6 top tips to choose the perfect wedding venue
So you're engaged? Congratulations! Finding the perfect wedding venue is probably high on your list of priorities. It's certainly one of the most important decisions as your venue helps determine the overall feel and style of your wedding. Are you considering a classic affair at a country club or perhaps, a more modern soirée at a hip new restaurant? Maybe you like the idea of a rustic celebration amidst nature at a barn wedding venue, or a coastal location where you can host your ceremony on the beach? There's lots to think about!
North Carolina wedding photographer and Fine Art Curation member, Tara Hodges, has captured stunning weddings at all kinds of different wedding venues throughout the US and knows a thing or two about choosing a great location. Today she shares six top tips for choosing the perfect wedding venue.
Sunstone Winery, California
1. Secure a planner first
Find a planner before you start looking at venues. Why? Because planners will be more familiar with the venues in your area and which ones meet your requirements for your dream wedding style, guest list size and budget. You'll save yourself a huge amount of time and effort if you focus on finding a great planner first, who you bond with and suits your design aesthetic.
River Oaks, Charleston
Salubria, Virginia
2. Keep your vision in mind
It's easy to be swayed by stunning venues but try to focus on places that align with the aesthetic you have in mind (something else your planner will help with). It helps to sit down together and draw up your venue wish list, including both logistical requirements and the overall vibe you have in mind. What are your non-negotiables and what are you more flexible on? What's your guest count and ideal location? Do you require accommodation on-site or are you prepared to travel? Are you planning to hire the venue for the day or make a weekend of it? All these decisions will help to narrow down your options.
Vizcaya, Florida
3. Confirm your guest list
Write your guest list before you start looking at venues to avoid disappointment later on. Couples often underestimate how many people they will invite (or how many their parents will want to add), so it's wise to have this conversation early to know what you're really working with. This will also tie into a discussion about your budget, as costs such as catering will vary according to guest count.
Sunstone Winery, California
The Reform Club, Amagansett, NY
4. Discuss budget early on
It can be a tricky discussion with parents who are generously contributing to your big day, but it's important to get an accurate figure so you can work within your budget and not fall for things that you can't afford. From the overall budget, you'll need to break it down by category based on priority - such as venue hire, catering, decor rentals and accommodation - as well as all of the other elements like the photographer, flowers, bridal attire, stationery, entertainment etc. As venue is one of the first bookings, it's important to avoid blowing your budget on a great place only to find yourselves with little left for everything else
5. Think about the guest experience
A great wedding planner will help you to design an overall wedding experience for you and your guests, from the save the date card to the very last dance. This is particularly important if you're hosting out-of-town guests or planning a destination wedding, as you'll need to think about how guests will get to and from the venue and where they will stay. Are you planning a rehearsal dinner or after wedding brunch, and can you host these on site? You might also want to consider what activities are available to guests before and after the wedding, such as a spa or wine tasting tour, for example.
6. Look at what is included
If you find yourself comparing venues based on price, be sure to factor in all costs as some venues are all-service while others allow you to hire your own suppliers and décor to pay separately. It's wise to get quotes for rental items such as linens, furniture, glassware etc - plus catering and bar hire, before committing to a venue to ensure the numbers make sense. If you're looking at a venue that offers in-house catering with a food and beverage minimum, remember to factor the state tax and gratuity into your calculations.
Photographer: Tara Hodges
