Things To Consider When Choosing a Wedding Venue

How To Find Your Perfect Venue

Finding the right wedding venue takes a lot of time and research. In my experience, some couples say this is one of the hardest parts of planning a wedding.

Before making your final choice, it's important to make sure your final venue candidates meet all your wants and needs within your budget constraints.

It's important to remember the type of venue you select will influence the entire wedding atmosphere and feel. Below are some important important things to consider before you decide which venue is the right one for you!

1. Venue Size. 

Something crucial when looking at wedding venues is their size. This can help you determine how many people to invite depending on the number of people the venue can comfortably cater for.

One one hand, a crowded reception can be super uncomfortable. On the other, if a venue is too large it can affect the atmosphere and the overall look and feel.

I recommend putting together an initial ballpark guest list before you start venue shopping. This will be super helpful when deterring your venue budget and, ultimately, finally selecting your perfect venue.

2. What About the Drinks?

Sometimes drinks are a big part of weddings. If that's the case for you, it’s important to find out whether you have to hire a specific provider (outside or in-house vendor) or if can bring your own alcohol and supplies.

It's important to note, some venues require a licensed bartender to serve alcohol, others allow "self-pour" with no restrictions on hard liquor. However, others only allow "self-pour" if you're only serving beer/wine.

Another thing to account for, when discussing alcohol with your venue, is security staff. Most venues require hiring extra security if alcohol will be part of the celebration. Make sure to find out whether the venue can assist with this so that you can factor those costs into your final budget. 

3. Preferred Vendors. 

Vendor policies vary from venue to venue.

Many venues require you to use vendors from a list they have curated. It's important if this is the case before you book with them. If they only work with specific vendors, make sure that you’re happy with their experience, style, personality and pricing.

While preferred vendors may be tried and true for the people in charge of the venue, it's important to research them thoroughly to make sure they align with your needs and vision.

Selecting your ideal venue can be a difficult choice. The best thing to do is research as much as you can before making the big decision.

If you need help with this process (or help selecting other wedding vendors), I'm here to help! Upon booking, all of my couples receive a complimentary Wedding Experience Guide that includes a carefully curated list of my preferred vendors (including my favorite venues) to help you jumpstart your wedding planning process.

I hope this information is useful. As always, happy wedding planning!

xoxoxox,

-Elizabeth.