Wedding Venue Selection Tips in South Wales
Finding the perfect setting for your special day
Planning your wedding is one of the most exciting journeys you'll ever embark on, but choosing the perfect venue? That can feel like a big task. Luckily, South Wales is brimming with picturesque landscapes, historic landmarks, and unique spaces to make your day unforgettable. To help you find "the one" (venue, not partner – you’ve already got that covered!), here’s a comprehensive guide to selecting the perfect wedding venue in South Wales.
Think about your vision and style
Before you dive into venue hunting, take a moment to dream. What does your ideal wedding day look like? Do you envision a rustic barn surrounded by rolling hills, a luxurious manor steeped in history, or maybe a chic urban venue in the heart of Cardiff? Having a clear vision will make it easier to narrow down your options.
Tip: Create a mood board
Gather inspiration from Pinterest or Instagram to refine your style. Search for terms like South Wales wedding venues or Cardiff wedding inspiration to find local gems that match your vibe.
Determine your budget early on
Your budget will shape much of your decision-making. Venue costs can vary widely depending on location, time of year, and what’s included in the package. Make sure to account for extras like catering, décor, and entertainment when crunching the numbers.
Bonus Tip: Look for all-inclusive packages
Many South Wales venues offer packages that bundle essentials like catering and furniture hire, which can save you both money and stress. Ask if there are any off-peak discounts or midweek deals to stretch your budget further.
Consider guest numbers and accessibility
Before booking a venue, you’ll need a rough idea of your guest list. Too big a space can feel empty, while too small a space can be uncomfortably cramped. Beyond capacity, consider how easy the venue is for guests to access.
Checklist for accessibility:
Is there ample parking or transport links?
Does the venue have ramps or lifts for guests with mobility needs?
Are there nearby accommodation options for out-of-town guests?
Check Out Amenities and Services
When touring venues, pay close attention to the amenities they offer. Some questions to ask include:
Do they provide in-house catering or allow external caterers?
Are tables, chairs, and linens included?
Is there a dedicated coordinator to help on the day?
Can you host both the ceremony and reception on-site?
For outdoor venues, check whether they have contingency plans (like marquees) for unpredictable Welsh weather!
Schedule Site Visits
Photos on a website are one thing, but there’s nothing like seeing a venue in person. Visit your top choices to get a feel for the atmosphere and visualise your big day.
What to look for during a visit:
Is the lighting flattering for photos?
Are there unique features like gardens, courtyards, or historic architecture?
Does the space feel aligned with your vision?
When visiting, bring a list of questions. As a South Wales wedding photographer, I’m happy to accompany couples to help identify the best spots for stunning photos.
Think about the photography opportunities
Speaking of photos, your venue plays a huge role in the look and feel of your wedding album. South Wales is a photographer’s dream, offering everything from dramatic coastal cliffs to lush greenery and charming castles.
Pro tip:
Ask venues if they have a preferred photographer list or if certain areas are off-limits. Some venues may even have hidden photo spots you wouldn’t notice without insider knowledge.
Stay true to you
Ultimately, your wedding day should reflect you as a couple. Don’t feel pressured to pick a venue just because it’s popular or trendy. Choose a place that feels right and aligns with your personalities, whether that’s a glamorous Cardiff hotel or a quaint countryside barn.
A Few South Wales Venue Highlights
St Tewdrics House (Chepstow): A dreamy Italianate villa with beautiful gardens.
Hensol Castle (Vale of Glamorgan): A historic venue with stunning interiors and exteriors.
Craig-Y-Nos Castle (Swansea): Gothic, historical castle nestled in the beautiful Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons).
Cardiff City Hall: For elegant, city-centre celebrations.
Canada Lodge and Lake (Creigiau): A serene lakeside location with rustic vibes.
Final thoughts
Choosing your wedding venue is a big milestone, but with a little planning and these tips in hand, you’ll find the perfect spot to say "I do." And once you’ve locked it in, let’s talk photos! As a Cardiff wedding photographer and South Wales wedding photographer, I’d love to help capture your special day in a way that reflects your unique love story.
Whether you’re drawn to sweeping countryside views, historic charm, or city chic vibes, South Wales has something to suit every couple. Here’s to finding your dream venue and creating memories that will last a lifetime!
