When planning your perfect day the location of your wedding is just as important as
selecting that perfect wedding dress. Here are a few tips and advice to take into
consideration when picking that perfect venue to “WOW” all your guests.
– Pick the theme and establish the celebration you want.
Before diving into researching different locations and venue descriptions it is
important to know what kind of theme or celebration you want your guests to
experience. Picking the specific theme can ease your mind on picking that perfect
location.
– Selecting the Venue: “Location, Location, Location”
When picking the location venue for your wedding. For many it is important to
select a location that is easy for your guests to get to.
If planning a destination wedding in another state or country you need to think
about how all guests will be getting there. In terms of the actual location, it is
important to pick a venue that can accommodate all your guests and is roomy
enough to fit everyone attending.
-Driving and Traffic Considerations
It’s worth the time and effort to consider the total driving time for your guests and
traffic especially during rush hour that many of us face on a daily basis. If your
dream location is quiet a distance for some guests, try picking a place near hotels
where your guests can have a good time and won’t have to travel a long distance late
at night.
Whether it’s your co-workers, friends, or family who enjoy drinking at celebrations
it is defiantly reassuring to have these accommodations near the prime location of
the wedding you are planning. If some guests are traveling by plane it certainly is
helpful to make sure there is an airport nearby. Including a map on wedding
invitations is always a plus since many navigation tools like Google maps is not
always 100% accurate.
-Style
By identifiying the style of you’re wedding and determining the important elements
to include can narrow down your venue search that will put your mind at ease.
What kind of event style do you want? Will it be a traditional wedding or an exotic
wedding? An outside wedding or an inside wedding? Black Tie or Informal? These
are all some considerations to take into account when picking the style of your
special day! Your style can determine what location is the right fit for you.
-Guest Count
A confirmed guest count is almost always required for venues 60-90 days in
advance prior to the wedding. A confirmed guest count is required 72 hours prior to
the wedding as well. Many venues want a deposit beforehand based on the number
of people attending.
Having a solid estimate of the guest list early will help to better understand venue
costs. This way you can better plan your wedding budget and can better select the
best venue for your ceremony that fits right into your budget.
-The Weather Factor
The weather is defiantly something that can make or break any celebration. When
choosing a venue the specific time of the year is important and the time of the day is
also something to take into account.
Summer weddings will perform great outside and winter wedding may be more
suitable to be inside. Outside summer weddings may be better during the dark
hours since the air is cooler, guests can avoid being blinded by the sun, and one
extra bonus everyone gets to enjoy the beautiful sunset.
You can also inform guests on your location map to bring sunglasses, hats or
sunscreen if you rather have a midday wedding. However, in some instances the
weather can always turn up to be surprising and unpredictable so it is always better
to have an inside location, tent, or space available nearby in the event that it may be
cold or rainy.
-Special Requirements
Many venue locations have strict rules and regulations that must be followed.
Picking a location that fits your guest needs will allow them to have a better time at
your celebration.
If alcohol is going to be consumed it is essential to make sure the venue will allow it
or if they are licensed to serve alcohol. If dancing and your favorite band are
essential for your celebration, call to check up if the specific venue will allow it. If
some guests are vegans or want a kosher food on the menu, it is necessary to plan
for them as well.
Thinking about all these elements can help to limit your venue selection to making
the right decision. All these special factors are important to take into consideration
before signing any venue contract.
-Parking
Parking may be important to consider if you are getting married in an urban
location, in a main city like Los Angeles, and New York City. Places like these two
busy cities, parking can be quiet a challenge and hassle for many.
Depending on your certain location, the handy location map on your invitations with
a note suggesting carpooling, valet parking, or any shuttle bus services is helpful to
include so guests know what to expect. Include if there is a parking garage with the
fee and how much it will cost per vehicle. This way high parking fees or when they
can’t find a spot to put their cars won’t surprise this way guests.
-Lockdown your Event Date and Making an Appointment
Determining when your event date is crucial in choosing a venue location. If you
have a special date in mind it is advisable to check upon the venues that can
accommodate your special wedding date before locking yourself to one place.
Now reviewing all the above tips in the selection of your perfect wedding venue, it is
now the time to make venue appointments from your list of considerable locations
rather than just taking a drive-by.
You are now ready to make the best venue decision for the most memorable day of
your life that you will enjoy with all your loved ones!