Real Wedding: Doug & Karl

Continuing our celebration of love, union, and equality this Pride Month we had the pleasure of catching up with the utterly delightful Doug & Karl. Their journey in planning a wedding day at Barns & Yard was filled with unique insights and invaluable advice for any couple embarking on this joyous adventure.

"You've booked the venue, let the planning commence…" Doug confessed that, initially, he underestimated the sheer amount of preparation that goes into orchestrating a wedding. Luckily, Karl's meticulousness and excellent guidance from the team at B&Y made the process more manageable. From major decisions like food choices, suits, and flowers, down to the tiniest details like candle holders and seat cushions, every element required careful consideration.

The planning process at Barns & Yard was meticulously organised, starting with a deposit to secure the date. Meetings were scheduled to discuss the various aspects, and the couple received a wealth of ideas and suggestions, along with a curated list of trusted suppliers. Utilising the web portal, Hostology, made the to-do list clear and allowed for seamless communication with Barns & Yard.  Doug and Karl expressed their gratitude for the dedication of the team, as they went above and beyond to provide invaluable advice and ensure nothing was overlooked or rushed. The attention to detail in all aspects at B&Y made the experience entirely unique and tailored to the couple's wishes.

As the wedding weekend approached, Doug and Karl were onsite, assisting with setup and conducting a thorough run-through. It was during this time that they realised the importance of perfection, and an on-site team to ensure everything runs perfectly, Doug explained: “The run through was most impressive for me, it sounds stupid now and I guess nerves / excitement was taking over, but I hadn’t considered how important it was that we got this perfect, and it was down to Nicky & Lisi’s direction on the day that made our day so special.”

On the big day itself, the B&Y event team were present from the crack of dawn, ensuring every detail was flawlessly executed. Their calming and supportive presence alleviated Doug's nerves, “they tirelessly orchestrated the various elements of the day, from room setups to managing the bands, all while remaining almost invisible” Karl says.

Reflecting on their journey, Doug and Karl offered valuable advice to couples planning their wedding. First, they emphasised the importance of surrounding oneself with a supportive team, including the exceptional staff at Barns & Yard. Second, they encouraged couples to focus on their love and what the day truly means to them, steering clear of external pressures. Finally, they advised couples to savour the planning process, seeking help where needed and not allowing stress to overshadow the joy of bringing their vision to life.

Ultimately, the perfect wedding day is a team effort, and the experienced team at B&Y ensure that every cherished dream becomes an unforgettable reality. Their commitment and expertise guarantee that every detail is flawlessly executed, leaving couples free to bask in the joy of their celebration.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Doug & Karl for sharing their experience and allowing us to relive their beautiful day. 

The Yard Girls x

If you're considering wedding venues and would like to visit Barns & Yard, don't miss the opportunity to attend one of our show round days. Simply click here and request our brochure and a list of viewing dates.

Alexandra Underwood