Brides dream of their wedding day for years before the day arrives, and finding the perfect wedding venue to make that dream come true can be a long process. While you want your day to be perfect for your guests, you also want to hang onto the dream. So, how do you begin to search when the choices seem overwhelming? This question is common to every bride and groom, and if you follow these tips below, you will lower your stress levels and make planning fun.
1. Figure Out Your Budget
Before you get started, you need to start with a budget. There is no reason to spend hours looking at high-end, luxury venues if you have a budget for a small, low-frills wedding. It is a good idea to decide on the one or two most important things in your wedding plans and budget for them first. Then you can leave the rest of your budget for negotiable items. If your budget is restricted, there are a variety of ways to still have a lovely, romantic setting without spending a mint. Often bridal couples can use public facilities for a lower cost than private, if you start early enough before the event. Use our Wedding Budget Planner to help get you started!
2. Calculate an Estimated Guest Count
Guest counts can be tricky, however to find your perfect venue you need to have an estimated count to ensure that the venue is large enough. You can talk to guests, or guess based on previous family-event attendance. After all, in some families everyone comes to all of the events, while in other families only Aunt Joan is a regular guest. You know your family the best, so go through your names to decide who you think will come and then add an extra 10 percent for capacity as a just-in-case measure. Start early by setting up your Wedding Seating Plan.
3. Negotiate for Large Parties
Often, venues and caterers can get a discount on their supplies if they have a larger order. They can pass this on to you if you are willing to negotiate. Discuss your options with the venues to see who will work with you.
4. Food, Glorious Food!
For your wedding reception, food is the highest cost item. Depending on whether you go with chicken or prime rib, your food costs will change. Some of the questions in this category include:
- How many courses do I want?
- Can I have a vegetarian wedding?
- Do I have special dietary issues to include?
- Do I want sit down or buffet service?
- Can I make some of the food myself or buy it wholesale?
- Can I have a small dinner reception for my closest friends, and a larger cocktail party for the rest of the guests?
5. Travel Issues
A cost that can really skyrocket is travel. If you are choosing a destination venue such as a hotel or resort, you may have to stay overnight or accommodate overnight guests. Don’t forget to include petrol mileage and delivery costs. Additionally, do you need to travel from your ceremony to your reception and are you including the cost of a limousine to your budget?
With proper planning, you can find the perfect venue for your budget and yourselves without resorting to the fainting couch. Start early and you will have plenty of time to get everything in order. Browse through our list of Wedding Venues in Australia and you’ll be sure to find a venue that suits your needs.
