What “To DO” Before you say “I DO” to the Venue
february 21, 2023 | written by Marissa Lee
You have said yes, and now the first step in your wedding planning process is to find a wedding venue. Having so many options can be overwhelming. Bringing your dream wedding to life starts with finding a space that perfectly fits your vision, style, personality, and budget.
Your wedding is a celebration with the people closest to you and should reflect the start of your future together. With so many options, how can you feel confident in your choice?
Here is the perfect checklist to know if a wedding venue is right for you:
It is in the right location.
Before choosing a venue, you’ll need to decide where you want to get married. Do you want a destination wedding, and if so, how far would you travel? Do you want to get married where you currently live? If your friends and family are spread out across the country, what is a central location with a close airport and plenty of accommodations?
Once you choose a location, evaluate your top venue choices by taking into account the closest hotels and Airbnbs, highways, and airports (especially if you have a lot of out-of-town guests). What will be the most convenient option for you and your guests? Don’t forget to identify nearby backdrops for photos!
Do you plan to host both the ceremony and reception in the same venue? If not, how close is the venue to your ceremony location and what is the best way to get from one to another?
It can accommodate your guest list.
While searching for a wedding venue, you will want to consider the size of your guest list and tour venues that can accommodate a party of that size. Your guests are an essential part of your big day and we know that you want them to be as comfortable as possible, too!
Knowing the venue's capacity is key to deciding if the venue is worth considering. You want enough space so your guests are comfortable and there is room for movement. If your party reaches a venue’s capacity, consider breaking down tables after dinner to create more space. If a venue is too spacious for the size of your wedding, you can utilize the space by including fun elements such as a photo booth, dessert bar, or large head table.
It fits your vision.
There are many ways for you to define your vision. Your vision is a representation of your imagination and wisdom. In the case of a wedding venue, your vision includes how the space makes you feel. Pause and take a moment to think about your wedding.
What do you see?Is it intimate or large?What is the vibe - modern or classic?Formal or casual? Indoors or outdoors?What do you want your overarching theme to be?What represents you as a couple?Do you see yourself in the room with your partner?Do you see your guest list filling the space?
If you have always dreamed of a rustic wedding, a ballroom probably is not the right choice. If you have always dreamed of an elegant soiree, an outdoor barn may not match your vision. Think long and hard about what you see for yourself and your partner. What is your vibe of the wedding, and how does the venue play a part?
Think about the elements of your wedding day that matter the most to you. Is the most important thing for you floral, decor, lighting, or layout? Does the venue provide spaces for the types of photos you want forever? Is the venue able to accommodate your decoration desires? Think about what your wedding vision looks like, and then imagine if you can see that being executed by this venue. If you can visualize your guests enjoying the space and the elements you require to fit in, you're on the right path.
It fits into your budget.
Everyone has a wedding budget, and your venue will account for a significant portion of that budget. Weigh the pros and cons of your ideal venue. Make sure you understand what is included in the venue’s rental rate, such as rentals, decor, tables, and chairs. Are food and drinks included or are they a separate cost? Do you need to bring in staff and security, or are they included in the cost of the rental? If you are unsure, ask the venue representative.
Of course, your budget is an important consideration when it comes to choosing a wedding venue, but don’t sacrifice your dream venue for a lower price tag if you love the space and it fits your vision. There are plenty of ways to cut costs in other areas of your wedding.
If your venue can check all of these boxes then you are on the right track to planning the wedding that you envision! Make sure to stay true to yourself and choose something that enhances your vision. Pick a venue that sticks with your style, personality, and budget. This celebration of love should be exactly what you dream, no matter the style. Picking a venue can be so personal and is the start of creating your dream wedding!
