Choosing the perfect venue is one of the most important wedding decisions you’ll make. With so many options like hotels, gardens, ranches and more, it can feel overwhelming to compare wedding venues. Here are some tips to make the process easier.
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Develop Your Must-Haves and Wish List
Before starting your venue search, sit down with your partner and make a list of what’s most important to you. Jot down things like your headcount, budget, indoor or outdoor preferences, amenities needed and date availability. This will help narrow your options and focus your comparisons.
Research Venue Options
Browse venue websites, magazines, and wedding blogs to get inspired. Ask friends and family for recommendations too. Make a running list of potential venues to research further. Be sure to consider venues in different price ranges to compare costs. It will go a long way toward helping you compare wedding venues.
Schedule Site Visits
Once you have a list, book tours of top contenders. Seeing venues in person is crucial to get a feel for the space and location. Ask lots of questions during visits. Take notes on features, capacity, pricing and more to directly compare venues side-by-side later.
Compare Amenities and Included Services
Note what each venue provides like furniture, linens, kitchen access or audiovisual equipment. Compare if certain amenities require extra rental fees. Also look at included services like on-site coordinators, set up/clean up crews or preferred vendors.
Evaluate Pricing Structures
Some venues charge per head while others have flat rental fees. Note if quotes include tax, service charges or potential overtime fees. Also look at potential food and drink minimums. Compare overall estimated costs to get a sense of budget fit.
Consider Logistical Factors
Note details like parking availability, proximity to hotels, ease of set up/break down and noise restrictions. These logistical elements can impact your guest experience and planning process.
In conclusion, doing thorough research and comparing amenities, costs, logistics and intangibles like vibes will help you choose the best venue fit for your wedding vision and budget. With strategic planning, you’ll find the perfect location to make your big day special. Be sure to book early once you’ve selected your top contender.
FAQs
How far in advance should I book my venue?
Most popular venues book 6-12+ months out for Fridays/Saturdays in peak season. Weekdays may be 3-6 months. Book your top choices as soon as possible once you have a date in mind. Put down deposits to secure the spaces.
What questions should I ask venues during tours?
Ask about capacities, pricing details, inclusions/exclusions, dates available, noise/time restrictions, preferred vendors, layout options, production capabilities, and the booking/payment process. Take thorough notes to compare later.
Cedric Frazier spotlights wedding music, from first dances to processionals. As a working DJ, he gives insight into song selection and keeping guests on the dance floor. In his free time, Thomas enjoys concert photography, trying new restaurants, and Friday night fires with friends.
