Picking your wedding venue is probably the single most exciting part of planning your wedding. Once the buzz of excitement that surrounds your new engagement starts to settle, it starts back up all over again on your hunt for a venue.
While some couples will already know their dream venue before they get engaged, for most couples, it will mark the beginning of lots of venue visits, cost calculating, Instagram searching and Pinterest boards.
Your venue is what will shape the entire feel of your day and dictate a large part of your wedding style or theme. It’s important to find the perfect one for you!
As a wedding photographer, I am so lucky to visit so many South Wales Wedding Venues as well as some further afield. There are so many gorgeous places to get married in Wales (far too many for one blog post!) Here are some of my favourites:
St Tewdrics House
I must say, the first time I visited this venue it took my breath away! Think premium luxury, exclusively for those who want their whole venue to themselves. The 19th century Italian style villa is situated on the outskirts of Chepstow, and is really easily accessible, just minutes off the M48.
On entering the building you are greeted by a fantastic feature staircase followed by a few smaller break out rooms – perfect for mingling and drinks and, even though we don’t like to think about it too much, it does mean there is plenty of indoor space should it be raining outside. When the time comes to make your way to the ceremony and main reception room, you won’t be disappointed! The Courtyard has a light and airy feel to it and is plenty big enough to seat up to 150 guests.
The whole venue is really tastefully decorated and gives off an incredible feel – perfect for creating that epic atmosphere. It has the most gorgeous light and that’s before you even step outside. The gardens are simply stunning, you can even get married outside under the pergola surrounded by the wildflower meadow with views over the Severn estuary.
I love that the venue owners have continued to work on further improving their venue by listening to guests and constantly developing new ways to better their facilities.
I’m so excited to be photographing a few more weddings there this year and next.
View Wedding Blog: St Tewdrics House Wedding
New House Country Hotel
One of my most frequented wedding venues, it’s easy to see why the New House Country Hotel is such a popular choice! This Cardiff wedding venue ticks all the boxes. With ample onsite accommodation for all of your guests, you can relax knowing that everyone can stay at the venue all day and night.
There is a choice of ceremony and reception rooms! The Wyndham Suite has gorgeous glass doors letting in the most beautiful light while The Marquee has a really exclusive feel and the most incredible views over Cardiff. The food at the New House Hotel is amazing, really it’s lush! I’ve sampled lots of different menus here and have never been disappointed. Best of all, the venue has the most helpful, friendly staff that really go above and beyond. Every wedding I’ve attended here has been so well organised and has run seamlessly thanks to the brilliant co-ordination put on by the hotel.
The grounds are also a big feature of this hotel. There are so many different opportunities for wonderful pictures, I can’t wait to be back soon.
View Wedding Blog: New House Country Hotel Wedding
Canada Lodge & Lake
This venue always makes me smile, every wedding I have seen here has been fantastic. It’s another perfect all in one venue, where there is no need to leave if you don’t want to. The owners have worked so hard to really bring this venue into the dream wedding category. There are now lodges and apartments, allowing over 30 guests to stay over.
The peaceful surroundings make you feel like you really could be in a Canadian forest, and is possibly why photographing bridal preparations at this venue is always such a calm experience – the brides are always totally relaxed here.
The lodge itself is split into two tiers, one for the ceremony and evening reception and the other for the wedding breakfast. There is ample outside space, from the upstairs balcony, seating area and lower lawn which is ideal for those amazingly fun lawn games.
As a wedding photographer, I’m spoiled for choice when photographing here. There are so many beautiful spots, it’s easy to see why this is one of Cardiff’s top wedding venues!
View Wedding Blog: Canada Lake & Lodge Wedding
Rosedew Farm
I love everything about this rustic wedding venue! A blank canvas, without being in any way plain, they allow you to put your own stamp on the place. Like some of my other favourites, this venue has a really exclusive feel, allowing you to have full access to the whole venue.
The main barn room has wonderfully huge windows, letting in the most beautiful light.
Among the picturesque surroundings are quaint little cottages and bungalows, perfect for accommodating up to 80 guests! For even more gorgeous backdrops, the beach is just a minute’s drive away.
View Wedding Blog: Rosedew Farm Wedding
Hensol Castle
It’s hard not to be impressed by this incredible 17th century grade 1 listed building. With exclusive use of the castle, you and your guests will be able to mingle in the many different reception rooms. It has breath taking grounds but inside is just as wonderful too. There are no wet weather concerns here, because there are so many places to get beautiful indoor shots.
It is the perfect mix of old and new, with the recent refurbishment restoring the arched windows, oak panelling and high ceilings as well as building the modern courtyard hall in the heart of the building.
View Wedding Blog: Hensol Castle Wedding
I am so lucky to have visited so many stunning venues in my job as a South Wales wedding photographer. I can personally vouch for all of the above as being amazing places to hold your dream wedding. But wherever you choose, I'm sure you'll have the best day ever!
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