Once a couple gets engaged and the wedding planning begins, decisions have to be made on everything from the date to the flowers. One of the biggest decisions a couple has to make is finding a wedding reception location—there are so many venue options that it can be hard to decide which location will work best. The wedding specialists at Havelock Social Hall in Lincoln, NE, know that before any couple chooses their venue, they need to think about a wide variety of considerations before they can pick the perfect space.

Here are seven things to consider when choosing a wedding venue:  

• Date: Many wedding venues can be booked over a year in advance, so make sure the date chosen is available at the reception location.
• Location: Couples can plan a destination wedding or a hometown affair. The geographic location is an important factor to consider and can impact how many guests will be able to attend and celebrate at the reception.
• Guest Count: Before a reception location can be chosen it has to accommodate the guest list. Determine if there is a minimum head count that has to be met and if there is any flexibility in that count to avoid paying for guests who cannot attend.
• Style: Is the reception location a sophisticated banquet hall or a rustic barn? The style of a venue should incorporate the personalities of the couple and be reflective of the day they’ve always envisioned. 
• Weather: Many venues have outdoor space to use for a cocktail hour or photos. Confirm that a backup space will be available to use in case of inclement weather—no guests want to get stuck out in the rain!
• Special Requirements: If there are any special requirements—from allowing a service dog at the reception to dietary restrictions or extra electricity for a slideshow—ask if the venue can accommodate them. Verify this as far in advance as possible, so special needs can be met before the big day.
• Food & Alcohol: Consider if the wedding venue has its own on-site catering or if food needs to be brought in from the outside. The same goes for alcohol—some venues provide a choice of alcohol, from a cash bar to a top shelf open bar, while other locations require it to be brought in. It is also a good idea to inquire about professional help like wait staff and bartenders to see what each location provides.