After you get engaged, your first step is to select your venue(s). There are so many things to consider, but here are six that we feel are most important.
Where do we want to get married? This might be a house of worship, the beach, a park, a mountaintop, or even a glacier. Or, you might decide that you want to find a reception venue that can also host the ceremony. Also think about geographic location - do you want to get married in your hometown? Where you live now? Where you went to college?
What is the vibe of the wedding? Do you want something casual or formal? What color scheme or theme do you want to incorporate? Don't select an ultra-modern venue if you have a rustic or boho style.
What time of year do we want to get married? If you plan to marry in the winter, consider the indoor space your venue offers. If your wedding will be in the spring or fall, you might want an outdoor wedding. Are the venues you like available around this time frame? What are the backup options?
How many guests are we inviting? If you are inviting 250 people, be sure your venue can accommodate 250 people. This may sound simple, but many couples assume that not everyone will come, and then have to deal with making their venue work when everyone does.
What is your budget? Look at all the expenses, not just the base price. If you are looking at venues that include catering, they will often have a Food and Beverage Minimum. This is the amount you must spend before tax and service charge. If the minimum is $20,000, it could actually be over $26,000 after additional fees. If you are looking at blank-slate type venues, get estimates for any rental items you will need like tables, chairs and linens. These expenses can add up quickly! Also be sure you hire staff to set up and break down.
Think about your guests' experience. Are there hotels and activities nearby? Do you have any guests with special needs that need to be accommodated, like wheelchair accessibility? Is the reception space climate controlled? Are ample restrooms available? Is there on-site parking? Yes, it's your big day - but your guests matter too!
Our friends at Brides have a great list of questions to ask as you are looking at venues. If you have already hired a wedding planner, he or she will guide you through this selection process. But if you've decided to go it alone, be sure to review the questions in this link so that you don't have any surprises on the wedding day!
