Congrats! Proposal – Check! Fabulous ring – Check! Venue – ??? 😬🤨🙃

Planning a wedding is an exciting and joyous time in one’s life. Point blank: it should be fun! It’s a chance to celebrate love and create memories that will last a lifetime. But before you get too far down the proverbial rabbit hole of wedding planning (get off Pinterest & Instagram just for now!), selecting the perfect venue is crucial – it sets the tone for the entire event and plays a very impactful part in design but also budget (ahhh the “B” word). As a luxury event planner, I understand the importance of finding the ideal wedding venue and would love to drop some (24k gold) nuggets with you.

When it comes to luxury event planning experience, research venues and ultimately select one that reflects YOU – your style, taste and personality. It should be a place that mirrors who you are and what you love and creates a sense of awe and wonder. Whether it’s a grand ballroom, a picturesque garden or a stunning beachfront location, the wedding venue should embody the your and provide a backdrop that enhances the overall ambiance of the event.

In addition to reflecting your style, the ideal wedding venue should also meet practical needs. Consider the number of guests you plan to invite and ensure that the venue can comfortably accommodate them. What we don’t want is tight quarters that make it difficult for guests to maneuver nor staff (i.e. let’s avoid Aunt Sue wearing spilled red wine because she got bumped). Take into account factors such as parking accommodations, accessibility for elderly or disabled guests, proximity to hotels for out-of-town guests and any other special requirements you may have. It’s essential to choose a venue that not only looks beautiful but also provides convenience and comfort for everyone in attendance because while it is very much about you, it’s about them too!

Factors to consider when choosing a wedding venue

Choosing the perfect wedding venue requires careful consideration of several key factors. First and foremost, you need to establish a budget. Luxury wedding planning can be costly – we all know it so we have to say it! – so it is critical to determine how much you are willing to spend on the venue. Keep in mind that high-end event design and exclusive event venues often come with a higher price tag, so be prepared to allocate a significant portion of your budget to the venue. On average your venue, catering & bar expenses are 35-45% of your overall budget (with the exclusion of the wedding planner fee).

Next, really consider where you want this celebration to take place. Do you want a destination wedding or local nuptials? If you opt for a destination wedding, consider the logistics involved in planning a wedding in a different city or country. Make sure to research local regulations and requirements, as well as the availability of accommodations and access for your guests. If you choose a local celebration, think about the accessibility and proximity of the venue to your guests’ homes or hotels.

Another crucial factor to consider is the capacity of the venue. Determine how many guests you plan to invite and ensure that the venue can comfortably accommodate them. It’s also essential to consider the layout and flow of the space. Does it have separate areas for the ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception? Is there enough room for a dance floor, stage and other entertainment options? Take these factors into account to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for you and your guests.

While it is still holding true post-COVID that there is a 20% attrition rate, outliers still occur so ensure you are creating a guest list that works with your venue of choice OR select a venue with some flexibility in the event more people accept your invite (because you are so loved).

Tips for finding exclusive event venues

Finding exclusive event venues for a luxury wedding requires a bit of research and creativity. Start by seeking recommendations from friends, family or other industry professionals. Word of mouth is often a reliable way to discover hidden gems and unique venues that may not be widely known. Additionally, consider hiring a wedding planner who has access to an extensive network of exclusive event venues. They can guide you through the selection process and help you find a venue that perfectly aligns with your vision.

When searching for exclusive event venues, don’t limit yourself to traditional wedding locations. Think outside the box and consider unconventional spaces that can be transformed into extraordinary wedding venues. Historic buildings, art galleries, private estates and even yachts can provide a one-of-a-kind experience for you and your guests. Also, curious about that wide open plot of land or vacant building in a nearby neighborhood or in the city? Don’t rule it out as a contender. Oftentimes, you need to do a little probing with city or borough officials and obtain a special events permit, but it can be done to create a one-of-a-kind celebration. Be open to exploring different options and be willing to invest in transforming the space to match your desired aesthetic.

Once you have a shortlist of potential venues, schedule site visits to get a firsthand experience of each location. Pay attention to the ambiance, natural lighting, acoustics, and overall atmosphere of the venue. Take note of any restrictions or limitations that may impact your wedding plans. Finally, trust your instincts. If a venue feels right and sparks joy, it’s likely the perfect choice for your luxury wedding.

So don’t stress too much! You got this 😉

xx,

Lex