When you first get engaged, there’s a rush of excitement – then suddenly, the big questions start rolling in. One of the first (and possibly the most important) is: “Where are we going to get married?”
That’s where the idea of a wedding venue comes in. It’s more than just a location – it sets the tone, the style, and the entire vibe of your day. Whether you’re dreaming of a rustic countryside setting, a grand hall, or a relaxed garden ceremony, the venue is the backdrop to the memories you’ll treasure forever.
In this blog, we’ll explain what a wedding venue is, the types you can choose from, and what to consider when picking the perfect one.
Want to hire a venue that’s beautiful, versatile, and easy to get to in Kent? Oakley House could be just what you’re searching for – call us on 020 8462 9292 or email us at info@oakleyhouse.co.uk to start planning your unforgettable day.
At Oakley House, we don’t just host weddings – we help create the moments you’ll remember for a lifetime.
What Is A Wedding Venue?
A wedding venue is the physical space where your wedding ceremony and/or reception takes place. Whether it’s exchanging vows under a gazebo, dancing in a candle-lit hall, or toasting speeches surrounded by loved ones, the venue is what holds the whole day together.
Some wedding venues offer both indoor and outdoor spaces, providing you with flexibility in your wedding timeline. Others provide all-inclusive venue packages that cover everything, from catering services to table linens. The purpose of a wedding venue is to provide not just a space, but a full-service environment where your event can take shape with ease.
A professional venue also helps take pressure off your wedding planning, often assisting with wedding booking, timelines, and coordinating suppliers.
Types Of Wedding Venues
Wedding venues are available in a wide range of styles. Whether you’re dreaming of something traditional, romantic, contemporary, or unique, there’s something out there for everyone.
At Oakley House, we provide a versatile selection of wedding spaces that subtly suit a wide variety of needs:
- Banqueting suite – An elegant, pillar-free space perfect for large celebrations, with a full bar and ample dance floor.
- Gazebo & lawns – Ideal for summer ceremonies, licensed for civil weddings, and beautifully surrounded by nature.
- Private function rooms – Cosy, adaptable areas for more intimate gatherings or post-wedding dinners.
We also provide indoor and outdoor venue options, which are essential in the unpredictable British climate. Plus, the best part is that everything is available on one well-connected site in Bromley, with onsite parking for 220 vehicles, making travel one less thing to stress about.
If you’re looking for unique wedding venue ideas, a place like Oakley House offers multiple setups within one location, allowing you to customise the space to your theme and timeline.
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How To Choose The Right Wedding Venue
Now that you know what a wedding venue is and its types, choosing the right one is one of the most important parts of the wedding planning process. Not only does it have a huge impact on the feel of the day, but it also affects your guest list, catering options, and even your photos.
Here’s a brief wedding venue checklist to guide you:
- Location – Is it easily accessible by car, train, or public transport?
- Capacity – Can it comfortably host your guest list?
- Catering service – Do they offer in-house catering? What menus are available?
- Venue packages – What’s included? Tables, chairs, bar staff, etc.?
- Availability – Does the venue have your ideal date free?
- Indoor vs outdoor options – Do they offer flexibility in case of weather changes?
- On-site parking or accommodation – Useful for out-of-town guests.
- Wedding venue cost breakdown – Understand the deposit, final payment schedule, and potential extras.
Oakley House naturally ticks many of these boxes, and their experienced team will help tailor the venue to your plans without hidden costs or rigid restrictions. If you’re unsure where to begin, their knowledgeable staff can even help map out your wedding venue timeline planning.
Also Read: Venue Selection Guide
Oakley House- A Wedding Venue In Kent That Has It All
If you’re looking for a reliable, stylish, and highly rated wedding venue in Kent, look no further than Oakley House. With over 30 years of experience hosting weddings, civil ceremonies, and celebrations of every size, Oakley House is known for combining historic architecture with modern amenities.
- Licensed wedding spaces indoors and out, including a picturesque gazebo, elegant banqueting suite, and beautifully landscaped gardens.
- In-house catering services offering a wide range of options – from formal plated meals to informal buffets, vegan menus, canapés, banqueting menus, and wedding packages.
- A fully stocked bar menu including wines, spirits, draught beer, and soft drinks with no minimum spend required.
- Flexible packages to suit all budgets, and a dedicated events team to help with your venue checklist, wedding timeline, and event flow.
- Accessible location on the A21 in Bromley with easy parking (220+ spaces) and nearby public transport routes.
That’s all about a wedding venue, and what really sets Oakley House apart is its ability to combine charm and professionalism. From your first enquiry to your final toast, their experienced team ensures every detail is handled, so you can relax and enjoy the celebration.
A wedding venue isn’t just a space – it’s where your story begins. From your entrance to your first toast, every moment is framed by your choice of venue. Take your time, use a solid wedding venue checklist, and remember that the right venue will help everything else fall into place.
Need help making that decision? Contact us to book a tour of Oakley House and meet the team that’s been trusted by couples for decades.
Call us on 020 8462 9292 or email us at info@oakleyhouse.co.uk today – and take the first step toward planning the celebration you’ve always imagined.