Choosing a Venue with Confidence

1. Budget - what fees?

The first and foremost question you need to ask yourself is your budget. I am not talking about just for the whole wedding but specifically for the venue. The venue is typically 25%-30% of a couples budget. How much are you will in to spend on your venue?

Note to self- Be sure to ask what all the additional fees are. Some of the more common fees are ceremony, set up, cake cutting, gratuity, etc.

2. Authenticity - Feels like you

The venue you choose should be an adequate representation of who the two of you are. Would we find you in a barn any other time than your wedding day? No? Then a barn venue might not make sense for the two of you. Be honest with what your style is like. How do you decorate your home? What spaces do you feel most comfortable in? Try to find a venue that feels the most like you.

3. Colors

Make sure the venue you choose has colors and decor that coordinates or complements your vision for your wedding. Anything that they have hung on the wall that doesn’t match your vision you could ask if you can remove for the day. Pay attention to the details that can NOT be changed like wall and floor colors.

4. Pros vs Cons

As you tour it is helpful to write down the pros and cons of each venue. The truth is you may fall in love with one that doesn’t have enough space or the one that seems the most in budget could not have all the things you need. A list will help you look at the pros and cons realistically.

5. Inclusive vs Exclusive

Venues run two different ways. They either include everything for a per person cost OR they just charge you rental fees and you choose everything yourself. Are you a laid back bride and just want them to do all the picking? An inclusive venue might be a great option for you. They even include your centerpieces and cake at most inclusive venues. Are you on budget or want to pick your own vendors or use friends and family? Then a venue that allows you to bring in your own vendors might be best for you.

6. Restrictions

Being aware of the restrictions your venue has ahead of time could be super helpful in making a decision. A lot of venues require you to use their catering and their preferred vendors. Also, open flame and sparkler exits are sometimes prohibited. It is best to ask of any and all restrictions up front so you are well aware what you can and can not do so there are NO surprises.

7. Customer Service - coordinators

Being in the wedding industry for 10 years, I can testify that a venue coordinator can make or break the day. Be sure that the venue seems to have overall good customer service and they are attentive to your needs. Pay close attention to their response times and their professionalism. You do not want to have to track people down to have peace of mind your day is going to go off with out a hitch.

8. Imagine

This may sound silly but when you get down to it and you are still stuck deciding which venue to choose do this one thing. Close your eyes. Imagine your wedding day and the aisle and all your friends and family being there. Where are you? Where can you see this very important moment happening at?