ADVICE TIME - Choosing a Venue
THE Biggest Decision
Agreeing to marry your partner is arguably the biggest decision BUT the venue does have the biggest impact on your celebration.
We often don’t step in to advise clients until they have this nailed down. We know that a lot of the options they might want will be effected by where they have chosen to marry so this is the first hurdle. Some have this nailed easily and early. Some really struggle. Most of the time there seem to be two big reasons why this happens; availability and too much choice.
Allan Bank, Grasmere (Orange Ivy Photography)
In the following words we hope to help you think through where you are at, narrow down your options and help you pick.
1 / DEFINE
If you don’t have this already, grab a pen or your phone and make a note of these key facts:
Number of expected guests (A and B list)
Venue budget (or overall budget if you don’t have a clue)
Your ideal wedding style defined in three words
Location or region - set a limit
Ideal ceremony type - religious / registrar / other / any
Your DIY level - ‘Bring on the spreadsheets’ to ‘And here you go’
These will be some of the most relevant nuggets of info that you need to hand when looking at venues but be aware that other factors may rear their head. You may realise that other items are very important to you such as disabled access, accommodation options etc. Basically get to a point where you know your priorities before you head down the rabbit hole!
2/ LIST
Good old Google or such like will throw up a ton of options, we know. You might already know some or have been to events in some fab places already. There are wedding listing websites such as Hitched to help. Our concern for you is that it all becomes a bit too much. If you don’t work well with too many options, start a list and have a tick list alongside it. Try to not list those that really wont work, be strict on the list! Once you have it, narrow it down to a top four options max. Make a note of the pros and cons for each before you visit so you know what you are looking out for.
3/ VISIT
As humans we need to use all senses to ensure something is ok for us. A site visit means you get a grasp on the atmosphere, the staff, the decor, the general vibe, the attention to detail, the approach, the grounds, the views… It all makes a difference but sometimes you ‘just know’, you know?
Things to look for or make note of:
The Meet and Greet - Was there even one? Did they know you were coming? Were they prepared?
How the staff talk to each other - Its tells you a lot about the culture behind a site.
Cleanliness of the Loos - If this is horrid, what else aren’t they managing?!
Plant to Weed Ratio - Take note of what’s been allowed to remain in those outdoor spots.
Flex on Prices / Services - If another venue has something you would like, can they flex to match?
Available Additions - Are there other bit of furniture, bar options, spaces to use etc?
General Wear and Tear - If it shows, how bad it is, does it matter and why are they not bothered?
Ask honest questions so you don’t come away with queries. You don’t want to start email ping pong when you get home! Also take lots of pictures. Imagine you book it and want to share with family the place you’ve picked or you want to get your ideas going and need to know layout etc. Its going to be handy!
Also ask about next steps. If you picked this place what is the process like including payment breakdown and additional visits.
4/ SCORE
Got your top four? Well, hopefully you will or can make it to that. Next level is a direct comparison with availability, prices, products and services. This will help with the realistic approach to selection but your gut may win over anyway!
5/ INVESTIGATE
Have you sussed out reviews? Every business has a website that says they are great and some places can be awesome at giving tours but rubbish on the day! Check out social media comments, local suppliers feedback on the place or even a past couple’s online comments. This homework may be another level of defining the list.
6/ CLARIFY
Before saying yes, go through the terms, prices and booking details. You need to know from the start what your responsibilities are and the venues. Do you really know what’s included and what you need to provide? For the elements you are sourcing, do you know the venues limits for this or recommendations?
Now, if you are still struggling, start over again. Go back through your needs / desire from a venue and really pay attention to which mean the most. Ask what is missing and re-prioritise. Then start asking for recommendations to add to that list or start with a new manageable list.
OPTIONS
If you don’t mind having too many options, let me show you these thoughts…
Private Homes - Know someone or seen somewhere that you feel could be perfect? Reach out! People like us, Weddings by Annabel, can help them make it work if they are willing to investigate it!
Land - Cant find the right spot, then find some space and make it a venue! Tents come in all budgets / shapes / styles / sizes now so investigate creating a venue.
Public Venues - Fave restaurant up for a giant booking? Local Pub got a lovely function room and garden? If you don’t ask, you’ll never know!
Natural - If you want to say your ‘I do’s’ in a special spot in the wilds, then this may be possible. Its all about speaking to the land owner and doing a good risk assessment. Need help, get in touch.
Your Home - Brilliant if you can do it but be careful about licensing. You don’t want the neighbours ruining the fun by inviting the police along!
Village Halls - Love them. Not all are beautiful initially but that can be helped. Often they have all the amenities and don’t cost the earth. It just may be more work for you.
We honestly hope this helps. If you are really struggling to either find a venue or make one work, reach out. Help doesn’t cost a lot but can make a massive difference.
Also, have you seen my Recommended Venues page?? Picked because we think they are great!
Happy Planning!
WBA x
Lakeside Serenity