Yes to I do

In this episode of Yes to I Do, host Lydia Wakefield is joined once again by the coordination team at Coton House Farm to tackle one of the very first - and often most emotionally charged - wedding planning decisions: who to invite.Recorded outside on the barbecue patio area (where guests can enjoy pre-ceremony drinks and evening food), the team dive into the realities of guest list politics. From venue capacities and budget restrictions to colleagues, children and plus ones.With real-life stories, practical advice and plenty of laughter, this episode reminds couples that while guest lists can feel like a battle in your brain, your wedding day should reflect your priorities - not other people’s expectations.Key TakeawaysStart with your numbers.Your guest list impacts everything - venue choice, catering costs, décor, drinks and overall budget. You can’t make major decisions without at least a rough idea of guest numbers.Venue and budget restrictions matter.Some venues have minimums and maximums, and every additional 10 guests can significantly increase costs once you factor in food, drinks and styling.Don’t invite out of obligation.Whether it’s colleagues, distant relatives or your boss, don’t feel pressured. If you wouldn’t go for coffee with them, reconsider whether they need a daytime invite.Day vs evening guests is completely normal.Evening invitations are not a downgrade. Many guests are simply grateful to be included - especially with weekday weddings becoming more common.Children at weddings are personal preference.Child-free, close family children only, or everyone’s children - there is no universal rule. Think about the atmosphere you want and what feels authentic to you as a couple.Be realistic about little ones in the bridal party.Children under four can find the aisle overwhelming. If you include them, stay relaxed and flexible – sometimes the unplanned moments become the most memorable.Plus ones require balance.Long-term partners often feel like a natural inclusion, but budget plays a role. Consider whether the guest will know others and feel comfortable without a plus one.Keep a reserve list.If numbers are tight, have a backup list. Guests sometimes decline, and this gives you flexibility without stretching your budget from the start.You have to be a little selfish.It’s one of the first big decisions you make as a couple. Stand your ground and remember – it’s your day.Key Moments“If you added ten more people, that could genuinely cost you nearly a thousand pounds.”“If you wouldn’t go for coffee with them, maybe rethink the daytime invite.”“Don’t feel obligated to invite someone just because you’re related.”“Sometimes it’s like a battle in your brain – who am I going to upset?”“If someone is prepared to fall out with you over an invite, they probably shouldn’t have had one.”“We just need to win the lottery and invite everyone.”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 is designed to support couples from planning through to the final dance - helping navigate everything from guest lists to last-minute changes with calm, experience and care.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 Meg, Maggie and Louisa (out on the BBQ patio at Coton House Farm, complete with birdsong and Rob strimming in the background) to talk through five wedding “non-negotiables” couples should prioritise when planning and budgeting. From food and drinks to capturing the day, entertainment and décor, they share real examples they’ve seen at weddings, plus practical ideas for making each element feel personal without overcomplicating your plans.Key Takeaways1) Food is a must, and it doesn’t have to mean a formal 3-course meal.They all agree that food is one of the biggest “people will remember this” parts of your day. While a traditional starter/main/dessert is still popular, they chat about more relaxed options like grazing tables, sharing starters, and alternatives that keep guests moving and chatting rather than sitting for hours.2) Drinks matter, think about flow, flexibility and what your guests actually like.They recommend making sure guests are looked after from arrival through to the key moments. They discuss venue drink packages (and bespoke options), plus thoughtful extras like drinks in the prep suites, kid-friendly options, and personal touches (like a couple adding Guinness because it was “their” drink).3) Capturing the day is a non-negotiable, and it can go beyond a photographer.They talk about photography as essential, but also mention ways to capture the evening once the photographer has left: disposable cameras, Polaroid guest books, QR-code upload apps for guest pics, videographers, drones, and even a relative filming on a classic camcorder.4) Entertainment isn’t just music; it’s anything that keeps energy up.They cover DJs and bands (and how couples love being able to personalise playlists), but also point out low-cost fun: garden games, board games on tables, ring toss, mini golf, even silly interactive challenges that get guests mingling.5) Décor brings your vision to life, but at Coton House Farm, “less is more” can still look stunning.They explain the venue is already beautifully styled (fairy lights, chandeliers, cosy spaces), so couples can go minimal and still get a wow factor, but they’ve also seen all-out themes: pumpkins everywhere, full-size trees in the room, bubble houses, ceiling installations, and seasonal styling (including Christmas trees and even a sleigh!).Best Moments“It’s those bits that people will go away and talk about.”“No one’s judging. You can have as many slices as you want.”“Everyone will remember the food.”“Just because it’s winter, you’re not restricted to just having to stay inside.” 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 Louisa (wedding coordinator) and Alex, one of Coton House Farm’s 2025 brides, who returns to share what her wedding day was really like. Alex talks through her August 2025 Monday wedding (yes, there was a little rain!), her bright-colour floral theme, how she built her guest list, and the suppliers and entertainment that made the day unforgettable,  including live music and a magician. They also play Spend, Save, Skip, covering what Alex splashed out on, where she cut costs, and what she happily did without.Key TakeawaysAlex arrived to some wet weather, but it quickly turned glorious, and she says the day was “perfect” from start to finish. The team also share how having a strong wet-weather plan (like moving confetti indoors) keeps everything flowing without panic.Alex had around 74 day guests and roughly 120 evening guests. Her approach was about comfort; she didn’t want to walk down the aisle in front of people she barely knew, so the day was immediate family, close friends and key people, with the bigger party in the evening.After visiting 7–8 venues, Alex walked down the path at Coton House Farm and instantly felt it was right. She loved the mix of indoor/outdoor options, the overnight accommodation (so no midnight taxis), and the ceremony barn, which reminded her of a little chapel. She also loved seeing the venue evolve during the two-year lead-up, which kept excitement high.Alex deliberately chose several suppliers she’d discovered through the venue’s socials and open days, because people who already work there understand the light, the layout and what works. She still brought in a florist she’d used for years as her non-negotiable, because they knew her style.Planning advice: book your registrar early, and breathe. Alex says the last couple of months can feel stressful as final payments land, but it’s all part of the process, try to enjoy it. Her practical must-do: once your venue is booked, book the registrar straight away because dates go quickly.Best Moments“It was a dream wedding day… from start to finish.”“As soon as I started to walk down the path, I was like… oh, this is a bit of me.”“You have to let it go… there’s nothing you can do about the weather.”“He just fluttered round people… you didn’t even know he was there — then everyone’s laughing going ‘what?!’” (on the magician) 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 once again by the coordination team at Coton House Farm to tackle a controversial but unavoidable wedding topic: bridezillas. Recorded in the Rolo preparation suite, the team explores whether bridezillas really exist, and why the label is often misplaced.Through real-life stories and behind-the-scenes insight, the conversation reveals that most wedding-day challenges stem from family dynamics, supplier influence and last-minute changes rather than the couple themselves. With honesty, humour and practical advice, this episode reassures couples that stress is normal, and that trusting your venue team and sticking to your vision can make all the difference.Key TakeawaysIt’s rarely the bride.Despite the term “bridezilla”, most difficult situations stem from family members, guests or suppliers rather than the couple themselves.Family involvement can complicate planning.Parents often have strong opinions - especially when they are contributing financially - which can sometimes conflict with the couple’s vision.Too many voices can cause confusion.Bringing large groups to venue viewings or appointing multiple decision-makers can lead to missed information and mixed expectations.Last-minute changes have a domino effect.Switching ceremony locations, layouts or timings on the day impacts staffing, catering, suppliers and coordination - even when intentions are good.Suppliers can unintentionally add pressure.Well-meaning suppliers may influence couples without fully understanding venue logistics, health and safety or time constraints.Trust your coordinator.Venue teams know the space, the timings and the contingency plans. Listening to their advice can prevent unnecessary stress and chaos.Keep calm and breathe.From walk-in fridges to quiet moments in the shed, the team shares their toolkit for staying grounded when things go off-plan.Key Moments“People are very quick to say ‘bridezilla’, but actually it’s rarely the bride.”“If you’re paying for something, you feel entitled to an opinion - and that’s where it gets tricky.”“We raise the red flag early so we can put things in place before the day.”“Please don’t leave your décor for us to set up - if you don’t like it, that’s a risk we can’t take.”“Stick to your guns and don’t let other people’s opinions derail your day.”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 is designed to support couples from planning through to the final dance - even when the unexpected happens.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 Maggie, Meg and Louisa in Coton House Farm’s indoor ceremony barn to talk through the big questions every couple should ask their venue, the ones that help you avoid hidden costs, planning headaches and last-minute surprises. From capacity and availability to what’s included in the hire price, wet-weather plans, catering options, access times, guest logistics and styling rules, they share the questions they’re asked most (and the ones couples often forget).Key TakeawaysBefore you fall in love with a space, check that it can hold your numbers and whether your preferred date (or similar alternatives) are actually available. They also flag that prices can vary hugely by season and day of the week.The team stress how important transparency is: some venues add surprise charges for things like staffing, lighting, heating, cake cutting, table linen, napkins, cutlery and glassware. Knowing what’s included upfront makes budgeting far easier and avoids awkward “by the way…” moments later.Their advice is simple: in the UK you can’t guarantee the weather, so make sure your wet-weather option feels just as special. They also talk about covered walkways/canopies helping guests move around without getting drenched, and that some couples choose indoors even in summer for certainty.Find out what food styles are available (formal wedding breakfast vs grazing/buffet vs relaxed evening food), whether the caterers can handle allergies/veggie/vegan properly, and when payments are due, because venue and catering schedules don’t always line up, and that can hit your cash flow.Ask what time you can arrive, what time suppliers can access the venue, any noise/licensing cut-offs, and the venue’s rules on bringing your own alcohol (some don’t allow it at all; others charge corkage).Couples should ask about decorating rules (especially candles, often LED-only), whether you can dress the venue yourself, use an in-house venue dresser, or bring external stylists. They’re all for personal touches — as long as it’s safe and workable.One you might forget: exclusivity and other people on-site. They mention checking whether you have exclusive use, whether there are show rounds earlier in the day, and when the venue becomes fully “yours”.Best Moments“Wedding planning can be a bit of a minefield… It’s sometimes the first time they’ve done this before.”“You don’t go to a bar and buy a drink and pay extra for the straw, the ice and the glass.”“It’s so important that you love both options [outdoor and indoor], because if it rains, you’ll end up inside.”“If the venue’s ticked 9 out of 10 boxes, you know you’re on to a winner.” 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 the coordination team at Coton House Farm once again, as they gather in the main oak barn to discuss one of the trickiest parts of wedding planning: the seating plan. Exploring the importance of seating arrangements, creative table naming, and practical advice for managing guest needs. The team covers how seating plans act as an “organised bible” for the wedding, ensuring every guest is considered - from allergies and children to wheelchair users and high chairs. Whether you’re planning a formal meal or a relaxed grazing table, this episode offers guidance to help couples organise their big day with confidence. Key TakeawaysGuest Management: Collect RSVPs, dietary needs, and preferences early. Highlight under-18s and non-drinkers for appropriate service. Venue Layout: The barn accommodates round tables, straight tables, T-shapes, and sweetheart tables. Top tables can be traditional or personalised. Family Dynamics: Prioritise the couple’s comfort when arranging seating for blended families or divorced parents. Mixing Guests: Mixing guests encourages mingling, but seating friends and family together is also common. Consider language barriers and prior opportunities for guests to meet. Table Plan Displays: Popular options include A1 signs, Polaroids, themed bookshelves, vinyl records, and mirrors with pegs. Finalising Plans: Share seating plans with the venue and caterers as early as possible and communicate any changes promptly. Key Moments“You can still manage allergies and things like that, even with an open seating plan.” “Start small because it can be very overwhelming when you’ve got 80 guests.” “Don’t put too much pressure on yourself to get it perfect.”  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 Meg, Maggie and Louisa to talk directly to couples who got engaged over Christmas and are now thinking: “Right… what do we do next?” They share practical first steps (date, budget, guest numbers and wedding vibe), advice on shortlisting venues without overwhelming yourself, and how to start booking key suppliers in the right order. It’s a reassuring, funny, no-pressure chat designed to help newly-engaged couples feel excited, not stressed, as they start planning.Key TakeawaysBefore you book anything, decide what matters most and how it all links together. Your time of year impacts style (summer/outdoor vs winter/indoor), budget and availability, and guest numbers can quickly change costs.The team recommend doing your homework before you start touring. If you already know you want a barn venue (or a specific style), narrow it down online and then view a short list; otherwise, it can become confusing, overwhelming and hard to compare packages.Work out roles early: who’s the spreadsheet person and who’s the mood-board person? Planning is easier (and more fun) when you decide who’s handling what. Some couples share every task; others split jobs. Either way, having clarity prevents stress later, especially when it comes to logistics like timings and setup.Book in a sensible order and track payment dates. Venue usually comes first, followed by booking your ceremony (registrar or celebrant). After that, priorities vary (dress, photographer, catering, etc.), but the big watch-out is payment schedules: deposits, interim payments and final balances are all different by supplier, so keep a spreadsheet/diary to avoid surprise costs landing at once.Ask smart questions on venue tours. They suggest key tour questions like:If you want an outdoor ceremony, what’s the wet-weather plan and is the indoor option just as nice?What’s included vs not included (so your budget is accurate)?Are there minimum/maximum guest numbers, and what are the timings?Best Moments“The first thing you should do is pop the Prosecco and celebrate.”“If you go to loads of venues… it can be really overwhelming.”“People remember the food… and the drink.”“You have to make sure you like both, outdoor and indoor, because you can’t guarantee the weather. It’s Britain.”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 sits down with coordinators Maggie, Meg and Louisa to look back at the standout weddings of 2025 at Coton House Farm and predict what couples will be loving in 2026. From wildflower-filled barns and glitter ball “disco weddings” to dog-themed table plans and pumpkin-centrepiece autumn days, they share the details that really stuck with them and how social media is shaping what couples choose.Key TakeawaysStandout weddings this year leaned heavily into colour and fun: wildflower-filled spring barns, bright florals, fresh floral cakes, pearls, bows on dresses and even chair backs, plus “year of the disco” glitter ball styling from tiny table confetti to a giant mirror ball centrepiece. Couples increasingly built their whole look around a theme, especially pets. One memorable dog-themed wedding used the couple’s dog and its toys for table names and photos, with dog biscuits and even messages “from” pets who couldn’t be there.2026 predictions: retro glam, monochrome and outfit changes. The team are expecting more retro-inspired black-and-white, black-tie party vibes, sleek hair, and a big comeback for ponytails. Brides changing into a second “after party” outfit, or transforming their look by removing part of the dress, switching into a jumpsuit or even cutting their hair into a bob mid-day, is set to grow. There’s also excitement around new colour stories like berry tones, soft moss greens and bold monochromes, alongside retro-style cakes with thick icing and bright cherries.Standout moments of 2025 at Coton House Farm. The team’s favourites include: a fully pumpkin-themed wedding with mini pumpkins and a pumpkin cake; a couple arriving by helicopter, landing in the field for a dramatic entrance; a full glitter ball “disco wedding”; and a dog dressed in an enormous silver glitter bow that matched the décor.Best Moments“It’s the year of the disco, the glitter ball weddings have just been incredible.”“People love audio guest books… imagine listening back to your nan’s little voice note years later.”“I just love a pumpkin; they keep coming back, but every year, couples use them in a new way.”“Someone hired a helicopter and landed in the field… it was such a grand entrance and so different.”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. 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