The Do’s & Don’ts of Wedding Venue Searching
Finding the wedding venue is one of the
first things that couples usually check off their wedding planning list and as
it’s often where a lot of the budget goes.
It’s really important for you to make sure your venue lives up to
everything you dreamed of and that you are able to do everything that you want
there. In today’s post I’ve put together a few “Do’s” and “Don’ts” to help make
finding your dream venue easier.
Happy Planning!
Joy x
Do begin with discussing this important starter question; Civil Ceremony,
Church wedding or even a jet setting destination wedding. Knowing the kind of
ceremony you want plays a big part in your venue choice.
Do decide if you’d like everything all in one place or how far you are
willing to travel between venues.
Don’t forget about that budget! Keep it mind
and try to stick to it.
Do think about the kind of style you’re after. Is it big rustic barn, a
boutique hotel, a stately home, an outdoor marquee or tipi or a blank canvas
village hall?
Do ask about capacity, you might not know exactly how many guests you’d
like to invite initially, but if that cute village hall only accommodates 50
and you’ve got roughly 70 guests in mind, you might need to reconsider.
Don’t rule out having
your wedding day on a weekday or not during peak season. Some venues offer
discount for these dates, which is perfect if you’re on a tighter budget.
Don’t forget about your guests, the day is
of course about you but it’s good to keep in mind where people are traveling
from and if it’s going to be easy for them to get to your chosen venue.
Do make sure you check out the parking situation. Is there enough room for
all your guests and check if cars can be left over night?
Do get out there and see the venues for yourselves and get a feel for the
place. Many venues hold wedding open days where you can see the venue all
dressed to impress and also speak to other local wedding suppliers.
Don’t forget to find out about accommodation.
Are there rooms available for you and your guests on site or are there hotels
and B&Bs near by?
Do ask to see a full break down of costs. Make sure you know what is included in the price do you
have to pay for any extras such as corkage, chairs and tables, crockery etc
Do consider hiring an on the day coordinator, certainly if your venue is a
blank canvas such as a marquee or barn. The idea of dressing your venue hours
before the wedding might seem feasible but and extra pair of hands will sure
take the pressure off. It’s also someone to take control of the day, in the
absence of a venue manager.
Don’t forget the weather! If you’re having an outdoor wedding do you
have alternative options if the heavens open? Does your wedding venue offer the
option of an outdoor ceremony if the sun is shining?
Do check out the venues recommended suppliers not only for inspiration and
to help with your other planning stages but also find out if you are tied to
using them.
Do find out who your point of contact is in the run up to and on the big
day itself. It’s nice to know there’s someone at the end of the phone when you
need them and also knows the ins and outs of your wedding when the day arrives.
Venue: Peckforton
Castle Image Credit: http://www.sansomphotography.co.uk/
Don’t assume you can do anything you like
décor-wise. Make sure you find out what you can and can’t do. Some venues might
not allow hanging decorations, candles or confetti so it’s worth asking
about.
Do ask about the venues policy on loud music and when the wedding
has to end. *sob sob*
Finding your perfect wedding venue is a
huge chunk of your wedding planning sorted and once you know when and where
your big day is going to be you can really start to shape your day. After all
that searching you might be quite worn out so I suggest sticking the kettle on,
putting your feet up and giving yourselves a high five!
Parsonage Lawn Marquee at Clumber Park