weddingclan.com

Things to consider when you choose your wedding venue

So, it’s finally time to plan your dream wedding. There are so many decisions to be made regarding the venue, food, wedding theme, date, etc. Since, venue being the most important of them all, most of the other parameters of the wedding depend on it. and hence it is essential that you find a venue that completely to your liking and specifications so that you may have your ‘perfect wedding’. Here are a few tips that will help you find the perfect venue for your wedding.

Wedding venue

1. Location

Where your wedding venue is located is the most important thing to be considered while selecting the venue. Traditionally, the bride gets married in the city or town where her family home is. However, that is not very much prevalent these days. While deciding on the location, consider the following:

a. Will all the guests be willing to travel that far?

b. Does the venue have enough accommodation for all the people who do not live nearby?

c. Will the weather conditions be suitable for your wedding theme? (for an outdoor wedding)

2. Ceremony

Your choice of ceremony majorly influences the available options for venues. For example, if you want to have a civil ceremony, the venue should have a license for civil weddings. You can have both the wedding and the reception in the same venue. On the other hand, if you want a church wedding, you will need a separate venue for your reception. This has to be near the church but it need not be licensed for civil weddings.

3. Date

Having a specific date before choosing the venue severely affects your range of options. A little flexibility would go a long way. Usually, summer (May to September) and Christmas (December) are the costliest periods, when lots of wedding take place. The venues offer considerably cheaper rates during the other months. Another factor is how much in advance you decide the venue. You will find a good number of places offering late availability packages and there is always the safe bet of deciding 2-3 years in advance. The next consideration is the day. Saturday is the costliest day. Friday and Sunday are a close second.

4. Number of guests

You need to make sure that the venue can accommodate all the people you plan to invite. While you may not know the exact number on your guest list, it is advised that you make the “definite list” before you choose your venue. The definite list should contain all the people whom you are certain about inviting. This ensures that if you are settling for a smaller wedding than planned, you will still invite all the important people. Also some venues expect you to pay for a minimum number of guests. In such cases, you may be paying extra, if your guest list falls below the minimum value.

5. Theme and exclusivity

If you are planning a large and luxurious wedding, consider locations like castles, large hotels and homes. For a smaller wedding, country houses, barns, small hotels are an ideal choice. For unique and fancy weddings, you may consider museums, zoos, etc.

Another important factor is exclusivity. Most venues are large enough to hold two weddings at the same time. You sure do not want to bump into another bride on your wedding!

6. Cost

This is the most important factor to consider while deciding on a location. Make sure the venue offers all that you want at a reasonable price. Do not deviate from your budget. Remember spending all your money on the venue leaves less for food, music decorations, etc. If you feel the prices to be high, negotiate or walk away. Be absolutely sure that all requirements are met and there are no hidden clauses before signing the agreement.

7. Other factors

Never decide on a venue just by its looks. One has to consider a lot more than just aesthetic appeal. Keep in mind factors like capacity, cloakroom facilities, restrictions on crackers and confetti, decorations, childcare centers, check in and checkout time, choice of band or DJ, space for dancing and dinner, staffs available for help, services which are included in the price, restriction on food and drinks, etc. Do not hesitate to ask questions. Ask as many questions as possible to know everything about your prospective venue. In fact, take a printout of all the questions you would like to ask. Also spend time looking around the venue. To have good idea about your venue talk to people preferably other couples who got married in your prospective venue. This will give you a clear picture of all the pros and cons.

Today's Top Articles:

Scroll to Top