We’re talking all things wedding venues in today’s blog! You have to make many big decisions while planning your wedding, but you should put the ceremony and reception venues at the top of the list. You’ll want to decide on a venue rather quickly, since couples book venues a year or more in advance. This process can quickly become overwhelming. Start with these tips!
First, decide if you are going to hold your ceremony and reception at the same venue. From family churches to larger event venues, such as The Landmark Center, it is entirely possible (not to mention more economical) to exchange vows and cut the cake in the same venue. Have 2 separate venues in mind? No problem! Just make sure both venues have your desired date open (or choose another date) and consider transportation costs for the bridal party into your budget.
Have a general idea of your guest count and wedding party. Venues have maximum capacities and depending on your guest count, some may not be able to accommodate you. Additionally, having a number in mind will help venue coordinators show you different areas of the property that could accommodate your ceremony or reception. Knowing your bridal party and groomsmen count is also important. The venue coordinator will confirm that dressing rooms can accommodate the size and/or if additional rooms are needed.
Before you go, find out if the venue is available for your chosen date(s). There’s nothing worse than touring a venue only to find that your desired date is unavailable. Or worse, finding out your desired month, or even year, isn’t going to work! Do some work beforehand to make sure you don’t end up disappointed.
Check the venue’s website to see what information they have available if they have a calendar posted with their availability. Some do. Some don’t. But, it’s always a good place to start. The Nazareth Chapel at The University of Northwestern-St. Paul has an entire web page dedicated to weddings in the chapel, including a detailed schedule of event times. Next, give the venue a call or send an email to inquire about open dates (if you’re working with Elevated Style Events, we take care of this for you).
Make appointments! In the COVID era, it’s difficult to just show up to a venue and be able to tour it properly. The time of day for your initial visit doesn’t really matter. If you are planning an evening/night event, though, tour the venue and tour at the time of day when your event will be held. We are happy to coordinate everyone’s schedules for the venue tours.
Always have a list of questions to ask during your tour. Sample questions include:
How many people can this venue accommodate?
What is included in the rental fee?
Is there a discount if I choose to have both the ceremony and reception here?
Is it possible to host the wedding rehearsal here?
For multicultural/fusion weddings: Do you allow for or accommodate cultural food?
What is your cancellation policy?
We could go on and on, but you get the picture! For additional questions to ask, check out this article by The Knot.
Elevated Style Events is equipped with a pool of creative wedding planners and coordinators who will take care of everything for you, including scouting for venues. You can be sure you are in good hands.
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