Planning a Wedding in Cornwall

With beautiful coastlines, stunning venues and a feel that you just don’t get anywhere else - planning a wedding in Cornwall is a popular choice for a reason. If you are thinking of having your wedding in Cornwall, we can help. In this blog, we discuss everything you need to consider when planning your wedding.

When is the best season to get married in Cornwall?

We’re bias but we think any time of the year is a great time to get married in Cornwall, but we know everyone loves different seasons and has a different vision for their wedding, so to decide what season is best for you, ask yourself these questions:

1. Are you hoping for sunshine and blue skies? Or do you find a rainy wedding romantic? Opting for a wedding date in the Summer will give you the best chance of sunny weather, but we’ve seen many beautiful blue skied weddings in Spring, Autumn and Winter. 
2. Are you wanting a long day of sunlight? It’s important to consider the amount of daylight we have for each season. Planning golden hour during key moments of your wedding can elevate the atmosphere, but equally you might want as many daylight hours as possible. 
3. What do you want the landscape to look like? The coastline and sea looks beautiful at any time of year, but it is important to think about the trees. Do you want golden leaves in autumn? Blooming flowers and trees in spring and summer? Or bare trees in winter? 

Every season has its own unique elements that will make your wedding special, our wedding coordinator can help find a date that is perfect for you.

How to choose the right wedding venue in Cornwall?

The biggest appeal of a coastal wedding is, of course, the view. But the most memorable weddings go beyond just a pretty backdrop, they feel natural, thoughtful, and comfortable for you and your guests. When choosing a wedding venue, there is more to consider than the backdrop.

When choosing a venue, it is important to think about the following:

• Is the venue fully licensed for weddings, or will you need to do the paperwork elsewhere?
• If you are wanting to get married outdoors, is there a seamless indoor alternative that doesn’t sacrifice atmosphere.
• Coastal venues can be remote, is there parking, on-site transport options (like golf buggies)? Is the venue accessible and accomodating for older relatives or guests with limited mobility?
• What extras does the venue provide? Do they have a great menu? Do they have a fully licensed bar? Do they have an abundance of photo options? Do they have wedding planners?

We recommend shortlisting your venues and if possible going to visit a few and get a feel for the place, look at testimonials and other couples photos.

The legalities

Unfortunately wedding planning involves more than just the fun bits like picking your venue, wedding songs and menu. When getting married in Cornwall, there are a couple things you need to get ticked off before the big day. To be able to get married legally in Cornwall, there are a couple things you need to do, firstly you must give your Notice of Marriage (this needs to be done at least 29 days before your wedding day), ensure your dream venue is licensed and then book your registration with Cornwall Council Celebrant Registrars. 

What else do you need to plan as part of your wedding day?

Food & Drinks

Food and drinks are a key point of any wedding, having a fully stocked bar is crucial. For food choices, you might choose a seated meal or more of a sharing platter, buffet style. At Above The Bay, you can choose between a traditional three course sit down reception or something altogether more informal. We have a fully stocked bar and team to keep your guests refreshed all day.

Flowers

Flowers are powerful in how they can transform a space and elevate the aesthetics of the venue. We recommend opting for locally sourced, seasonal flowers is a great choice for beautiful centre pieces, ceremony altar and for the bridal party.

Entertainment  

Choosing the right entertainment is another big element to keep the energy flowing, guests lively and set the tone. You may choose between a live band, a dj, a singer or a combination. You may also choose extra entertainment elements, including photo boots and live painters. 

Photographer and Videographer

The photos and videos are about remembering the day. Choosing a photographer and/or a videographer that can match your taste, catch the atmosphere and feelings of the wedding and have something you can look back on. We recommend looking at photos and video examples, testimonials and meeting the photographer/videographer to ensure you align.

Why choose a Cornwall wedding at Above the Bay special?

At Above the Bay, we have hosted weddings for many wonderful couples, our wedding venue has:. 

• Fully licensed for legal outdoor weddings, no need for a separate ceremony
• Panoramic sea views over Falmouth’s coastline, inside or out
• Indoor ceremony room with sea views as a stylish weather backup
• Reserved parking for up to 8 cars for close family, with additional parking available
• Golf buggy transport available to help guests reach the ceremony space with ease
• A calm, thoughtful setting with onsite catering, indoor options, and a team who truly care
• You can say your vows and sign the register under the open sky and our beautiful pagoda – it’s all official, all in one go, and all with that glorious coastal backdrop.
• Our indoor venue is all on ground level to accommodate all of the family.
• At Above The Bay, we work with a number of local suppliers who can help make the day specials, from florists, cake makers, wedding decor companies, photographers, make up artists, bands and dj's. When you book with us we will provide you a list of all our recommended suppliers. 

Whether you’re planning an intimate elopement or a relaxed celebration with family and friends, Above the Bay offers a coastal setting that feels personal, picturesque, and intentionally designed for meaningful moments.