A Country Inn Wedding Celebration

A country inn (bed and breakfast, inn, etc.) is usually a place filled with history and designed for comfort. Inns come in all shapes and sizes and are situated everywhere - town, country, old farm house, mansion and everything in between! Some used to be taverns, others converted private estates. Your job is to find the right inn and determine just what you want to do.

If you are inclined to celebrate your wedding at an inn, you are likely to experience a highly creative, warm and cozy event - whether formal or casual - since the owners of these inns generally have a flair for design and love to entertain. They own an inn after all! They will help your wedding planning and keep it simple and stunning!

(Hint: When you decide what inn to use, go and stay for a night and see how it feels. Compare several.)

If you are interested in just hosting your wedding reception at the inn, you don't have to worry about accommodations - except maybe a room for the night after the reception. However, if you are making a weekend of your wedding, you need to think of taking rooms for the bridal party and other guests. You will also need to determine, depending on how many guests you plan to invite, what other accommodations are nearby.

Some inns require you reserve the entire space or a large block of rooms as part of your wedding weekend package. Get all your information up front - pricing, requirements, restrictions. Make sure you read your contract for details. Don't be afraid to ask questions about local vendors, florists, bakeries and even caterers. The inn owners should be able to accommodate you and they do know their area better than you do.

Book early if you want a particular weekend for your wedding. Like any other wedding venue, popular inns are reserved early. Negotiate a weekend package price. Since most inns are privately owned and operated, they may be happy to offer you discounts for a series of events - rehearsal dinner, wedding ceremony, wedding reception and post-wedding brunch.

Make use of what the inn has available - an antique table to hold your guest book or placecards, eclectic china for your tables, special arrangements with florists in the area. Mix antique linens and prints with different textures for your tables to carry out your eclectic theme.

Create a welcome gift basket for all your guests that features local snacks, a nicely designed itinerary for the weekend, a wedding program, and a list of other suggested activities for them to do in the area. Ask the inn for help in coordinating sightseeing, golf or even an antiquing trip for guests.

Include a photo print of the inn with your wedding invitations, wedding programs, or welcome cards. Personalize your celebration and focus on your stunning venue!