Navigating the World of Wedding Venues – Picking the Perfect Place

When planning a wedding, what’s the most important thing on your to-do list?

We think it’s knowing where you’re going to celebrate. The venue determines everything: the vibe of your big day, how you’ll decorate, what you’ll need to provide… all those crucial details.

Now, the world of wedding venues is vast and wonderous. It’s an enchanting place, and if you’re not careful, it’s easy to get lost. Paralyzed by indecision.

To make sure that doesn’t happen, we’re sharing top tips from the pros. We’re spilling all the details — everything you need to know to land you front and center in the venue of your dreams.

Your Vision

Speaking of dreams…. What are yours?

Picture walking down the aisle. What kind of aisle are you walking down?

Is it sand, with sun on your shoulders and rhythmic sounds of waves lapping the shore?

Are you walking down soft green grass strewn with rose petals?

Or do you picture polished concrete in, say, a modern refurbished event hall?

Many people lose precious time — get carried away or torn in a million directions as they begin their search. This is why it’s critical you take a moment to reflect first, and jot down what comes to mind. Even if it seems fragmented, get the details of your dream venue on paper.

From impressive estates to an enchanting wedding in the woods. Where do you see yourself tying the knot? What speaks to you?

Not sure? Here’s a way to hack the system. Think about the décor and other elements instead.

What are your bridesmaids wearing? Are they dressed in flowy boho-style dresses with their hair loose and wavy? If so, you could tie the knot outdoors, or have a rustic barn wedding. Or picture this: an intimate gazebo gathering at dusk, with uninterrupted sunset views.

Are you envisioning a certain esthetic, say modern or vintage? The venue you choose can play that up in a major way.

The details of your décor and dress preferences provide an easy clue to unlocking and realizing your vision.

Another thing you can think of is, how do you want your guests to feel? What reaction do you want to elicit?

One of the coolest things about places – both architecture and landscapes – is the capacity they have to set the underlying tone and influence the overall experience.

It’s also worth noting that your wedding venue doesn’t have to be traditional. You can pretty much celebrate your big day anywhere!

Your Budget

It can be challenging to conceptualize all the wedding related costs, and they add up fast. This is why it’s crucial you think about what you want before embarking on the quest for the perfect venue.

Be realistic about what you can afford, and remember: the adjectives you used to describe your dream (unless you chose an insanely outlandish place to tie the knot, like the moon) are accessible on any budget. Like, you can literally get married on the beach for around $100!

Some venues include things like a PA system, tables, chairs, and linens. Others don’t — and in that case you’ll need to allocate space in your budget accordingly.

If splashing out on food and drinks is super important, you could have a backyard bash which would be less expensive than renting a venue.

On the other hand, if you want your guests to be wowed by a historic building in the heart of downtown, complete with high-ceilings, polished wood floors, and river views, go for it! You can save in other areas, such as décor. There are countless ways to create low-cost DIY décor… round up your bridesmaids and get creative!

Your Guestlist

Your venue needs to accommodate all the people who will be there sharing this momentous occasion with you. If you’re still somewhat vague on who is attending – it’s still early days and you don’t have the RSVP’s – give it a rough estimate, and check out venues that accommodate the amount of people you expect.

Your Venue

Now that you’ve looked at it from all angles, it’s time to choose.

You know:

●      The budget

●      The number of guests

●      The vibe and esthetic

Now’s the fun part, it’s time to create a list of potential venues to tour!

You’re clear on what’s important – what you’re looking for. You know what’s within budget, and have allocated your budget according to what’s most important.

Conclusion:

You know the vibe and overall mood you’re going for – you’ve thought of it all. The venue is not an afterthought. Rather, it’s a stage – your stage – a place to celebrate something magnificent.