When picking out the perfect venue to host your wedding there are a lot of important variables to look at. Your budget, preferred vendors,
guest capacity and aesthetic are just a few of them that can make or break a venue for you.
Here are five things you should consider when finding your dream wedding venue.
Don’t Look at Venues Outside Your Budget
There’s no reason to go through the heartbreak of finding a perfect venue you can’t afford. Set your budget before you start looking and stick to it. Don’t even look at or tour ones outside of that budget. Going and checking out venues you can’t afford will only cause you stress.
Don’t Settle
There are more venues out there than you would imagine. That means there is no reason you should settle. Find one you love & that you won’t have to request 1,000 changes to. There’s no reason for you to have to drape over tons of ugly wallpaper or wish you could remodel. Picking somewhere you already like that won’t need a complete overhaul will save you time, money & stress.
Be Flexible
If you find yourself trying to rearrange your budget to be able to afford a specific location take a deep breath. There are options! Ask if they offer discounted rates for Friday or Sunday weddings. You may also want to look at venues that allow you to have both your ceremony and reception at the same space to save money. Also, venues that provide decor items in the rental fee such as chairs, tables, linens, etc. are always a plus.
Make Sure It Fits Your Needs
Not every space can accommodate a large guest list, some won’t allow alcohol, etc. This means its important to know what you have to have and what you absolutely need. Think about the distance for your guests, guest count, travel between locations, and if you can get ready on site.
Have a written list of priorities you need in a venue and make sure they fit that list. Don’t be afraid to take that list with you and ask the venue any questions you have. It’s a big investment, so you should definitely feel like it meets all or most of your needs.
Preferred Vendors
Not every venue will let you bring in your own vendors. Some have in house options, others a preferred list you can look at. If you’ve been dreaming of a specific band, florist or photographer 😉 ask if you can bring them in. Also, if they do require you to use their vendors make sure you like them and can afford their services.
Do They Have A Venue Coordinator
A coordinator isn’t a wedding planner. What they are though is a pro-resource if you have questions about their space. They can coordinate your ceremony, help you know where to go, and be able to help your vendors. This is an incredible help on your wedding day and will keep your stress levels lower. Ask ahead of time if the venue you’re looking at offers that service.
After finding the perfect venue and setting the date, you can start planning the rest of your day!! We promise, after this big step is done it’s so much easier to plan the rest! Having a set date to give other vendors will help more than anything else.
Blessings,
Katie & Alec
If you’re looking for more tips for wedding planning check out our blog series just for brides here!
