Here are some important dos and don'ts when booking your wedding venue. Are you getting married soon? Or maybe you’re in charge of planning your best friend’s wedding! Here are some important dos and don’ts as you book the wedding venue. When venue booking, These are just a few tips to help you pick a wedding venue and we’re here to help!
The Do’s
1. Book early!
When you book your venue early, you will get the best rates for that venue. When you book last minute, availability will be scarce, and the prices will rise! As soon as you get engaged or know you are getting married, pick a date and get the venue locked in. You might be looking for a wedding venue in Los Angeles. You might be looking for a luxury event venue. Whatever your style, make sure to book as early as possible.
2. Be flexible.
With any wedding, the best advice is to be flexible. Not everything will go your way. There are some things you simply will not be able to control (like what your Aunt Sue is going to wear!). When it comes to your venue, decide ahead of time what is a ‘must’ for your wedding. Only select a few things that are essential and then everything else that goes your way can be a pleasant bonus.
It is also a great idea to have a Plan B for your wedding ceremony if your wedding is going to take place outside (we opt for an indoor wedding as much as possible). Make sure you know what the game plan will be if the rain comes down on your outdoor wedding. Decide ahead of time who will stand in or what will happen if certain members of the wedding party can’t make it last minute.
3. Hire Vendors Needed.
Sometimes people make the mistake of thinking the venue staff will help them with all their needed. Typically, the venue staff is to manage the venue. Many of these staffs will go above and beyond to make your event successfully. However, hire the needed vendors so you know your wedding will run smooth. Here are some ideas for recommended vendors:
- Caterer (including serving staff)
- Bathroom Attendants (Most venues have a team so make sure to ask)
- Photobooth
- Movers for Rented Furniture
- Event Planner
4. Ask Many Questions.
The more questions, the better! There is no silly question. Make sure to ask as many questions as possible when it comes to your venue. You do not want to be surprised by any ‘hidden fees.’ Make sure to READ the contract you sign. Most venues require a security deposit fee of a certain amount in addition to the rental fees. Questions will help bring clarity which is something the venue and client both desire.
The Don’ts
1. Make assumptions about the venue.
Do not assume the venue staff will help move things once you arrive to the venue. Do not assume the venue staff will allow you to throw up some ‘easy’ decorations. Ask ahead of time. This is not one of those ‘say sorry’ after you’ve done it type of situations. When booking your wedding venue, give the booking staff as many details as possible. This will help them book your event properly.
2. Book a venue before visiting.
Make sure you visit the location when booking your wedding venue. Pictures can leave glaring issues out. Videos can have beautiful effects. You need to see the venue in person. So whether it’s you or a trusted friend, make sure you actually see your venue.
If lights have been dimmed, make sure to ask to see the venue at full lights. You can always turn them down for you event, but it’s best to know what you’re working with! When you visit the venue, make sure you take many pictures. Take shots of what you love and what you really don’t like. That way you can make an educated decision after your site walk-through.
3. Blow Your budget!
Do NOT blow up your budget when booking your wedding venue. You have set a budget. You know how much money you have decided to spend. Do not go over just for the ‘perfect’ venue. There are plenty of other even venues in the area that you haven’t looked at yet. Don’t fall in love with a venue before you have been given the cost. When planning your wedding, know that your venue will be a good percentage of your budget; however, do not overspend in this area. There are many options that will fit in your price range.
These are a couple dos and don’ts when booking your wedding venue. Here is another great article to read on wedding planning.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q. What should I consider when choosing a wedding venue?
A. Choosing a wedding venue can be difficult, especially when you have limited time to explore all the options. When planning a wedding, the location is one of the most critical factors. This is why it is essential to research and choose the most suitable venue for your wedding.
Q. How can I ensure my wedding venue is a good fit for me?
A. The first thing you should do is talk to the venue owner and find out their wedding vision. If you are planning a wedding, you need to ensure that your venue is beautiful and has all the services you want.