If you are like most couples, choosing a wedding venue is the first step in planning your wedding. The Chicagoland area offers a variety of different types of venues, and we understand how overwhelming the process can be.
To help ease some of that stress, we have compiled a list of four questions to ask yourself when selecting your dream venue.
What is your budget?
We list this first as nothing is more disappointing than falling in love with a venue, only to realize that it does not fit into your budget. It is also very important to understand what services, if any, are included in the venue rental as well as any additional fees or charges that may apply. Make sure to consider the following:
- What is the base fee for the date we are interested in?
- Are there discounts for certain days or times of the year?
- What is included in that rental fee?
- Are there any additional taxes or service fees?
- If the venue does not include food and beverage, how much should we budget for these items?
Don’t be afraid to ask what the average cost of a wedding is at their venue.
What is the venue capacity and amenities offered?
Another very important consideration is venue capacity. You want to make sure that the venue you choose can comfortably fit all of your guests. Do not make the mistake of over-inviting and then hope and pray that your final guest count meets the venue’s maximum capacity.
If you have a small guest list, will a large venue feel cold and uninviting? Or, if you have a large guest list, will you have to make some cuts to accommodate the venue capacity requirements?
You also want to inquire about venue amenities such as a bridal suite, space for the groom to get ready, parking for your guests, or onsite venue management.
What is your style and vision?
Are you looking for a venue that exudes elegance? Or maybe you are hoping for a more minimalistic space that you can make your own. Do you like a modern look or lean more toward historic? Whichever your preference is, your wedding venue should be a true reflection of you and your personal style. Here are some things to pay attention to:
- When you walk into the venue, can you see yourself there on your wedding day? Can you imagine your friends and family there?
- Does the color scheme of the venue complement the color scheme you have in mind for your wedding flowers, decorations, etc?
- Are you able to add your own personal touches to the venue?
Remember, every couple has a different vision for their big day. Base your decision on what you love, not what the latest trend is.
What are the venue logistics?
Finally, you want to think about the actual logistics of both the venue and what the wedding day timeline will look like.
- Can you have a ceremony at the venue?
- Is there any outdoor space?
- Is the venue located near hotels, restaurants and places that might be of interest to out-of-town guests?
- Is the venue handicap accessible?
- What are the setup and breakdown requirements?
- When can you and your vendors have access to the venue?
- What time do you have to complete breakdown at the venue?
- Are you able to have early access to the venue?
These are all important details to understand so that there are no surprises on the wedding day.
Choosing the right venue for your wedding is a huge decision and one that you should give serious consideration to. At Cedar Fox Weddings & Events, we are here to make this decision as easy as possible and assist you every step of the way.
Our goal is to make sure that the planning process is as stress free as possible and that you can relax and enjoy every minute of one of the most important days of your life.
