Venues
When it comes to choosing a wedding venue, location and season are two of the most important factors to consider. Not only will they impact the overall atmosphere and aesthetic of your special day, but they can also affect the logistics and cost of your wedding since all venues have peak seasons and days of the week resulting in higher costs.
Discuss, as a couple, early on in your planning what day of the week and time of day you want to have your wedding. Do you want a midday ceremony with a tea party reception in a more relaxed atmosphere or an evening ceremony with pictures taken in the sunset and a nighttime reception where everyone can party the night away.
One of the first questions you should ask each venue is about their availability on your desired wedding date. It’s also important to ask about the capacity of the venue and any restrictions on the number of guests you can invite. Additionally, you’ll want to inquire about the rental fees and any additional costs, such as for parking, linens, or tables and chairs.
It’s also a good idea to ask about the venue’s policy on decorations and if there are any restrictions on vendors. You’ll want to ensure that you have the flexibility to personalize your wedding to your liking.
Another factor to consider is the season in which you plan to get married. If you’re dreaming of an outdoor wedding, you’ll want to ask about the venue’s rain backup plan and whether or not they have a covered space in case of inclement weather. You’ll also want to consider the temperature and whether or not the venue has air conditioning or heating.
One of the biggest decisions you’ll need to make is whether to have an on-site planner on the day of the wedding or to hire a wedding planning company. Having an on-site planner can be convenient, as they will already be familiar with the venue and can help to coordinate all of the details on the day of the wedding. However, a wedding planning company can bring a fresh perspective and a wealth of experience to the table. They may have relationships with vendors and can often negotiate better rates, which can save you money in the long run.
Ultimately, the choice between an on-site planner and a wedding planning company will depend on your personal preferences and budget. Both options have their own set of benefits, so it’s important to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision.
Choosing the right wedding venue is a crucial step when planning your wedding day. By considering factors such as location, season, and the availability of an on-site planner, you can find a venue that meets all of your needs and creates the perfect atmosphere for your dream wedding.
Above all – ask all the questions you might have. The best venues will be the most supportive and will have someone on their team dedicated to helping you through every part of the process.
If you ever need input or recommendations we are always here to offer suggestions. Having worked with many venues throughout both the Ottawa area and the Peterborough area we are more than happy to provide valuable input into choosing the perfect venue for our wedding day.