Planning your wedding can feel like a big deal and we’re here to share our top tips on how to pick a wedding venue that fits your vision, guest list, and budget without losing your mind in the process. The perfect wedding venue sets the whole vibe for your big day and plays a huge role in your budget. But don’t stress! We’re here to break it down into simple steps so you can actually enjoy the process.
PICTURE YOUR DREAM WEDDING FIRST
Before scrolling through endless venue options, take a second to dream. What kind of wedding do you actually want? A cozy backyard gathering, a beachfront celebration, a chic ballroom affair? Your venue should match the vibe you’re going for.
Photo from: Loon Weddings
Things to Think About:
- Where will it be? If most of your guests are local, choose somewhere easy to get to. Planning a destination wedding? Think about nearby hotels and travel.
- How many guests are you inviting? Big party or intimate celebration? Venues have size limits, so knowing this early helps.
- Indoor or outdoor? Love the idea of an outdoor wedding? Make sure there’s a solid backup plan for rain!
Once you know your guest count and budget, it’s time to start searching! Websites like The Knot, WeddingWire, and local wedding directories are great for finding options in your area. Bonus, we also have our own virtual venue tours packed with the best wedding venues in the US and around the world. You can watch these and learn jam-packed details on your fave venues at the comfort of your home!
Photo from: Loon Weddings
How to Narrow It Down:
- Make a list of your top 3-5 venues based on location, budget, and style. If you’re curious to check New England’s wedding venues under $10k, we’ve got the perfect list for you!
- Check out photos and reviews from other couples. Real experiences matter.
- Ask about vendor restrictions. Some venues only allow you to use their preferred caterers, which can limit your options.
Photos from: Loon Weddings
GO ON VENUE TOURS & ASK QUESTIONS
Seeing a venue in person makes all the difference. Scheduling visits to your favorite venues is important but in case you want to do an initial “look,” we have virtual venue tours bundled with our free trial just for you!
Photo from: Loon Weddings
What to Ask During the Tour:
- What’s included? What’s part of the package?
- Can we bring our own vendors? Or do we have to use your list?
- What’s the rain plan? Super important for outdoor venues!
- How late can we party? Check noise rules and curfew policies.
- Is there a bridal suite? Somewhere comfy to get ready is a big plus.
- What’s the parking situation? Easy parking = happy guests.
Pro Tip: Snap pictures and take notes during each visit so you can compare later! If possible, visit when a wedding is being set up so you can see it in action.
THINK ABOUT GUEST COMFORT
A venue might look stunning, but is it actually convenient for your guests? Before spiraling and searching Google for tips on how to pick a wedding venue, remember your budget, guests, and likes.
Keep these things in mind:
- Is it easy to get to? If it’s far, consider shuttle options.
- Is it accessible for older guests? Stairs, uneven ground, and long walks can be tricky.
- Is there enough lighting and power? If you’re going for an outdoor wedding, make sure there’s enough electricity for music, catering, and lights.
- Are there great spots for photos? Pretty venues mean amazing wedding pictures!
Photos from: Loon Weddings
READ THE CONTRACT BEFORE YOU SIGN
Once you’ve found “the one” (venue-wise!), don’t rush to sign the contract. Read everything carefully and make sure you understand the details.
Look out for:
- Deposit and refund policies: What happens if you need to cancel?
- Payment schedules: Know when your payments are due.
- Overtime fees: Some venues charge extra if your party runs late.
- Insurance requirements: Some venues require you to get event insurance.
Photo from: Loon Weddings
THINK ABOUT THE DAY-OF-FLOW
A pretty venue is great but how it functions matters just as much.
When you’re visiting spots or making your shortlist, picture yourself moving through the entire day, from getting ready to the last dance. Does the space make that easy or complicated?
Photo from: Loon Weddings
Things to walk through in your mind:
- Getting Ready: Is there a separate space to get dressed and do final touch-ups? Or will you need to book another spot?
- Ceremony to Reception: Is everything in one place? If guests have to travel, how long is the gap? Is transportation needed?
- Cocktail Hour: Where will guests hang while you take photos? Will they have shade, drinks, snacks?
- Reception Space Flow: Is there room for dancing, dinner, and cozy convos without guests feeling cramped?
- Lighting and Vibes: Will your dreamy lighting still feel dreamy once the sun sets?
Choosing a wedding venue is a big decision, but it doesn’t have to be stressful. When the space works with you, everything feels smoother, less stress for you, and a more fun time for everyone else. Focus on what really matters: how it fits your vision, budget, and guest experience. Take your time, ask questions, and trust your gut!
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✅ Our Signature Wedding Planning Checklist
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✅ Tutorials On: Creating Your Wedding Budget
✅ Tutorials On: Building Your Wedding Itinerary
✅ Tutorials On: Designing Your Wedding Venue — and so much more!
✅ Our Signature Wedding Planning Checklist
✅ A Step-by-Step Breakdown of The Wedding Day
✅ Top 10 Mistakes Made When Planning a Wedding
✅ Custom Built Wedding Planning Tools & Resources
✅ Tutorials On: Creating Your Wedding Budget
✅ Tutorials On: Building Your Wedding Itinerary
✅ Tutorials On: Designing Your Wedding Venue
— and so much more!
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