Collaborative Post¦ If you’re newly engaged then wedding venues are one of the first things you need to think about. Yes, even before the dress!! There is a lot to consider when choosing a wedding venue. Trust me, I’ve seen mistakes happen…and the tears and arguments it causes. Venues also often book up fast, sometimes more than a year or two in advance. Don’t worry though – I’m here to help!
Create a draft guest list
Carefully consider who you want to invite to your wedding. Do you want it to be a big party with everyone you know, a small intimate event with just your nearest and dearest, or something in-between? The size of the guest list may affect your choice of venue. In recent years, I have witnessed a couple choose a venue before thinking about who they really wanted to come to their wedding. This resulted in some very tense decisions having to be made. They had to cut family out of the list due to the venue’s small capacity. Meanwhile, a huge venue makes no sense for just a few people.
Work out your budget
Weddings are generally expensive and it’s important to set your budget early on. It isn’t uncommon to spend more than you expect, so it’s wise to be realistic and give yourself some leeway. Try to consider everything from the bigger expenses such as the venue and dress, right down to the small details you may want, like pew decorations and wedding party gifts. Once you have a realistic expectation of how much you can spend on a wedding venue, you’re in a better position to start looking. Nobody wants to visit a venue and fall in love with it, only to find it’s way over budget!
Depending on what budget you’re working with, this may also be a good time to reevaluate your guest list.
Decide on a rough location
Do you both want a destination wedding or something closer to home? Both have their pros and cons! Some people prefer to get married locally due to tradition or so that elderly and disabled friends and family are able to attend. This was the case for us – and if you’re in Yorkshire, there are some beautiful luxury Wedding Venues Near York.
However, maybe you would both prefer guaranteed sunshine and white beaches. Whatever you agree on, it will give you a better idea of an area to search for wedding venues.
Decide on a wedding date
Is there a specific date you want to get married on? My husband and I chose to marry on the 7th anniversary of when we met – but I am very sentimental! If you’re less choosy, it will give you far more flexibility when it comes to venues. While spring and summer are the most popular seasons to get married, there are pros and cons to weddings at any time of the year. I have to say, I love the cosy vibes of a winter wedding! It’s also worth considering that some venues may offer discounts on what some consider less desirable dates (usually the autumn/winter months).
Consider your theme and vibe
What is your vibe as a couple and do you have a wedding theme? Of course, the latter may depend on what time of year you’re getting married! Consider whether venues and your theme and/or vibe will actually work together. This is also important before choosing the dress. For a more traditional venue, you may want a more traditional dress. Meanwhile, for a beach wedding you won’t want anything too heavy!
I recommend going to see several venues in person, (if you can), to get a true feel of them and see if they feel right for you both. Remember this is YOUR day and always trust your instincts!
Cover photo by Thomas William on Unsplash