Newly Engaged? Go Venue Hunting First!

Imagine this: You're flashing that shiny new ring, sharing the happy news with everyone who's anyone. Almost immediately, the barrage of questions starts, "When's the big day?" Sounds familiar, doesn't it? We all know the drill. As soon as you're engaged, folks expect you to have a wedding date set in stone. Sure, it's tempting to whip out your calendar and start circling dates, but here's a juicy insider tip: Hunt for your venue first!

As seasoned wedding wizards with countless 'I do's' under our belts, we always recommend our clients scout the ideal location first. This small tweak can make a whale of a difference. So let's dive in and see why this strategy is so crucial and how you can relish the ride.

Choosing the Venue: The Real Deal

Picture this: You stumble upon this killer wedding venue right out of a fairytale. But alas, someone else has snagged it for your chosen date. So you've got a tough choice: stick to your date and settle for a different spot or switch your date?

No need to find yourself in this sticky situation! Choosing your venue first means you can lock in that dreamy location that ticks all your boxes. Plus, it helps you plan the rest of your wedding deets with confidence, knowing everything will come together beautifully in your chosen space.

Remember, your venue is the backdrop for your whole shindig, from the vibe and visuals down to the photos you'll be showing your grandkids. It makes sense to zero in on your ideal setting before anything else.

SCOring Your Dream Wedding Venue

Now that you're all jazzed up about choosing your venue first let's chat about finding that picture-perfect place to say 'I do.' Follow these easy-peasy steps, and you'll be well on your way to discovering the venue that matches your wedding daydreams.

Your Vision, Defined

First off, take a moment to visualize your dream wedding. Rustic barn ceremony with greenery galore? Or a sleek, modern rooftop bash with cityscapes for days? Whatever your vibe, make sure you've got a clear picture of the look and feel you're after.

Budget: Set it and Forget it

Before you start venue hopping, have a wedding budget ready. This helps narrow down your options and makes decision-making a breeze. Remember to factor costs like catering, décor, and lighting into your venue budget. For help creating a wedding budget, check out our helpful tips here.

Get Your Detective Hat On

Time to hit the internet! Browse wedding blogs, social media, and online directories to create a list of potential venues that align with your vision and budget. Check out reviews from other couples who've celebrated their love there—their firsthand experiences can offer many valuable nuggets of wisdom.

Keen to make the process a cinch? Kick off your venue hunt with Wedgewood Weddings! Our award-winning locations include gorgeous indoor and outdoor spots across America, each with its own unique vibe and charm.

We've thoughtfully designed each venue to cater to your every need, with dedicated squads ready to roll out the red carpet for you. From magical ballrooms to rustic vineyards, we've got something for every couple's flavor.

Go on Venue Tours

With your shortlist in hand, book site visits to check out each venue in person. This step is a must-do, as you'll want to see how the space feels, how the light plays, and if the layout suits your needs. Plus, meeting the venue coordinator gives you a sense of their professionalism and expertise.

For example, a site visit with our pros at Wedgewood Weddings helps you see and feel every little detail for yourself—beats just picturing them in your head, right? This is why we always share our unique pricing during your free, personalized venue tour. It's the best way for us (and you) to get a crystal-clear picture of your wedding vision and what you're comfortable spending.

Get Down to Logistics

As you tour each venue, keep logistics front and center. For instance, how many guests can the space comfortably fit? Is there enough parking and restrooms? Is the venue accessible for guests with mobility issues? Make sure to ask these questions during your site visit to ensure your chosen spot can meet all your needs.

Trust Your Gut

When you step into a venue, notice how it makes you feel. Can you envision yourself saying 'I do' there? Does the space evoke the emotions you want your guests to feel on your big day? If you find yourself nodding, then voila—you've found your wedding venue!

Time to Pick a Date

Once you've scored your amazing venue, it's time to choose a date. start by telling the venue team if you have a preferred season or day of week for your celebration. Here are four extra tips to guide you:

Check Your Calendars

You and your sweetheart are the VIPs of the day, so put yourselves first! Pick a date that lets you fully bask in the celebrations.

Think Weekdays

These days, you'll find weddings happening any day of the week—and we're all for it! If you can bag your favorite venue on a weekday, and all your VIPs can make it, you should totally go for it. Bonus: venue rates, flights, and hotels (if travel's involved) tend to be cheaper on weekdays.

Consider Different Times of Day

Get inventive with your wedding timeline. If you two are Sunday brunch buffs, why not turn your shared love into a wedding theme? How about a sunset ceremony followed by a starlit soirée? Your options are limitless!

Consider the Seasons

Always dreamt of a cozy winter wedding or a lively summer affair? Can you picture yourself saying 'I do' under a cascade of autumn leaves or dancing under a summer starlit sky? The time of year can play a significant role in the vibe and weather, so consider this when picking your date.

Venue First, Date Later

Wedding planning should be a blast—and if you're up for sitting back and enjoying the ride, we're here for you. We can help you choose a venue and date that fits your vision, budget, and tribe.

At Wedgewood Weddings & Events, we believe every aspect of your big day should be a joyride. So, our team of wedding wizards is ready to guide you through every step, offering tips and recommendations tailored to your vision. We understand every couple is unique, and we're all about providing a seamless, all-inclusive experience. This way, you can focus on the most important part: celebrating your love story.

Best part? We've got a stunning array of venue options—and you can take a sneak peek at them on our website. Once you've found 'the one,' we can help you lock in a date.

So take a deep breath, embrace the excitement, and dive into this fantastic journey with confidence—only with Wedgewood Weddings. Start your venue hunt by booking a tour with us today. Call 866.966.3009 now!