Jenny Mercer, Wedding Planner at the 5 Star Culloden Estate and Spa in Holywood, County Down shares with you her top tips for selecting your perfect wedding venue.
You’ve just got engaged and can’t wait to book your wedding venue – but do you really know what you’re looking for? Planning your perfect wedding can be daunting and before you dash off to look around every single wedding reception venue, here are some top tips to think about when choosing a wedding venue:
Communicate
Have a chat with your other half about the sort of wedding you would like and be prepared to compromise if you have different ideas; this could help avoid disagreements later!
Wedding Guest Numbers
Have a general idea of guest numbers before you start looking for a wedding venue or be prepared to alter your guest list.
Take Your Time
Take time to look round the venue to see what it offers in terms of the setting and friendly and helpful staff. Are there lovely outdoor and indoor areas for photos?
Check out the Accommodation
If you have guests travelling form afar, they may need accommodation. Check out how many rooms the hotel has and if they offer a special rate for your guests. Also, be sure to check out the bridal suite!
Make notes
Take a notebook and pen and jot down contact information, ideas for layout, decorations and floral arrangements. Perfect place to note any questions you might think of on your wedding planning journey!
Talk to Friends
Talk to friends who may have had a celebration at the venue before for their own wedding or even been to a wedding at your venue. Recommendations are so helpful and honest!
Take Photos
Remember to take some photos of the venue so you can remember what the venue looked liked.
Visit the Venue Around the Time of Year you Plan to get Married
If, possible visit the venue around the time of year you are getting married so you can experience what the grounds look like or the indoor areas if you are planning to get married at winter for example.
Ask the Experts
Look online on wedding websites (such as this one!) or call your venues and ask to speak to their wedding planners. They will have a wide range off wedding advice and guidance at their fingertips and will be more than happy to advise you.
Find out more from Jenny, watch her short video on what makes a perfect wedding to her!
