Here Comes the Guide: A Guide to Choosing the Perfect Wedding Venue for the Big Day!

A wedding is one of the grandest ceremonies to experience not only for couples but for their families – a time to reunite and unwind with their loved ones & a time to celebrate LIFE and LOVE! Planning a wedding is an exciting and momentous journey, and one of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing the perfect wedding venue.

Planning a wedding is a whirlwind of excitement, emotions, and endless decisions to make. One of the most crucial choices you’ll face is selecting the perfect wedding venue. It’s the space where your love story unfolds, where you’ll say “I do,” and where memories will be etched forever. In this blog, we’ll guide you through the process of choosing the ideal wedding venue, unlocking the magic and helping you create the wedding day of your dreams.

Most couples picture the big day to be magical from the location of the reception to the littlest detail of the event that would, later on, be translated into memories in pictures and videos. Yes, a series of preparations, appointments, and last-minute decisions are necessary to make that happen but let’s not forget all of the little, fun, unique elements that you are able to incorporate that are going to be so fun!  

Let’s first know the benefits of being prepared!

Organization is a key factor to make everything coherent and consistent, but you have to make sure that you are also enjoying the process. It is your wedding after all! Don’t get swayed by the littlest glitches and look closely at what truly matters: celebrating love and commitment while being surrounded by your beloved family.

What happens if you are not prepared and if you’re not asking the right questions?

Perhaps, it all comes down to budget for you?  However, there is so much that goes into cost & it varies greatly by the venue as some venues are a venue only, some are semi-inclusive & others are all-inclusive.  We want you to be ready!

The majority of couples call around to venues and ask for the cost?  

However, there is so much to consider when discussing the cost of the venue!  

That is truly a loaded question.  

Be sure to download your Venue Site Inspection checklist here that goes along with your guide!

Is the cost that they have given you, the venue only? 

Have they included chairs, tables, linens? 

Perhaps some decor? 

Is the price they have given you, semi-inclusive? 

Perhaps they have included the catering in that price so it seems way more expensive than the other venues you have spoken to.  Whereas other venues may have been all-inclusive venues and have included costs for the venues, all vendors, set up, break down, coordination, decor, and everything is already done for you.  

Now, let’s answer some of the frequently asked questions for couples who are ready to start searching for the perfect wedding venue!

What do you need to know about wedding venues?

To make sure that you are choosing the ideal wedding venue, you have to ask questions about the availability of your preferred wedding date and if you will have exclusivity at the venue. Also, you can ask if you can have outside caterers for your reception. Of course, do not forget the logistics and accommodation of the venue.  We have an entire list of questions to ask, no worries!

What to expect at a wedding venue tour?

A venue tour approximately lasts about 45 minutes which includes a guide,  the standard visit, and consultation.

To make the most out of it, don’t be hesitant to ask questions so that you are able to confirm everything the venue has to offer regarding your wedding package of choice.

Some concerns that you may not have thought of, but are important include:

How long before the wedding do you book your venue?

To give you ample time to sort things out, you should plan to book the wedding venue at least nine months before the preferred wedding date. However, the earlier the better as venues and vendors are typically booked a year and a half out.  I am sure you would like the first choice of venues & vendors.  

How many wedding venues should you view before making a decision?

There is no specific number of how many venues you should visit.  The key is to view venues that align with your vision and preferences. Some couples view 3-4 venues, but once you are connected with a venue, make sure to not lose your opportunity to book them!

When comparing venues please keep in mind the following:

1. Set your wedding budget. This is the factor that drives you to do the things that you want to happen at your wedding. When the budget’s set, make sure to stick to it!
2. List your priorities. Just so you can keep track of both the major and minor details.  Know exactly what you absolutely need such as tables & chairs, etc. and what you want.  
3. Know the types of wedding venues. When you are aware of the different types of wedding venues such as hotels, banquet halls, gardens, or beaches, it would be easier for you to align your visions to reality.
4. Ask during the venue site inspection. Do not be hesitant to ask questions. Here are some of the things that you may want to ask about: ceremony site, reception site, venue rental inclusions (i.e. plates, chairs, tables, linens, etc.), facilities, and extras.  Again, you can find the full list we provide our couples here.
5. Investigate what is included in the price. Once you’re aware of the venue types, make sure that you are looking closely at the prices, packages, inclusions, and restrictions from the venue that you have picked. 
6. Consider other options. After inquiring about venues and packages, consider other options. Make sure to cross-reference so you can see what works best for your wedding. The more options, the better choice!
7. Prioritize important dates. Make sure that you are on track with the dates before your wedding: when to book the venue, when is the food tasting, etc.
8. Focus on the bigger picture. Once set, guarantee that you’re enjoying the whole process of preparation. The selection of your venue and incorporating the little things that make the two of you smile, all make your wedding special & unique! 

Unlocking the Magic of Choosing the Perfect Wedding Venue:

1. Reflect on Your Vision: Before diving into the world of wedding venues, take a moment to envision your dream wedding. Consider your style, preferences, and the atmosphere you want to create. Do you imagine an intimate garden ceremony, a grand ballroom affair, or a rustic barn celebration? Understanding your vision will guide your search and ensure the venue aligns perfectly with your aspirations.
2. Set Your Budget: Establishing a realistic budget is vital. Determine how much you’re willing to allocate to the venue, considering both the rental fee and any additional costs, such as catering, decorations, and accommodations. Being clear about your financial boundaries from the start will help you narrow down your options and prevent any unexpected surprises along the way.
3. Consider Location: The location of your wedding venue plays a significant role in the overall experience for you and your guests. Think about accessibility, proximity to accommodations, and the general ambiance of the area. Decide whether you prefer a local venue or a destination wedding, and consider the convenience and comfort it will provide to your loved ones.
4. Capacity and Guest List: Evaluate the size of your guest list and ensure the venue can comfortably accommodate everyone. Keep in mind that you may need separate spaces for the ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception. Be mindful of both the indoor and outdoor capacities, taking into account any seasonal variations and potential weather conditions.
5. Amenities and Services: Explore the amenities and services offered by each potential venue. Consider practical aspects such as parking availability, restrooms, and accessibility for guests with special needs. Additionally, inquire about in-house catering options, bar services, and whether they provide event coordination or have preferred vendors. These factors can simplify the planning process and alleviate potential stress.
6. Visit and Visualize: Schedule site visits to your top venue choices. Walk through the spaces, imagining how your wedding day will unfold. Pay attention to the ambiance, architectural features, and overall aesthetics. Take note of the available lighting options, as they can significantly impact the mood and atmosphere of your celebration. Bring a checklist of questions to ask the venue staff, ensuring you cover all the essential details.
7. Flexibility and Personalization: Consider how flexible the venue is in terms of personalization. Discuss any restrictions or guidelines they may have regarding decor, entertainment, or specific cultural or religious practices you wish to incorporate. Having the freedom to infuse your personality into the venue will make your wedding day truly unique and special.
8. Reviews and Recommendations: Research reviews and testimonials from previous couples who have hosted their weddings at the venues you are considering. Their firsthand experiences can offer valuable insights and help you gauge the professionalism and quality of service provided by the venue.
9. Trust Your Instincts: Ultimately, trust your instincts and choose a venue that resonates with you and your partner. If a certain venue captures your heart and aligns with your vision, it’s likely the right choice. Your intuition will guide you towards the perfect space to create everlasting memories.

The Venue of Your Dreams Awaits: Making the Final Decision for Your Picture-Perfect Wedding

Choosing the perfect wedding venue is a significant step in planning your special day. It sets the tone, creates the atmosphere, and becomes the backdrop for cherished memories that will last a lifetime. Selecting the perfect wedding venue is an essential step in creating the wedding day you’ve always dreamed of. By reflecting on your vision, considering budget, location, capacity, amenities, and personalization options, you can make an informed decision.

Go forth with confidence, trust your instincts, and let your imagination soar as you choose the venue of your dreams.

Have fun planning and best wishes for a wedding day filled with love, happiness, and cherished memories that will last a lifetime!

Hopefully you have a better understanding of everything that you need to know about wedding preparation and venue selection. We are excited to provide you with an additional list of questions you can ask! Just click here to check it out!

We would love for you to check out our website. Please follow us on our two favorite social media platforms Facebook and Instagram for additional help with questions to ask your vendors, planning, fun add-ons and so much more!

We value the importance of bringing families together and making big days more special. We want your wedding to be just as awesome as you are! 

“Ohana” means family. “Family” means no one gets left behind.

Sincerely,
From our Ohana to yours!

Cheehoo!!