Finding your wedding venue is fundamental to your celebration. It will set the mood and style of your special day. To find yours, consider meaningful locations (have a favorite hotel or art museum?), around your hometown and surroundings or the most romantic spots to tie the knot around the world if you are considering a destination wedding, as well as places and spaces to which you have emotional ties.

Once you decided on the area or destination location you want as a backdrop to your event proceed to step 1.

  1. Make a list of must-haves. If you want an outdoor wedding cross out all the spaces that just offer an indoor space. If you plan to have 200 guests cross out all the venues that will not be able to accommodate your headcount.

When you’ve narrowed down some options and are ready to tour reception sites, keep these expert pieces of advice, in mind.

2. Never visit more than three wedding venues in one day.

Or you’ll experience sensory overload! You will lose focus and everything will blend together.

3. If you’re having a religious ceremony, the first reserve your house of worship.

Pic courtesy: Playa Resorts

Many have set ceremony times, which will dictate when your reception can start.

4. If the majority of your friends and family are traveling, consider a venue in a central location.

A remote estate that’s a four-hour drive from the airport or closest hotel can be tough for guests.

5. Hotels and Resorts sometimes book more than one wedding per weekend.

Be sure to ask about the resort policy and how they manage overlapping events and how that could affect your event.

Palazzo Pisani -Venezia- Pic courtesy Venice First

6. Find out how the venue handles catering and vendors.

Do they have in-house catering? If so, can you customize the menu? If not, can you hire anyone you like, or do you have to pick from a list of approved vendors? If you’re a foodie, ask about the venue’s tasting policy. Can you bring on your favorite baker, planner, DJ, or florist or you are tied to their approved vendors?

7. Do you want to party all night long?

Many venues (especially those in residential areas) have a curfew or a maximum decibel level for music. Check before you book.

Pic courtesy- Playa Resorts

8. Understand the contract. Before you sign it, make sure you fully understand what the agreement includes and excludes. What you can do and not do at your venue.

Parking fees, bathrooms and kitchen accessibility, and alcohol consumption permits… everything needs to be clear. Ask and check for any possible hidden costs. The postponement or cancellation policy should be clear. Ask if the total accounts for state tax and gratuity (known as a “plus plus”).

9. How much time is allowed for setup and tear down?

If the space is quite basic and you are thinking it will be a perfect canvas for a wonderful installation make sure you will have enough time to make it happen or that you can afford to pay for extra time.

10. Check the power needs for your lightning décor, Dj, band, etc.

If the site’s supply isn’t sufficient, you may have to rent a generator.

Remember that planning a flawless wedding requires time, artistry, and quite some skills.

For the past 20 years, I helped busy professionals with a demanding lifestyle plan, design, and host memorable, romantic, and personalized wedding celebrations with no overwhelm or drama.I ‘d love to help you have the amazing wedding day you deserve as well.

If you would like to know more please check HERE and book your 30 minutes free consultation with no obligation.