Choosing the best place to say “I do” is a big decision, and one that you and your future spouse will probably agonise over for a while.
While you may have a dream venue in mind, you might also worry that you’re not choosing the “right” place for you. While only you can decide where to hold your wedding, here are some questions to ask yourself before booking that could help make the decision a bit easier.
1. Does it fit our budget?
This is probably the most important question. Be honest about what you can afford. Remember, the venue often eats up a big chunk of your wedding budget. Don’t forget to factor in extras like catering, decorations, and staff costs that might not be included in the basic hire fee.
2. Can it accommodate our guest list?
You need to know how many people the venue can comfortably hold. There’s nothing worse than a cramped reception or half-empty hall. Also, consider if there’s room for a dance floor if that’s important to you. Make sure you have a rough guest count before you start venue shopping.
3. Does it match our wedding style?
Source: Unsplash Think about the kind of wedding you want. A rustic barn might be perfect for a laid-back country wedding, but not so great for a black-tie affair. The venue should complement your vision for the day. You don’t want to be fighting against the existing decor or atmosphere.
4. What’s included in the package?
Source: Unsplash Some venues offer all-inclusive packages, while others are just a blank space. Find out exactly what’s included. Tables, chairs, linens, catering, staff — these can all add up if you need to bring them in separately. A more expensive venue might actually save you money if it includes a lot of these extras.
5. Is the location convenient for our guests?
Consider how easy it is for your guests to get there. Is there parking available? If it’s out of town, are there accommodation options nearby? You might love that secluded countryside venue, but think about whether it’s practical for the majority of your guests.
6. What’s the backup plan for bad weather?
If you’re planning an outdoor wedding, this is crucial. Even if you’re not, it’s worth knowing. What happens if it rains and guests can’t use the garden? Is there a Plan B for photos? Make sure you’re happy with the indoor options, just in case.
7. Are there any restrictions we need to know about?
Some venues have rules about things like noise levels, end times, candles, or confetti. Others might require you to use their preferred suppliers. Make sure you know about any restrictions before you book. You don’t want any nasty surprises later on.
8. How flexible are they with decorations?
If you have specific ideas for decorating, check if the venue allows them. Some places have strict rules about what you can and can’t do. If the venue’s own style is very strong, think about whether it fits with your vision or if you’ll be spending a lot trying to change it.
9. What’s the payment schedule?
Understand when payments are due and what the cancellation policy is. You’ll usually need to put down a deposit to secure the date, but when is the full amount due? And what happens if you need to change the date or cancel? These are important things to know upfront.
10. Does it feel right?
This one’s less tangible, but still important. When you visit, does the venue give you that excited, “this is it” feeling? Can you picture yourself getting married there? Sometimes, after all the practical considerations, it comes down to gut instinct. If it feels right and ticks the other boxes, it might be the one.
