​7 Things To Look For in a Wedding Venue
Choosing the wedding venue is undoubtedly one of the most significant steps of the entire wedding planning process. Get this right, and it’ll set the perfect platform for your entire event, which is something every happy couple deserves.
Courthouse Restaurant | Brisbane | ABIA Winner (Best Restaurant Wedding Venue 2018)
Photo provided by Papillon Studio Photography (Brisbane)
Follow this seven-point checklist of things to look for in a wedding venue, and you won’t go far wrong.
#1. A Good Location
The location is undoubtedly one of the most important ingredients in the recipe for a brilliant wedding venue.
When scouting out potential wedding venues, the convenience of the location is vital. Unless you are having a small destination wedding, you’ll be interested to find a venue that is located in a place that isn’t too far for the bulk of your party to travel.
Be sure to consider the interiors of a wedding venue, as well as the natural beauty surrounding the property as it can truly add something extra special to your event.
Sunshine Coast Hinterland | Maleny Manor | ABIA Winner (Best Ceremony Venue 2018)
http://www.studioimpressions.com.au/Photo provided by Studio Impressions
#2. A Suitable Size
Sorry groomsmen, we hate to break it to you but... size matters. If the wedding venue isn’t big enough to satisfy your needs, you could be forced to make some very difficult decisions when drafting your final guest lists.
Similarly, you don’t want a venue that forces you to book 300 guests when you only want 100. Knowing the requirements and limitations set by the venue operators, as well as appreciating how the place when your guests arrive are essential elements that should be contemplated in your selection process.
Crowne Plaza Hawkesbury Valley | ABIA ​Winner (Resort Reception 2017)
#3. Solid Value
The venue is likely to be one of the most expensive items on the checklist, which is why you must ensure that you are getting the best value for money, whilst considering your budgets of course.
However, simply settling for a venue because it’s cheaper isn't always the best option. Upon enquiring with the venue, be sure to ask what facilities & furniture are included, noise restrictions, insurance & security, how frequent communication is etc. Many of your answered questions will determine if you will receive good value for money.
For the best results, try to find the right balance between price, practicality, and the wow factor. Achieve this, and you won’t go far wrong.
Zonzo Estate | Yarra Valley (VIC) | ABIA Winner (Best Restaurant Venue 2018)
#4. Exclusivity
This is your big day, and you probably won’t want to share it with anyone else.
When the venue needs to cater for two or more weddings on the same day, it may also impact your opportunities in regards to personalisation & ambience. So, if you have a clear image of what you require to enjoy your big day, it’s worth asking the venue if there will be any other weddings at the same time and if it could impact your celebration.
Longview Vineyard | Adelaide | ABIA Winner (Best Ceremony Venue 2018)
#5. Aesthetics & Theming.
Whether going for the classic wedding, a glamorous style or a rustic theme is entirely up to you. Whichever option you go for, the venue’s general aesthetic needs to work in conjunction with your theme. Otherwise, the entire event can feel a little confused.
There are many factors to consider theme wise, starting from the building’s exterior, interior colours as well as any outdoor spaces. It may sound strange, however table shapes and chair styles can have an impact on the overall atmosphere of a wedding too.
Some wedding venues can be very particular and restrictive, which is why it’s important to find a venue that is happy for you to make any adjustments.
Glengariff Historic Estate | Brisbane Wedding Venue
#6. Smooth Transitions
The wedding day will fly by, but there’s still a lot to pack in. The best way to ensure that you do is to choose a wedding venue that has the right transition processes.
An experienced company that has handled a lot of weddings should always take priority over inexperienced alternatives. Experienced Function Coordinators understand the processes from the bridal party arriving to the ceremony, photography times, right down to the departure of your guests.
Dockside Darling Harbour | Sydney | ABIA Winner (Best Function Coordinator 2017)
#7. Friendly Staff
When visiting a venue, be ready to ask as many questions as you can. If the staff get agitated or don’t provide the support you require at that stage, you can suspect that they will fall short on the day itself.
Of course, you should be polite and respectful too. Nevertheless, you will know whether you connect with the coordinator after visiting the venue for the first time and if you do, this is a big tick of approval!
Summit Restaurant | Brisbane | Best ABIA Function Coordinator (Winner 2018)
Hopefully these 7 Tips will make you feel more confident in choosing your wedding venue. Oh, and be sure to read real customer reviews from previous couples! Beyond important!
