Congratulations, you’re engaged!! You are happy and excited to marry the love of your life and can’t wait to start planning your dream wedding! You’ve told all of your friends and family and have taken a dozen ring selfies (isn’t it funny how all the sudden you become left handed? 😊). But then, it happens: You realize you have no clue where to start with wedding planning and all of the sudden that happiness and excitement turns to anxiety and panic! Don’t let this be you! Over the next month, we will be sharing blog posts detailing all the steps to planning your perfect wedding! From the venue to the cake, there is no such thing as a one size fits all and knowledge is power my friends! So, without further ado, here’s our first on how to choose the perfect wedding venue! Enjoy!
If there’s one thing in a wedding that is not optional, it’s a venue! After all, you have to have a place for your friends and family to celebrate! Selecting the perfect wedding venue is not just about finding a pretty location; it's about finding a place that aligns with your vision, accommodates your guest list, and offers the amenities and services that will make your day memorable. There are so many beautiful options; rather you are wanting an elegant ballroom, cozy restaurant, stunning barn or you want to get hitched on the beach under the stars. We are sharing our tips for finding the perfect location for you and yours!
Talk to a planner first:
A lot of couples forgo hiring a wedding planner because “it’s not in the budget”. Trust us when we say, you can’t afford not to. They can help you save THOUSANDS of dollars and more than pay for themselves in the long run. We even have another blog you should check out, with all of the details on How to choose the perfect wedding planner. Planners are the perfect resource to help you find the perfect venue that fits your style and budget and will know exactly what it takes to transform any space!
What to consider when booking your venue:
Before you start touring venues, it's important to have a clear understanding of what you're looking for in a wedding venue. Consider the following factors to help narrow down your options and find the venue that suits your style, budget, and logistical needs:
1. Capacity:
Determine the number of guests you plan to invite and ensure that the venue can comfortably accommodate your guest count. You don't want your guests to feel cramped or overwhelmed in a space that is too small, nor do you want a venue that feels empty because it's too large for your intimate gathering.
2. Location:
Consider the location of your venue in relation to your ceremony site, reception site, and accommodations for your guests. If you're having an outdoor ceremony, you may want to choose a venue that is nearby to avoid long travel times. Additionally, consider the convenience and accessibility of the venue for your guests, especially if you have out-of-town attendees.
3. Ambiance:
Think about the vibe you want to create on your wedding day. Are you envisioning a romantic and intimate setting Or perhaps you’re more of a maximalist and would love something more grandiose. Consider the architectural style, decor, and overall ambiance of each venue you visit to ensure it aligns with your wedding vibe and vision.
4. Amenities:
Consider the amenities and services offered by each venue. Does the venue provide catering, or do you need to bring in your own? Is there ample parking for your guests, or will you need to bring in a valet? Are there dressing rooms or bridal suites available for you and your wedding party? Think about the specific needs and preferences you have for your wedding day and ensure that the venue can accommodate them.
5. Budget:
Wedding venues can vary greatly in price, so it's important to have a clear budget in mind when selecting a venue. Consider not only the venue rental fee, but also any additional costs such as valet, staffing, catering, decor, and rentals. Be sure to inquire about any hidden fees or extra charges that may not be immediately apparent.
6. Logistics:
Consider the logistics of the venue, such as setup and teardown times, restrictions on decor or vendors, and any noise or curfew restrictions. Make sure you understand the venue's policies and restrictions to ensure that they align with your plans and vision for your wedding day.
Remember, each couple is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Take the time to think about what is most important to you and your partner and prioritize those factors when selecting a wedding venue!
Types of wedding venues:
1) Outdoor wedding venues
Outdoor weddings have a natural beauty and offer a wide range of options for couples looking to tie the knot in a picturesque setting. From lush gardens and vineyards to beachfront ceremonies and mountain vistas, outdoor venues provide a stunning backdrop for your special day. However, it's important to consider the weather and have a backup plan in case of inclement weather, or just learn to dance in the rain! You’d be surprised how beautiful photos in the rain can look!
2) Indoor wedding venues
Indoor venues offer a controlled environment and are a popular choice for couples who want to ensure their wedding day goes off without a hitch, regardless of the weather. From elegant ballrooms and historic mansions to modern event spaces and hotels, indoor venues can be customized to create the exact vibe you desire!
3) Destination wedding venues
For couples looking to combine their wedding and honeymoon into one unforgettable experience, destination weddings offer a unique and memorable option. From tropical beach resorts to charming European castles, destination venues provide a stunning and exotic backdrop for your nuptials. However, it's important to consider the logistics and additional costs associated with planning a wedding in a different location. Which brings us to the important aspects of drafting your budget!
Draft a budget:
Before you start looking at venues, draft your budget. The last thing you want to do is sign a contract with a venue only to later realize you have nothing left to pay a DJ or feed your guests. We recommend talking to your families and your significant other to see what everyone can contribute and what you have to work with. Then, use this number to allocate funds appropriately. Once again, a planner in your area is the best person to advise.
1) Consider what’s included:
Our next two sections can make or break that budget we just discussed. Selecting a venue is much more than the cost of the space itself, there are lots of things to consider. If your venue is a blank slate and doesn’t include things like tables and chairs, this can tack on a significant amount of money in the rental category. On the contrary, if they include tables, chairs, linens and centrepieces ask to check out what these items look like. More often than not the “all inclusive” venues inventory may not fit with the “vision” we talk about a little further down so you may decide to rent these items. If this is the case, we recommend getting a couple preliminary quotes from rental companies to get a clear picture of what you will be spending.
