You're engaged and excited but not sure where to start.
Here are some tips to help you find the best venue for you.
-Guest List:. Many venues have guarantees guest minimums. You will want to know "roughly" how many guests you are expecting before scheduling venue appointments. Don't forget to include your wedding party, their significant others and your immediate families in your count.
-Call or Email to schedule a Tour: Making an appointment ensures that time is reserved just for you, and gives you the opportunity to have all your questions answered.
-Flexibility: Consider other days of the week rather than a Saturday for your wedding. In most cases, the guest minimum and menu pricing will be lower on a Thursday, Friday, Sunday, or other weekdays...or why not consider a "Last Minute Savings Date" which offers lower guest minimums and off-season pricing, saving potentially thousands of dollars from your wedding budget. Dates outside of May through October generally considered Prime Season, can also offer considerable savings.
-Ceremony: Are you considering a Ceremony at the venue or a Church Ceremony? If you are considering a Church Ceremony, you will need to carefully coordinate the ceremony timing with the arrival timing at the reception venue to avoid any time gaps between your ceremony and reception.
-Know What is Included: Know what is included with the estimate you are receiving. Will you be required to rent tables and chairs? Are linens included? Are appetizers and desserts extra cost? Is there a fee for slicing and serving your wedding cake? Also, is staffing included? Will you need to hire a "day of coordinator" or is that service provided by the venue?Bring your checklist to your appointment and if you are not sure about something..ASK!
-The initial meeting: The initial meeting is not the time to select your entire menu, but important "specialty" food requests or dietary requirements, should be discussed to be certain those matters can be accommodated.
Enjoy: This should be a wonderful time in your life. Planning to marry the love of your life should be fun... not stressful. Selecting the right venue can make all the difference in the planning process and bring your vision to life.