Finding the perfect wedding venue isn’t easy. From available dates to venue facilities, to your budget, and the all-important theme, getting the right venue for your vision is a difficult task. Lucky for you, we’ve created a list of helpful tips to make sure you land the venue of your wedding dreams!
KNOW YOUR GUEST LIST...
It is important to know how big your guest list will be ASAP. Roughly knowing the number of guests attending will help narrow down your venue search. Most couples underestimate how many people they will invite, and you want to cater to the largest possible number. Knowing this number will also help your budgeting as most costs will reflect the number of guests.
THE PERFECT FIT...
Let’s face it, most of you have a big Pinterest board filled with inspiration for your dream wedding. What does this look like for you? Are you leaning towards a rustic theme? Perhaps you like the glitz and glam of a ballroom. Knowing the theme and atmosphere you wish to create for your wedding will help narrow down which venues to look at.
DON'T BLOW THE BUDGET...
If your budget is looking towards a quaint garden wedding, but your aspirations are to wed on a big country estate, it is probably best to stick to what your budget allows for your venue. While the venue is a big piece of the wedding puzzle, there are often many other options available that are just as beautiful and budget-friendly! Be on the lookout for deals and packages to fit your budget.
CONSULT THE PROFESSIONALS...
If you have a wedding planner, or even if you don’t, consulting them can help bring your visions to life. Planners often know the potential of certain venues that will work for your needs. Even your vendors might know stunning local venues that you might not have come across before, and they will give you first-hand advice and recommendations for you!
GO BEYOND GOOGLE...
The first thing to do when researching your wedding venue is to look at places in your ideal location. Look up wedding photos taken in your dream location and start looking at the photographer's blogs. Not only might you find an amazing wedding photographer for your wedding, but you might also find a beautiful venue that you might not have found during a regular google search in that area.
CONSIDER THE EXPERIENCE...
Your wedding day is about you, although you should still keep the guests' experience in mind. If you’re thinking of a destination wedding, maybe book a venue in a hotel, or with one nearby. Also checking how many guests will comfortably fit in the venue is great so that your guests aren’t crammed in.
LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION...
Similarly, the location should always be convenient for attending guests. If you’re having a destination wedding, have a hotel nearby, and if you’re having a country wedding, make sure transportation is accessible to guests so they don’t have to spend hundreds on a taxi to a remote location.
AUTHENTICITY IS KEY...
Even though you may have been dreaming of that gorgeous Pinterest wedding, your venue should ultimately be authentic to you as a couple. Bring in details that reflect your little quirks. If you both love literature, why not have your wedding in a state library, or have bookshelves as part of your wedding décor. Things like this added or reflected in your venue will add a personal touch that will make your wedding your own!
Need to find your perfect spot for your special day? Check out our list of reception venues!