Seems easy?

I know it may seem like it was an easy decision for us and we only looked at two venues, but for us it was important that our venue had memories and a meaning.

We made a list of what we wanted from a venue to help with decision making

1. Accommodation, it was important to us that our guests and family could relax on the day and that we could all have breakfast together the following morning 
2. Licensed for Civil Ceremony. Neither of us are religious and it seemed hypocritical to us to say our vows before God when neither of us were sure if we believed in him. 
3. Reception and ceremony all in one place. Having spent the past two years commuting nearly 100 miles a day the idea of getting in a car on the big day filled me with dread.
4. A neutral decor. Something that was a fairly blank canvas but well finished would make life easier in the future 
5. Scenic, the outside of the venue as well as the ceremony room had to be pretty and photogenic 

We requested brochures from a couple of other venues but none of them met all the criteria within budget!
Both Alexander House and Coworth Park met all of these points but ultimately it came down to location. Alexander house is ideal for everybody, in between groups of family and friends. So decision made, and we stopped looking. I think continuing to look once you've decided and paid a deposit, will just create doubt in your mind and add to the stress levels. Go with your instincts and stick to your gut feeling (its normally right)

Venue decided

So having decided that Coworth Park was a bit far away for the Kent side of the family we turned our attention to Alexander House.

Driving home, very hungover, from an awesome Christmas party we turned to each other and said what a brilliant venue for a wedding reception it would be. Fast forward nearly a year later and we were engaged and looking for a wedding venue cue Alexander House.

Again we had enjoyed Afternoon Tea  there and loved the grandeur and beauty of the hotel so we contacted Hannah at Alexander House who created a bespoke package for us and organised a show around. She was lovely and very helpful, soon enough we had confirmed a date and selected our venue. Exciting times ahead

What next.....

After the proposal comes choosing the venue.

For me there was only a choice between two potential venues. Firstly the place we got engaged, which was the incredible Coworth Park in Ascot or the venue of some amazing Christmas parties, Alexander House in Sussex.

Coworth Park is an absolutely stunning 5* hotel in Ascot. Its part of the Dorchester group and this is apparent from the minute you walk in the door. The staff are amazing and will do everything to make your visit special. From complimentary champagne on our announcement of the engagement to my husband to be being serenaded on his birthday!

If you're ever in Ascot I definitely recommend that you make a reservation for their Afternoon Tea, it is the inspiration for the theme of our wedding.