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!
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!
You’re on the right page as we plan to answer all the questions you might have about choosing the perfect venue.
If you’re worried about the preparation for the wedding venue, or what could be the best wedding venue for you as a couple and all the things you need to know about the whole preparation process, we got you covered!
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 such as bathrooms, guest spaces, accommodation (if any), parking, lighting, and anything else that can make your guests feel comfortable & safe while giving the vibe you are looking for as well!
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:
- 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!
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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!
- 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.
- Focus on the bigger picture. Once set, guarantee that you’re enjoying the whole process of preparation which includes the selection of venue and incorporating the little things that make the two of you smile & your wedding special & unique!
Now that 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!
Please check out our website and our social media accounts on Facebook and Instagram for additional help with questions to ask your vendors, planning, fun add-ons and so much more!
Because we value the importance of bringing families together and making big days more special, and 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!!
Thanks for the tip about how venue site inspections are important when looking for the right place for the big day. My boyfriend and I are interested in looking for a good Gulf Coast wedding venue because that’s quite near where we first met. It would be symbolic to get married around those parts.
That would be a beautiful backdrop for a wedding and very meaningful. Glad we could help and good luck in finding the perfect wedding venue!