Before you taste the cake, say yes to the dress, or book your videographer, there’s one major decision that sets the tone for your entire wedding: choosing your venue.
Your venue is more than just a place—it’s the backdrop to one of the most important days of your life. It shapes the vibe, frames your photos, and influences nearly every other detail of your wedding. So, how do you make sure you find the one?
Here’s a helpful guide to booking your dream wedding venue—without the stress.
1. Start with Your Vision
Before you start Googling “wedding venues near me,” take a step back and picture your day. Are you dreaming of a romantic vineyard, a chic industrial loft, or a barefoot beach ceremony at sunset? Your venue should align with the style, mood, and overall vibe you envision.
Ask yourself:
- Do you want your wedding indoors or outdoors?
- Do you prefer something rustic, modern, elegant, or whimsical?
- Do you want the ceremony and reception at the same place?
Once you’ve nailed down your aesthetic, it’s much easier to narrow your list.
2. Know Your Budget
Before you fall head over heels for a castle on a cliff, get clear on what you can realistically spend. Venues often take up a significant portion of the wedding budget—usually around 30-40%.
Don’t forget to ask about:
- What’s included (tables, chairs, linens, lighting?)
- Any required vendors (like caterers or coordinators)
- Overtime fees, cleaning fees, or corkage costs
Be honest about your budget from the start so you can avoid surprises later.
3. Create a Guest List Estimate
While you don’t need a final headcount, having a ballpark number is crucial. A venue that’s too small will feel cramped and uncomfortable, while one that’s too big might lose the intimacy.
Tips: Always ask about max capacity and how the space flows when fully set up with tables, dance floor, and vendors.
4. Think About Logistics
The dreamiest venue might come with a few challenges. Consider:
- Location: Is it easy for guests to get to? Is there parking?
- Weather backup: If it’s outdoors, is there a solid rain plan?
- Timing: Are there noise restrictions or curfews?
- Accessibility: Is it wheelchair-friendly and comfortable for older guests?
You want your venue to be beautiful and practical.
5. Ask the Right Questions
During tours or calls, come prepared. Here are a few key questions to ask:
- How many events do you host per day?
- What’s the deposit and cancellation policy?
- Can we bring our own vendors?
- What’s the timeline for setup and teardown?
- Do you offer on-site coordination?
Gathering this info early will save you headaches later on.
6. Visit in Person (If Possible)
Photos can be deceiving. A walkthrough gives you a real feel for the space, lighting, and flow. It also lets you imagine how your day will look and feel in real time.
As a wedding videographer, we always recommend paying attention to:
- Natural light (makes for stunning footage!)
- Backdrop variety (gardens, brick walls, open fields, etc.)
- Sound (Will traffic or planes be a problem during your vows?)
These elements can make a huge difference in your wedding film.
7. Book Early—Like, Really Early
Popular venues book out 12–18 months in advance, especially for prime dates (spring & fall weekends). Once you’ve found the one, don’t wait.
Tips: Booking your venue early also lets you confidently book your other vendors—photographer, videographer, florist—since your date and location are locked in.
8. Get It in Writing
Always read the contract carefully before signing. Make sure everything you discussed—dates, times, inclusions, costs, and backup plans—is clearly outlined.
Final Thoughts: Choose a Venue That Feels Like You
Your wedding venue should be a reflection of your love story. It should feel comfortable, beautiful, and true to who you are as a couple. Don’t worry about trends or impressing others—go with the space that gives you butterflies.
And once you’ve booked it? Let the real fun begin—like planning the perfect wedding film to capture every dreamy detail of your day.