category Event Venues

Out of all the wedding tasks that need completing in the build-up to the big day, choosing the wedding venue seems straightforward. However, there are many elements involved. This means finding your perfect local wedding venue needs to tick a lot of boxes. You may think you’re happy to get married anywhere, but if it doesn’t match your personality or fit all of your guests, then it won’t be right for you.

Pick the perfect local wedding venue by following our eight expert tips:

1. Budget

Wedding venues that are local to you may vary massively in price. The wedding venue should be one of the main focuses of your budget. While it may be the most significant chunk of the budget, you still need to make sure you have enough money for all of the other elements.

2. Get a map

The best way to find your local venue is with a map. Print off a large map of your local area and consider how far you (and your guests) would be willing to travel. Once you have decided the distance in travel time that you are happy to make and is reasonable for the majority of your guests, circle the radius on a map. You can then pinpoint all of the local wedding venues in that span and start your research.  Honestly, it’s much easier to visualise this way.

3. Start a spreadsheet

Every local wedding venue will have their information displayed differently. Some will show prices on their website. For others, you may have to ring up or visit for information. While a spreadsheet is not a ‘fun wedding task’ it is an easy way for you to collate information, and make sure you don’t confuse venues. Your spreadsheet can contain information that is important to you. For example, you may need to check on baby changing facilities, nearby or onsite hotels, wheelchair accessibility as well as the obvious cost and capacity.

4. Revisit the budget

Yes, we’re talking budget, again. Once you have collated the local venues on your spreadsheet, delete the ones that you know you can afford. If you visit the locations that you can’t afford, you’ll probably fall in love with it. You’ll then be broken-hearted that you can’t afford it and other venues may pale in comparison.

5. Get visiting

Now is the perfect time to visit the venues. You have a clear idea of the initial costs and what you need to venue to provide. Start viewings and remember, take pictures so you can visualise the layout of your wedding. Remember to note your thoughts on your pre-prepared spreadsheet. Be completely honest. The critical little points you have could be the difference between choosing one venue over another.

6. Add up the actual cost

While you may have had a rough idea before visiting, a visit will tell you the exact price based on your requirements. It is vital to list everything you get included in the price. A local wedding venue may appear cheap, but costs may add up when you consider, drinks, corkage, table and glassware hire, chair covers and the list goes on. Once you have the detailed cost, a more expensive venue may be a better price for what’s included.

7. Will you come across restrictions?

If your friends are party animals, then you may want to check the licence of the venue and make sure you’ll be able to celebrate until the early hours. Other restrictions you may face include the décor. You may feel that you need to add additional décor to tie your theme into the day, make sure that the venue will cater to your needs.

8. Is it you?

Finally, it is your special day. Your venue should match your personality. When visiting locations, you’re likely to experience a gut feeling on which one is right for you. Whether you’re after a casual, historical or luxury vibe, make sure that your theme shines at your venue. Don’t regret picking a so-so venue; it is your big day. Help it to be perfect.

Find out more about the wedding venues we can source – or if you have somewhere in particular in mind then we would love to hear from you. Call us on 0203 150 2520 | 0161 902 0010