We get some top wedding planning tips from historic Essex wedding venue Layer Marney Tower...

We've asked some of our favourite Essex wedding companies to give us their top tips for what to consider before booking your suppliers and parting with your well-earned cash. Thank you to Nicholas Charrington of Essex wedding venue Layer Marney Tower for these handy hints... 

- Whether you have an exact number or a ballpark figure, a budget can help you negotiate realistically with suppliers. The last thing you want is the stress of not knowing where you'll find the money to pay your final balances.

- We live it England, so it can rain all day in July and be gloriously sunny in January. Choose a setting that works equally well in sunshine or showers. Remember, different seasons and days attract different prices, so consider a mid-week date to save money.

- Having an overall vision is a helpful starting point because so many things flow from it: décor, styling, number of guests and the season you marry in. However, remain flexible and visit venues that don't fit your idea, as you may be surprised.

Nicholas Charrington | Layer Marney Tower | www.layermarneytowerweddings.co.uk

Image courtesy of www.eps-photography.co.uk