The setting of the ceremony and reception are the details people will remember most about your big day. So put serious thought into what wedding venue is right for the celebration before signing a contract. To make sure the festivities are everything you imagine, keep these points in mind when researching your options.   

3 Factors to Think About Before Booking a Wedding Venue

1. Have a Vision in Mind 

Wedding venues are reserved months and sometimes years in advance, which is why securing a venue should be the first task on your to-do list. However, do a fair amount of planning before visiting locations. Know how many guests you plan to invite, how you want to decorate the space, what type of food will be served, and the theme and colors of the event. This will make it easier to find a venue that can accommodate your needs and match the mood you want to create.

2. Don’t Neglect Other Wedding-Related Expenses

Before visiting venues, set a budget, and allocate funds to each aspect of the wedding. You should spend 50% or less on the event space, including deposits and other fees. When you reach out to wedding venues, only discuss your budget for the event space and ask for an itemized list of costs. The planners can create a package at your price point, ensuring you won’t accidentally overspend and run out of funds for other necessary expenses.

3. Ask About Contingency Plans

You can’t predict the weather months in advance, which means there could be rain in the forecast for the day of your outdoor wedding. Ask venues what backup plans are in place in case this happens. They should be able to tell you if there is an indoor space included with reserving an outdoor venue or if they have tents, heat lamps, and other equipment to keep your guests comfortable.

If you plan to get married in Clinton County, IL, Hidden Lake Winery offers the perfect location to hold a spectacular event. The winery is located in Aviston’s bucolic Silent Forest, a stunning setting for wedding photos. Guests can enjoy a selection of mouthwatering fare from the buffet menus while they mingle. The staff will also share wine pairing suggestions. To learn more about the wedding venue or to arrange a tour, call (618) 228-9111. You can also find reception venue details online and become a Facebook fan for event alerts.