Four tips for finding the right venue
E vent planning requires couples to make many decisions, including where the event will take place. For an occasion such as a couple’s wedding, the day is typically broken into two parts: the ceremony comes first and the reception follows soon after. Depending on couples’ preferences and religious beliefs, ceremonies may take place at a house of worship or another location that is separate from the reception venue. In some instances, couples may choose one location for both the ceremony and the party to follow. The following four tips will help find a venue that suits the needs for a special occasion.
1. Consider your theme and style.
Most event planners know which sentiments they want to convey during their event, such as a wedding. The venue should match the theme, so the entire wedding will feel connected to the space. A modern wedding, for example, will be at home in an art gallery or warehouse. A wedding with natural elements may work better on a ranch or in a botanical garden. Zeroing in on the wedding style helps narrow down potential venue options.
2. Assess the budget.
The perfect venue may be found, only to realize that the cost of the space doesn’t fit the budget. Venue for special occasions accounts for the most significant expense, at an average cost of $9,000 for a wedding. Finding a venue that will maximize dollars spent involves looking at what is included. Rentals for chairs, linens, lighting, a dance floor and other extras can quickly add up.
There should be a set limit on what event planners are willing to spend on the venue and let that dictate the location.
3. Availability of the location. For example, when a couple wants to get married, availability may determine their venue options, especially if they’re planning on a budget.; September and October are now the most popular months to get married, so venues will book up quickly during that time of year. Those who have their hearts set on specific days, will have to begin the search earlier than couples with no attachment to a particular date. Concessions may need to be made if a certain date is a must.
4. Estimate the size of your guest list.
Price, date and style will factor into venues, but the number of guests also is a major consideration. A trendy restaurant may seem like the perfect locale, but it must be able to accommodate everyone on the guest list.
Event planners need to sit down and come up with a list of potential guests, and look for a venue that can accommodate everyone.
Potential venues should also be visited in-person, to see which, if any, details might be missing from online or magazine advertisements. A host of factors, including accessibility, should be considered also.
Finding the right venue requires careful consideration of various factors that are unique to each situation.
