Searching for the ideal venue can be one of the most crucial steps when planning your big day, yet finding just the right space may be daunting. Without guidance or experience to assist, finding a wedding venue could prove challenging.
Make sure to take note of these factors during site visits to ensure you choose an ideal wedding venue for your big day!
1. Look at the Space
Before committing to any venue, take time to visit it in person and get an understanding of its characteristics and determine if it fits with your vision.
Your site visit will also allow you to ask any pertinent questions, such as when and for how long access will be available and whether there are noise restrictions. Finally, it’s a chance for you to see whether the space fits with the style you envision for your wedding celebration such as urban chic or rustic barns.
Consideration should also be given to how close the venue will be to hotels for out-of-town guests, to reduce hotel room and transportation expenses and save money. Many venues already include this cost in their pricing while some may charge extra.
2. Check the Amenities
Facilities at your venue can make or break it. Couples will consider package options (will this venue host both ceremony and reception?) as well as things like lighting, decorations and more when selecting their perfect place.
If a significant portion of your wedding guests are traveling from out-of-town, having hotels nearby will reduce travel costs and ensure everyone can relax and enjoy your big day!
Make sure to inquire if there are any restrictions regarding music or noise levels at your chosen venue. Some establishments impose an end time restriction that may not suit those planning on dancing until midnight!
3. Check the Pricing
Pricing depends on various factors. Some venues are more cost-effective while others include more services or amenities in their pricing structure. Always ask what to expect prior to making a decision about a venue.
Make sure the capacity of the venue matches your expected number of attendees, as a space which holds too many may become cramped and oppressive quickly.
Be sure to confirm if the venue offers all-inclusive packages; these can be ideal for couples trying to keep their budget under control. Inquire as to if this includes catering, bar service, upgraded rentals and cake. Also ask about any restrictions they have; some venues have strict policies like one wedding per day that should be noted ahead of time.
4. Check the Reviews
Your venue will play an essential part in your wedding, from choosing its theme to what dress to wear. That is why it is crucial that you read reviews of each venue you visit prior to committing.
Checking your venue’s policies is also essential to planning an unforgettable event. Be sure to ask what times the space can be booked (from and til) as well as if there are any recommended suppliers available for use.
Questions to ask when looking for the ideal venue include its noise levels and event end times (some venues have strict curfews). Doing this will allow you to accurately plan for guest count so the venue fits your event without overcrowding and elbow-bumping on the dance floor, plus their plans in case of inclement weather – these details could make all the difference in success!
5. Check the Availability
Once you’ve narrowed down your search, take one last look to make sure the venue is available on your chosen date. Popular venues may already be booked up; to avoid this scenario early planning and being flexible with dates are key. You should consider the Longueville House, a 16yth century Georgian mansion that attracts a lot of attention.
Ask about any restrictions or rules, such as curfews and noise limits, that may impact your plans. Inquire also into vendors such as florists, caterers, DJs, bands etc that could potentially provide services at your event.
Finally, think about whether your venue offers accommodation for out-of-town guests or nearby hotels that provide accommodations. This will ensure they can get there easily and reduce travel time; additionally, this can ensure you don’t overcrowd your reception; otherwise it may become impossible to accommodate everyone on your guest list.
6. Check the Lighting
Lighting at your wedding venue is of utmost importance if it will take place indoors. If possible, visit it around the time you intend to marry so you can assess how natural light plays into the space and ensure it matches up with your vision for this important day.
Ask the venue about their lighting options, such as uplighting. Uplighting highlights architectural details and other points of interest to create an intimate, romantic ambiance.
Keep in mind that certain venues may charge additional fees for certain services and rentals, so it is wise to discuss this with both your planner and venue prior to making any commitments – this way you will know exactly what is included with your venue package.
7. Check the Parking
when selecting your venue, take special note of its parking capabilities. An ideal venue will offer enough room for guests to park without forcing them onto streets or charging a fee to gain entrance to private lots.
If your wedding guests will be traveling by car or plane, find out the distance from an airport and if there are hotel options nearby to make travel simpler for them and reduce their costs! Having hotels nearby can make travel simpler for guests as well.
Ask the venue manager what are their most frequent oversights or mishaps that arise on wedding days, to give an indication of the level of service you should anticipate! Also be sure to inquire about trash collection; often overlooked items can become major headaches in later on!
8. Check the Food
Couples often find the ideal wedding venue and fall instantly in love, yet neglect to consider all of its details – such as food and beverages, rain plans and accommodations for out-of-town guests.
Some venues provide all-inclusive packages that include catering, drinks and upgraded rentals – providing an easy solution and cost savings. But be sure to inquire about dietary restrictions as well as being able to hire your own caterer before making this choice!
If your ceremony and reception will be at separate locations, find out if they offer rooms for guests who plan on staying over after dancing the night away. This could be particularly helpful for out-of-town guests! Otherwise, accommodations must be made for them separately.
9. Check the Music
Music plays an essential part in wedding celebrations – be it dancing or making toasts – so finding a venue where you can select both type and volume is of key importance.
Pro-tip: Visit your wedding venue during its prime season to gain a sense of what the landscape will look like on your big day and determine how well it fits with your aesthetic and color scheme. This will allow for optimal planning.
Know what your rights and restrictions are before making your selection. Some venues have stringent policies regarding live music or have one wedding per day policies – make sure to inquire before signing your contract!
10. Check the Location
Brides often fall in love with venues they find online, but it is important to visit in person before making a final decision. Doing this allows you to fully experience the space and ensure it suits your day-of event needs.
If your guests will need to fly in from out-of-town for your wedding, it would be beneficial to examine airport and hotel options as well as transportation solutions between ceremony and reception sites.
Make sure to ask the venue manager about any common oversights or mishaps they’ve seen on wedding days to avoid any nasty surprises! Additionally, find out if there are accommodations for overnight guests; otherwise consider hiring a hotel instead for your celebration.