In my previous posts, I have discussed two of the five elements that I consider the most stressful when planning your wedding -- your budget and selecting your bridesmaids. Today I will cover number three - finding the right venue -- and how to get it booked without stressing.
To find the perfect venue, you must start thinking early; a year out is not too early. This is the first and foremost item on your list of purchases; especially if you are wanting a church AND a separate reception venue. This can get pretty tricky. Always have an alternate date in mind. Try for your first choice, but always have a second, third and even fourth in mind if you have your heart set on one particular place. Getting the dates coordinated may require several phone calls, but persistence and planning will make it happen.
Keep in mind the size of your guest list, whether you want to have a sit-down meal or buffet, if you want a dance floor and band or dj. You and your guests must be able to move around freely, and you want to be able to speak to everyone who has come.
Also, remember logistics: keep the reception venue as close as possible to the ceremony location. If traveling from ceremony to reception is a long distance, you may lost some of your guests in the process. If your budget allows, providing transportation is one solution.
Do your research or contact someone who is well informed about the venues in your area and how each one will fit into your plans. A wedding planner is always the best source; as he/she will provide you with unbiased information and consider all your needs. Once you have your list of priorities regarding your venue in place, you'll find that the list is pretty limited. Timing is everything.
We are well on our way to making your wedding planning as stress free as possible. My next post will cover the fourth stressful element -- finding your perfect dress.
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