Finding The Right Wedding Venue
Photo: Comfort Photography
Finding the perfect wedding venue can be a daunting task, but with careful planning and consideration, you can find the dream venue that fits perfectly with your wedding vision.
01. GUEST COUNT & BUDGET
First things first, determine how many people you want and how much you and your fiance are willing to spend. Once you have determined the number of guests and your budget, it's time to start your venue search. One way to do this is by attending wedding showcases, often put together by the venues, or browsing online for different options.
While researching and shortlisting venues, it's crucial to keep your guest count in mind. The size of the venue should be able to comfortably accommodate all your guests. Venues often have a minimum and maximum guest capacity, so this can quickly narrow your choices. Moreover, be aware that each venue will have different regulations for space and seating arrangements. Some may offer a flexible layout, allowing for a variety of configurations, while others may have a fixed structure. Aligning your guest count to the venue capacity not only ensures comfort and freedom of movement for your guests but also helps avoid potential safety issues or violations of fire codes.
02. LOCATION
So, now that you've got your guest list and your budget, the location is next. Who doesn't dream of tying the knot on a tropical beach, in a dreamy castle, or even in the heart of a bustling city like NYC? Such a dream!
Your venue needs to be easy for your guests to get to. Nobody wants Aunt Mabel getting lost on a dirt road in the middle of nowhere, right? And, unless you're planning to provide room, board, and airfare for everyone (how generous!), going for a locale that doesn't require a passport or a week off work might be your best bet.
03. DOES THE VENUE ALIGN WITH YOUR VISION?
Ask for recommendations from friends and family who have recently tied the knot. As you explore different venues, envision how they align with your wedding theme and your personal style. Is the venue versatile enough to accommodate your design ideas? Does it evoke the right feel and atmosphere you're trying to create? These key considerations can help ensure that your chosen venue will bring your wedding vision to life.
04. KNOW WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THE PACKAGE
Another crucial aspect to consider while choosing a wedding venue is what's included in the package provided by the venue. Many venues offer comprehensive packages that may include rentals, catering, lighting, sound equipment, and tableware. In contrast, some venues provide only the basic space, requiring you to arrange for these services separately. Understanding what is included can significantly influence your budget and the type of vendors you’ll need. If a venue offers a full-service package, the costs might be higher, but it can reduce the logistical challenges of dealing with multiple vendors. On the contrary, a venue that only provides the space may be cheaper, but you'll need to account for the additional time and effort needed to organize the rest of the services you’ll need. Always clarify with the venue about what's included in their venue offering, to avoid any hidden or unexpected costs down the line.
Photo: Comfort Photography
05. BRING YOUR WEDDING VENUE CHECKLIST
Now, here’s the fun part! You've got to organize and prepare yourself when touring these venues. You’ll need a checklist! From questions about parking spaces (because no one wants to trek a mile in their best shoes), to queries about backup plans for unpredictable weather (because we all know Mother Nature loves a good surprise), your checklist will ensure you've got all bases covered.
Because I don’t want to leave you stranded in your planning process, here is a free downloadable wedding venue checklist! No more frantically scribbling notes on napkins or relying on your memory after a long day of venue scouting. I hope this checklist is a great help to you! If you’re still feeling overwhelmed or stuck after your venue tours and you need a wedding planner, view my services here on how I can best help you.
