Planning a wedding in the UK can be an exciting experience for couples. Although tipi weddings sometimes require additional considerations compared to traditional venues, we have made a checklist to help you through it, and by choosing a Wonderland Wedding Venue the process will be smoother than you would anticipate!
1. Book Early
Tipi weddings have become increasingly popular, so it’s essential to book our Wonderland Wedding venues well in advance. Reach out to us as early as possible to secure your preferred date.
2. Choose the Perfect Location
With 5 locations around the country, we can offer variety and help you choose the perfect spot for your wedding. Consider how many guests you’ll want to invite, as this may impact the location you choose due to the size and layout of each of our tipis. When choosing the location, you can be assured that we have done the groundwork for you, and that each of our locations are accessible for both guests and suppliers. If you are booking with other tipi providers, remember to consider the terrain, accessibility and parking. Don’t forget to check for necessary permits or permissions if you’re using a private or public space.
3. Create a Detailed Floor Plan
Wonderland Wedding Venues can provide you with a floor plan that includes essential elements like seating, dining areas, a dance floor, a bar, and any other zones you want to incorporate. We recommend enough space for movement and mingling, so ensure you have a floorplan for whichever style of wedding venue you ultimately choose. A floorplan will help suppliers to plan, and will result in a seamless wedding day set-up.
4. Plan for UK Weather
The UK weather can be unpredictable, even in the summer months, so it’s essential to plan for all possibilities. Tipis can be fitted with sides that can be rolled down in case of rain or wind. We can provide heating options, such as fire pits or portable heaters, which can be essential if you’re planning a wedding in the cooler months. Consider having umbrellas on hand for guests and adding covered walkways where possible..
5. Organise Key Suppliers
A wedding always involves coordination with multiple suppliers, including caterers, florists, and entertainment providers. Each supplier must understand the logistics of working in an outdoor setting. For example, caterers may need extra equipment such as generators. We advise you to communicate clearly with your suppliers about the setup and breakdown schedules to ensure everything runs smoothly on the day. If you are booking a Wonderland Wedding then our wedding managers will help with this organisation, to alleviate what can be a stressful and time-consuming job.
6. Lighting and Power
The correct lighting is crucial for creating the right atmosphere in your tipi, especially after sunset. Consider a mix of fairy lights, lanterns, and uplighting to create a warm and inviting ambiance. Work with your tipi provider or venue to plan the lighting setup, and ensure there is adequate power supply for your needs. You may need to use generators, so discuss power requirements with all your suppliers in advance. Each of our venues are already set up to facilitate this, so we have this covered already.
7. Facilities
Outdoor weddings require the use of essential facilities such as toilets. Portable luxury toilets are a must for ensuring your guests’ comfort. Make sure there are enough toilets for the number of guests attending, and ensure they are located in a convenient and discreet spot that’s still easily accessible from the tipi.
8. Furniture and Décor
The beauty of a tipi wedding is the opportunity to get creative with your décor. Rustic furniture, bohemian rugs, and natural floral arrangements work beautifully in a tipi setting. Talk to us about the options and we will be able to suggest items that fit your theme. Your florist may be able to design installations that complement the natural structure of the tipi. Hanging floral displays, and adding greenery or ribbons to the internal poles can look very effective.
9. Prepare Your Guests
Your guests may not be familiar with the setup of a tipi wedding, so it’s important to provide them with information in advance. On your invitations or wedding website, give details about the location, what to expect, and any dress code recommendations, for example suggesting suitable footwear. If your wedding is in the cooler months, advise guests to bring layers to stay warm.
10. Have a Contingency Plan
Even with the best planning, things can occasionally go wrong, so having a contingency plan is crucial. Ensure all your suppliers are prepared to adapt if needed. Assign a point person to manage any issues that arise, whether that’s one of our professional coordinators or a trusted friend. Having someone on hand to handle unexpected situations will allow you to relax and enjoy the day.
By following our 10-point checklist, you can be confident that every detail is accounted for, from securing a magical setting, to managing logistics and preparing for the unpredictable British weather. With careful planning and attention to detail, your tipi wedding will be everything you’ve dreamed of and more.
