If you have just got engaged, congratulations, you may need to spend a lot of time trying to find the perfect venue for your wedding. You might already know what type of venue you want to get married in or you are still trying to decide, whatever stage you are at, we are here to help you make the right decision. Feel like a king and queen in your very own fairytale castle or book a stunning hotel venue which is a very popular choice for a lot of Irish brides. It is important to ensure both partners are happy with the venue you choose, it should serve a purpose for both you as a couple and your guests. Here is our simple guide on tips for booking your wedding venue.
Searching online
Start browsing online for potential wedding venues, it is a good idea to know what type of venue you want for your big day. Make a list of the venue name and the price of their wedding packages. Any venue you find suitable you should consider the following factors:
- Venue location
- Budget
- Venue capacity
- Catering
- Availability
Venue Location
Where do you want to get married? If you have a specific area where you want your venue to be, start searching online for wedding venues in that area or place. Maybe it’s in your partner’s hometown, city, or even abroad. If your wedding venue and ceremony church is in a separate place you should ensure it is not too far away to travel ideally 20 minutes’ drive. You should consider the location practically how far would people like to travel to get to your wedding reception.
Budget
If you are on a budget, you should stick to it if you can and not look at venues outside your price point. Depending on the venue you want, they might quote you a price per head or a single price for the room. Make an estimated total and if you are happy add the venue to your list.
Venue capacity
Decide how many guests you are going to have. You do need to know a ballpark figure for your venue so take some time to do a headcount of your friends and family members. This will give you an idea of how big of a venue capacity that you need to match your guest list size, this way you and your guests won’t feel cramped in.
Catering
Find out who oversees the catering? The catering is generally dependable on the venue themselves but there are other options.
On-site catering
This is very common as the venue will provide the catering themselves. A lot less planning on your part you just need to choose the food you want on the menu. If the venue offers you a quote per head, then they would be doing on site catering themselves.
Preferred partner
The venue may bring in a caterer to provide the food. This way you will not get to choose.
Off-site catering
Off-site catering is when you find a suitable catering supplier by yourself and have the company to take care of the catering and food at the hotel.
Availability
Is the venue available? Call the venue and ask if the date you want is available. The more flexible you are the easier it will be to get a venue. Generally, you should book your hotel a year in advance, some venues will take 2 years in advance if required.
Consider Recommendations
Read the hotel reviews online from previous wedding couples to see how their day went and if their day ran smoothly from start to finish.
Viewing the venues in person
You may have picked 5 to 10 venues to view from your list so why not book a tour and view the venues. Plan and space your visits so they are not altogether. You should consider some of the following factors to help you to decide whether the venue is suitable or not:
Layout and space
You must take into consideration what space you have and the size of your guest list. What size is the reception area and is there another separate space available for the kids to eat and play.
Venue style
First impressions do count so what are your first impressions of the venue? Do you really love it? Does it suit your wedding style and what you are looking for? Every couple is unique, and as a couple, it must include both of your requirements. Is it suitable from a practical point of view and do you like the décor and the overall look of the building both inside and outside? If you have immediate feelings and love for the venue, then your search is done.
Facilities
Find out what facilities does the venue have and also check them out. Do they meet your needs? Is the venue child friendly and is there any entertainment for the kids? Is there a lift available for the disabled or elderly? Is there plenty of car park spaces available and what are the toilet facilities like.
Photography and Lighting
One of the most important elements to consider is the venue lighting. The lighting is very important for your wedding photos. The lighting should complement your wedding theme and reception area.
Planning a wedding can be a stressful and long process so you will more than likely experience an issue along the way. Don’t be discouraged, see it as a challenge that you can overcome together with your partner. It is important to note that not every wedding goes off without a hitch but whatever happens, you can still enjoy your special day with your family, friends, loved ones, and of course your newlywed spouse!
You now have all the tools and ideas that you need to start booking your wedding venue. Give yourself plenty of time, never jump the gun if you are unsure, keep looking, and visit more than once before you make your final booking on the venue you truly love. Hopefully, the venue you choose will be the icing on the cake!
