How to Pick the Perfect Wedding Venue
The wedding venue is one of the most important decisions involved in planning your big day. Second, of course, to the life-changing choices to get married in the first place. Several considerations must be taken into account, including your budget, the type of wedding you want, your guest list size, your date, and your wedding day priorities like catering, entertaiment and decor. Fortunately, this step-by-step formula for making a successful venue choice is tried-and-true; follow it carefully and you're sure to find the ideal locale for the wedding of your dreams.
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Instructions
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Finding the Perfect Wedding Venue
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1
Determine your estimated wedding budget. Knowing at the outset how much you'll realistically be able to spend is essential to making all future wedding planning decisions.
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2
Your wedding is all about you and your groom and what makes you both happy; your venue should complement your personalities! Define the particular kind of wedding that you wish to have. Will it be a large gala or an intimate affair? A local wedding or a destination wedding? Is it formal black-tie or laid-back casual? And is it religious or secular, or a customized balance? (See References 3).
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3
Determine the estimated size of your guest list. You should have an idea of how many people you'll have at your wedding in order to ensure you choose a venue with space to accomodate everyone comfortably.
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4
Determine the time of year that you wish to get married. Do you want a fall, winter, spring or summer wedding? For now, however, don't commit to an exact date. Many venues book quickly and you will have limited open times. It's best to be flexible to capitalize on what's available at your preferred venues. (See References 1).
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5
Chances are you've impulse-purchased more than a couple bridal magazines; use them, if for nothing else, for venue idea brainstorms! Research venues using online databases and search engines, word of mouth, local bridal magazines, and other relevant resources. Select a number of potentially desirable venues that correlate with your budget, location, size, and timing logistics determined in Steps 1 to 4 . Schedule informational tours and meetings with venue managers.
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6
Prepare questions to ask at each venue concerning the options they provide for your preferred and prioritized wedding details such as available payment packages, cocktail hour arrangements, catering services and menu choices, liquor licenses and alcohol rules, lighting and sound quality, band or DJ positioning, and dancing space. (See References 2).
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7
Research each venue you consider like it's your job! The last thing you want on your big day are any surprises. Attend each venue visit with your list of questions, a notebook for answers and ideas, and a camera for snapping shots of the venue for later review. Interview each venue manager thoroughly and carefully, and don't be afraid to bargain for what you want; many venue details, particularly costs and fees, are negotiable. (See References 3).
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8
Set aside an afternoon or evening with your fiancee to review and compare your notes and photographs soon after your venue visits. Anything and everything you'll need to make your ultimate decision is right in front of you. Congratulations and good luck!
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit wedding celebration image by Warren Millar from Fotolia.com wedding image by Mat Hayward from Fotolia.com magazine image by Angelika Bentin from Fotolia.com
