Before You Say "I Do" To A Wedding Venue

from Lake Norman Woman February 2023

SUCCESS STORY

YOU'VE SAID YES TO THE DRESS, the bridal party has been selected, and you have begun compiling your guestlist, but now it's time to choose a venue. Since we live in one of the most beautiful spots on the planet—with both mountains and beaches in the mix—the task can be quite daunting. So, where do you even begin? Here are some pertinent points to consider as well as questions you will want to ask when you tour the venue:

Winter, Spring, Summer, or Fall Determining what season is a big fi rst step. If you are having a classy black-tie wedding in the winter, you may choose to have your wedding inside a banquet hall, hotel, or indoor event space. A summer bride looking for an outdoor setting may opt for a barn venue with lake or mountain views … or perhaps the everpopular beach wedding!

Size of Guestlist The size of your guestlist will help you choose a venue that will comfortably accommodate all your guests without feeling like the space is too big or too small. Looking for a venue that fi ts within the parameters of your guestlist ensures that you have the appropriate amount of space within your budget as well—larger venue spaces tend to cost more, so make sure you aren't paying for extra space that won't be utilized.

Budget Matters While this may seem like an obvious consideration, going off budget is one of the biggest mistakes couples make in their planning. The last thing that you want to do is tour a venue, fall in love with the space, and fi nd out that it is WAY over your budget. Decide the range of your budget before touring a venue.

April Dean McConnell is the owner of Deans’ Duets & Quartets based out of Charlotte. With a full team of classically-trained musicians specializing in modern pop cover songs, April and her team perform for weddings and other events throughout the Southeast. Connect with Deans’ Duets on social media or at www.deansduets.com. Questions to ask at the venue:

1 Do you offer any wedding packages? How many are there to choose from?

2 What does your inclement weather plan look like? 3 What is the average budget couples spend here?

4 What are things you don't allow at your venue? 5 What are the common add-on fees that couples forget to ask about?

6 Is there an additional cost for having the ceremony at your venue?

7 Do you allow us to have a rehearsal the day before our wedding? If catering is included, be sure to ask:

1 How do we schedule a tasting? 2 What's the most budget-friendly option? Buffet? Stations? Plated?

3 What do you supply? Plates, silverware, décor, etc? 4 What's the most memorable food option for guests? 5 When do we need to send our fi nal guest count? 6 How do tips work? Do we tip the catering staff? Are tips built in? 7 Are there extra costs that tend to come up with catering that people don't plan for? 8 How many hours before my event do you like to be on-site for set up? w