Location, location, location. 

As with real estate, the location of your wedding is incredibly important.

Will you host your wedding in your hometown or abroad? Will it be indoors or out? 

Will you have a church ceremony or one on the beach? Will you choose to rent a big hall for your reception or dance under the stars in a rental tent?

The questions are endless when it comes to choosing your wedding venue; so much so it can be overwhelming to decide. But we have your back, because we’re laying out five clear tips for finding your wedding venue below.

1. Start with a budget.

Like most things event planning, many of the decisions boil down to one thing: budget.

But that doesn’t mean you can’t get creative with your budget. For instance, if you can’t imagine getting married without the picturesque mountain in the background at the pricey ski resort, perhaps you revisit the number on the guest list. A few less guests may free up your budget to allot for a dream location. Also important to remember? The number of guests you’re able to have will be venue-dependant too.

Plus, you may find that some venues actually help you save. Certain venues may include things like catering or certain rentals, so be mindful that they’re checking off several items on your wedding budget list.

RELATED: How to Stay on Budget with Your Event Rentals 

2. Keep theme in mind.

Even if you don’t have a theme set in stone, you likely have an idea of what kind of ceremony and reception you and your fiance want. Are you more classic and sophisticated as a couple? Or more bohemian chic? Do you love the water and all things nautical or is a garden view more your taste?

No matter what your wedding theme or personality as a couple, it’s critical you keep these in mind when looking for your dream venue. It stands to reason that certain locations simply won’t fit well for certain themes.

For instance, a black tie affair wouldn’t be a great fit at a farmhouse; just as a shabby chic celebration would be out of place in a glamorous ballroom.

3. Don’t forget the logistics.

There are many factors that will cross a venue off your list, simply because of the logistics. Here are just a few to keep in mind:

• Availability of potential wedding date or dates, or time of year
• Guest restrictions: close and ample parking, handicap accessibility, etc.
• Restrictions or what is included for things like decor and rentals
• Travel for guests: venue is close to hotel for out-of-town guests or transportation is provided for destination weddings

4. Be mindful of other requirements.

If you want to have a full size band or entertain while pictures are being taken with a cocktail hour, these are both examples of things that will need the right venue with enough space and other requirements to accommodate. 

Think about all of your wedding must-haves. Double check that the venue(s) you like offer the space, any necessary hookups, and other features to allow what you want. Otherwise, just cross that venue off your list!

5. Consider vendor restrictions. 

Many venues work with or include a contract with specific vendors. For example, you may find a potential wedding venue only works with a certain caterer or event rental service. Alcohol service is another potential restriction: some venues won’t allow drink service of any kind on the premises, while others have rules in place around how alcoholic beverages are served and only certain licenses for what kind(s) can be served.

Others may have restrictions around types of vendors, such as lighting or other hanging-related decor. You may also have to be mindful of DJ, band, or other musical entertainment, depending on the venue. 

Determine if the venue allows your must-haves even before you take a tour. Then, follow the 5 tips we’ve laid out here to ensure you have found the perfect venue for your wedding day.

And for help with New England event rentals, give us a call at Sperry Tents Seacoast!