises and gives you confidence throughout the planning process.Key Moments"We've probably heard almost every wedding question imaginable—and if we haven't, we'll always find the answer for you.""Book your venue, then book your registrar. That's one thing you really don't want to leave until later.""Your wedding coordinator is there to make the whole process feel simpler, not more stressful.""There really is no such thing as a silly question when you're planning your wedding." About Coton House FarmSet in the stunning Staffordshire countryside, Coton House Farm is an exclusive, luxury wedding barn venue designed for couples seeking a magical and unforgettable celebration. With beautifully restored barns, scenic outdoor spaces, and flexible layouts, it offers a seamless experience from morning preparations in The Stables to a breathtaking ceremony and lively reception. Whether you choose an elegant indoor setting or a picturesque outdoor backdrop, Coton House Farm provides the perfect setting for your dream wedding, filled with romance and charm.Connect with Coton House FarmWebsite: https://www.cotonhousefarm.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cotonhousefarm/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@cotonhousefarmFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/Cotonhousefarmweddingvenue/Pinterest: https://uk.pinterest.com/cotonhousefarm/X: https://x.com/cotonhousefarm

In this episode of Yes to I Do, the team are back in the cosy indoor ceremony barn for a conversation that affects every couple and every guest - the thorny topic of wedding gifts.From how much to spend and whether hidden guest costs should change the calculation, to the great wedding registry debate and the best way to ask for cash without it feeling awkward, Lydia, Louisa, James and Ed talk through it all with their usual mix of honesty, banter and the occasional detour via IKEA meatballs and Isle of Wight donkeys.Key TakeawaysHidden guest costs are real and they are worth factoring in.Accommodation, taxis, bridesmaid dresses, hair and makeup - all of these add up quickly. A bottle of bubbly is a completely reasonable gift if you have already spent hundreds just to be there.The wedding registry divides opinion, even in the wedding industry.Lydia sees the logic but finds it morally uncomfortable. Louisa cannot be persuaded. The consensus is that if you do one, keep the price range broad and make sure there is something on there for everyone.Sometimes saying nothing is the best strategy.People who love you will ask what you want. And if they do not ask, they will still bring something. The card box at Coton House Farm has never been empty yet.Couples can trust that their gifts are safe at the venue.The lockable post box and secure gift cabinet mean nothing gets lost, damaged or mysteriously light on the way home. And yes - someone has almost certainly tried to get a hand in a post box somewhere.Key Moments"Your presence is enough - but cash is even more.""I'd rather say nothing and risk not getting anything than have to ask.""99% of couples ask for money. The times have changed.""Someone, somewhere in the world, has definitely stolen from a card box. I hope they feel horrible.""We've got to stop talking about food."About Yes to I DoYes 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.About Coton House FarmSet in the stunning Staffordshire countryside, Coton House Farm is an exclusive, luxury wedding barn venue designed for couples seeking a magical and unforgettable celebration. With beautifully restored barns, scenic outdoor spaces, and flexible layouts, it offers a seamless experience from morning preparations in The Stables to a breathtaking ceremony and lively reception. Whether you choose an elegant indoor setting or a picturesque outdoor backdrop, Coton House Farm provides the perfect setting for your dream wedding, filled with romance and charm.Connect with Coton House FarmWebsite: https://www.cotonhousefarm.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cotonhousefarm/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@cotonhousefarmFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/Cotonhousefarmweddingvenue/Pinterest: https://uk.pinterest.com/cotonhousefarm/X: https://x.com/cotonhousefarm

In this episode of Yes to I Do, the team are back in the cosy ceremony barn with the fire on to tackle a topic that affects every wedding - what guests should actually wear. From day guest attire to the trickier question of evening dress codes, the conversation covers the unwritten rules, the common mistakes and the small details that can make all the difference between feeling confident and feeling underdressed.Along the way the team debate sage green, satin dresses, polo shirts, socks with shoes, abandoned heels on the lawn and exactly how a couple should communicate their dress code without it feeling like a demand.Key TakeawaysBridesmaid colours are the one thing couples should always share. Guests turning up in the same colour as the bridal party can feel mortified. A quiet heads up about bridesmaid colours avoids any awkward clashes on the day.Evening dress codes are far more confusing without guidance. Without a steer, guests might turn up in jeans and a top while day guests are in cocktail dresses. A little direction helps everyone feel appropriately dressed.Satin is beautiful but risky for UK weddings. It shows sweat, marks easily and turns champagne coloured dresses into polka dot dresses in the rain. A sturdier fabric is a safer bet for both bridesmaids and male shirts.The venue and season should guide guest choices. A countryside barn wedding suits boots and warmer autumnal tones, while a hotel setting calls for something classier. Invitations and stationery colours often hint at the palette to avoid.Comfort matters as much as style for the evening. Heels frequently get abandoned on the lawn and forgotten for weeks. Flats or a pair of flip flops in the bag can save guests from a barefoot dance floor.Key Moments"Guest outfits are quite top tier now - people are going all out because it's a special occasion.""If it rains and you're in your champagne satin dress, it's now a polka dot champagne satin dress.""Don't go barefoot - imagine all the shoes that have been on that dance floor."About Yes to I DoYes 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.About Coton House FarmSet in the stunning Staffordshire countryside, Coton House Farm is an exclusive, luxury wedding barn venue designed for couples seeking a magical and unforgettable celebration. With beautifully restored barns, scenic outdoor spaces, and flexible layouts, it offers a seamless experience from morning preparations in The Stables to a breathtaking ceremony and lively reception. Whether you choose an elegant indoor setting or a picturesque outdoor backdrop, Coton House Farm provides the perfect setting for your dream wedding, filled with romance and charm.Connect with Coton House FarmWebsite: https://www.cotonhousefarm.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cotonhousefarm/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@cotonhousefarmFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/Cotonhousefarmweddingvenue/Pinterest: https://uk.pinterest.com/cotonhousefarm/X: https://x.com/cotonhousefarm

In this episode of Yes to I Do, host Lydia is joined by wedding coordinators Louisa and Lauren for a slightly different kind of episode - one that puts the team themselves in the spotlight.As well as breaking down what makes Coton House Farm such a special place to get married, the three of them share how they each ended up in wedding coordination - from trainee police officer to Burton Albion events team to Southeast Asia and back. There is also a behind-the-scenes look at how a wedding day flows through the venue.Key TakeawaysExclusive use changes the whole feel of a wedding day.No strangers wandering in, no other wedding parties, no golfers being held up for photos. Couples have the entire venue to themselves from arrival to the last dance.The room reveal is one of the most popular options for a reason.Keeping the main barn closed until after the ceremony means the couple see it together for the first time - just the two of them, with a drink waiting and five minutes to breathe before the rest of the day begins.The Twilight package suits a different kind of couple entirely.No seating plan, no formal speeches required, no day and evening guest divide. It works brilliantly for relaxed couples, busy lives, second marriages and anyone who just wants to do something a bit different.Transparent pricing saves everyone time.All pricing is on the website. The team encourage couples to do their research online first and only book a show round when they already feel a connection - because traipsing around 100 venues helps nobody.The family feel is not just a selling point - it is genuinely how it works.Coton House Farm is a family business with the family on site. Couples pick up on that atmosphere from the moment they arrive, and it shapes everything from how show rounds feel to how wedding days are run.Key Moments"I slid the scrapbook across the table and said, look at this - I've done my homework." - Louisa on her interview"Some people get starstruck on show rounds - I saw someone the other day and they were like, you do the podcast!""If you like the team, you want us to run your wedding. That's really what it comes down to."About Yes to I DoYes 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 TouchTo find out more about Coton House Farm or to book a show round:Website: www.cotonhousefarm.comIf you enjoyed this episode, hit subscribe and share it with anyone planning their big day.

In this episode of Yes to I Do, hosts Lydia and Darren are joined by team members Lisa and Izzy to talk through one of the most exciting developments at Coton House Farm - the expansion of their in-house catering offering, Lugh & Paddy’s.What began as a street food concept for the Twilight package has grown into a full catering option for luxury day weddings too. The team walk through the new menu in detail, from low-and-slow smoked meats served on sharing boards to smoked pies, jacket potatoes in mess tins, and a bruschetta bar. The conversation is full of genuine enthusiasm, a few food debates, and plenty of reasons why informal, sharing-style food can make a wedding feel like a real celebration.Key TakeawaysListening to couples drives everything.The Lugh & Paddy’s concept was born from couples telling the team they wanted something between a traditional three-course meal and a basic buffet. The expansion into the luxury package follows that same logic - couples want more choice, more informality, and more interaction.Sharing food creates connection.The menu is deliberately designed to get people talking. Large boards of smoked meats, sharing platters and communal add-ons all encourage guests to engage with each other - especially useful for mixed tables where people may not know one another.The Twilight package now has three main options.Couples can now choose between the original pizza, hot dogs and nachos, smoked pie with chips and mushy peas or smoked beans, or jacket potatoes with a choice of fillings. All three options are included for 50 guests and each brings the same slow-smoked flavour and hearty feel.The luxury package gets the full Lou and Paddies experience.Couples on the luxury day package can now opt for Lugh & Paddy’s as their main meal - think joints of smoked meat, sausages, burnt ends, corn on the cob and coleslaw brought to the table on big boards. It is soul food done properly, with vegetarian options including smoked cauliflower steak and stuffed peppers.Food and drink are the foundation of a great wedding.The team return to a core belief - feed and water your guests well and everything else falls into place. The venue matters less than the experience, and the experience lives or dies by the food.Key Moments"It's like a big Sunday dinner coming to your table on a board - and that starts conversations.""Feed and water your guests well. You can have your wedding anywhere, but that's the golden rule.""We're always evolving. That's just how we work."About Yes to I DoYes to I Do is the podcast from Coton House Farm for couples planning their perfect wedding. Hosted by Lydia alongside the wider 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.About Coton House FarmSet in the stunning Staffordshire countryside, Coton House Farm is an exclusive, luxury wedding barn venue designed for couples seeking a magical and unforgettable celebration. With beautifully restored barns, scenic outdoor spaces, and flexible layouts, it offers a seamless experience from morning preparations in The Stables to a breathtaking ceremony and lively reception. Whether you choose an elegant indoor setting or a picturesque outdoor backdrop, Coton House Farm provides the perfect setting for your dream wedding, filled with romance and charm.Connect with Coton House FarmWebsite: https://www.cotonhousefarm.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cotonhousefarm/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@cotonhousefarmFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/Cotonhousefarmweddingvenue/Pinterest: https://uk.pinterest.com/cotonhousefarm/X: https://x.com/cotonhousefarm

In this episode of Yes to I Do, host Lydia Wakefield is joined by co-hosts Louisa, Meg and Maggie for a lively (and slightly controversial) discussion all about wedding favours.Recorded in Rolo, one of Coton House Farm’s cosy preparation suites, the team dive into the big question: are wedding favours worth it? From personalised messages and scratch cards to drinks tokens and keyrings, no option is left undiscussed.With honest opinions, practical venue insight and plenty of laughter, this episode helps couples decide whether favours are a meaningful touch, a practical addition - or an unnecessary expense.Key TakeawaysFavours aren’t essential.While some couples love including them, others feel they’re not a must-have. If budget is tight, this may be an area you can rethink.Practical favours work best.If guests can use it – like a drinks token or edible treat - it’s less likely to be left behind.Drinks tokens over bar tabs.Tokens help control budget, avoid awkward over-spending and ensure everyone gets the same opportunity to enjoy a drink.Scratch cards are a fun interactive option.They create a moment at the table and can even be adapted so each table has a winner.Personalised messages feel meaningful.Handwritten notes or thoughtful keepsakes can be incredibly special - but be prepared for the time commitment.Edible favours need planning.Always check allergies and ensure ingredients are clearly labelled to avoid last-minute removal by catering teams.Keyrings divide opinion.They’re cost-effective and look lovely on the day - but they’re also one of the most commonly left-behind favours.Whatever you choose, do it for you.Favours are personal. There will always be some left behind, so choose something you genuinely love.Key Moments“Favours shouldn’t feel like a waste of money - choose something people will actually use.”“Everyone loves a free drink.”“If you’re doing edible favours, check allergies first.”“You can’t make 100% of people happy - so make yourselves happy.”“Don’t let our opinion put you off your keyrings!”About Coton House FarmNestled 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 through every detail - from table styling to bar tabs and everything in between.Connect with Coton House FarmWebsite: https://www.cotonhousefarm.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cotonhousefarm/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@cotonhousefarmFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/Cotonhousefarmweddingvenue/Pinterest: https://uk.pinterest.com/cotonhousefarm/X: https://x.com/cotonhousefarm

In this episode of Yes to I Do, host Lydia Wakefield sits down with Brett James (Brett James Photography) to talk about how couples can choose the right wedding photographer — not just based on style and price, but on personality, trust and how comfortable you feel on the day. Brett shares how he got into weddings, why “vibing” with your photographer is everything, how he keeps couples relaxed (especially those who hate being photographed), and his honest take on things like second shooters, albums, first looks, engagement shoots, drones and guest cameras.Key TakeawaysYour photographer’s personality matters as much as their portfolio.Brett’s biggest advice: speak to photographers properly (video call or in person). People can market themselves brilliantly online, but the real test is whether you feel at ease with them — because your photographer is with you all day and can genuinely influence how the day feels.Meet a few photographers — and book the one you “vibe” with.Brett says (even though it’s “terrible for business”) that couples should speak to a few photographers and choose the one they connect with most. If you’re not comfortable, you’ll tense up — and that shows in photos.Transparency reduces stress: prices, approach and FAQs should be clear upfront.He’s a big believer in putting prices and details online so couples can quickly see if it’s a good fit. It saves awkward conversations and helps couples plan within their budget.Group photos don’t have to take over the day — speed is your friend.Brett aims to get group shots done quickly so couples can get back to enjoying welcome drinks and chatting to guests. He also points out that while couples may not care about every group photo, parents and grandparents often treasure them for life.Rain isn’t a deal-breaker — it’s about timing and flexibility.His mindset is practical: in the UK, rain usually breaks. He’ll use covered areas, shoot under archways, or grab quick outdoor moments when the weather eases — even if it means dashing out for “four seconds” to get the shot.Previews the next day keep the wedding buzz alive.Brett often sends previews within 24 hours so couples have professional images to share (instead of a blurry iPad photo!), and he also likes to support other suppliers by sharing great images they can post while the wedding “bubble” is still high.Best Moments“Meet up with a few more photographers… and if you vibe with them better than you vibe with me, then book them.”“People are really good at selling themselves… and that’s not always who they are.”“I only work with people who put photography near the top of the list… if I’m an afterthought, I don’t want to work with them.”“There’s always a break in the rain… it doesn’t rain all day.”“Nothing beats a physical copy… it’s a great investment.”“Everyone please leave the room… let the dad have his moment.”“I don’t want my couples changing their profile picture to something their auntie’s taken on her iPad.”About Coton House FarmSet in the stunning Staffordshire countryside, Coton House Farm is an exclusive, luxury wedding barn venue designed for couples seeking a magical and unforgettable celebration. With beautifully restored barns, scenic outdoor spaces, and flexible layouts, it offers a seamless experience from morning preparations in The Stables to a breathtaking ceremony and lively reception. Whether you choose an elegant indoor setting or a picturesque outdoor backdrop, Coton House Farm provides the perfect setting for your dream wedding, filled with romance and charm.Connect with Coton House FarmWebsite: https://www.cotonhousefarm.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cotonhousefarm/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@cotonhousefarmFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/Cotonhousefarmweddingvenue/Pinterest: https://uk.pinterest.com/cotonhousefarm/X: https://x.com/cotonhousefarm