How Do I Choose the Perfect Wedding Venue

Jul 23

Planning a wedding is a thrilling journey filled with joy and anticipation. Among the many decisions you'll make, choosing the perfect wedding venue stands as one of the most significant and exciting choices. Your venue sets the stage for your special day, and finding the ideal setting to exchange vows and celebrate with loved ones is essential. The team here at CLAY has all the insights and tips for discovering the wedding venue of your dreams. Let’s get started!

How Do I Choose the Best Wedding Venue?

In order to choose the best venue, you need to narrow down your budget, style, date, and head count. These factors will point you towards attainable venues that will be the best for you and your partner.

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Choosing the Best Wedding Venue

As we already know, having a set budget, date, location, guest count and overall style will be integral in finding the best wedding venue for you and your spouse. But let’s go a little bit deeper into each topic so we cover all of our bases!

Narrow Down Your Guest List

The number of guests you plan to invite plays a significant role in selecting the perfect venue. A cozy and intimate guest list might suit a charming boutique venue or a picturesque backyard setting. On the other hand, more extensive guest lists may require spacious banquet halls or picturesque outdoor spaces to accommodate everyone comfortably. There is no wrong way to go here but should be a key component to consider when shopping for the perfect wedding venue.

Consider An Accessible Location

Choosing a venue with a convenient and accessible location is a considerate gesture for your guests. Take into account factors such as proximity to airports, hotels, and local attractions. If you're hosting an out-of-town wedding, providing clear directions and transport options is a thoughtful touch.

Consider What the Venue's Amenities Are

Every venue offers unique amenities and facilities, so it's essential to consider what you'll need on your big day. A client suite for you and your party to get ready in is often a desirable feature. Check if the venue offers in-house catering or allows you to bring in your preferred caterer – or simply ensure no hidden additional fees, such as cleaning or furniture rental.

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Book a Tour

Once you've shortlisted potential venues, schedule venue tours to see them in person. Pictures can be lovely, but being at the venue in person gives you a genuine feel for the space. Pay attention to the ambiance, lighting, and overall atmosphere to ensure it aligns with your vision.

Room For Flexibility

Flexibility is key when choosing a wedding venue. Inquire about their policies on decorations, vendors, and any restrictions they might have. A venue that allows you to personalize your wedding to your heart's desire will ensure a more memorable and tailored experience.

Of course, there are a million and one things to consider when choosing the perfect wedding venue, however, starting with these basics will bring you one step closer to saying “I do” in your dreamiest location.

How Do I Narrow Down Style?

There are so many wedding trends and styles that are constantly floating around. Narrowing down your dream style can feel overwhelming. Take a deep breath and close your eyes – picture how you and your guests will feel when they are celebrating your love.

Do you see yourself saying “I do” nestled against the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains with natural stone and greenery? Or perhaps you imagine a sophisticated affair in an elegant ballroom, with sparkling chandeliers and flowing champagne towers? Maybe even a rustic modern venue filled with bistro lighting and ceilings made to be covered in hanging greenery and drapery? Understanding your overall vision and feel of the atmosphere will help narrow down your styling options and will ultimately lead you to the perfect wedding venue. Try taking a Wedding Style Quiz to help get the styling gears going!

How Important is Budget When Choosing a Venue?

Establishing a budget for your wedding venue is a crucial step. While it's tempting to fall in love with extravagant spaces, you must ensure it aligns with your financial plan. Key tip: remember to research the average pricing of wedding venue rentals in your area so you are equipped with an understanding of what is feasible within your overall budget.

It will be very difficult to find the California wedding venue of your dreams if your budget is based on the average cost of an Alabama wedding venue. According to recent surveys, the average cost per guest for a Californian wedding starts at $395 with a total spend of $26k. When determining your budget for your wedding venue, consider what you have included with the rental. Not all venues include catering, bar, and planning services!

Choosing the Best Wedding Venue Comes Down to Instinct

As you explore various venues, trust your instincts and how each place makes YOU feel. Your intuition can guide you toward the venue where you envision your dream wedding coming to life. Choosing the perfect wedding venue is a thrilling journey that allows you to envision the start of your new life with your partner.

By considering your vision, budget, guest count, location, amenities, and personal preferences, you can find a setting that captures the essence of your love story. Remember to put on your visionary cap when you are exploring wedding venues– if you know that you have a hard time envisioning something from nothing, bring someone with you who does, ask to see pictures, and ask if scenes from your Pinterest board are possible in the space!

Come Tour CLAY Venues

At CLAY Venues, we understand the significance of this momentous occasion. Our 6,000 square feet of urban industrial charm, competitive price, and space for events of up to 200 (seated) guests, make us the ideal choice for couples seeking a romantic Downtown Colorado Springs Wedding Ceremony & Reception within walking distance of some of the finest hotels and restaurants Colorado Springs has to offer. Let us help you create cherished memories that will last a lifetime. Book a venue tour today and Let’s Party!