I am excited that Erin from DIY Mama has written this guest blog on how to find the perfect wedding venue. From setting clear expectations about your budget to understanding your style, and being considerate to all guests; Erin has given this a lot of careful consideration and I appreciate her sharing this valuable info with us.
A couple has to make two important decisions for their wedding day. Where to say "I do forever and always," and who will document the memories of the day (Wedding Photographer here talking :)
Of course, there are other decisions to make, but those two arrangements should be on top of everyone's list.
For more helpful hints on how to tackle some of those home improvements you have been meaning to start, and how to save money on tackling those projects yourself, hop over to Erin's Blog
Let's Get Started
The perfect wedding day starts with the perfect location. If you're a bride-to-be who's just starting her wedding planning, finding a great venue is one of the most important tasks on your to-do list. There are many options available, from traditional churches to libraries, city hall, hotels, and more. How can you know what location is right for you? Read on for an easy guide to help you find the perfect spot.
Set your budget and stick to it
The first thing to do when planning your wedding is to set a budget. This will help you avoid overspending. The last thing you want on your big day is to be worried about money. Brides Magazine provides pointers on how to allocate your wedding budget, suggesting you put 40% towards the venue and catering. Note that some venues will offer catering, while others will require you to secure an external service provider for food and beverage.
Consider what style of wedding you want
Every bride has her own style, and your wedding venue should reflect that. For example, if you're religious, you might want to get married in a church. If you're more spiritual and like a bohemian vibe, an outdoor wedding may be for you. To identify your style, start gathering inspiration. Browse wedding magazines and websites, and put together a collage or Pinterest board of concepts you love.
Scope out the capacity and layout
Weddings can be as small as ten people or host upwards of 200 guests. Your venue needs to accommodate all of your guests comfortably. Consider the location's size, capacity, and layout. You should also decide whether you want the nuptials held inside or outside. There are advantages and drawbacks to either option. Keep the time of year and weather in mind when making your choice.
Consider unique venues
If you're scouring wedding venues and aren't happy with what you're finding, it's time to start thinking outside of the box. For example, you might consider getting married in a seaside ceremony. You could also get married at home or in your own backyard. If you make renovations to accommodate a home wedding, create an itemized list of projects and keep receipts for any work done. This can help boost your home's appraisal value in the future.
Keep disabled or elderly guests in mind
You may have grandparents or other older relatives with unique mobility needs coming to your wedding. Keep their requirements in mind. For example, you may want to avoid venues that require people to climb a lot of stairs. One Fab Day has tips for creating a wedding that's disability-friendly. For instance, when sending out invites, include a line alongside the RSVP instructions, asking people to let you know if they have any disability needs.
Think about proximity to accommodation
Many weddings turn into multi-day events or, at the least, late-night parties. Odds are that at least some of your guests will be traveling from out of town and need a place to sleep. Towards this end, make sure that whatever venue you choose has suitable accommodation nearby. You may also want to set up transportation for guests to and from their accommodation, ensuring everyone has a safe ride.
Check venue availability and book visits
Once you've gone through the above considerations, you should be able to narrow down your list of wedding venues to a few reliable options. You can then schedule visits to scope out the venues in person. When visiting the venue, come prepared with questions. Some queries worth asking include whether decorations are included, if other events will be held on the premises on the same day, and if the venue has a place for entertainment to set up.
Finding the perfect venue for your nuptials takes some time and effort. However, it will be well worth it once you have your dream location to celebrate your love.