5 tips for hiring a dry hire wedding venue

Right so before we dive in, it's important to explain what is a Dry Hire Venue? When booking a dry hire wedding venue, the term “dry hire” means that you (the client) pay for the use of the venues space only. Generally, this means that you have to hire in the food and drink, cutlery, furniture, decorations etc, which will be provided by other suppliers. Each dry hire venue is different, so some may let you use their tables, chairs etc. Others won’t. Now if you book a dry hire venue there are a number of things you need to consider, which I will restrict to 5 things (this time).

1. Wedding venue details

Get clarity (in writing) on exactly what is and isn’t included in the dry hire package. For example are the tables included, will they come with tablecloths, can you provide your own alcohol and is there a charge for this. You don’t want any surprises later down the road. It's important to know as soon as possible, all that you will need to provide, so that you can budget for it. Always get this information in writing so that you have something to provide if say venue staff change. Saying oh but when we spoke to John last year he said xyz is not enough.

2. Choosing your wedding suppliers

Note down all the suppliers you will need on the day. Dry hire venues generally mean that you will need more suppliers. I have dealt with 20 suppliers for one wedding for a client. Also don’t assume that some of the suppliers will bring certain things a caterer may not necessarily provide cutlery, some may for an additional fee others will not and you will need to hire this separately. This is often a good time to book a wedding planner as we can help you find the right suppliers as we know plenty. Some venues will have a dedicated list of suppliers they have previously worked with. Note only use these suppliers if they are the right fit for you.



3. Styling a dry hire wedding venue

Before you think about decorating your dry hire venue you will need to get your ideas together to establish what style you want at your wedding. Styling a blank space is exciting as you make it into your wedding vision but also needs to be well thought through. You could create a mood board with all your ideas, then narrow these down, by looking at the common elements, such as is there a clear style (relaxed, elegant, modern), are you drawn towards certain colours. This will help to identify the preferred style you want to achieve.

4. Lighting

Don’t forget about lighting. In a blank canvas this is key, the use of uplighter's or fairy lights can make all the difference in changing your venue from a daytime to an evening look. Use lighting to create an atmosphere, it’s a fantastic way to transform your space.



5. Wedding set up timing

Dry hire wedding venues require more time to set up, as there is more to do so factor this into your planning. Or hire a wedding planner who can provide all this support. So that all you have to do is arrive, with it all looking wonderfully set up, and enjoy your celebrations.

I adore helping couples plan their weddings at dry hire venues,  its one of my specialities so do get in touch and let's discuss your wedding.

Natasha x

All images on this page are by Katie Julia photography