Beyond the Guest Count: A Photographer's Guide to Picking a Wedding Venue
So, you've said "yes", and now the adventure of planning your wedding begins. One of the most important decisions you'll make is choosing the perfect venue. But with so many options out there, how do you narrow it down?
As a wedding photographer that’s starting my 18th wedding season, I've seen it all with wedding venues. Here's my insider guide to finding your dream venue in Ann Arbor:
Know Your Style: Before you start your venue search, take some time to envision your dream wedding venue. Are you dreaming of a rustic barn wedding (The Valley), a romantic, intimate wine cellar (Vinology), or modern hotel soiree (The Graduate)? Knowing your style will help you narrow down your options and focus on venues that align with your vision. Also, be aware of the type of photographs you want from your wedding- If your venue is dark and has no windows, are you okay with the fact that your photographer will need to use flash? Or would you prefer a venue that’s more light and airy? The vibe of the venue will be all over your wedding gallery, so make sure you’re okay with it!
Consider Practicalities: While aesthetics are important, don't forget about the practicalities. Think about the size of your guest list, your budget, and any special requirements you may have. Are you looking for a venue that offers inclusive packages, or do you prefer to customize every detail (meaning you bring in a lot of your own vendors)? Consider factors like location, accessibility, and whether the venue has a solid rain plan for outdoor ceremonies – trust me, it's worth it!
Location, Location, Location: Is this venue anywhere near you, family, friends, etc. if this isn’t really a “destination wedding”? Or close to where you would like to go for your wedding portraits? If you have out of town guests (and you actually want them to be there), is this venue easily accessible with hotels nearby? Factor in travel time when you’re making your decision. Your guests will not be happy if they have to travel long distances between locations on the wedding day.
Listen to Your Gut: When you step foot into the right venue, you'll maybe know it. Pay attention to how you feel when you walk through the doors – does it feel like home? Can you envision yourselves exchanging vows in that space? Trust yourself, and choose a venue that inspires you. Planning the decor and details of this should be fun, afterall.
Do Your Homework: Once you've narrowed down your options, it's time to do some research. Read reviews, visit in person, and ask plenty of questions. Pay close attention to the venue's policies, such as their cancellation and refund policies (thanks, Covid!), as well as any additional fees or restrictions. Some venues only allow preferred vendors, for example. And don't forget to inquire about their availability – popular venues book up fast, so it's best to start your search early. It’s not uncommon for venues to open their books 2-3 years in advance.
If you’re planning last minute (3-6 months, for example), you may be able to get a slight deal or some bonus add-ons when booking your venue, especially if you’re open to booking a Friday, Sunday or weekday. It doesn’t hurt to ask!
Stay True to Yourselves: At the end of the day, your wedding day should be a reflection of who you are as a couple. Don't feel pressured to choose a venue that doesn't feel right for you just because it's trendy, or because your parents suggested it. This is your day! Trust your instincts, stay true to yourselves, and choose a venue that feels like the perfect fit.
As you embark on your journey to find the perfect venue, remember that the most important thing is to book a venue you’re excited about.
Happy venue hunting!
