Hi friends! Welcome back! Today is the second post in a piece of advice for brides series. The first post covered tips on choosing a wedding photographer which you can read here.
Today I’m talking about choosing a venue. The location for your best day ever should be on your priority list as far as important things to book. This decision sets the stage for everything else in your day. This decision can be overwhelming so here’s a few pointers to help.
1. Hire a planner first
If you are looking to hire a planner, do so first. A wedding planner can offer you priceless advice and ultimately help you find the perfect backdrop for your day.
2. Know your estimated guest count prior to venue tours.
It’s no help viewing venues that hold 50 when your guest count is 120…
3. Know your venue and overall wedding budget before venue tours.
4. know the aesthetic you have in mind before searching.
5. Think of what you want your guest’s experience to be like.
Try to imagine yourself as a guest there, what are your thoughts?
6. compare what is included.
Compare multiple venues and see what each offers. Think, tables and chairs, dance floor, and wedding party spaces. If a venue doesn’t offer these things then will you have to hire more vendors?
7. Consider how your guests will get to and from the venue.
If choosing a venue in the middle of nowhere, you may have to provide transportation for your guests.
8. Does it offer a plan B?
Very important! Furthermore, does it offer a Plan B that you love?
9. What are the postponement policies?
Ahhh a Covid question- of course! Very important though! 2 must know…1. will your retainer payment transfer to a new date? 2. Will any reschedule fees incur?
10. Design freedom?
Obviously, w'’re not talking about drilling holes in the walls or changing flooring, but will they let you have the freedom to transform the space for your wedding? If there is a large painting that you despise in the bridal suite that may bother you in photos, can they move it? Things like that.
11. How long will you have the space?
You need to know how long your rental is. If it’s only an 8-hour rental then you may run into time troubles with set up. You also need to know what time breakdown needs to be done.
Hope these were helpful!
Michelle