The Perfect Bridal Bouquet

Choosing the perfect wedding venue sets the tone for your entire wedding. Once you've chosen a wedding venue and paid your venue deposits, your wedding planning can really begin in earnest. Since the venue is sometimes the largest wedding-related expense, this is a big decision. Here are a few tips for helping to narrow down your choices so you can choose the ideal wedding venue:

Envision the Wedding You Really Want

Starting with a clear idea of the perfect wedding for you as a couple will make choosing the venue much easier. Close your eyes and picture the wedding that would make you and your fiance happiest. Use an online idea board like Pinterest to gather pictures of weddings that really speak to your taste and style.

Chances are you have a specific style, look, and feel in mind for your wedding. You may be picturing a relaxed, casual wedding, an outdoor wedding in the mountains or on a beach, or an elegant reception hall wedding. Once you narrow this down, you can eliminate venues that don't match the style you have in mind.

Determine Your Budget

Venues come in a wide range of price points, so it's important to have a clear idea of your budget upfront. Start with your overall wedding budget and calculate how much all of the non-venue expenses will cost, including your wedding gown, catering, your photographer, and flowers. It's smart to overestimate how much everything will cost instead of being faced with unpleasant surprises later.

Once you know how much you want to spend on a venue, you can eliminate venues that are way too expensive. You can then look for venues that fit your wedding style but also match your budget. You can talk to a company, like Le San Michele, for more information.

Keep Your Guests in Mind

Another important way to narrow down your venue options is to focus on your guest list. Making your guest list first is key because the size of your guest list will help determine which venue is best. If you are having a small, intimate wedding, a large reception hall may not make much sense, and you will have some additional options such as having your reception at a favorite restaurant. For bigger guest lists, you will need a venue that is large enough to comfortably accommodate everyone without feeling too crowded.  

Following these tips will help you make a wedding venue decision you and your fiance will be happy with.