FAQs
There are different wedding venue cost factors that you must be aware of before determining your venue. The first is the location and venue style. Different locations offer varying rates, downtown venues will differ from countryside venues in terms of cost. Location goes hand in hand with the style, a casual hotel will be more budget-friendly than a barn or upscale hotel. The number of guests will also contribute to the venue budget. The more guests you have, the more expensive it will be as a bigger venue is needed to comfortably accommodate everyone. Some venues also offer different packages, some may have all-inclusive packages while others may have a variety of packages. Depending on what the wedding venue offers and your preferences you may need to hire outside vendors to complete your wedding. Lastly, your wedding date will be a cost factor. During the more popular months, prices may increase for all aspects of the wedding while in the off-season they will be less expensive.
You deserve the perfect choice of wedding venue for your big day. With our database of indoor and outdoor options, you can browse at your leisure to zero in on your dream choice.
Depending on the wedding venue and how popular it is, booking flexibility will differ. Typically you should book your wedding ceremony and reception 9 months to a year in advance. This will increase the likelihood of booking your wedding on your preferred date. If you are having your wedding at an exclusive venue you may want to book 14 months to 2 years prior to your wedding date.
Wedding receptions generally take 4-5 hours. During this time, the bride and groom will have their special dances with their parents, any speeches by the couple or wedding party, dinner will be served, the cutting on the cake will take place during this time, and you finish the night with some dancing and music.
Tipping your wedding venue coordinator is always appreciated. It is expected to tip between 15-20% of the final bill. If you are especially pleased by their service you may tip more but it is not necessary. You should plan to tip before the wedding or after the reception. Though it is rare, some coordinators do include a tip rate that’s already included in the contract so make sure to double-check your contract.
What is your availability? Is my preferred date available? How many people does your space accommodate? Is there a food and beverage minimum? What is included in your package? Do you provide any catering services? Are there any restrictions I should be aware of? What are your cancellation/deposit/refund policies? What time are your set up and tear down requirements? Do you have any hotel recommendations or close by? Are there other events happening on the same day?
Every wedding is unique and depending on what you value and how you want your wedding to look your budget may look different than someone else's. In general, you should allocate 40-50% of your budget towards your venue. The wedding venue is one of the most expensive parts of your wedding so it’s important to allocate enough money to it. You should also budget 12% for catering, though keep in mind that the type of food, your location, and the caterer are cost factors that you should be aware of. Depending on the package and what you prefer, you should budget for 10-15% towards photography and videography. As for decor and flowers, you should allocate about 10-15%. Lastly for aspects such as entertainment, favors, cake, and stationary you should budget about 2-9% for each. Remember that it is your wedding, and you can budget according to your preferences and what you want at your wedding.
Wedding receptions occur after the wedding ceremony. It is where your friends and family receive the newlyweds and where you and your guests get to celebrate your marriage. The newlyweds thank guests for coming and celebrating this momentous occasion by serving dinner, having music, dancing, and having a good time.
A wedding venue is any location where you and your significant other will host your wedding. Venues include hotels, art galleries, vineyards and wineries, parks, barns, and even your own backyard. Your wedding venue can be wherever you want as long as you have an officiant, two witnesses, and sign the marriage license.