Helen Proctor began her career as a retail manager at Selfridges, honing her skills in event planning. Transitioning into hospitality after the birth of her son, she found her passion. Two years ago, Helen joined the James’ Places Group, overseeing the group’s Dream Venues Collection, which comprises six spectacular wedding venues across Lancashire and the Yorkshire Dales, and leading a team of dedicated wedding planners.
Helen believes every couple deserves their dream wedding day and hopes to help you have a stress-free planning journey. We asked Helen for her direction on finding your perfect location for the big day:
What advice would you give to a newly engaged couple?
Many couples are uncertain about the type of wedding they want, or the budget required. I recommend starting by envisioning your ideal wedding style. Browse venue websites and social media to narrow down your choices to three, plus a wildcard. Most couples experience that “just know” feeling when they find the right venue, and it’s a magical moment during a show around when the excitement builds as they picture their big day.
Should I attend many wedding fairs?
At the venue search stage, wedding fairs can be overwhelming. I suggest opting for a private viewing instead. However, wedding fairs are invaluable for meeting suppliers and gaining inspiration. Suppliers at venue-specific fairs are often handpicked for their familiarity with the venue and can provide great inspiration and tips.
How far in advance should I book my venue?
For specific dates, especially Fridays or Saturdays, I recommend booking 12 to 36 months in advance. If you’re flexible on dates, six to 18 months is usually sufficient. Planning a wedding in six to nine months requires organisation, but with the support of your venue, it can enable you to take advantage of late availability deals, especially if you’re on a budget.
TOP TIP!
Don’t lose sight of the big picture. Everyone will offer opinions and advice about your wedding but remember nothing about a wedding is as important as the marriage that will follow.
