Planning a wedding can be so exciting...and create a little (or a lot) of stress with all of the decisions that must be made. But selecting a wedding venue doesn’t have to feel overwhelming! You should enjoy the process and feel confident in the location you choose to have one of the most special and memorable days of your life! Take a look at these tips on choosing a wedding venue to get you started on the right foot.
Does It Fit Your Budget?
This may be the most critical step in choosing a wedding venue. There is no reason to look at a venue, fall in love with it, only to realize that it is way out of your budget. You don't need that kind of let down! And it’s more than just knowing how much it will cost to rent the space for a day! Some venues offer in-house catering or bar service along with decor or floral design, which will all add to the total cost. So, get a clear idea of how much you can spend in total and go from there.
What Type of Venue Do You Want?
There are so many different types of wedding venues to choose from, and it all depends on what kind of wedding you want to have. Choose something that aligns with the vision you have for your wedding day. Do you want to have an outdoor ceremony? Maybe you’re looking for something rustic that incorporate more natural elements. Perhaps you want a modern indoor wedding. Check out these popular types of wedding venues.
Outdoor Wedding Venue
If you’re dreaming of saying “I Do” amongst the chirping birds, sunshine, and a gentle breeze, an outdoor wedding venue may be just what you’re looking for! Plus, an outdoor venue can cut down on decorating needs since many are naturally beautiful as is!
Indoor Wedding Venue
Some people may be a little unsure about having an outdoor wedding, especially in places where rain or bad weather can be a bit unpredictable. And whether its a church, banquet hall, or hotel, an indoor wedding venue can allow you to decorate in ways that you may not be able to outdoors.
Rustic Wedding Venue
The rustic wedding trend is still going strong. If a chic yet laid-back wedding is what your heart desires, look for a rustic wedding venue! This could be indoor or outdoor! And remember, rustic doesn’t always mean you have to get married in a barn if that's not your style. There are tons of venues with modern accommodations that still give you that rustic vibe.
Destination Wedding Venue
Destination weddings are an excellent choice for couples who want to get married somewhere that features a gorgeous view or an atmosphere they can’t get where they live. The most popular destination weddings usually happen on a beach, but don’t underestimate a wedding in the beautiful Midwestern countryside among lush green grass, rolling hills, and maybe a quaint pond in the distance.
Barn Wedding Venue
A barn wedding can hold infinite possibilities! There is a wide range of barn wedding venue options, so think about what you’re willing to put into making it work for your big day. Some barns are more bare-bones, and some have all the bells and whistles. Be sure to check into whether you’ll be provided chairs or if there is running water and toilets.
Luxury Wedding Venue
If you’re looking to take your wedding day to the next level, consider booking a luxury wedding venue. These types of places allow you to go all out and create a lavish experience for you and your guests. From the food to the scenery and everything in between, you will get to blow them away!
How Many Guests Will You Have?
Knowing your wedding guest list can influence your decision on the venue. If you choose a venue that isn’t big enough to host all of those who will be attending, things can get complicated. It is easy to underestimate how many guests you will want to invite (or that your parents will want you to invite), so at least write out a list and get a headcount before you decide on a wedding venue. This will also help when determining how many chairs you will need or how much food to order.
Will Your Guests Have a Positive Experience?
Although this is YOUR big day, you should take your guests’ experience into consideration. Factor in whether or not the venue is easy to access for elderly guests who may have difficulty using stairs or walking on uneven surfaces. It would be a shame if grandma had to struggle to make it to her seat! You’ll also want to consider whether there are lodging accommodations nearby for out-of-town wedding guests. Oh yeah, and don’t forget about parking! Make sure your wedding venue has enough parking for all your guests.
Plan Your Dream Wedding at Cooper’s Ridge
If you’re looking to say "I Do" in the beautiful countryside, look no further than Cooper's Ridge. Your wedding will come standard with 38 private acres of scenic views that inspire romance. We have options for indoor and outdoor weddings in a variety of styles! Contact us today to schedule a tour and find your dream wedding venue!