Top tips for planning a pub wedding

 

Many of our brides opt for a pub wedding, whether it’s in London or somewhere more rural, as it offers a cosy and intimate atmosphere, perfect for celebrating with family and friends in a more relaxed setting. Whether nestled in the bustling city or surrounded by countryside charm, pub weddings provide a unique blend of laid-back charm and warm hospitality that many couples love. Pubs aren't typically designed as wedding venues, so there are a few important factors to consider. Here's our checklist for planning a pub wedding:

Choosing the right pub

• Style: Think about the ambiance you want—do you prefer a rustic, traditional pub or something more modern and stylish? 
• Capacity: Ensure the pub has enough space for your guest list. Consider whether you need both ceremony and reception space, or if the reception alone will take place at the pub.
• Layout: Check how the space is configured. Consider whether there’s room for dining, dancing, and mingling without crowding. Some city pubs may have tight spaces, so ensure the layout works for everything you have planned for your wedding.
• Exclusive use: Check if the pub can offer exclusive use of the venue or if you will share the space, or part of it, with regular pubgoers.

Legalities, licencing and restrictions

• Registrar: If you’re having a civil ceremony at the pub, you’ll need to arrange for a registrar from the local council to conduct the ceremony. Availability can be limited, especially during peak wedding seasons, so book well in advance.
• Civil ceremony licence: Not all pubs are licenced to hold wedding ceremonies. If your chosen pub doesn’t have this licence, you’ll need to have the legal part of your wedding at a nearby registry office or another licenced venue, and then only host the reception at the pub.

• Noise regulations: Many cities have strict noise regulations, especially in residential areas. Check with the pub and the local council to understand the pub’s specific noise restrictions, particularly if you plan on having live music or a DJ.
• Curfew: Pubs often have set closing times, usually around 11pm, especially in areas close to residential housing. Some pubs may allow you to extend the party by securing a late-night licence, but this often comes with an additional cost and strict noise limitations.
• Alcohol licencing: UK pubs are strictly regulated by licencing laws, meaning that drinks can only be served during the venue’s licenced hours. If you want to extend the drinking hours or provide late-night drinks, ensure that the pub has the appropriate licences or apply for a temporary events notice (TEN). 
  
• Smoking and vaping: Ensure there’s an outdoor smoking area for guests who smoke. Be clear about vaping policies as well, as some pubs have restrictions on where it’s allowed.

 

 

Logistics

• Seating arrangements: Depending on the size of the pub, you may need to get creative with seating. If the space is small, consider a standing reception with high-top tables.
• Accessibility: Ensure the venue is accessible for all guests, including elderly family members and those with disabilities.
• Decor timing: Work out when you can access the pub for decorating and when it will need to be cleaned up after the event.
• Restrooms: Ensure the pub has adequate restroom facilities for the number of guests you’re inviting, and make sure they’re accessible if you have guests with disabilities.

 

Weather considerations

• Weather: If the pub has an outdoor space (like a beer garden or terrace), make sure you have a backup plan, such as a marquee or indoor area, in case the weather doesn’t cooperate.
• Heating and air conditioning: Some older pubs may lack robust heating or air conditioning systems. If you’re getting married during colder months, ensure the venue is sufficiently heated, and in summer, check if there are fans or ventilation options. 

 

Transport and parking

• Parking: City pubs often have limited or no dedicated parking spaces, especially in busy city centres. Make sure to inform guests in advance about parking options, such as nearby car parks, public transport, or arranging taxis or Ubers.
• Public transport: City centres usually have good public transport links, so provide guests with information on nearby train stations, bus stops, or tube stations. You may want to coordinate with local bus or taxi companies or suggest ride-sharing apps like Uber for after the event. 
• Congestion charge: If your wedding is in central London or another UK city with congestion charges (like Birmingham’s Clean Air Zone), inform guests of these additional costs for driving into the city. 

 

Accommodations for guests

• Limited on-site accommodation: Unlike large hotels or country estates, pubs often don’t have enough on-site accommodation for all the guests, so make sure to provide your guests with a list of nearby hotels, Airbnb options, or bed and breakfasts.
• Group rates: If possible, negotiate group rates with local hotels or look for nearby lodging options that offer discounts for wedding parties. 

 

Catering and drinks

• Menu: Pubs are often known for their food, so work with the pub to create a menu that suits your style, whether that’s a formal sit-down meal, a buffet, or pub classics with a gourmet twist.
• Drinks Packages: UK pubs often offer flexible drink packages, including options for an open bar, cash bar, or limited drinks (like wine and beer). Confirm what’s included in the drinks package and whether you can bring your own alcohol (corkage fees may apply). Why not ask them to create a signature drink for your wedding!
• Tasting: Ask for a tasting session to choose the food and drinks ahead of time.
• Late-night snacks: Consider offering late-night snacks such as sliders, pizza, or chips to keep guests going into the evening. 

 

Important details

• Guest experience: Think about how to make the experience comfortable and fun for your guests, whether it’s offering cosy blankets in an outdoor area or setting up a hot chocolate station where they can customise their drinks.
• Personal touches: Pub weddings tend to be more informal, so take the opportunity to add personal touches, like customised menus, custom beer labels, coasters, fun games, or a themed pub quiz.  

 

Entertainment and music

• Live music licencing: Many UK pubs have live music licences, but not all. Ensure the pub has the appropriate licence if you plan on having a band or DJ, and check whether they have equipment available (speakers, microphones, etc.) or if you need to hire your own.
• Music curfew: There are often restrictions on live music after a certain time due to noise regulations in UK cities. Check with the venue and the local council about when music must be turned off or reduced to a lower volume. 

 

Photography

• Lighting: Pubs can have dim lighting, so ensure your photographer is prepared for the space.
• Photo opportunities: Take advantage of the unique details in the pub—whether it’s the vintage bar, beer garden, or surrounding city streets for photos.

Refer to this list when organising your pub wedding to ensure it will reflect your style and run smoothly from start to finish.

 

 

Image credits:

Photography: Lauren Henson Photography 

Makeup: Pamela & Andrea Make Up 

Hair: Ellen Pebbles

Model: Izzy Frances

Florist: Green&Envy 

Cake: Claire Owens Cakes 

Stationery: Grey And Copper 

Ribbon and linens: Mia Sylvia