You’ve just got engaged… now what?
Firstly — congratulations! The question has finally been popped and the Pinterest mood board has officially begun.
This is one of the most exciting parts of your wedding journey — but it can also become overwhelming very quickly. You’ll soon realise there’s so much more to plan than just your outfit, venue and flowers. One term you’ll likely come across is dry hire. At first, the idea of organising every detail yourself might feel daunting… or you might love the idea of having complete control..
Either way — here’s your step-by-step guide to planning a dry hire wedding.
Step 1: Decide on Your Wedding Style
Before anything else, think about the kind of atmosphere you want to create. Here are three of our favourite dry hire styles:
At-Home Intimate Wedding
One of our absolute favourites.No worrying about childcare, the dog, or guest transport — everything is right where you need it. You can wake up in your own home, enjoy your favourite morning brew and relax knowing nothing has been left behind.
If you need to create a space, suppliers like Events Under Canvas can transform your home with beautiful tipis, tents and rustic furniture.
Countryside Rustic
Think DIY charm and vintage touches.Barns and tipis offer a blank canvas that allows your creativity to shine.
Local favourites for this style include:
All surrounded by stunning countryside and adaptable for both large and intimate celebrations.
Elegant Manor House
Essex is famous for its grand manor houses and estates — perfect if you’ve always dreamed of a fairytale setting.
From sweeping entrances to elegant ballrooms, venues like Stock Brook Manor are ideal for couples planning a larger celebration with friends and family.
Step 2: The Food
Once your venue is secured, the next big decision is catering.
This is where everything begins to come together.
Decide on your preferred dining style:
- Formal three-course meal
- Family-style sharing
- Relaxed buffet
Bespoke catering allows you to create something truly personal. Tastings are a great opportunity to refine your menu and ensure every dish reflects you as a couple.
Step 3: The Bar
This can feel like one of the trickiest decisions — especially when well-meaning family members insist you must provide everything!
The truth is: this is entirely personal.
A popular option is:
Provide welcome drinks
Supply wine for the tables
Then move to a paid bar for the evening
Depending on your venue, you may also be able to supply your own drinks and simply hire bar staff and glassware — a great way to stay on budget while still treating guests.
Step 4: The Finishing Touches
Once the big three are in place — venue, food and drink — you can start bringing everything to life.
We’re lucky to work alongside some incredible suppliers and always recommend those we trust to look after our couples.
Some favourites include:
Entertainment: RCT Events
Wedding Planner: Camellio
Floristry: Starry Eyed
Photography: Ivory & White
Videography: Inverve Studio
Planning a dry hire wedding might feel like a lot at first — but it also gives you the freedom to create something truly unique.
And that’s where the magic happens.
