“A good marriage is the one where each partner secretly suspects they got the better deal” – Anonymous.
Planning a wedding is one of the most exciting adventures you and your partner will embark on. One of the biggest decisions you’ll make (beyond the dress, the rings, and—of course—the photography!) is choosing the perfect wedding venue. The right location sets the tone for your entire celebration, giving you the ideal backdrop for cherished memories and stunning photographs. Below, we’ll walk you through the key steps to help you find a venue that ticks all your boxes.
1. Determine Your Vision
Before you start your venue search, it’s essential to have a clear idea of your dream day:
- Style and Theme: Are you imagining a rustic barn, a modern rooftop, or a grand ballroom?
- Ambiance and Decor: Do you envision a formal black-tie affair or a relaxed garden party?
Establishing your aesthetic early on ensures you’ll look for venues that complement your vision rather than just going with the first space that’s available.
2. Set a Realistic Budget
Nothing takes the joy out of wedding planning faster than financial stress. Once you know your overall wedding budget, decide how much of it you want to allocate to the venue. Keep in mind that some venues include extras (furniture, table settings, decor, etc.), which can affect how much you’ll spend elsewhere.
Pro Tip: Ask each venue for a breakdown of what’s included so you can compare costs accurately. Sometimes a venue with a higher rental fee might save you money on extras in the long run.
3. Know Your Guest List
A venue that’s too small can feel cramped, while a space that’s too large can dampen the cozy, intimate atmosphere you may be aiming for. Having a solid guest count early in the planning process helps you narrow down your venue choices.
- Small Gatherings (Under 50 Guests): Consider private estates, boutique hotels, or stylish restaurants.
- Mid-Size Weddings (50–150 Guests): Explore country clubs, historic mansions, or scenic barns.
- Large Celebrations (150+ Guests): Look into ballrooms, convention centers, or expansive outdoor spaces.
4. Consider Location and Logistics
If you’re hosting local guests, an easy-to-access venue is a must. For destination weddings, think about travel arrangements, accommodations, and nearby attractions. Ask about parking options, especially if your wedding is in a busy city center.
Insider’s Tip: Don’t forget to visit the venue at a similar time of day as your ceremony. Lighting conditions matter—especially for those golden-hour photos Catherine Brooks Photography loves to capture!
5. Check the Venue’s Preferred Vendors and Restrictions
Some venues offer an approved vendor list, while others require you to work with in-house caterers or coordinators. Make sure these options align with your wedding style, budget, and the professionals you’ve already booked or want to hire.
Also, check for any restrictions:
- Noise ordinances or curfews
- Outside decor limitations
- Photography policies
Fun Fact: Certain venues have spectacular indoor and outdoor areas for photos. Be sure to confirm if both spaces are available for your photography session to get those dreamy, varied backdrops.
6. Think About the Season
Your wedding date will greatly influence your venue choice. A beachside location may be idyllic in summer, but less ideal during colder months. An indoor ballroom can accommodate a winter wedding beautifully, but you might miss out on those vibrant outdoor shots if you had your heart set on a garden.
Seasonal Checkpoints:
- Winter: Is heating sufficient? Are snow removal services included?
- Spring/Fall: Is there a plan B for rain?
- Summer: Is air conditioning or shade readily available?
7. Prioritise Photo Opportunities
The perfect wedding venue also becomes the perfect backdrop for your photos! Walk around the site imagining where you’ll take couple portraits, family photos, and fun group shots. Look for:
- Picturesque gardens or courtyards
- Dramatic architectural details
- Indoor nooks with natural light
At Catherine Brooks Photography, we believe your venue should spark creativity and provide an array of photo possibilities to make your wedding album truly unique.
8. Trust Your Gut
Sometimes, you just feel it—you walk into a venue, and it feels right. After considering the practical details, don’t discount this intangible factor. You and your partner should feel comfortable, excited, and at ease in the space where you’ll celebrate your love.
Ready to Capture Every Moment?
Once you’ve found the venue of your dreams, it’s time to ensure your big day is captured flawlessly. Catherine Brooks Photography specialises in telling your love story through stunning imagery—no matter your wedding style or location.
Ready to chat? Contact us today to learn more about our wedding photography packages and how we can make your venue shine in every photo.
Conclusion
Finding the perfect wedding venue involves blending your personal style, budget, guest list, and the practicalities of location and season. By doing your research, staying true to your vision, and keeping photo opportunities top of mind, you’ll be well on your way to locking down a space that sets the stage for the wedding of your dreams.
Looking for more wedding planning tips? Be sure to explore our blog for expert advice, inspiration, and behind-the-scenes looks at our latest wedding shoots. Happy planning—and we can’t wait to see you in front of our cameras!
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