Introduction
Choosing the perfect wedding venue is a crucial decision that can greatly influence your big day. With so many factors to consider, it's important to have a streamlined process to make the selection easier. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps of finding the ideal wedding venue that aligns with your vision and preferences. Downloadable Sheet to fill out your answers: Click Here
Step 1: Defining Your Vision
The first step in selecting a wedding venue is to define your vision. Download the sheet above to actually fill these out as we go through them. These answers will be useful to you later on.
1. Preferred Months and Dates?
Think about which months and days of the month you would prefer to get married. It is recommended to choose a couple of months to increase your chances of availability. Keep in mind that summer and fall are the most popular months for weddings in the Midwest area, so availability might be limited and prices may be higher during these times.
2. City and Area?
Decide on the city and area where you would like to get married. Consider factors such as the distance your guests will have to travel and the proximity of your ceremony and reception locations if they are different.
3. Estimated Number of Guests?
Estimate the number of guests you plan on inviting. This will help you determine the capacity requirements of potential venues and narrow down your options accordingly.
4. Indoor or Outdoor Ceremony?
Envision your wedding ceremony and decide whether you prefer an indoor or outdoor setting. Think about the ambiance and atmosphere you want to create.
5. Overall Theme?
Consider the overall theme of your wedding. Are you going for a rustic vibe or a more elegant and classy feel? The theme will play a significant role in selecting a venue that aligns with your desired aesthetic.
6. Approximate Budget?
While you may not have an exact budget in mind, it's important to have an approximate range for the venue. Keep in mind that prices can vary greatly depending on the location and services included. Research online estimates but remember that the best way to know the true cost is to speak with venues directly.
Step 2: How to choose a wedding venue
Once you have defined your vision, it's time to start researching potential wedding venues. Here are some methods and questions to help you in your search:
If you're in Wichita, KS, here's a link to our in depth blog on the top 10 venues in the area: Click Here
Utilize Online Resources
Start by using search engines like Google to find wedding venues in your preferred area. You can also explore Instagram by searching relevant hashtags such as #cityweddingvenue or #areaweddingvenue. Additionally, Facebook groups dedicated to weddings can be a valuable resource for recommendations and reviews.
Step 3: Setting Up Tours
It is highly recommended to schedule tours of potential venues as soon as possible. This will allow you to experience the space firsthand, meet the staff, and get a feel for the overall ambiance. During the tour, be sure to ask specific questions related to availability, maximum capacity, amenities, vendor restrictions, and included services.
Important Questions to Ask
During your venue tours, consider asking the following questions:
What is the venue's availability for your desired dates?
What is the maximum capacity of the venue?
What amenities are provided, such as bathrooms, different rooms, or overnight accommodations?
Are there any restrictions on bringing outside vendors?
Does the venue offer both indoor and outdoor ceremony sites? What are the backup plans in case of bad weather?
What are the venue's policies on alcohol, timing, and special exits?
What is included in the package, such as tables, linens, decor, or a coordinator?
General Tips and FAQs
Here are some additional tips and frequently asked questions to help you in the venue selection process:
Booking Timeline
It is recommended to book your venue 10 to 18 months in advance, especially for popular months like May, June, September, October, and November. For these months, booking 1 to 2 years in advance might be necessary due to high demand.
Who Should Attend Venue Tours
Ideally, both you and your partner should attend the venue tours. If there are other individuals contributing financially or providing moral support, it may be beneficial to have them join as well. This will ensure that everyone is on the same page and can provide valuable input.
Trust Your Gut
After visiting multiple venues, you may start to feel indecisive. Trust your instincts and go with the venue that aligns best with your vision and preferences. Don't get too caught up in logistics and finances. Remember, it's your special day, and it's important to choose what feels right for you.
Once you've nailed down your venue, you'll probably want to start looking for your photographer and videographer! If you're interested in chatting with me more about your day and crafting a wedding film that gives you the ability to re-live your day over and over in a natural, timeless style, go ahead and click the button below to inquire with us!