How to Choose a Wedding Venue

Choosing a wedding venue that fits your budget is quite a big deal. It can be a very overwhelming process. The most frustrating part of finding a venue is the initial research. There are so many options to choose from.

Here’s a few tips to help you find your dream venue.

Before making any decisions or finalize a venue prepare a spread sheet of your budget, your wedding venue ideas. That will help to narrow down your options. You need to have a clear vision of what you want and you can start mentioning the following columns in your spread sheet:

1. Location of the venue
2. Capacity: Prepare a guest list and make sure the venue can accommodate your guests and your events.
3. Availability of the venue
4. Type: It depends on the kind of wedding you want whether you want to rent a cosy restaurant, an elegant ballroom or a beautiful beach.
5. Layout: It is extremely important to see if the venue has space for all aspects of your wedding. A site visit is must to figure out if all your wedding ceremonies like cocktail parties, haldi, sangeet, mehendi, reception can be held there.
   
6. Knowing your budget: It is so much more than just renting the space. If the venue offer in-house catering service they will probably charge a price per plate. Decor, lighting and floral arrangements will certainly drive the cost up. Remember your total budget and try to break down your overall budget by category.
7. Restrictions: Learn about any major restrictions like a specific end time or any other rules and if it will affect your decision.
   
8. Extra facilities: Note down any items that is inclusive like audio visual equipments, chairs, tables etc.
9. Parking: Make a note for free parkings, public transport access or any other considerations.
   
10. Catering: Check if there is any restrictions on catering like there is an in-house caterer or a list of caterers you have to choose from.

Talk to a planner before signing contract with a venue. They are more familiar with the layouts, capabilities of a space and the things and items you will need to make it unique and transform it.