Choosing Your Dream Wedding Venue
Your loved one has popped the big question, you’re now engaged (congrats!) and a million thoughts start racing through your head as you plan your big day. Before deciding what you want catered, sorting out your guest list, and trying on dresses, there’s the “where is my wedding going to happen?!” We’ve played at all kinds of venues and have seen so many cool ideas come to life. When it comes down to it, your venue should reflect your personality and vision – we’ve put together a few tips to help you through the process!
When considering where you want your big day to be, think about the kind of feeling you want to go for. Are you going the traditional route at a church or cathedral? Do you want to be outside under a canopy of trees with the aisle dressed in different kinds of florals? Do you envision an elegant ball room? There are so many options when it comes to choosing the overall aesthetic of your venue, and you really can’t go wrong if you have a clear vision before visiting venues.
If you’re working with a wedding planner, consult with them as they may have amazing connections and ideas for spaces that will work within your budget. You’d be surprised how they can completely transform even the most simple venue to fit your vision!
Find out what is included when selecting your venue. Some venues provide full-service including catering, while at others you may need to rent tables, chairs, and other essentials that will provide you and your guests with a comfortable experience. Also, consider the guest count and how much the venue capacity holds. This will rule out venues that are too small for your 250 guest wedding, or any that will feel too large and empty for a more intimate ceremony.
Come up with a list of questions to ask your venue. One of the most important questions to ask is whether your event date is available. If you’re set on a specific venue, make sure you have a list of back up dates.
A few other important questions to ask are:
1. How far in advance can I reserve my date?
2. Do you offer seasonal or week day discounts?
3. Will I have exclusive access for a full day or how many hours are included in the rental?
4. Are there limitations on the vendors I can hire?
5. Is there a back up location or a tent available in case of weather?
6. Are there neighborhood or venue specific noise restrictions? (This one is extra important if you plan on hiring a band or any entertainment!)
Brides put together a thorough list of venue questions to ask. Check out their post for inspiration.
There are so many amazing venues to choose from, so be sure that in doing your research, you have fun with it to make it as stress free as possible. Follow your heart when you find the venue that feels like it’s perfect for you and your loved one.