If you’ve recently got engaged, you’re probably thinking about wedding venues. With so much choice out there, it can be tough to decide on a perfect location. Here are some top tips to help you choose an idyllic spot for your special day.
Do some research
You may have lived in the same county all your life, but that doesn’t mean that you’ll be familiar with every wedding venue in the local area. If you search online, you may be shocked to find a host of potential options you’ve never heard of before.
When you’re researching, try not to dismiss anywhere based on the website. Often, places look very different in real life. It’s also a good idea to be open-minded. You may think that you know exactly what you want, but you may change your mind if you consider other options.
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Decide what kind of wedding you want
I the UK, the weather can be unpredictable, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t have an outdoor wedding if you want to. Rolling meadows are perfect for festival style gatherings. Castle gardens are an excellent choice for traditional weddings. The rugged beaches are ideal for romantic laidback affairs.
If you see a location that would be a perfect fit for your wedding, but you’re worried about the weather, it may be worth considering marquee hire. With a marquee you can enjoy the best of both worlds. You can embrace the outdoors, as well as hosting an elegant event. Your guests will also have somewhere to shelter if there is a sudden downpour.
Venue viewings
When you have a list of possibilities, call up and arrange some viewings. If you have a specific date, and there is no flexibility, ask about availability as a priority. There’s no point in falling in love with a location that isn’t free on your wedding day. Take a list of questions with you and make the most of the time you have at each venue. Go with your gut, but take practicalities into consideration. Is the venue large enough to cater for your guestlist? Will you have the flexibility to put your own stamp on the day? Ask as many questions as you want, and arrange to go back to any that take your fancy.
Once you have a shortlist, weigh up the pros and cons. Compare prices, and think about what each venue offers you. If you’ve been left with two similar locations, go with the one that gives you butterflies.
Choosing a venue can be stressful, but it should also be one of the most enjoyable elements of wedding planning. Be open-minded and don’t dismiss options because you think you’re sure you already know what you want. Arrange some viewings and consider a range of options. If you love a venue, but you’re worried about practicalities, work out if there is a way around them. If your venue doesn’t have a licence, for example, you could get married at a registry office. You can then move onto your reception venue afterwards. If you’re worried about the weather spoiling an outdoor extravaganza, it may be worth hiring a marquee. You can host a formal dinner, and provide a chic space for dancing and drinking once the sun sets.