Hey bride! We heard you just got engaged to the love of your life and now you’re wondering that the first steps to wedding planning are. Look no further! One of the first things brides typically lock down is their dream wedding venue. However, finding the perfect venue for your wedding can be super intimidating. Follow these 5 tips to ensure your experience goes smoothly!

1. Make sure the venue can accommodate your entire guest list

While you want to make sure there is enough space for all of your guests to celebrate your love, it is also imperative to make sure the area is intimate enough for smaller guest counts. Having too little space as well as too much space may be a deal breaker when it comes to picking out the perfect venue.

This bride picked the perfect venue for her 240 person wedding. There’s enough room for dancing and celebration, while also keeping that intimate feel.
Photography | Alexa Karen Photography
Venue | Toast - Ankeny, IA
Planning, Design, + Floral | Honey & Joy Events

2. Establish a budget early on to consolidate your options

The venue shopping process can be somewhat overwhelming, so it is important to narrow down your options from the get-go. This way, you are able to get a really good look at what your choices are. HINT: The most expensive venue is not always the best fit for your wedding!

This space was dressed up beautifully!
Photography | Rachel Jean Photography
Venue | Rooftop Garden Ballroom - Arnolds Park, IA
Planning, Design, + Floral | Honey & Joy Events

3. Consider the weather and season

Once you are set on your date, you want to think about if you would prefer to have your celebrations indoors or outdoors. Many venues have the option to host both your ceremony and reception on their grounds. It is possible to do your ceremony outdoors with your receptions indoors, or vice versa. Pick the venue that best aligns with your location needs!

This outdoor summer wedding felt like it was straight out of a movie. The reception that followed after was indoors, so guests could escape the July heat!
Photography | Anna Jones Photography
Venue | Armour House - Lake Forest, IL
Planning, Design, + Floral | Honey & Joy Events

4. Choose a venue that is convenient for your guests

Consider the needs of your guests. Pick a venue that allows for easy transportation and one that has accessible facilities. Making these items a priority will ensure more of your guests RSVP “yes!”

This couple’s hotel wedding was the epitome of elegance. Picking a hotel for your venue can help relive stress for your out of town guests!
Photography | Jason Thomas Crocker Photography
Venue | Hotel Fort - Des Moines, IA
Planning, Design, + Floral | Honey & Joy Events

5. Pick a venue that resonates most with you!

Perhaps the most important tip of them all is to pick a venue that represents your love! Find your vibe and what inspires you the most. Check social media pages and websites to discover past weddings of various venues. Go with your gut feeling and remember that it is your special day!

5 Tips For Choosing the Perfect Wedding Venue

Wedding Planner and Event Designer

Follow along

Say hello