When choosing your wedding venue, it’s easy to let your heart take over. The historic features of an impressive castle, or the stunning marble floors of a modern hotel may be enough to make you sign the contract; but before you seal the deal, let your head take centre stage for a moment. There are a couple of factors to consider and if they don’t get a tick in the box, it could be game over.
Size of your wedding party
A small country barn is enough to get any bride swooning. But, if you’ve got 200 people to invite, it’s unlikely that everyone will be comfortable sharing one room. Every family has those ‘awkward’ guests who would rather keep their distance. If you’re planning a large wedding, it’s best to look for a venue with multiple rooms. That way, not only can your guests spread out, but those ‘don’t-quite-see-eye-to-eye’ relatives, will thank you for the option of being able to enjoy the day in their own space.
Wedding venue cost
The hardest deciding factor of a wedding venue may be the cost. Like most couples, you’ll probably be planning 2 weddings. The picture-perfect Instagram wedding, and the one that you can actually afford. There’s always room for compromise. If you’ve chosen a venue for it’s natural beauty, save costs on venue dressings. If however, you’ve opted for a more affordable blank-canvas venue, use those extra pennies to let a venue dresser work their magic. A little stylish draping or carefully chosen table décor can transform any room into a jaw-dropping wedding venue.
This is the beautiful Slebech Park in Pembrokeshire. As a recommended supplier here, it’s amazing to visit it time and time again and see the different ways that brides and grooms have styled it. I often find that familiar venues can become unrecognisable, with a creative couple (or fantastic venue dresser).
What’s included in the price of the wedding venue?
What exactly is included in the price of the venue? Vendors? Accommodation? What about basic things like tables and chairs? A package deal may be easier for those who haven’t got a lot of time to make decisions, or would prefer the bigger things to be looked after, but it can be a huge shame to those with a particular vision. What may seem like a great deal, might quickly become a burden if you’re being restricted with your ideas. Take the time to choose a package that suits you and your wedding plans.
Also, don’t feel compelled to use a wedding venue’s preferred supplier list. Instead, work out exactly which professionals are important to you and then find the suppliers that complement your vision. If you’re still wondering whether to hire a videographer for your wedding, or how to choose a great one, have a read of ‘Do I need a videographer for my wedding day? Your questions answered’.
*Spoiler alert – I happen to be a great wedding videographer
Did you fall in love with it?
Time for your heart to speak up. If you’ve found a venue that fits your wedding size and is within budget, but you don’t squeal with joy at the thought of going back there, keep looking. Your wedding venue will be one of the most important decisions you’ll make as an engaged couple. It’s not something to simply tick off the to-do list. These days, guests expect to travel for a wedding, so you shouldn’t feel too restricted by location. Be open to suggestions. A large wedding hotel may confidently and successfully host 3 weddings a week, but the local family-run venue may offer a more personal feel to your special day. As with a bride and the perfect wedding dress, you’ll know if it feels right.
How one wedding venue can beautifully host each section of the big day
I had the pleasure of spending the day with Kirsty and Kev for their wedding at the fabulous Hawkesyard Estate in Staffordshire. The whole day was stunning. Each detail had been meticulously planned to compliment the elegant lavender and silver colour scheme. The ceremony, wedding breakfast, reception and evening party all took place in different parts of Hawkesyard. Guests enjoyed relaxing in the gardens of the estate with canapes and drinks whilst any final preparations to set up the next stage of the wedding day took place inside. This is an excellent example of choosing the perfect wedding venue and making great use of the stunning space and surroundings.
To chat about your perfect wedding venue, or to discuss how I can capture all of its beauty on film for you, get in touch!
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