It’s Easy To Get Swept Away in Your Own Wedding Daydream
When you walk into a potential wedding venue, it’s easy to get swept away in your own wedding daydream. You can practically see the décor, hear the music, and imagine yourself walking down the aisle. You leave knowing you loved the venue . . . but later, you can’t quite remember why.
This is completely normal and exactly why bringing a wedding venue checklist to your site visit is so important.
Seven Key Details That Will Influence Your Opinion of a Wedding Venue
Here are seven key details that will influence the overall look, feel, and guest experience at your wedding. Make sure you track each of these carefully during your venue tours so you can make a confident, informed decision later.
1. The Wedding Venue’s Neighborhood
No matter what anyone says, the neighborhood surrounding your wedding venue can dramatically shape the vibe of your celebration. Consider having someone else drive you to the site so you can fully observe your surroundings. Is the neighborhood charming and scenic, or noisy and congested? Does it feel safe, inviting, and accessible? These are small details that can affect your guests’ overall experience—and your wedding photos. Take notes as you arrive and refer back to them when making your final decision.
2. Parking Availability & Safety
Parking might not be a glamorous item to check, but it’s crucial. So, I encourage you to ask the following questions:
- Is there ample parking for your guest count?
- Is parking complimentary, or is there a fee?
- Is the parking area well lit at night?
Limited or paid parking can quickly impact your wedding budget and guest satisfaction. A venue that offers safe, convenient parking makes a world of difference, especially for older guests and evening events.
3. First Impressions: The Exterior
Before stepping out of the car, pause for a moment and really look at the outside of the venue. Ask yourself: How does it make you feel? Is the landscaping well maintained? Does the exterior give the impression that the venue is cared for and loved? The outside of the venue sets the stage for your guests’ first impression of your wedding day. A beautifully maintained exterior instantly elevates the celebration, while a neglected one can send the opposite message.
4. Inside the Venue
Take your time as you walk through the entrance and lobby. How does the space make you feel—warm and welcoming, or cold and impersonal? Ask yourself:
- Can I imagine my wedding here?
- How will this space look in photographs?
- Is the layout intuitive and guest-friendly?
A room can look very different in person versus in pictures. Bring your phone to your wedding venue site visit and take plenty of photos from different angles. These snapshots will be invaluable when you’re comparing venues later.
5. Catering Options
Let’s be honest! Great food makes a memorable wedding. Ask to see sample catering menus during your tour. While you likely won’t be required to choose a specific menu during your visit, reviewing their sample menus will give you a clear sense of the venue’s culinary style, flexibility, and quality. If food is a major priority for you (as it is for many couples), this step is non-negotiable.
6. Venue Policies
Policies may not seem exciting, but they can absolutely shape the tone of your wedding. For example, some venues have restrictions on alcohol service, music volume, décor, or end times. Others may have required vendor lists. Request a copy of the venue’s policies during your tour and review them carefully. Even a single policy—like a strict no-amplified-music rule—could affect the overall atmosphere of your ceremony or reception.
7. Contingency Plans for Weather
If you’re dreaming of an outdoor wedding ceremony or reception, always ask to see the backup location in case of rain or extreme weather. Key questions to consider:
- Does the backup space match the vibe of your original plan?
- Is it large enough to comfortably accommodate your guest count?
- How will it impact your wedding photos?
A thoughtful, well-designed contingency plan can save you a tremendous amount of stress (and heartache) if Mother Nature doesn’t cooperate.
Final Thoughts Regarding Your Wedding Venue
Choosing the perfect wedding venue is one of the most exciting parts of the planning journey—but it’s also one of the most impactful decisions you’ll make.
By using a wedding venue checklist and paying attention to these seven often-overlooked details, you’ll be able to evaluate each venue clearly and objectively. Whether you’re booking a chic ballroom, a charming barn, or a luxury hotel, these wedding planning tips will help you find a space that’s beautiful, functional, and unforgettable.
Of course the basics must be addressed too. So, check out my previous post for those points.
If you are you ready to plan your worry-free wedding experience, please contact your wedding planning team at Howerton+Wooten Events
Love and Soul Always, Kawania
P.S. If you’re interested in booking me as a speaker or wedding industry expert, click here to learn more.a