Top 10 questions when choosing a Kent wedding venue

So, how do you decide which wedding venue is right for you? Here are our Top 10 questions to keep in mind…

1. Is the location right for you – and your guests?

Kent is known as the ‘Garden of England’ for good reason. Rolling green countryside, historic towns and miles of coastline mean you’re totally spoilt for choice.

But when it comes to location, it’s always a good idea to keep your family and friends in mind.

Think about… How easy is it for guests travelling from London or further afield? Is there parking? Is it easy to find?

Choosing a well known and trusted hotel like the Hythe Imperial gives you all this – we have ample parking and are just an hour from London on the fast train.

And we think there’s something timeless about the sea views and fresh air that makes a coastal wedding feel like an occasion.

Our seafront location offers exactly that – dramatic coastal views, while still being super accessible for guests travelling from across Kent and beyond.

2. Does the wedding venue offer accommodation?

For many weddings, this can make or break the experience.

Wedding venues with accommodation in Kent are hugely popular. Why?  Because they remove so much of the stress on the day!

No taxis to organise. No early departures. No one worrying about driving home.

Hotel wedding venues like ours offer something special – the chance to turn your wedding into a full experience rather than just a few hours.

At the Hythe Imperial Hotel, guests can stay on site, relax in our comfortable bedrooms and really enjoy themselves. It transforms the celebration into something far more memorable!

3. Is everything under one roof?

Moving everyone between multiple locations can become a bit of a logistical headache.

Think about this – is the ceremony in one place and the reception somewhere else? What happens if it rains? Who is coordinating transport?

Many of the best wedding venues in Kent offer the ceremony, reception and accommodation all in one setting. This keeps the day flowing and allows you and your guests to relax.

At our hotel, couples can hold their ceremony, enjoy a drinks reception overlooking the sea, dine in the ballroom and dance into the evening – all without leaving the building.

4. What Kent wedding packages are available?

Planning from scratch can be exciting – but too quickly it can feel a little overwhelming.

That’s why so many couples will choose a venue that offers budget-friendly wedding packages. These wedding packages provide structure and peace of mind too.

The best wedding packages cover the essentials, offer flexibility, and allow you to personalise the details. Think of it like a framework that you can use to tailor to create your dream wedding, just the way you want it.

At the Hythe Imperial Hotel, our bespoke Kent wedding packages are designed to make planning as simple as possible. From your wedding breakfast and drinks reception to evening celebrations and a bridal suite, everything is thoughtfully included.

This means it keeps your planning focused on the fun parts. And planning your Big Day really can be fun and exciting!

5. How much will it cost – and what’s actually included?

How much you’ll actually have to spend on your wedding varies wildly across Kent.

The important thing here isn’t just the top-line figure. It’s what you receive for that price.

Some so-called ‘affordable’ wedding venues look competitive at first glance, but the extras can quickly mound up. Room hire, service charges, corkage and minimum guest numbers can all affect your final total.

Transparency matters.

At the Hythe Imperial, we pride ourselves on very clear pricing and tailored wedding packages, so you know exactly where you stand from day one.

6. Is the venue actually licensed for ceremonies?

Lots of engaged couples are surprised to learn this – not every venue can legally host your ceremony.

If you’re hoping to say your vows and celebrate in the same place, make sure it’s fully licensed. Some may look like they can, but you will be required to visit a Registry Office before to get officially married.

Of course, as one of the top wedding venues in Kent, the Hythe Imperial Hotel has decades of experience hosting real ceremonies and wedding celebrations.

And yes, our venue is of course fully licensed.

7. Who will support you during the planning process?

A beautiful wedding venue is only part of the picture.

Behind every successful wedding is a calm and experienced Weddings Team.

Does the venue provide an in-house coordinator or wedding planner? Will someone guide you through timings, menus and layouts? Who will be there on the day to make sure everything runs smoothly?

Luxury wedding venue experiences are built on service as much as their surroundings.

Our dedicated Weddings Team will work with you both – from your first viewing right through to the wedding day itself.

That experience – and support – makes a real difference.

8. What about the catering options?

Guests probably won’t remember every detail of the décor, but they will remember the food!

Ask whether catering is provided in-house. Can menus be tailored? Are tastings available? What about special diets?

Hotel wedding venues always have the advantage here, with experienced chefs running the hotel restaurants, and established teams who are trained to deliver first-class service.

At the Hythe Imperial Hotel, our kitchen creates carefully-curated wedding breakfasts, childrens menus and evening options (upgrade options available too if you are looking for something al little different) all using local ingredients wherever possible. All can be tailored to suit your style and guest list.

9. Can the space be personalised?

Every couple wants their wedding to feel unique.

But some standard venues have strict décor rules or limited flexibility on what you can and can’t change. While others allow you to truly make the space your own.

The best wedding venues in Kent strike the right balance between character and adaptability.

At our hotel, from the grand Imperial Ballroom to the terrace overlooking the sea, couples can personalise layouts, styling and all the little finishing touches to reflect your vision. Together we will make it happen!

10. Can you picture your whole day there?

Last but by no means least. This is the question that brings everything together.

Take the time to visit and to look around your venue – most will offer free guided tours to engaged couples.

Can you imagine getting ready there in the morning? Saying your vows. Sharing drinks with sea views. Dancing into the evening. Waking up the next day as newlyweds. Does it feel right?

When a venue offers a great location, on-site accommodation, wedding packages, experienced planners and beautiful surroundings, it becomes easier to picture that full story.

That’s why so many couples consider the Hythe Imperial Hotel among the very best wedding venues in Kent.

Our hotel combines coastal character, elegant spaces and literally everything you need under one roof.

Ready to take a look at the Hythe Imperial?

Our Weddings Team would love to show you around our beautiful Kent wedding venue.

Websites and glossy brochures can only do so much…

So please do come and visit us. Walk through the ballroom. Step out onto the terrace. Stand under the garden gazebo. And picture your special day unfolding by the sea.

Give the team a call on 01303 267441, send an email, or you can also book a slot for a private showround here.

We are waiting to welcome you!