In this episode of Yes to I Do, host Lydia is joined by wedding coordinators Louisa and Lauren for a slightly different kind of episode - one that puts the team themselves in the spotlight.

As well as breaking down what makes Coton House Farm such a special place to get married, the three of them share how they each ended up in wedding coordination - from trainee police officer to Burton Albion events team to Southeast Asia and back. There is also a behind-the-scenes look at how a wedding day flows through the venue.

Key Takeaways

Exclusive use changes the whole feel of a wedding day.

No strangers wandering in, no other wedding parties, no golfers being held up for photos. Couples have the entire venue to themselves from arrival to the last dance.

The room reveal is one of the most popular options for a reason.

Keeping the main barn closed until after the ceremony means the couple see it together for the first time - just the two of them, with a drink waiting and five minutes to breathe before the rest of the day begins.

The Twilight package suits a different kind of couple entirely.

No seating plan, no formal speeches required, no day and evening guest divide. It works brilliantly for relaxed couples, busy lives, second marriages and anyone who just wants to do something a bit different.

Transparent pricing saves everyone time.

All pricing is on the website. The team encourage couples to do their research online first and only book a show round when they already feel a connection - because traipsing around 100 venues helps nobody.

The family feel is not just a selling point - it is genuinely how it works.

Coton House Farm is a family business with the family on site. Couples pick up on that atmosphere from the moment they arrive, and it shapes everything from how show rounds feel to how wedding days are run.

Key Moments

"I slid the scrapbook across the table and said, look at this - I've done my homework." - Louisa on her interview

"Some people get starstruck on show rounds - I saw someone the other day and they were like, you do the podcast!"

"If you like the team, you want us to run your wedding. That's really what it comes down to."

About Yes to I Do

Yes to I Do is the podcast from Coton House Farm for couples planning their perfect wedding. Hosted by Lydia and the team, each episode covers everything from food and drink to styling, planning tips and real wedding insights.

The goal is simple - to help couples feel confident, informed and excited at every stage of their wedding journey.

How to Get in Touch

To find out more about Coton House Farm or to book a show round:

Website: www.cotonhousefarm.com

If you enjoyed this episode, hit subscribe and share it with anyone planning their big day.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Yes to I Do, host Lydia Wakefield is joined by co-hosts Louisa, Meg and Maggie for a lively (and slightly controversial) discussion all about wedding favours.

Recorded in Rolo, one of Coton House Farm’s cosy preparation suites, the team dive into the big question: are wedding favours worth it? From personalised messages and scratch cards to drinks tokens and keyrings, no option is left undiscussed.

With honest opinions, practical venue insight and plenty of laughter, this episode helps couples decide whether favours are a meaningful touch, a practical addition - or an unnecessary expense.

Key Takeaways

Favours aren’t essential.

While some couples love including them, others feel they’re not a must-have. If budget is tight, this may be an area you can rethink.

Practical favours work best.

If guests can use it – like a drinks token or edible treat - it’s less likely to be left behind.

Drinks tokens over bar tabs.

Tokens help control budget, avoid awkward over-spending and ensure everyone gets the same opportunity to enjoy a drink.

Scratch cards are a fun interactive option.

They create a moment at the table and can even be adapted so each table has a winner.

Personalised messages feel meaningful.

Handwritten notes or thoughtful keepsakes can be incredibly special - but be prepared for the time commitment.

Edible favours need planning.

Always check allergies and ensure ingredients are clearly labelled to avoid last-minute removal by catering teams.

Keyrings divide opinion.

They’re cost-effective and look lovely on the day - but they’re also one of the most commonly left-behind favours.

Whatever you choose, do it for you.

Favours are personal. There will always be some left behind, so choose something you genuinely love.

Key Moments

“Favours shouldn’t feel like a waste of money - choose something people will actually use.”

“Everyone loves a free drink.”

“If you’re doing edible favours, check allergies first.”

“You can’t make 100% of people happy - so make yourselves happy.”

“Don’t let our opinion put you off your keyrings!”

About Coton House Farm

Nestled in the Staffordshire countryside, Coton House Farm is an exclusive luxury wedding barn venue offering couples a relaxed yet refined setting for their big day. With beautifully restored barns, scenic outdoor ceremony spaces and a dedicated coordination team, the venue supports couples through every detail - from table styling to bar tabs and everything in between.

Connect with Coton House Farm

Website: https://www.cotonhousefarm.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cotonhousefarm/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@cotonhousefarm

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Cotonhousefarmweddingvenue/

Pinterest: https://uk.pinterest.com/cotonhousefarm/

X: https://x.com/cotonhousefarm

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.