| Finding a wedding location can be a task in itself, but | | | | For others it's more important to have a venue that is |
| figuring out how to compare one venue to another | | | | easy to access, where transportation isn't necessary |
| can be even more challenging. Because venues | | | | and out of town guests are already at the location. |
| describe themselves and their services in different | | | | Consider what kind of space the wedding location has. |
| ways, highlighting different benefits, it can feel like | | | | Do they have a bride and groom's suite? Is there |
| you're comparing apples to oranges instead of apples | | | | somewhere the bridal party can wait and do touch |
| to apples. The following is a guide to use as a way to | | | | ups before making their grand entrance? Depending |
| help figure out which wedding location is going to be | | | | on the venue, the bride and groom may arrive at the |
| right for you. | | | | venue up to an hour before the ceremony. Does the |
| The first consideration is usually the cost. Many people | | | | venue provide appetizers and beverages? Is there a |
| try to break down the cost item by item. For example, | | | | private bathroom away from the guests, so the bride |
| they may think ‘drinks at this venue cost this much, | | | | won't be seen before the ceremony? If the venue |
| while at that venue they are cheaper. The cake at | | | | doesn't have a bride and groom's suite what |
| that venue is more expensive than this venue.' Instead | | | | alternatives do they offer? |
| of comparing each single piece, it's easier to look at | | | | How is the flow of the event going to happen? Does |
| the big picture. | | | | the entire ceremony and reception happen in one |
| Figure out what the total cost would be for each | | | | space or are there several rooms being utilized. In |
| venue. That way, if one venue costs $5,000 more | | | | some venues, the wedding may take place in a |
| than another, you can decide if you want to spend the | | | | courtyard while the reception happens in another room |
| extra money for all that you get, or if you would rather | | | | and dancing takes place in another. Or there may be |
| go with the budget-conscious decision. | | | | an outdoor space for dining and an indoor space for |
| Another consideration for wedding locations is whether | | | | dancing. Decide how you would like your wedding laid |
| or not you want a private or public venue and if that | | | | out and see if there is a venue or location that can |
| matters to you or not. A private venue is one in which | | | | accommodate that. |
| your wedding is the only event happening that day. A | | | | These are just a few suggestions for figuring out the |
| public venue would be some place like a hotel where | | | | best way to evaluate several different wedding |
| other events may be happening and other people will | | | | locations. Decide how much you want to spend, if you |
| be around. | | | | want a private or public event and how your wedding |
| Some people want their wedding to feel as if this | | | | should flow. Then create a spreadsheet and compare |
| moment is the only moment happening in the world. | | | | the key points of what you want to what each venue |
| For them, a private venue would be the place to go. | | | | offers. Don't settle for anything less than you want. |