Locating the right wedding venue takes time. When chatting with couples, I found out that sometimes securing your wedding venue takes more time and research than originally anticipated and can often be one of the hardest parts of planning a wedding. Rightfully so, the venue is where you will be spending one of the most important moments of your lives and it has to be right. So, you need to make sure that your venue checks all the right boxes for you as a couple before you make a final decision. Your venue choice will influence your budget as well as the atmosphere on the big day. Take a look at these three things to take into consideration before you sign on the dotted line and are locked into a contract for your wedding venue.
1. Venue size. Size Matters! Don’t let anyone tell you it
doesn't. First, take a look at how many people you’re planning to invite to your wedding versus the number of people the venue can comfortably accommodate. A crowded reception can be quite uncomfortable and if a venue is too large, it can affect the atmosphere and the overall look and feel. I suggest putting an initial guest list together before you start venue shopping so that you can make a better and more realistic decision about what venues you can take a hard look at.
2. What about the drinks? Alcohol and drinks are a big part of your wedding so it’s important to find out whether you can bring your own alcohol or if the venue will be the one to supply the drinks. If you choose a BYOB venue space, be sure to check out what the costs is for the number of guests you are having and since you will also need a licensed bartender to serve the alcohol, find out whether the venue can assist with this or if you will need to find one on your own. Don’t skip this because these are costs you will need to factor into your final budget.
3. Preferred vendors. You’re going to be working with several different vendors in the time leading up to your wedding day and on your wedding day. Many venues require you use their vendors so find out about this before you make a booking. If the venue has a preferred vendor list that you are required to use, make sure that you’re happy with their experience, style, personality, and pricing before you book the venue.
The venue may have amazing caterers on the preferred list, but do they live up to what you need and want. Keep in mind although a venue works with preferred vendors and are confident in their experience and ability as it relates to their venue, it’s more important for you to choose vendors that fit your budget and overall preferences.
Your wedding venue is the space you will be bringing your family and friends to witness one of the most important days of your life, and there are many different factors to consider when choosing the perfect wedding venue. I have only given you a few to get you started. Keep in mind that it needs to also be a space that speaks to your personalities and style as a couple.
Happy Planning
XOXO,
Char
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