Choosing Wedding Venues
There are many important things to consider when choosing your wedding venues. For your ceremony, you should decide if you want a church ceremony, an outdoor ceremony, or a civil ceremony in another location. You may choose to have your ceremony and your reception at the same venue. With a church ceremony, however, you will likely need to find a separate location for your reception or banquet. Your wedding plans will go more smoothly once you have decided what type of ceremony you want.
Another thing to keep in mind is the ever present budget. If you have to take out a loan to afford the reception hall, you would probably be better off somewhere else. Choose a location that fits within your budget, so that you have some money left over to pay for the rest of your wedding plans. When budgeting, be sure to remember the number of guests you wish to invite. It may be necessary to pay for a larger space, in order to fit everyone comfortably. The last thing you want is for Great Aunt Ida to be stuck at a table with fifteen young adults and no elbow room, simply because you had nowhere else to put her.
Location is also important. Travel is expensive, and you will want your ceremony and reception in a place that is easily accessible to most of your guests. If you want a small wedding and can afford to fly immediate family and friends to Hawaii for that perfect beach ceremony, then go for it. In most cases, however, it is wise to choose a venue that is close to home. If your family lives far from your fiancé’s family, another location, somewhere in the middle, should probably be considered. Location is an extremely important thing to consider when finalizing your wedding plans.
Of course, you want the location of your wedding to match your dreams. When looking at venues, consider the atmosphere, and whether or not the area fits your wedding’s theme. Also be sure to ask questions. Learn as much as possible about the venue you are considering. Some questions to keep in mind include:
- How much does the space cost?
- Are there any extra fees?
- Do they provide catering?
- Can or should we hire other caterers?
- What are the time restrictions on renting the room?
- How early can we set up and how early do we have to take down?
- Is there adequate space to accommodate our guests?
- Is there room for a dance floor? Are there enough restrooms?
Remember to include these questions and any others you can think of while choosing a wedding venue. It is important that your location fits in with your other wedding plans and allows you to create the perfect atmosphere for your perfect day.