Planning a wedding is one of the most exciting yet overwhelming tasks for any couple. One of the first major decisions you’ll face is choosing the perfect venue. In the UK, wedding venues generally fall into two main categories: all-inclusive and dry hire. Understanding the key differences between the two can help you determine which option best aligns with your vision, budget, and desired level of involvement.
In this blog, we’ll break down the differences between all-inclusive and dry hire wedding venues, along with the pros and cons of each, to help you make an informed choice.
What is an All-Inclusive Wedding Venue?
An all-inclusive wedding venue is a location that provides most, if not all, of the services needed to host your wedding. This typically includes catering, bar services, furniture, décor, staff, and sometimes even planning assistance. All-inclusive venues aim to simplify the wedding planning process by offering a comprehensive package.
Pros of an All-Inclusive Wedding Venue
1. Convenience: One of the biggest benefits of an all-inclusive venue is the convenience. With most services included in one package, you don’t have to spend time sourcing separate vendors or coordinating multiple contracts.
2. Streamlined Planning: Many all-inclusive venues have experienced wedding coordinators on staff who can ensure that the day runs smoothly. Note though, that the wedding coordinators work on behalf of the venue, so it’s always worth considering hiring an external wedding coordinator to bring all of your plans together.
3. Cost Clarity: All-inclusive packages typically come with a clear, upfront price, making it easier to manage your wedding budget without unexpected costs cropping up.
4. Time-Saving: If you have a busy schedule or a short planning window, an all-inclusive venue can significantly reduce the time and stress involved in organising your wedding.
Cons of an All-Inclusive Wedding Venue
1. Less Flexibility: With a package deal, you may have less flexibility in choosing your own suppliers, such as caterers, photographers, or florists.
2. Cookie-Cutter Feel: Some couples find that all-inclusive packages can lack uniqueness, as venues often have a set style, menu, and décor options.
3. Limited Customization: If you have a very specific vision for your wedding, an all-inclusive venue may not offer the level of customization you desire.
What is a Dry Hire Wedding Venue?
A dry hire wedding venue, on the other hand, provides you with a blank canvas to create your dream wedding. Essentially, you hire the space only, and you are responsible for bringing in all your suppliers, including caterers, bar staff, stylists, and entertainment.
Pros of a Dry Hire Wedding Venue
1. Full Creative Control: Dry hire venues give you complete freedom to design your wedding exactly how you envision it. You can handpick every supplier and detail.
2. Unique Experience: Because you are starting from scratch, your wedding is likely to feel more unique and personal.
3. Flexibility with Budget: Dry hire venues can sometimes be more budget-friendly, especially if you are savvy with sourcing your own suppliers or opting for budget-friendly alternatives.
4. Choice of Suppliers: You are not tied to any specific vendors, allowing you to select those that align with your style and budget.
Cons of a Dry Hire Wedding Venue
1. More Work: Planning a dry hire wedding involves coordinating multiple vendors, managing contracts, and overseeing logistics, which can be time-consuming.
2. Hidden Costs: While the venue hire may seem affordable, costs can quickly add up when factoring in furniture hire, catering, bar services, and décor.
3. Logistical Challenges: Without an on-site coordinator, you may need to hire a wedding planner/wedding coordinator or enlist friends and family to manage the day’s logistics.
Which Option is Right for You?
Choosing between an all-inclusive and a dry hire wedding venue ultimately comes down to your personal preferences, budget, and vision for the day.
- Opt for an all-inclusive venue if you want a hassle-free planning process, a clear budget, and minimal stress on your wedding day.
- Choose a dry hire venue if you have a distinct vision, want full creative control, and are willing to invest the time and effort to bring your dream to life.
Final Thoughts
Both all-inclusive and dry hire venues offer unique benefits and challenges. The key is to prioritize what matters most to you as a couple. If ease and simplicity are your goals, an all-inclusive venue may be the perfect fit. However, if you crave a bespoke and highly personalized experience, a dry hire venue may be worth the extra effort.
Whichever option you choose, remember that your wedding day should reflect your love story — whether it’s curated by a professional team or crafted entirely by you.
Jo Pyman is an award-winning UK-based Wedding planner as well as the founder of One Curious Dream Wedding Planning Agency who plan and coordinate weddings throughout the UK and overseas.
If you’d like to enquire further about my wedding planning services, I welcome you to book in a free, no-obligation consultation here.
Alternatively, you can reach me at [email protected] or 0800 772 0765.
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