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Clandeblog Top tips for planning a last minute wedding

Sometimes there’s just no need to hang around. So, follow your heart and sweep the love of your life off their feet!

If you’re caught in the whirlwind of planning a wedding in Northern Ireland with limited time on your hands, take a deep breath as we’ve got you covered. Your last minute wedding can be just as amazing as one that’s been in the works for months. Spontaneity can be wonderful too!

Our wedding team has outlined the do's and don'ts to guide you smoothly through the whirlwind of last minute wedding preparations:

1. Do opt for an all-inclusive package

A beautiful ceremony setup in a wedding venue in Northern Ireland.
The Blackwood suite

Look for wedding venues that offer all-inclusive packages to streamline your wedding preparations. Our bespoke Swept Away package provides you with everything you need for an elegant and effortless occasion, and takes the stress out of planning your wedding day. It includes all the essentials, from your ceremony and reception space to your welcome drinks and 4-course menu!

2. Do be flexible

When planning on short notice, some of your preferred suppliers may be already booked. However, this opens doors to exciting alternatives you maybe didn’t consider before! We can assist you in recommending all different types of suppliers, from wedding photographers to florists and cake bakers.

3. Do consider off-peak dates

A cake swing and neon sign at a wedding venue in Northern Ireland.
The Clandeboye suite

Consider midweek or off-season dates. Not only are they more affordable, but they're also more readily available. We’re always happy to look at options to fit in with your desired timing. Discover our last minute wedding availability.

4. Do give your guests notice

A same sex couple getting married at a wedding venue in Northern Ireland.
Annette & Laura, Bradley Henderson Photography

As soon as you secure your venue and wedding date, tell your guests and make sure they save the date! Consider using digital wedding invitations that can be sent immediately.

5. Do stay organised

Even if you only have a few weeks before your wedding, breaking tasks down by day or week will keep you on track and reduce stress. Why not make a wedding checklist? Our wedding team is here to support and guide you every step of the way!

6. Do consider a venue with accommodation

A luxury bedroom suite with a copper bathtub in a wedding venue in Northern Ireland.
The Ultra-luxe suite

Consider a wedding venue that provides on-site accommodation. This not only adds convenience for your guests but also provides a comfortable space for you and your bridal party to get ready!

At Clandeboye Lodge, nestled in the County Down countryside, our wedding packages include a luxurious wedding suite (with late check-out!), two complimentary double bedrooms and discounted accommodation for your guests. Why not upgrade to our sumptuous Ultra-luxe Suite for your wedding night?

7. Don’t over-complicate

A wedding place card at a wedding venue in Northern Ireland.

In the rush of last minute wedding planning, it's tempting to strive for perfection. But sometimes, less is more! At Clandeboye Lodge, our naturally beautiful wedding suites and setting eliminate the need for additional decor. Plus, our Swept Away package provides you with extras such as table centrepieces, a choice of coloured table linens and range of stylish cake stands.

8. Don't neglect self-care

A woman enjoying a bath at a hotel in Northern Ireland
Tranquil indulgence package

Planning a wedding on short notice can be a whirlwind of excitement but make sure you carve out time for self-care. Our Tranquil Indulgence overnight package is the perfect way to relax and pamper yourself before the big day!

9. Don’t be afraid to ask for help

A couple chatting to a member of the wedding team at a wedding venue in Northern Ireland
Couple seeking advice

Your friends and family are there to support you, and many of them would be delighted to play a role in your wedding preparations! Our wedding team is here to assist you every step of the way - no question is too small! We're here to make your wedding journey as smooth and stress-free as possible.

10. Don't think you can't have your dream wedding

A wedding reception setup at a wedding venue in Northern Ireland.
The Viceroy suite

Planning a wedding in just six months doesn't mean you can't have the dream wedding you've always envisioned. The great thing about our Swept Away package is that it allows you to have your dream wedding on short notice, and at a more affordable price.

11. Don't forget to capture the memories

Once your date is set, make sure you secure a wedding photographer to capture the memories of your big day. Our gorgeous landscaped gardens and eclectic decor provide the idea backdrop for your wedding photos!

Last minute wedding package at Clandeboye Lodge

A bride and groom against a stone wall at a wedding venue Northern Ireland
Meg & Patrick, Sun & Beau Photography

Our bespoke Swept Away package provides you with everything you need for an elegant and effortless occasion, and takes the stress out of planning your wedding day.

We always have a few great last minute wedding dates available, including some Fridays and Saturdays over the next 6 months, for those who are determined to act now. Our wedding team are always happy to look at options to fit in with your desired timing - why not book a wedding showaround?

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