With wedding dates filling up fast (especially in peak wedding season), knowing how far in advance to book a wedding venue can save you a lot of stress later on. So, today in this blog post, we will walk you through the ideal timeline for booking your wedding venue in Bromley and what factors might affect it.
Looking for a stunning and flexible venue in Bromley? Have you considered Oakley House? Its historic charm and modern facilities make it a favourite choice for couples planning their big day.
Call us today on 020 8462 9292 or email us at info@oakleyhouse.co.uk to chat about your dream wedding.
At Oakley House, your wedding isn’t just an event — it’s a memory in the making, set against the perfect blend of timeless elegance and modern comfort.
How Early Should You Book A Wedding Venue?
Securing your wedding venue is one of the first and most important steps regarding wedding planning. The question of how early to book a wedding venue depends on various factors, such as your desired date, location, and venue popularity. For couples planning a wedding in Bromley or the wider Kent area, booking your wedding day at least 12 to 18 months in advance is highly recommended, especially if you’re eyeing a sought-after venue like Oakley House.
Why so early?
Top venues book up quickly, particularly during peak wedding season (May to September). Saturdays are the most competitive, and special dates like bank holiday weekends or numerically appealing ones (e.g. 02.02.2026) are snapped up well in advance. The earlier you book, the more choices you’ll have for:
- Preferred venue packages
- Your desired ceremony and reception times
- Accommodation and vendor coordination
- Access to catering services that align with your style and dietary needs
If you’re working with a specific wedding timeline, consider that most planners recommend finalising your wedding venue booking timeline early so that everything else, from the florist to the DJ, can fall into place without stress.
Benefits Of Booking A Wedding Venue Early
1. Peace Of Mind
Securing your venue early removes a primary task from your wedding planning checklist and allows you to focus on other details like attire, guest lists, and decor.
2. Better Coordination With Vendors
Many vendors need to know your venue before they can confirm services. For example, your catering service may need to know the kitchen layout, access times, and available facilities. Booking early gives all your vendors ample time to plan effectively.
3. More Venue Package Options
Venues like Oakley House offer a range of flexible venue packages that include everything from food and drink to decoration and entertainment. Booking early means these options will likely be available for your chosen date.
4. Time To Personalise
The earlier you book, the more time you have to make the venue your own. Whether that means choosing between indoor and outdoor ceremony spaces or coordinating a unique theme, time is your biggest asset.
Factors That Affect Venue Booking Timeframes
Booking a wedding venue in advance depends on several personal and logistical factors. Here are the top considerations:
- Time of year: Spring and summer weddings require earlier bookings due to high demand.
- Venue popularity: Historic and versatile venues like Oakley House tend to be booked faster.
- Guest count: Larger guest lists may limit your venue options, requiring early action.
- Wedding type: If planning a themed or destination wedding, you’ll want to book earlier to account for travel, permits, or specialised vendors.
- Flexibility: If you’re open to a mid-week or off-season date, you might find more availability even with shorter notice.
Remember: a solid wedding venue booking timeline is the foundation of stress-free wedding planning.
Wedding Venue Booking Tips: Plan Smart, Book Early
Here are a few expert wedding venue booking tips to help you avoid common mistakes:
- Visit in person before booking—photos never do justice to the ambience of a venue like Oakley House.
- Ask for a venue checklist to ensure you understand what’s included (parking, accessibility, bar, staff, etc.).
- Understand deposit requirements and cancellation policies—at Oakley House, for example, a £1000 deposit is needed to secure your date.
- Communicate your needs early, especially if you require customised options for catering, layout, or cultural traditions.
Also Read: Venue Selection Guide
Contact Oakley House
Final Thoughts
In summary, your vision depends on how early you should book a wedding venue in advance.
However, if you aim for a high-quality, customisable, and well-located venue like Oakley House in Bromley, the sooner the better. A strong wedding venue booking timeline means less stress, more availability, and better vendor coordination—all essential for the perfect celebration.
So, are you ready to turn your dream day into reality? Get in touch with Oakley House.
Call us on 020 8462 9292 or email us at info@oakleyhouse.co.uk to book your wedding day and plan your unforgettable event.
FAQs
1. Is 18 months too early to book a wedding venue?
Not at all. In fact, for venues with high demand or if you’re planning a large guest list, 18 months is a smart move. This gives you ample time to build your wedding planning checklist, select vendors, and organise your day with fewer compromises.
2. Can I book Oakley House as a ceremony and reception venue?
Yes! Oakley House is licensed for marriages and civil ceremonies across its gazebo, lawns, and banqueting suite, making it a full-service wedding venue in Bromley. Booking early ensures you can use all the spaces you want for your big day.
3. What deposit is required to secure my booking at Oakley House?
A non-refundable deposit of £1000 is required to confirm your date at Oakley House. Additionally, a £1500 damage deposit is payable and refundable within 7 days after your event, provided there’s no damage.
4. What should be included in my wedding venue booking timeline?
A basic wedding venue booking timeline should include:
- Site visits and shortlisting venues (18–15 months out)
- Finalising your choice and paying the deposit (15–12 months)
- Reviewing contracts and packages
- Coordinating with vendors who need venue details (layout, kitchen, access)
- Scheduling a final walkthrough (1 month out)
5. Can I make changes after I’ve booked the venue?
Yes, most venues like Oakley House allow updates to your guest list, menu selections, and decor plan. However, it’s best to confirm their flexibility on changes and the deadlines for finalising details.