Credit: Mallory Munson Photography
Ok, so you got engaged and you are sooo excited for what’s next… Wait, what’s next?! Planning a wedding- Where do you even start?! Start with focusing on a place for this magical affair. In this blog I’ll walk you through things to consider when making the hardest and most impactful decision of your wedding- picking a venue!
It’s YOUR Day to Celebrate!
First off, you will need to get your creative brain on as a couple and figure out what kind of atmosphere and environment you picture for your wedding. Location and setting is everything for creating the wedding of your dreams. Remember, YOUR wishes are most important! Go with your gut. Where do you picture your ceremony and reception? Whether it’s inside a gorgeous cathedral or outdoors with a gorgeous backdrop, it’s your wedding and your desires come first!
After all, it’s the only day in your whole life where you and your fiancé are the focus and all the people you care about are usually willing to drop everything and travel anywhere to join you in celebrating! (Ok, except maybe that grouchy old aunt who should stay home anyways … 😉
To Destination or not?!
Credit: Simply Bliss Studios
But let’s face it, a destination wedding does impact the guest list. You may decide to keep the guest list smaller for cost-savings (since you will now dish out the big bucks for a stunning venue of your choice). You also need to realize the traveling may deter a small amount of folks due to cost, time, etc. Statistics say about 80% of people you invite will show up at a destination wedding. This percentage is closer to 90% if you keep your wedding closer to home.
I LOVE the Ceremony site and the reception space is okay…
Also make sure you like the ceremony AND reception space. If you like one but aren’t thrilled about the other you may consider doing your ceremony and reception at different sites. Don’t compromise too much. If you do decide to have your ceremony at a different location, I always recommend the ceremony and reception site are within 30 minutes of each other. The last thing you want is wandering and lost guests! (You may also consider a shuttle option, but let’s not get ahead of ourselves here.)
Um, can I get a steak??
Next to the location coming in at #1 for most folks, good food matters!
- Find out if the venues you are looking at provides in-house catering or if they let you choose your own caterer. Often times, I recommend the venues with the flexibility to choose your own catering. Because what happens if you do a tasting ( I always highly recommend this!) and you don’t like the food or the options?! Good news is you can find another company! In-house catering can be a great convenience factor but it pigeon holes you into one option you are stuck with. No in-house catering means you can price shop as well and compare companies.
- I don’t recommend skimping on the food- make sure it’s good quality and you have entree options. Whether you go with a buffet-style or plated is totally up to you but those on a tight budget or looking for more casual dining usually opt for buffet style. It’s important to feed your guests well, think of this as your gift to them taking the time to be a part of your big day. Also, realize that food is your biggest expense and often where you can save most.
- While not most important, it is an added benefit to work with a caterer who is familiar with the venue and has worked there previously (or is in-house). It makes their job easier and helps avoid any potential snafus on the day of. Often times the venue can recommend their favorite caterers or has a preferred catering list to reference.
- Food trucks are all the rage right now. While they are novel and can save you some money, keep in mind they usually do not bring their own wait staff and do not bus tables. If they do provide all of this, they are golden! 😉 Ask the venue about whether or not they allow food truck service and where they would place the food truck. It’s helpful to have electricity at venue for hookups too.
Give me all the extras!!
- When looking at venues be sure to take into consideration what is included in your venue price. Having a tent, tables, chairs, linens, ceremony arch, etc. can be a big cost-saver and will make things a lot less stressful than having to order from a rental company or bring all your own stuff. With this being said, if you know you will want specific tables or chairs rented that aren’t provided, keep this in mind as an additional cost.
- Avoid venues that nickel and dime you for each additional amenity you would like to add. This becomes a headache, can be deceiving, and adds up quickly!
Can I squeeze in a few more?!
While this may be obvious when selecting a venue, your number of guests does matter. Always listen to the venue when they tell you the recommended maximum number of guests and don’t push it. The last thing you want is for guests to be uncomfortable and crowded at the wedding. Choose a venue that has plenty of space for all your guests you intend on inviting and a dance floor of course!
Hopefully this gives you some food for thought to start with and before I get too winded I’m going to stop! Please don’t hesitate to reach out with more questions if you have them. And of course, please reach out to me if you need planning services to help you along the way at http://www.tiedandtrueevents.com or at taryn@tiedandtrueevents.com.
