Probably the most important decision you will make is choosing your wedding venue! These days options are endless and the venue you choose will really set the tone for your wedding day!
Here are a few tips to help you make that all important decision!
GUEST LIST
It is important to have a rough guest list before selecting your venue so you know what size of venue you will need. This will also help you in deciding if you can have everyone all day or whether you will have all day and evening only guests.
BUDGET
Set your budget for the venue. Once you have this confirmed your venue will be able to advise on what days / months would be most suitable for you. Most venues offer reduced prices for ‘out of season’ dates and/or weekday dates (Friday and Saturdays and summer months falling in peak times).
If you’re willing to be flexible on dates then this could be a great way for you to secure your venue at a reduced price!
LOCATION
Is your heart set on an abroad wedding? Do you want to get married close to home? Do you want a venue in a location special to you as a couple? This will help you narrow the search and rule out a number of venues immediately.
WHAT DO THEY OFFER
Do you have to choose from a select list of caterers and wedding suppliers? Do they charge corkage on alcohol? What are the time restrictions and limits? Do they provide a wedding coordinator for you? Do you need accommodation on site? Do they allow complete flexibility to have it your own way!?
HOW MUCH ARE YOU WILLING TO DO YOURSELF
If you are a busy bride who does not have time to search for an endless list of suppliers, attend multiple catering appoints and DIY every single detail yourself then a venue that offers a more ‘all inclusive’ wedding package may be the one for you.
Or are you a bride who loves being tasked with a glue gun and obsessing over Pinterest? A venue that allows complete flexibility and early access to start setting up before the big day may be a better option for you.
THEME
Try having a theme in mind before you start venue hunting. If you fall in love with an old converted barn but always dreamt of a black tie event then this will be nearly impossible to achieve.
If you can iron out how formal an affair you want this is going to help you in selecting what venues to view in person.
THE FOOD
Make sure you are happy with the catering options the venue allows and/or provides. Do the options you would realistically go for fit within your budget? Is there an additional discount if you go over a certain number of guests? Do they offer a tasting session free of charge? Can they be flexible and tailor specific menus to meet your tastes?