Once that special someone has popped the question and you’re ready to get married, the real planning for your future begins.
Choosing the perfect wedding venue is a key component to a successful, memorable day.
Before you put down that deposit, read on to learn how to pick a wedding venue that will wow your guests and help you make an unforgettable moment without busting your budget.
Think About Your Theme
Before you select a venue, consider theme of your wedding or the style you want to convey. For a charming rustic wedding, an outdoor space such as a barn or covered gazebo might be a fabulous choice.
If you love the ocean, a beach wedding is a great way to show everyone your shared love of the sea. Victorian-inspired weddings can be anywhere from an old church to a historic building.
Consider your wedding theme and write down a few ideas that will be in line with your vision. When you think about the general theme in advance, it’s much easier to whittle down the venues you want to use and the ones you’d rather avoid.
From an art gallery for modern weddings to a simple outdoor space for nature-inspired events, the possibilities are endless. Check each venues’ website to make sure that the photos reflect what you envision for your big day. You can read more about these venue options for some inspiration.
Draft Your Guest List
Some wedding venues are gigantic, while others might be a little more intimate. If you want to know how to pick a wedding venue that will accommodate your guests, find out what their maximum capacity is in advance.
You don’t want to invite 200 people only to find out later that your venue can only handle half. It’s important to really think about the guest list so you can choose a venue that will comfortably fit all of the people you love.
Sometimes you might need to include only your closest family members and friends on your guest list. If the venue you choose is larger in size, then you can include more people in the celebrations.
Keep in mind that the more guests you invite, the bigger your budget will need to be. Everything from seating to the cost of food and decorations will increase as your guest list grows.
Look For Package Deals
Every wedding venue has its own set of pricing and what they include when you book them for your big day. Some venues might only provide you with the actual space itself and leave you responsible for entertainment, food, flowers, and more.
If you’re concerned about your budget, try a venue that offers several services for one price. These venues may include their own catering and florist which can save you a ton of money on your wedding costs.
Look at the variety of packages available and see which ones will give you the things you need at a reasonable price. In most cases, the venue won’t provide things like the cake or photographer, so don’t forget to factor those into your budget.
If you do go with a venue that offers a package, make sure you can at least choose some things like the menu or the colors. Having a bit of control will make you feel good about your decision. It also ensures that everything stays in line with your vision and your plans.
Don’t be afraid to ask the venue if you can look over their contract in advance. This can prevent tons of headaches in the future, and it gives you a good idea of what you can expect from them when your big day arrives.
How to Pick a Wedding Venue with Your Guests In Mind
While your wedding venue should be beautiful, it’s also important that it’s a comfortable space for your guests. Don’t choose a place that will end up being too crowded or stuffy.
Make sure you can get a seating chart from the venue so you know what the layout will look like. Ask them about restrooms and other special accommodations such as handicap access.
Your wedding is your special day, but it’s also important that your guests enjoy the moment, too. Make sure the place offers a comfortable environment, plenty of clean restrooms, and roomy seating for eating and mingling.
Some venues do not allow children, particularly places like museums and historic homes. Ask the venue in advance about their policy when it comes to kids since this could mean some of your guests with children might end up staying home.
Ask the venue about live entertainment and if they allow things like bands or DJs. You want your guests to have a great time and be entertained, so these are things you should take into consideration, too.
Make Your Day Unforgettable with the Perfect Venue
From making sure your creative vision comes through to ensuring every guest is comfortable, it’s important to know how to pick a wedding venue. Do your research and ask questions so you’re sure of every detail in advance.
Plan your guest list and get a seating chart, and find out about all-inclusive packages that can save you money and time. With a little bit of research, you can find the perfect venue for your special day to create memories that will last a lifetime.
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