If you are going for a barn wedding they may be slightly more out of the way and harder to get to. Making sure every guest enjoys your celebration is key. Ensuring all guests can have a good time at the event takes some planning. Here’s what to consider.
Venue Access and Parking
Barns are commonly found at the end of a country lane or farm track. Determine if the access road is accessible to all types of vehicles and mobility devices. There might be guests using wheelchairs, walking frames or simply people who have a little bit of trouble navigating through uneven gravel/grass car parks.
Check with your venue: Will there be accessible parking nearby the entrance? Do they have the ability to supply temporary hard standing areas if required? For a Barn Wedding Venue Kent, visit https://theploughatleigh.com/barn-wedding-venue-kent/
Entrance and Ground Floor Access
Traditional Barns – stairs, thresholds and uneven floors. As charming as that may be, this also presents an obstacle to those guests who use wheelchairs or have difficulty walking.
Topical questions: Is it supported by ramps? Is the entrance wheelchair-accessible? Will the wedding ceremony and reception occur on a single level? If not, is there a lift or other means of access?
Accessible Facilities
Bathroom facilities are crucial. Some barn venues include portable toilets, but most do not have disabled-accessible units available. Regular portaloos are unsuitable for wheelchairs because they’re too narrow and have no grab rails.
Seating Arrangements
Pews or benches that are bolted to the floor might cause complications for those who require room for a wheelchair. Flexible seating arrangements can keep guests happy.
For example: Accessible seating with spaces reserved near exits and aisles. Room for wheelchairs at tables.
Hearing and Visual Considerations
Sometimes in a barn, acoustics are tough. Outdoor settings will also be a challenge for guests with hearing disability because of background noise.
Extras included: Quality microphones for the celebrant, plus vows and speeches. Hearing loop systems if available. Excellent lighting though, especially for those who read lips. Legible large fonts for signs.
Communicate with Your Guests
Include access information right there in your invitations or wedding website! Inquire if your guests have any special needs when they RSVP which saves considerable time on your prep work.
Work with Your Venue
The most accommodating barn wedding venues recognise that the best way to celebrate is with inclusive celebration. Speak to your venue at an early stage and work with them toward practical solutions.
A wedding should be a celebration that everyone can partake in. By planning thoroughly for accessibility, you can prevent any of your wedding guests from feeling left out or uncomfortable.