The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Your Perfect Wedding Venue

Your wedding venue sets the tone for your entire day—it’s the stage for your love story. Whether you're dreaming of a beachside ceremony, a rustic barn celebration, or a grand ballroom affair, here's your step-by-step guide to finding the perfect place to say “I do.”

1. Know Your Vision

Before you start your search, imagine your ideal wedding day. Ask yourself:

Do you want it indoors or outdoors?

Formal or relaxed?

Modern, traditional, rustic, or bohemian?
Your vision will help narrow down the type of venue you should look for

2. Set a Realistic Budget

Venues can eat up a big portion of your wedding budget. Be sure to factor in:

Rental fees

Catering minimums

Service charges

Hidden costs (cleaning, overtime, etc.)

Pro tip: Ask what’s included—some venues offer packages that include décor, tables, chairs, or even coordination.

3. Create Your Guest List (Roughly)

You don’t need an exact count, but having a ballpark figure helps you choose a space that’s the right size—too small feels cramped, too big can feel empty.

‍4. Consider Location & Accessibility

Think about:

Is it easy for guests to get to?

Are there nearby accommodations?

Will you need transportation services?

If you're planning a destination wedding, factor in travel logistics and local marriage requirements.

5. Check Availability Early

Popular venues book up a year (or more) in advance—especially on weekends. Have a few potential dates in mind to increase your chances

6. Think About Aesthetics & Photo Ops

Is the space visually appealing? Will it photograph well?
Look for beautiful natural light, scenic backgrounds, and indoor options in case of bad weather.