The Perfect Wedding Venue Guide: Comprehensive Resource for Making an Informed Decision
Location selection for your wedding is one of the key decisions that will shape everything else, from your guest list and décor to the food, drink and feel of the day. Here is a practical guide to choosing the right venue.
Book early for the best choice
Pick a venue early to control cost and to plan for the time you need. Popular venues are often booked a year or more in advance for summer Saturdays. Compare the price for a peak and off-peak date. Prices for Fridays, Sundays and winter dates are generally lower than for a summer Saturday. Consider also hidden costs – table linen, extra chairs, late licences, cleaning fees etc.
Consider the season
The most expensive time to get married is in the summer, when most people have their weddings. However, venues in other seasons can be cost-effective and offer a different atmosphere, from blossom and long evenings to candlelight and log fires. Consider the weather and how your chosen venue will cope if it does get wet.
Check the practical essentials
- Capacity for your ceremony, meal and evening guests.
- Whether the venue is licensed for ceremonies, or whether you will marry elsewhere.
- Guest accommodation on site or nearby.
- Space for a dance floor and good spots for photographs.
- Transport links, parking and accessibility for all guests.
- Heating, cooling, power supply and audio-visual equipment.
Food and drink
Food is often a highlight of the special day. Will your chosen venue provide in-house catering, offer a choice of approved external caterers or even allow you to bring your own? Find out what’s included in the wedding breakfast, the main meal after the ceremony, and whether they will allow a tasting prior to your final decision. Although many venues now offer a formal three-course meal for their guests, many couples are opting for a more shared style of dining such as sharing platters, family-style dining or even food stations, providing a more relaxed and informal meal for all.
Check out how a venue can cater for special dietary requirements as well as allergies. Find out about the drinks packages that a venue can offer and check if there is any corkage charged if you bring your own wine. Also check out what evening food a venue can offer (such as a hog roast, pizza oven or even a cheese table).
Style and atmosphere
Choose a venue that matches your vision, whether that is a country house, a modern city space, a rustic barn, a garden or the coast. For a Barn Wedding Venue Kent, visit theploughatleigh.com/barn-wedding-venue-kent/
See how you feel when you visit the venue and look around. Are the staff professional, helpful and flexible? Can you see your guests having a good time there?
Questions to ask before you book
| Question | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Is it exclusive use? | Avoids sharing the venue with other events |
| What is the wet-weather plan? | Essential for outdoor ceremonies and photos |
| Are there noise or finish-time restrictions? | Affects music and the evening party |
| What are set-up and clear-down times? | Affects suppliers and decoration |
| What exactly is included in the price? | Avoids surprise costs later |
| What insurance is needed? | Some venues require suppliers or couples to have cover |
Value for money
Your venue should reflect your style while offering practical solutions for your celebration. Ask detailed questions, get everything in writing and picture how the day would flow in each space before you make your decision.
Frequently asked questions
How far in advance should you book a wedding venue?
Many couples book 12-18 months in advance, particularly for popular venues and for summer dates. However, if you are flexible with the date or day of the week then it is possible to book at shorter notice.
Should I choose a venue with in-house catering?
In-house catering is convenient because the team knows the kitchen and the venue well. External caterers can offer more choice or a particular style of food. Ask about tastings, menu flexibility and total costs for both before deciding.
Where to go next
Once the venue is booked, read our advice on best man etiquette and choosing a best man.
