Top 5 Things to Consider When Selecting a Venue

Venues

Aug 20

Written By GoLive

One of the first decisions you’ll make in planning your wedding is choosing your venue.

We created this quick guide to reference when looking at venues (that no one else mentions

Lighting

The quality of natural light in a venue determines the overall look and feel of your photos. This is important when considering the type of photographer, especially film photographers as they thrive in environments abundant with natural light. After dusk, additional light sources may be required to enhance the guest experience on the dance floor and elsewhere.

Overall Building Style

The venue selection is such an important foundation for the entire wedding design because it’s composition and ancillary spaces determine many aspects of the guest experience. The venue is the backdrop for everything from the appropriate wedding dress style selection to the decor choices and will contribute to the overall vibe. Maintaining a cohesive look will ensure that the event flows well and that the photos portray a strong storyline.

DECOR

Some venues have significant architectural features that will stand out and not require much decor, others will be a blank slate and may need more upgrades to achieve a certain level of design. When scouting out venues it's important to consider what type (large furniture pieces or accessories) and how much decor will be needed to complete the look desired. Consult with the venue personnel to see if they already have items in their collection that could be used instead of outsourcing. If rentals are needed, be sure to work in an appropriate budget for this when planning.

Location

When compiling your guest list, consider any guests that may require an accessible route and whether your top venue choices include enough options. The ability to host an event at a venue that has both indoor and outdoor spaces allows guests to feel free to move on their own accord and provides more options for the flow of the general experience. The geographical location of the venue determines whether lodging options are readily available and if larger transportation options are required.

FOOD

Isn’t food the most important part of an event!? We’re a bunch of foodies! Be sure to ask if the specific venue has their own catering staff or if you’re able to bring it in from another vendor. Typically some venues have a list of caterers that have worked there before and meet their insurance requirements. If the vendor you want to use isn’t on the list, usually additional coordination is necessary. The most common services you may find available to you are buffet, plated dinner, passed hors d’oeuvres, and family style. Knowing what they offer will help guide you when making decisions for decor and other event features that will make the most of your table space.

P.S. one more pro-tip: consider talking to a planner before you start looking at spaces. As wedding pros, we’re familiar with the capabilities of a space, the layout and the time and details you’ll need to really make it shine. If there’s a creative way to make it extra unique or a quirk that could make your vision hard to create, we’ll know.