The wedding tradition has experienced many changes over the years, most notably in the couple’s choice of venue and event space for the ceremony. Where once it was accepted that weddings would be performed almost exclusively in churches or synagogues, now couples routinely stage the ceremony in a venue of their choice. But there is much to consider when choosing a venue for your wedding, and couples should investigate any prospective venue thoroughly before signing any agreements or paying any advances. Your wedding is a once in a lifetime affair, and the venue you choose should be able to provide you with all of the accommodations and amenities you require to make it a day you will remember and cherish for years to come.
Setting the Date
Considering different event spaces prior to settling on a definite date for your wedding will give you more control over your choice of venue. If you are yet to be locked into a specific date, you have greater flexibility, and are less likely to find yourself in the unhappy position of finding the perfect venue, only to have it unavailable on the date you desire. Also, couples often find that they can save money on rental fees if they schedule their wedding during the off season.
Event Space
The first thing to consider when choosing any event space for your wedding, is size. Can the venue comfortably accommodate all of your guests, and can the event service provide seating and other furnishing that are appropriate for a wedding? This is vital, and should be the first question asked of any event service. It is also important to find out if there are available dressing rooms for the wedding party, and if they are included in the rental fee. Depending on the season, you may also want to inquire as to the availability of a cloak room for your guests to deposit their hats and coats. This is especially important if you are planning your wedding for the winter months.
Your guests will be arriving singly, in couples and in groups, and having a separate area for them to mingle and relax before the ceremony is always a good idea. Before booking an event hall for your wedding, ask if there is a suitable space, either a lobby or anteroom, in which your quests can relax and chat before the service. In addition to giving your guests a place to gather, this also gives them a chance to reminisce, laugh and share stories about the newlyweds.
Décor and Decorations
Once you have found a venue that can comfortably accommodate you and your guests, it is time to consider the décor. If you intend to handle the decorations yourself, you will want to find out when you can begin the decorating process. You will also want to find out how much time you will have, both for set up before the wedding, and for clearing up afterward. Many rental venues offer in-house services that can decorate the hall and accompanying rooms to your specifications, and many couples find this service to be extremely beneficial. Any added cost is far outweighed by having one less task on an increasingly long list of things to do.
Reception and Amenities
One of the major benefits of renting an event space for your wedding, is the ability to book your reception at the same location. Often times this can result in considerable savings, and it ensures that all of your guests will be able to attend the reception with a minimum of fuss.
If you decide to have your reception at the same venue as your wedding, you may wish to consider using the event services on-premise catering service to provide the refreshments. Whether it is a sit down dinner featuring family favorites, or a light buffet, the on-site caterer should be able to offer a menu to suit your desires. And what’s a wedding reception without an open bar? Ask the event service if they are licensed to serve alcohol, and if they can provide a wet bar and a bartender or two to serve your guests.
Planning for your wedding day may seem like an overwhelming task. But by choosing the right venue, and by taking full advantage of the on premises services that are available, you will find that planning your wedding just got that much easier.
Contact us to learn more about our event space and to plan an exceptional wedding!
