Few who have been through the process would argue that wedding planning takes a lot of work. However, one of the most difficult parts of the wedding planning process is choosing the venue. One of the reasons for this is that the appropriate wedding venue is rarely picked without answering several difficult questions before hand. Many couples make the mistake of snagging the first venue they see, which often turns out to be inconsistent with their theme or style. Also, a lack of research often results in settling or overspending.
To avoid these problems, all couples should begin with an honest appraisal of how much money they have to spend and what aspects of the wedding are most important to them. For example, some brides dream of having the perfect dress. This is fine, as long as they understand this may mean having to cut back somewhere else. Couples should also think about how many people will be attending their wedding and what their theme will be. There are so many venue options out there, that it’s usually a good idea to have a pretty clear vision of what you want before you start searching. Of course this may change later, but at least know what’s a deal breaker (like a bad review), and stay strong on it.
Once you have an idea of what you want in a venue, the search can begin. Try to find out as much as you can about each location through their websites and reviews posted on forums and websites. When you have a few possibilities, start visiting the venues in person. Come prepared with question and try to get a feel for the professionalism and helpfulness of the staff. Ask to see the actual room you will be using in order to visualize what the final event might look like in the space provided.
Keep in mind that any location can be turned into a great wedding venue. While private clubs, restaurants, and professional event venues are popular locations, parks and beaches can be a fun alternative.
Even if you’re pressed for time, it’s important not to rush this decision. A bad venue can ruin the mood and result in guests leaving underwhelmed. Also be sure to familiarize yourself with the venue’s cancellation policy. You don’t want to end up paying a lot of money if you change your mind later.