When it comes to planning your wedding day, choosing a venue will likely be one of the very first steps in your journey. This decision is arguably one of the biggest ones you’ll make as it will dictate the overall feel and look of your wedding day. Your gown, decorations and plans will likely all be catered around the venue.
So, with how big and impactful this decision is, it can easily become pretty stressful. So to help you out I thought I’d share some of my tips on choosing your dream wedding venue.
Keep on reading for all of the tips!
First, narrow down the vibe you want. Do you picture a high-end black-tie wedding? A chill gathering with close friends and family? Maybe somewhere in between? What setting do you want? City or mountains? Fall foliage, snow, or greenery?
Before looking at venues, take some time with your partner to put together an estimated guest list so you have an idea of how many people you will be inviting. Then, make a list of your must-haves. Is this a big cocktail hour with an abundance of food? Is it views of a city skyline? Is it a venue that has an amazing outdoor ceremony area? Having your “must-haves” will help you narrow down venues.
Second, have a list of must NOT haves. For my wedding, I specifically didn’t want a venue where you had to stand in front of a gazebo or similar permanent structure in the ceremony area. It is important when touring venues to ask what the indoor ceremony option would be if you are hoping to have an outdoor ceremony. Sometimes, moving the ceremony indoors can be a game-day decision, so it is important to see all of your available options.
QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR WEDDING VENUE
How many events/weddings are held on the same day? It is very important that if your venue holds more than one event on the same day or at the same time as when yours would be, that the venue knows how to make the events separate and private.
Do you have to use the venue’s vendors or can you bring in any vendors you want?
Does the venue set up decor, or do you need to hire someone to do that for you on/before the wedding day?
When does the venue take dinner orders? Before the wedding, when people first enter the reception room, or after the first dance?
Is there a noise ordinance for the area? This is very important for your band or DJ to know.
Are there options for the shapes of the reception tables? When I got married, my venue’s standard tables were oval. I asked them if they could switch them out to rectangular, and they did! I felt it gave a more modern look, which aligned with my vision.
Do they have an open bar? Let’s be honest – your guests spend a lot of money traveling to, dressing up for, and buying you gifts for your wedding. Keep them happy, give them an open bar. With that- are you able to do signature drinks?
The MOST important thing to note:
DO NOT hold back when asking venue questions! Especially if you want to make changes from their normal run-of-show. Be detailed in your questions – this insures the venue will not “yes you to death,” which eventually results in you not getting what you wanted.
I hope you all enjoyed this post on “Tips for booking your dream wedding venue.” If you’re in need of someone to capture your wedding day, be sure to click here for more!
