Getting engaged is the fun part. Planning the wedding? That’s where the magic really starts, and at Lochwood Manor, you’re never doing it alone. We guide you through the process in a way that feels thoughtful, organized, and (dare we say) enjoyable. Here’s what the journey from “yes” to “I do” looks like when you’re planning with us.
First Things First: Booking Your Venue
Most couples book their wedding venue 12–18 months before their wedding date, especially for peak-season Saturdays. Your venue sets the tone, the date, and often the entire planning timeline – which is why it’s usually the very first decision you’ll make.
At Lochwood Manor, we’re currently seeing couples planning well ahead into 2027-2028, with limited 2026 availability.
If you have your heart set on a specific season or date, earlier is always better. Book a tour with us today!
After You Book: What to Expect Next
Once your date is secured at Lochwood Manor, the pressure eases and the planning becomes more guided. While you’ll have time to enjoy being engaged, our team is already laying the groundwork behind the scenes. As your wedding date approaches, we’ll begin checking in and scheduling milestones to keep everything feeling organized and manageable.
Here’s how the months leading up to your celebration typically unfold:
5–6 Months Out: A Taste of What’s to Come
This is when the vision starts to feel tangible. Final venue payment is due and you’ll attend our Tastes of Seedling wedding tasting – an opportunity to sample menus, explore presentation, and start shaping the guest experience you’ve been imagining.
4–5 Months Out: Meet Your Coordinator
Your dedicated coordinator is officially assigned, and we’ll schedule a detailed planning appointment to walk through timelines, menus, and guest counts. From here on out, you’ll have an expert guiding every decision.
2–3 Months Out: Seeing It All Come Together
We’ll walk the space together and finalize your timeline and menu, giving you everything you need to confidently send out your invitations knowing the details are locked in. Meet with our in-house rental company, Esperté Event Rentals, to discuss enhancements for your day.
30 Days Out: Final Details, Fully Handled
About a month before your wedding, you’ll submit final guest counts, meal selections, seating arrangements, floor plans, and remaining details. We’ll review everything, confirm logistics, and account for any event guidelines or restrictions. Your planner will also send a final planning letter so nothing is left unanswered.
21 Days Out: The Final Countdown
Final catering payment is due, and the focus shifts from planning to anticipation.
Week Of: The Finishing Touches
You’ll drop off any items we’re placing on your behalf, and our team takes it from there setting the stage and ensuring every detail is exactly as planned.
From booking your date to your final send-off, our process is designed to feel seamless, supportive, and thoughtfully paced. At Lochwood Manor, we handle the details so you can stay present for every moment that matters most.
Book a tour with us today, and let’s get planning!
Lead Photo Credit: Lydia Joy Photography
