Venues and MarqueesCall the Shots

Pre-styled spaces, from fairytale castles to chic hotels, are packed with character and charm but if you can’t quite find the one for you, perhaps it’s time to consider a blank canvas venue? Here are three reasons you’ll love ‘em!

A blank canvas venue is essentially that, from spaces that are quite literally an empty shell (marquees, we’re talking about you!) to those that have gone minimalist on their own décor so you can do the dressing up. For tobe-weds who have a super-specific vision in mind or want to showcase their personal, couple style, these are the perfect places for you to explore.

It may be a single room or a whole venue, and you’ll basically just pay for the venue hire – although some offer simple, handy extras like seating options, a PA system and a dancefloor. You then call the shots on pretty much everything else, from food and drink to décor and flowers.

Of course, you won’t be totally alone. The northeast’s top blank canvas venues are always on-hand to support their couples when needed, whether that’s explaining the ins and outs of the space or suggesting some suppliers they reckon would be perfect for the vibe you have in mind.

And don’t think that blank means boring… Far from it! You’ll find these interesting local venues have loads of quirks and their very own unique selling points, from being exclusive use to having acres of green space to offering views to die for. Some will have facilities on-site for you to use too, whether that’s a kitchen and catering staff or the venue’s own gym!

Still not convinced? Here are three big plus points for empty shell-style venues…

You can create something totally unique

There’s no such thing as a ‘cookie-cutter wedding’ with a blank canvas venue. Couples with a creative streak can let their imaginations run wild and go all in with DIY wedding décor, whilst those who prefer to organise from afar could hire in a style team to bring their dreams to life. Whichever way you go, rest assured your wedding style will be a one-off and will look totally different to the one before, the one after and all the rest in that venue!

You can (usually) pick all your own suppliers

With venues like these, it’s unlikely you’ll be bound to use any particular vendors, like a caterer or drinks supplier – the choice will be all yours. That means you can go ahead and contact those you’ve had an eye on for ages (who doesn’t have a pre-engagement wedding Pinterest board?!), look for others who you think will work with your style and ask around for recommendations. Bring on your hand-picked supplier dream team!

You’ve got full control over your budget

Want to make a real statement with your décor and guest entertainment, but less bothered about the meal? Or are you foodie obsessed; keen to treat your guests to a fabulous feast and happy to go DIY with décor? Wherever your priorities lie, a blank canvas venue means all the budget-related decisions lie with you. You choose the elements you want to prioritise spending on – and decide which you can cut back.

Going for it?

Take heed of these quick tips to make it run smoothly!

• Depending on your venue, it might come with an event organiser who can be in charge on the day. If not, consider hiring someone in to do this very important job.

• Make sure you factor in all the suppliers – not just the fun stuff like food, drink and music, but also toilets, transport and generators if needed.

• Following the above point, suppliers will mount up before you know it. Create a budget at the beginning and make sure you can afford everything you need to create your dream day. ♥