5 Tips for Narrowing Down Wedding Venues
When picking out the perfect venue to host your "I do's," there are many important variables to consider. Budget, guest capacity, preferred vendors and decor are just a few keys points that can determine which space will seal the deal. need to know when Here are five things you should consider when vetting your wedding venue.
Jessica Gold Photography1. Only look at venues in your budget As you begin to file away dream venues, be sure to eliminate any spaces that aren't within budget or can't accommodate your guest count. If the shoe doesn't fit, don't wear it! Touring venues that you want to work (but simply won't) will only lead to stress down the road when you find yourself whittling down your guest list to make do. Stay realistic and stick to touring venues that fit the bill.
Jen Dillender Photography2. Don't settle Try to sign with a venue that you love everything about. Booking a venue you feel lukewarm about or think you can overhaul with decor is never a good idea. You will drive yourself crazy trying to drape over bad wallpaper and requesting renovations. Save yourself time and money by staying focused on booking a venue based on your appreciation of the aesthetics already in the space.
Amanda Nippoldt Photography3. Make sure the venue has an on-site coordinator Be sure to confirm whether or not the space you are hoping to book has an on site venue coordinator. A venue coordinator is key to keeping stress levels low as they will be your sounding board for all questions you have about the space. Defer to your venue coordinator for day-of logistics for set-up and tear down, floor plans, lighting and decor, and of course, vendor recommendations.
Tamara Gruner Photography4. Ensure you like (and can afford) the preferred vendors A big area many couples neglect to check on when booking their venue is the preferred vendor list. You want to ensure that any seemingly low venue fees aren't going to catch up with you later when you can't fit the expenses of the preferred vendor list into your budget. Checking on pricing with any preferred vendors before booking is always in your best interest.
Twah Dougherty Photography5. Be flexible If you find yourself stretching your funds, ask venues if they offer discounted rates for hosting your event on a Friday or Sunday. You might also want to explore spaces that allow you to host both your ceremony and reception on site as well as bring in your own caterer. Additionally, venues that include decor items in the rental fee such as tables, chairs, lighting, etc. are always a plus. At the end of the day, be sure to coordinate with all contributing parties on the wedding venue. Once the date is set, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the wedding planning ride. Style Me Pretty Contributor - Jennae Saltzman is based in Minneapolis, MN and is the owner of Blush & Whim Wedding Planning + Event Design. She was recently named one of the TOP 10 Wedding Planners in the Midwest by Martha Stewarts' sister company, MyWedding Magazine.