Have you just been asked the question? Do you have butterflies in your stomach and lots of dreams and ideas in your head about what your dream wedding should look like? And already you're in the middle of wedding planning and don't know where to start. There are so many decisions to be made: finding the perfect wedding location, looking for the right service providers and planning the wedding decorations.
The wedding location is often the first thing to be chosen. Finding the perfect wedding venue can be a challenge, especially if you don't know where to start. After all, the location should not only reflect your taste and budget, but also offer good accessibility, sufficient space, a pleasant atmosphere and many other aspects that will make your big day unforgettable. It is important to ask the right questions in order to end up with a truly suitable location.
But don't worry, we've put together 5 tips to help you find the perfect wedding venue. At the end of this article, we have also put together a complete checklist for your wedding venue search.
Photo: Anja Schneemann Photography
The facts first
When choosing a wedding venue, there are many questions you should ask to ensure you find the perfect location for the big day. Here are some important questions you should ask first:
- Is the location available on our wedding day?
- How many guests can be accommodated in the wedding venue?
During your initial planning, you've probably already chosen a date for the big day. Try to be a little more flexible and think of one or two alternatives.
Once these two aspects have been clarified, you can move on to the more specific questions. If not, then it's straight on to the search.
Enquire about the prices of the wedding location and keep an eye on your own budget
When looking for a wedding venue, it is important to keep an eye on your own budget. It is advisable to make a realistic cost estimate in advance and compare the prices of different locations. Please bear in mind that the costs for a wedding location often make up a large part of the overall budget in addition to the food.
When enquiring about prices, you should also pay attention to which services are included. There are often different packages to choose from that include different services and extras. You should consider which services you really need and which are not absolutely necessary to keep the budget within limits.
It can also be useful to enquire about prices for the wedding venue outside the high season, as these are often cheaper. Sometimes wedding venues offer special deals for certain dates or bookings. If you are flexible, you may be able to save money this way.
The following questions will help you:
- What is the price for the location on our desired date?
- What services are included and what additional costs will we incur?
- Are there different packages to choose from and what services do they include?
- Are there additional costs for certain services (e.g. staff, cleaning, technology)?
- Can you use the venue's catering or is it possible to bring your own caterer?
- What is the payment procedure and are there any special payment terms?
- Are there special offers or discounts for certain dates or bookings?
- Do the prices include taxes and fees or are there additional costs?
- Is it possible to pay a deposit and if so, how much is it?
- Is there a cancellation fee and how much is it?
Logistics - things you should know about the wedding location
This is all about the logistics of the wedding location. Are there any packages that can be hired?
- How is the location equipped (e.g. seating, tables, technology, car park)?
- What catering options are available? Can you bring your own caterer or do you have to use the venue's catering?
- Is there a possibility for an on-site wedding ceremony?
- What is the time frame for set-up and dismantling?
- Is it possible to view the wedding location in advance?
- What are the location's public transport connections like?
- What accommodation options are there for guests in the neighbourhood?
And here's another important tip if you're planning an outdoor summer wedding. Sunshine, warm temperatures and a gentle breeze. A summer wedding in the venue's beautiful garden sounds great, but what happens if the weather changes? Can a weatherproof alternative be considered? What does the location offer to be prepared for every eventuality?
A plan B is very important and you should know how flexible the location is. The same applies to the number of guests. It has happened that instead of the original 120 guests, suddenly only 80 attended the wedding.
External service providers
Some wedding venues work with fixed service providers and expect these service providers to be booked. If you can use your own caterer, you should ask if a kitchen is available. This also applies to other service providers. Always ask if you can choose your own caterers or if your venue offers a choice of caterers.
Are there any restrictions regarding music or noise pollution?
Of course, there's nothing wrong with a wedding party with great music and boisterous guests, but sometimes you just have neighbours who would appreciate your consideration. In some cases, even the doors and windows have to remain closed in order to comply with quiet regulations. On a hot summer night, with a room full of dancing guests, this could prove very difficult. Also ask what time the party should end.
The accessibility of the wedding location is also very important. I still remember the Wedding at Burghotel Hardenberg, where it was impossible to deliver the tables and chairs by lorry. We had to get creative and look for other options.
The equipment and your own style
If the wedding venue fulfils all your wishes so far, great! A large part of the choice also depends on the style. Maybe you've been dreaming of your wedding venue since you were a child and know exactly what you want. Or maybe you have no idea how to find the right style. After all, how can you choose a location if the wedding concept hasn't been finalised yet? Try to find a location that is very versatile and resembles a blank canvas. This way, you can incorporate your style and personality without the location taking centre stage with its own style.
But what if a renovation completely changes the style of the venue? You should first ask the wedding venue whether any changes are planned. You should also make sure that this is recorded in the contract.
A wedding venue that offers guest rooms is especially great for guests with children. Parents can stay with you for longer while the little ones sleep nearby.
Do you need help with your wedding planning? Is your head spinning and you don't know where to start? Then read our article 7 first steps to wedding planning. You also need to decide on a design concept. Our Guide for a beautiful colour concept.