The Ultimate Guide to Wedding Venues
TIMELINE & FLEXIBILITY
To secure your top pick, create a timeline that allows at least a year from selecting your wedding venue to the actual wedding date. This is especially vital for sought-after venues, which can get booked up 12-18 months in advance. And guess what? The same urgency applies to snagging those amazing vendors—photographers, videographers, floral designers, caterers, transportation, and wedding planners alike!
Now, the classic dilemma: which comes first, the chicken or the egg? Well, that question applies to some wedding planning decisions, too. Are you torn between choosing a wedding venue or a specific date first? Let your personal preferences and priorities guide you. If a particular date holds immense sentimental value, start there and find a venue available on that cherished day. On the flip side, if the venue is your absolute must-have, you’ll enjoy more flexibility in selecting the perfect date to tie the knot at your dream location! It’s all about tailoring your choices to fit your unique vision for the big day.
LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION
When it comes to wedding venues, some couples explore two different types—one for the ceremony and another for the reception. While many opt for the simplicity of a single venue (easier on both the budget and the guests!), others, like those choosing a place of worship for their nuptials, find themselves in the two-venue camp.
For those navigating this dual-venue scenario, understanding travel time between venues is key. It allows you to plan event start times effectively and create a day-of schedule that vendors can follow accurately. And let’s not forget the importance of choosing the right location for your photos!
Beyond the realm of destination weddings, where travel is inherently part of the experience, accessibility is paramount. Consider whether your chosen venue (or venues!) is easily reachable or tucked away in a remote corner. Will out-of-town guests, unfamiliar with the area, be able to navigate the directions effortlessly?
I want to take a moment to emphasize the significance of a seamless transition from one venue to the next, especially if you find yourself juggling two locations. A smooth flow ensures that your guests don’t go astray, guaranteeing a bustling cocktail hour rather than an empty one. After all, in the world of weddings, every detail counts!
WEDDING VENUES STYLE & SPACE
The linchpin of wedding venue selection is finding a space that aligns with your unique vision. The style of your chosen venue boils down to personal preference, with classic brides leaning towards the sophistication of indoor settings like country clubs, hotels, and ballrooms. The allure of an outdoor garden in full bloom or a rustic horse farm with expansive views will win the hearts of couples looking to infuse an abundance of nature into their celebration. Meanwhile, bohemian spirits often opt for building their own venue from scratch in wide open spaces, weaving magic with string lights and tents to define the ethereal ambiance.
Capacity considerations are a make-or-break factor in venue decisions. Striking the right balance is essential. Choosing an oversized space for a guest count can be a costly misstep, requiring extra effort and expenses to create a sense of intimacy. And if you’re coordinating both a ceremony and reception, ensure that both spaces can comfortably accommodate your total guest count. It’s all about creating a harmonious symphony of style and functionality.
BUDGET & PACKAGES
When it comes to budgeting for your wedding venue, there’s an art rather than a strict science. The average couple tends to allocate approximately 10 to 15% of their budget. However, this figure can climb up to 20% or more, especially if the venue offers inclusive packages. And speaking of packages, some venues opt for a more à la carte approach, excluding services like catering, bar, and staffing. This often translates to a more budget-friendly package, making it an ideal choice for couples mindful of their expenses. The flexibility to seek out lower-cost external vendors to fill in the missing elements can be a game-changer.
For those indulging in the all-inclusive venue experience, be prepared to allocate a more substantial portion of your budget—around 40 to 50%—to cover all expenses. To ensure you’re maximizing value, it’s essential to delve into the details. I want to emphasize the importance of inquiring about food and beverage minimums, site fees, getting-ready locations, and other potentially billable components. By understanding these intricacies, you’ll be better equipped to make an informed decision that aligns both with your vision and your financial plan, turning your wedding day dreams into a budget-savvy reality.
TRANSPORTATION
When it comes to considering wedding venues, the focus shifts to curating a delightful guest experience. It’s not just about finding the perfect setting; it’s about ensuring your loved ones have a seamless and enjoyable journey. This involves more than just a picturesque backdrop—it’s about practical details that make attending your celebration a breeze. Start with ample parking to avoid guests trekking a mile to and from the ceremony site (one option is to secure golf carts!). The last thing you want is discomfort overshadowing the joy of the occasion.
Taking it a step further, make friendly calls to local hotels, ensuring there are ample vacancies nearby. This thoughtful touch ensures that your guests won’t have to navigate an exhaustive search for accommodation, further enhancing their overall experience. After all, the success of your day extends beyond the venue itself; it’s about orchestrating a celebration where every detail contributes to the comfort and joy of your cherished guests.
BACK-UP PLAN
After the rainiest wedding season we’ve seen in years, the importance of contingency plans takes center stage. The first question on your checklist: Does your chosen venue have a solid plan in case of an emergency? Confirming a cancellation policy becomes crucial, especially if your wedding locale is susceptible to natural disasters such as hurricanes, wildfires, or blizzards. It’s a step that becomes even more vital if you’re not working with a planner who typically manages these details on your behalf.
Even in less extreme scenarios, it’s prudent to ensure your venue can seamlessly execute a rain plan. A sudden downpour shouldn’t dampen the magic of your day, and knowing that your chosen space is equipped to handle unexpected weather changes adds an extra layer of reassurance to your wedding preparations. So, before you finalize those plans, make sure your venue is not just a fair-weather friend but a reliable partner that can weather any storm, ensuring your celebration shines regardless of the forecast.
TRUST YOUR GUT
Image Credits:
1. Planning and Design: Events by Sorrell // Venue: Aldworth Manor, Harrisville, NH // Photographer: K. Engel Photography
2. Planning and Design: Events by Sorrell // Venue: The Inn at Burklyn, East Burke, VT // Photographer: Kate Preftakes Photography
3. Planning and Design: Events by Sorrell // Venue: Private Estate, Lancaster, NH // Photographer: Rodeo & Co Photography
4. Planning and Design: Events by Sorrell // Venue: Omni Mount Washington, Bretton Woods, NH
5. Planning and Design: Events by Sorrell // Venue: Private Property, Lake Winnipesaukee // Photographer: Kate Preftakes Photography
6. Planning and Design: Events by Sorrell // Venue: The Toad Hill Farm, Franconia, NH // Photographer: Cole & Kiera Photography
7. Planning and Design: Events by Sorrell // Venue: Fairmont Copley Plaza, Boston, MA // Photographer: Kate Preftakes Photography
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Events By Sorrell is an award-winning wedding planner designing thoughtful and elegant weddings. Based in New Hampshire, serving all of New England.
