Just like when buying real estate, when planning the big day it's all about location, location, location. A wedding venue will influence the atmosphere, facilities, and memories of the wedding day. By comparing how venues measure up on some key points, engaged couples can select the perfect wedding venue for their taste and budget.

The Perfect Space

The perfect wedding venue starts with the perfect space. The surroundings should reflect the couple's tastes and personality. Do they love high-end luxury or feel more comfortable getting back to nature? Do they want to be close to the ocean or enjoy the quieter pace of the country? Thinking about places that bring them joy can steer couples in the right direction. Remember that the wedding venue will form the backdrop of the wedding photographs. What sort of setting will the couple want to look back on for years to come?

While choosing a venue that feels right is important, couples shouldn't forget about practical considerations. For example, they should consider how loved ones might get to the venue. Couples inviting people from out of town or overseas may want a venue close to airports and hotels. If their hearts are set on a remote location, they might prefer a venue with guest accommodations on-site. If they're inviting guests with mobility issues, accessibility becomes an important factor.

Event Planning

The pressure of wedding planning gets to most couples, with just 6% of people going through the process without stress, according to a 2023 study. With stress levels at an all-time high, it might seem like sleepless nights are par for the course. However, many wedding venues will happily manage the event planning so their clients can get back on an even keel. Couples who think that sounds like heaven might engage the services of a full-service wedding venue with an event planner on-site. These professionals have an in-depth knowledge of their facilities that can really benefit couples.

The venue should also offer as many services as the couple desires, as some planners only manage a couple of elements, like the venue, food, and drinks. Couples will work closely with the planner so it's important for them to find someone they feel comfortable with. A good planner will take time to get to know their clients and plan an event that reflects the couple's vision, rather than their own. Browsing through photos of past events and reading testimonials can help couples decide whether a venue and its event planner are the right fit.

Linens

Linens are cloth décor items, such as tablecloths, chair covers, napkins, and table runners. Some venues charge extra for the use of linens, so couples should ask what's included, and what isn't. They can then consider the extra costs and decide whether they fit into their budget.

Couples may be able to supply their own linens to save money and get exactly what they want. They might also decide to use minimal linens. While linens can elevate a venue with plastic chairs and basic tables, it'd be a shame to cover up gorgeous wooden tables and matching chairs in a farmhouse setting. For these venues, just the basics like napkins may be more appropriate.

Décor

Wedding décor is a catchall term for the items used to decorate the venue. Common décor includes signage and artworks, balloons, floral centerpieces, and fairy lights. Couples should keep an open mind when they view venues. While venues might not initially match their vision, the right décor can often transform a space. They could look online for photos from a venue's past weddings to gauge their true potential.

Every venue has its own rules which can govern décor choices like the use of candles and hanging décor. Couples should understand the venue's policies before they commit to ensure it'll suit their vision for the space. As with linens, couples should also check what décor, if any, the venue includes in the hire price to see if it suits their budget.

Audio & Visuals

Audio and visuals can enhance a wedding and make it feel more personal. Common audio options include having music piped through a PA system, getting a jukebox, or hiring a band. As for the visuals, couples might decide to project photos of precious moments together onto a screen or show video messages from guests who couldn't make the wedding.

If any of these options sound appealing, couples should make sure their preferred venue has the right audio and visual facilities to execute their vision. They'll also need to check if the venue is amenable to their plans. There'd be nothing worse than booking a band, only to discover on the big day that the venue doesn't allow live music.

Catering

Sharing good food and beverages with loved ones is arguably one of the most important parts of a wedding, so couples should consider the catering carefully when they're searching for their dream venue. Some venues allow clients to self-cater, which provides great flexibility, while others have in-house catering teams. This is a convenient option, but it's not always included in your hire fee. Many venues charge extra, so couples should check to know what they're paying for.

They should assess venue menus and see whether the venue offerings suit their tastes. Many venues are happy to be flexible, so if someone wants a special dish for their big day it doesn't hurt to ask. If the couple or their guests have any dietary requirements, they should mention these when making inquiries. No one wants to pay for a venue, only to discover that there's nothing their celiac uncle and vegan friend can eat. And if the couple's got their hearts set on cocktails, they'll need to verify the venue isn't limited to serving wine, champagne, and beer.

Enjoy the Wedding of Your Dreams at CrystalView

Couples will find everything they need for their event under one roof at CrystalView. The experienced team at this beautiful Fairfax venue can take care of all the arrangements to make the leadup to any couple's special day stress-free. Their expert team will work with couples to ensure their wedding is exactly as they've always pictured it. Interested couples can contact the venue online or call (703) 218-4444 to learn more about weddings at CrystalView.