A calm, clear timeline to help you enjoy every moment of the journey.
Planning your wedding with us will be totally enjoyable, stress-free and exciting. Here at Hilltop Country House, we’re here to make the process feel effortless from the very first step. Whether you’re newly engaged or ready to dive into the details, this guide walks you through each stage of the planning journey so you always know what comes next.
First steps: setting the foundations
The moment you say “yes” is the moment the adventure begins. Once you’re ready to start planning, here’s where to begin:
- Book a guided tour through our easy-to-use booking system at a time that suits you. This is your chance to explore the venue, ask questions and picture your day evolving at Hilltop.
- Choose your wedding date – we’ll talk you through availability, seasons and how each time of year transforms the venue. You’re always welcome to hold a date free of charge; there is no pressure from us, but this gives you reassurance whilst you’re making your decisions.
- Secure your date by paying your deposit.
- Sign your Hilltop contract to confirm your booking.
- Book your ceremony with the registrars or your chosen church.
- Begin gathering inspiration for your food, drinks, flowers, décor, entertainment and stationery – this is the fun part, so enjoy exploring ideas that feel like “you”.
12 months prior: sharing the excitement
With your date secured, it’s time to start shaping the celebration.
- Send your save the dates so your guests can mark the occasion.
- Pay your second deposit to continue securing your plans.
- Book your external suppliers — photographers, videographers, florists, musicians, décor specialists and any other creative partners who will bring your vision to life. We welcome all suppliers, but we can help with our recommended supplier list available in your Hilltop guide.
This is the stage where your wedding begins to take shape, and our team is always here to offer help and guidance.
6 months prior: tasting, choosing & finalising
Big milestones in the planning journey…
- Join us for your food and drink tasting, where you’ll choose your wedding breakfast, wines and cocktails.
- Send your formal invitations, giving guests all the details they need for the big day.
Your celebration is now starting to feel wonderfully real.
8 weeks prior: confirming the details
As the countdown begins, we’ll work closely with you to ensure everything is perfectly aligned.
- Confirm your food and drink choices with our team.
- Pay your remaining venue hire fee to complete your booking.
5 weeks prior: bringing it all together
The final month is all about clarity, confidence and excitement.
- Confirm your final guest numbers, table plan and any accommodation requirements.
- Pay your final wedding invoice to ensure everything is set and ready.
From here, you can relax knowing every detail is in safe hands.
And then… leave the rest to us
Once your plans are in place, our experienced team takes care of everything. From the moment you arrive in the morning to the last dance of the night. Your only job is to soak up every moment.
Choose Hilltop Country House to be the wedding venue where your love story unfolds and forever begins.
Let’s kickstart the wedding planning together!
