Your wedding day starts with one big decision: the venue
We help make that choice easy. Whether you’re dreaming of an intimate ceremony, a grand celebration in a historic hall, or something beautifully simple, our venues suit a range of styles, budgets, and guest lists.
Here, you’ll discover everything you need to start planning your special day - from choosing a beautiful venue within Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole, to helpful guidance for preparing your ceremony.
Step one
Finding the right setting sets the tone for your day. Think about whether a ceremony room or a licensed venue suits your style, guest numbers, budget, and accessibility needs.
Step two
Once you have a favourite place, ask to hold a date and time while you finalise the details. Be open to weekday or off‑peak options - they can be calmer and often better value. Confirm what’s included (room setup, sound system, parking, accessibility) and note any deposit or cancellation terms.
Step three
Your ceremony can only go ahead if registrars are available for your chosen date, time, and venue, so contact our registrars as soon as you’ve pencilled things in. Have both partners’ details ready and the exact venue name to hand.
Step four
When your registrars are confirmed, you’re ready to lock in the venue. Sign the contract, pay any deposit, and share your ceremony timetable so staff can prepare. Ask about room layout, readings or music setup, and who will greet the registrars on the day.
Step five
Book an appointment to give notice at your local register office - this is a legal step that must be done in person, usually at least 28 days before the ceremony. Don’t leave this to the last minute - diaries fill fast, especially in peak seasons.
Browse our venues and find your perfect place to say “I do".
If you are planning a marriage or civil partnership in one of our ceremony rooms, your first step is to choose the space that feels just right for your day - the place where your celebration begins.
