An honest behind-the-scenes look at entering The Wedding Industry Awards as a relaxed tipi wedding venue in Cheshire, from launch to finalist - and everything I learned along the way.
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When I launched Swanley Meadows, a relaxed tipi wedding venue in Cheshire, I had no intention of rushing into awards. My focus was on creating a laid-back, nature-led wedding space where couples could celebrate without rigid rules, formal timelines or stuffy traditions.
But as I started integrating into the wedding industry, one name kept cropping up everywhere - The Wedding Industry Awards (TWIA).
If you know the industry, you know TWIA.
It’s the club you want to be part of.
Not just because of the trophies or the shiny badges (although let’s be honest, they don’t hurt), but because TWIA represents credibility, peer respect, genuine feedback from couples, and recognition earned the hard way.
At the time, though, I very much assumed TWIA was something for future Jen.
You know… “maybe in a few years when I’ve got more weddings under my belt.”
I remember chatting to a few established wedding business owners and casually mentioning TWIA. Their responses were surprisingly similar:
“Oh yes, I entered a few times… it changed my business. I judge now. You should absolutely go for it.”
That planted a seed.
Then, on a gloomy February evening - one of those dangerous evenings where I’m in a “yes I absolutely can do anything” mood, an email dropped into my inbox announcing that early bird TWIA applications were opening soon.
Before I could talk myself out of it, I fired off a reply:
“Hey! I’m launching my venue in May and have a busy month of weddings in August 2025. Would you recommend waiting a year, or is it still worth entering? We obviously can’t compete on vote numbers with established venues.”
Almost immediately, a friendly, supportive reply landed back from Damian, TWIA’s founder, a face I’d only ever seen splashed across Instagram.
And in that moment, it really hit me:
behind so many businesses we admire in this industry are just one or two real people, grafting relentlessly to make it happen.
That reply tipped me over the edge.
I submitted the initial application, paid the early bird fee… and promptly forgot all about it.
I chalked it up as one of my many impulsive moments of madness. Totally unrealistic. Surely a stretch too far.
Then spring and summer happened.
A whirlwind first season at Swanley Meadows
My season didn’t exactly allow for much overthinking:
So when helpful reminder emails from the TWIA team popped up, I largely skimmed them and carried on. But something else was happening behind the scenes.
In every job I’ve ever had, I’ve valued feedback hugely.
Yes, I’m human and I love positive words.
But real growth comes from constructive feedback, and I genuinely believe that.
After each wedding, I actively asked couples for honest reflections, encouraging them to share any niggles without feeling like it would tarnish their memories. Because it’s not just about the wedding day itself:
As part of this process, I asked if couples would feel comfortable voting in the TWIA awards for Swanley Meadows. Every single one said yes, which I’m incredibly grateful for, especially knowing that their feedback (including constructive points) would be shared after the national finals.
Then came the part I’d been quietly dreading.
Actually sitting down to complete the TWIA business profile.
Self-praise is not my strong suit, so this wasn’t a quick “bash out some answers” job. It required real thought, reflection and honesty.
And unexpectedly… it was enlightening.
It forced me to re-affirm our core values, look back on what we’d achieved in our very first season, and think seriously about where Swanley Meadows is heading.
Defining ourselves as a relaxed tipi wedding venue in Cheshire meant being honest about what we do - and what we don’t. We’re not about strict schedules or one-size-fits-all packages. We’re about flexibility, warmth, outdoor celebrations and giving couples the freedom to create a wedding that actually feels like them. It was only when I finished that I thought:
“Well done, me. Actually… aren’t I doing quite well?”
That alone made the whole process worthwhile.
Thinking of a relaxed tipi wedding in Cheshire?
Swanley Meadows was created for couples who want a laid-back, nature-led celebration with space and flexibility to do things their own way. Find out more by downloading our brochure.
As submission deadlines passed and judging began, anticipation across the industry built.
Everyone was whispering:
“Ooh, I wonder who’s judging our categories?”
Instagram excitement was rising.
Then came the email.
TWIA 2026 Regional Finalist 🎉
“Congratulations - You are a TWIA 2026 Regional Finalist.”
Not one… but two categories
I immediately stalked the other finalists and thought, “You’re joking, right?”
But what an honour.
What an opportunity.
Tickets to the regional finals at Heaton House Farm?
YES PLEASE.
That was also the moment I allowed myself to shout just a little on socials - TWIA badges and all.
As a mum of small humans, a chance to dress up on a Tuesday night under the guise of business was not wasted.
Hair washed and blow-dried (naturally documented on Instagram).
Make-up done (false lashes remain my enemy).
And off my husband and I trotted to Heaton House, conveniently just 15 minutes away from home.
I’d already stalked every finalist, so names and faces felt strangely familiar. Even one of my 2026 grooms, Craig from Craig Galley Wedding Films, was there as a videography finalist (one of the toughest categories, in my opinion).
And yes, Damian was indeed a real person. Not just someone who lives inside my phone.
The atmosphere: overwhelming, supportive, inspiring
The event itself was incredible, and a bit overwhelming. I didn’t network quite as much as I’d hoped (not a natural social butterfly, and arriving slightly late didn’t help).
But early on, I spotted Amy from Time Capsule Media, who introduced us to her partner Ben, instantly putting me at ease. I also reconnected with Zoe from Zoe Nikola Photography, and we bonded over imposter syndrome and last-minute stage-run panic.
Both Amy and Zoe had been involved in styled shoots at Swanley Meadows this summer, and that familiarity meant more to me than any of the stunning images that came from those days.
Sitting amongst winners
Once seated, it felt like we were on the winning row.
Amongst others, awards went to:
And honestly? I was already thriving just being in that room.
Highlights included seeing:
Watching their wins was genuinely emotional.
And then… Venues
Venue categories were announced last - no surprises there - and I was honestly relieved not to feel like a complete fraud amongst the North West’s venue elite.
Then came the final award of the night.
Highly Commended Newcomer… Swanley Meadows - Tipi Weddings & Events.
WAIT.
THAT’S ME.
Suddenly I’m sprinting down the aisle, high-fiving strangers, being photographed and filmed, four proseccos deep, absolutely terrified and buzzing in equal measure.
Friends later said:
“Jen, you totally rocked that walk.”
Little did they know Damian had given very specific instructions earlier on!
Sharing that moment with fellow highly commended newcomers Dizzy Brascals and Photography by Michelle Jane was such an honour.
And then, very deservedly, Robert Page Films took home Best Newcomer.
Absolutely. Without question.
The certificates, the logos, the social media love - all incredible. (Turns out Instagram followers love a badge.)
But more than that, it’s been about:
Well… it seems silly not to go again, doesn’t it?
We still qualify as newcomers next year (how amazing is that?), and I can’t wait to:
If you’re looking for a relaxed tipi wedding venue in Cheshire that values people, feedback and doing things differently - this is only the beginning for Swanley Meadows.
Go for it. I did!💛
With love
Jenny x
Founder, Swanley Meadows – Tipi Weddings & Events
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