Now that you have a budget in place it is time to start choosing the venue that will host the wedding of your dreams! The venue will set the tone for your whole day so here are a few handy tips to help along the way.

Cost

So, by now you should have a budget in place and know what you have allocated to the venue. Each venue will have a different pricing system. Some will be a full package price whereas other will be venue only with additional costs for the extras such as tables and chairs, bar, crockery, décor and food. There may even be venues who only offer the building itself, and external companies will need to be hired to make your own. Just be careful to check exactly what is included/excluded in the package they offer you as if not clarified you could easily exceed your budget. Will there be a member/s of staff assigned to you for the day to ensure the day runs smoothly?

Availability

This is an important one…. do they have the date you require!

Have you chosen a specific date that you’d like for your wedding day meaning there is no wriggle room no matter what venue you choose? Or is it the style of venue that is more important and you have flexibility on the date for the right location? You will normally be required to pay a deposit to book the venue on the date required so make sure you are happy with both!

The Location

The location of the venue could mean many things to you. Is it the location that will set the theme of the day, are you looking for a countryside retreat or a more modern twist in the city. Wherever your location of choice is, you should consider things like access to the venue, can it accommodate your choice of transport on the day? Is there good access for guests who are travelling in for your wedding e.g.: motorway / trainlines. If you are going for a city location is there convenient parking available for your guests? If the venue offers limited or no accommodation are there local alternatives for you and your guests to stay after the wedding if required.

Capacity & layout

Now you are on the hunt for the perfect venue you should have a rough idea of the number of guests you will be inviting. Check the venues minimum and maximum capacity as this may affect the costing or the package you require. Some venues may have a lower capacity for the wedding ceremony and breakfast due to layout/tables and others may be flexible from day to evening. This could be due to layout and spacing available.  If they have numerous rooms make sure to confirm what usage each room has and which rooms, you will have access to on the day. Some venues may have multiple rooms and are able host more than one event on the day so take this into consideration if you are looking for more of an exclusive hire package.

Catering & Facilities

When looking through the packages and costings available to you, confirm whether catering is included. You will find some venues have their own catering whilst others will require you to source external suppliers who they may be able to recommend. If catering is offered, can you see examples of the menu and how flexible is the menu? If you are required to book outside catering, then what kitchen facilities are available at the venue.

Is there are bar service available or is this to be externally sourced and what are the additional charges, if any, for bringing in your own alcohol and beverages? Do they have a license for alcohol to be served?

Entertainment

Are you able to provide your own entertainment such as a DJ, a band or photobooth and any restrictions that may be in place?

Questions & Reviews

You can never ask too many questions when choosing the venue for your day. The more information you can gather about what the venue does or doesn’t offer and the facilities available to you will help you keep control of the budget and have no unexpected surprises!

Do your research online and look into the packages that each venue offers prior to arranging viewings of the venues. This will help to eliminate those that may not cater to your needs and ensure that the venues you do decide to view can accommodate your requirements. Also, look at reviews, the feedback left will be from couples who married there and guests of the couples. There will be no better way to judge the venue than that of couples who have already booked it!

 Enjoy the process of viewing the different options of venue available to you and take your time in comparing what they offer you and your day. This is your magical day so make sure you love the venue you chose!