As a wedding venue that champions flexibility, we believe that wedding supplier restrictions are a major venue red flag 🚩
Why? Your freedom to choose your the ‘right’ wedding suppliers matters more than you think…
Planning your wedding is all about making it uniquely yours – from big decisions like your venue and dress to the finer details that bring your vision to life. But what if your venue dictated who you could work with? What if your choices weren’t based on quality, creativity, or the connection you feel with a supplier, but on a pre-set list dictated by who is prepared to pay to be there?
Unfortunately, that’s the reality at many wedding venues that operate pay-to-play restricted wedding supplier lists, where businesses must pay a fee just to be recommended. While this might work for the venue, it limits your options – meaning you’re not necessarily working with the best suppliers, just the ones who could afford to be listed.
That doesn’t sit right with us.
Photo credit: Opperhill Photography | Flowers: Firth Frock Flowers
We do things differently. We strongly believe that you deserve the unrestricted freedom to choose the wedding suppliers who truly align with your vision. Whether you already have a dream team in mind or you need some guidance on who to trust, we’re here to help – without hidden fees, kickbacks, or restrictions.
Wedding Supplier Restrictions Are A Red Flag 🚩
There, we said it 🫢 (again). Some venues – though not all – present their exclusive supplier lists as a ‘benefit’ making it seem like they’re offering a curated selection of the best in the industry. However, behind the scenes, these lists may exist for convenience or financial gain rather than quality or creative alignment.
So instead of choosing a photographer whose style you love, a florist who brings your vision to life, or a venue stylist who truly understands you, you’re forced to pick from a limited selection. Worse still, some suppliers are forced to increase their costs to cover these listing fees – so you could end up paying more for fewer choices.
Photo Credit: Opperhill Photography | Makeup by Rebecca Forshaw
Recommended Suppliers You Can Trust
At Tower Hill Barns, we take a different approach. We DO share with you our recommended suppliers. However, we don’t charge those suppliers to be on the list. Instead, we recommend businesses based on what truly matters: trust, experience, and genuine quality.
If we suggest a supplier, it’s because we’ve seen them in action. Time and time again. We’ve watched them go above and beyond for couples, consistently delivering outstanding service and exceeding expectations. They know our venue inside out, they care about your experience, and they share our commitment to making your wedding as special as it can be.
Your wedding day shouldn’t be about what’s easiest or most profitable for the venue – it should be about you and the suppliers who will make your day unforgettable. – Jo
But here’s the key difference: The choice is always yours. You’re free to bring in whoever you like, whether they’re on our recommended suppliers list or someone you’ve found yourself. No restrictions, no extra fees – just the suppliers who fit you best.
Photo Credit: Opperhill Photography | Flowers by Firth Frock Flowers | Hair & Makeup by Rebecca Forshaw
Because The RIGHT Suppliers Make All The Difference…
The wedding suppliers you choose will help bring your vision to life. They’re the ones who will capture your memories, design your florals, and create an atmosphere that reflects you as a couple. That’s why having the freedom to choose the right team is so important.
When you choose a wedding venue like us, that doesn’t place any restrictions on wedding suppliers, you get:
✅ Total flexibility to hire suppliers who align with your style, budget, and vision.
✅ Confidence that every recommended supplier is chosen for their quality and expertise – not because of a financial arrangement. And;
✅ The reassurance that every penny you spend goes directly to your supplier, recognising their hard work and talent.
Introducing ‘Spotlight on Suppliers’
By now, you’ve probably gathered that we love working with talented, independent wedding businesses that offer our couples incredible customer service. That’s why we’re launching ‘Spotlight on Suppliers’ – a blog series introducing you to the incredible professionals who’ve helped make weddings at Tower Hill Barns unforgettable time and time again.
First Up: The Dress Bridal Boutique
Recently, Jo visited The Dress Bridal Boutique, a stunning new bridal boutique in Oswestry, Shropshire, to chat with owner Katrina about all things wedding dresses. After leaving a high-pressure career to pursue her passion for helping brides find their dream dress, Katrina has curated a beautiful collection, making her boutique a must-visit for brides across Shropshire and North Wales.
👉 See our visit to Katrina’s beautiful bridal boutique.
Photo Credit: Opperhill Photography | Flowers by Firth Frock Flowers | Table Décor & Chair Sashes by Uplit Event Hire
The Takeaway? ‘Your Wedding, Your Suppliers, Your Way’.
The suppliers you choose will shape every aspect of your wedding day, so don’t let anyone dictate your decisions.
We believe in giving you the freedom to create the wedding you’ve always dreamed of – without restrictions or limitations:
📍 Ready to start planning your dream wedding without restrictions? Book a venue viewing
💡 Looking for trusted suppliers who truly care? Check out our handpicked recommended suppliers
We’re here to support you, not limit you. ‘Your wedding, Your Way’ – always.
