7 Basic Habits to Finding A Wedding Venue

By Marsha Pruitt

The possibilities for where you get married are endless. Despite this, choosing the wedding site that is just right for you can be a lot of fun. Before you start looking, brainstorm some ideas. Would you like a meaningful and romantic location to exchange vows? Perhaps the place you met, the site of your first date, first kiss, or favorite location? Over the years I've developed several best habits (or practices) - here are 7 basic habits to get you started choosing a location.

Habit 1

Decide on the guest list - how many, and how mobile? Are young children invited? You can't please everyone, but a concession or two may be worthwhile if it means your loved ones will attend.

 Habit 2

Be realistic about your budget and importance of having your wedding in that enchanted castle in Scotland? You may decide to cut the guest list; or are you willing or able to take on more of the work from your event host? Before you commit to do-it-yourself, be realistic.

Habit 3

Consider the style you want - do you dream of an intimate family affair or a wild dance party extravaganza? Do you want a religious ceremony? Fifty-three percent of couples wed in 2007 did so in a church. Consider:

• Traditional religious ceremonies may have to be held in a place of worship, so ask. If yes, book the place of worship before the reception & verify all policies.
• If you and your fiancé have different religious beliefs, consider a neutral location. 

Habit 4

Consider the date and season of your wedding, i.e. an outdoor wedding in January. Is your choice sensible? Decide if you want to wed inside or out - under the stars or in a historic cathedral.

 Habit 5

Remember the needs of your guests and logistics - do you need special arrangements? Is there enough parking for 225 of your "closest friends?"

Habit 6

Visit various wedding and reception locations and get a feel for how cooperative or restrictive you feel site management is.

 Habit 7

Meet with potential (or actual) vendors and get input on any site under consideration. When you book your site, get arrangements in writing. A written contract signed by the person in charge, and dated. Make sure it includes all your responsibilities and all responsibilities, warranties or guarantees offered by the facility. Read the contract carefully!

I hope these seven Habits make your looking for a wedding and reception location a little easier!

Marsha Pruitt, the founder of The Event Host, is a custom event planning and design specialist who delights in fabulous weddings large and small. She is the First Vice President of the National Association of Wedding Professional.