How to choose the perfect wedding venue

Securing the perfect wedding venue can feel daunting as there are so many options to choose from. The first thing to consider when booking a venue is of course availability.

Many venues nowadays have online calendars which you can look at when you want to make a booking. But before booking the date, you need to ask what the deposit is, when it is due, if it is refundable and if there are any discounts being offered on the venue booking. Everything will fall into place once you have found the perfect venue.

Sune Oosthuizen Steenkamp, Manager at Rustig shares her top tips for picking the perfect venue for your wedding:

1. Choose a venue that aligns with your authenticity and vision

It is important to make sure that you pick a venue that fits the vision you have in mind. Does the co-ordinator ‘get’ you?

The venue should make it easy to turn the vision that you have for your wedding into reality. You will also need to check if the venue is naturally beautiful or if it requires additional decor to make it fit the look you’re going for.

The venue needs to fit in well with the vision and aesthetic that you have in mind. Picking a venue that enhances and goes well with the theme you have in mind will help create your dream wedding and will save costs as you won’t need excessive decor.

2. Consider the full guest experience

Picking a venue that is the right size for your guests is also important. You need to pay attention to the capacity of any venue you’re viewing before you even look at it. There is no point in falling in love with a venue only to discover that it doesn’t have the capacity you need.

Find out if the layout fits your needs. If you’re having your reception and wedding ceremony at the same venue, is there enough space for both of the events?

Check if the venue provides accommodation. Some of your guests might be travelling from far and may like to have the option of staying overnight. Adequate parking for your guests is another important factor to consider

Another important thing to consider when it comes to guests is if the venue is handicap accessible for guests with mobility issues.

3. Know what the full venue offering is

While some venues will provide tables and chairs in with the venue hire for example – there may be extra costs involved when it comes to items like cutlery, table cloths, decoration, plates, glasses as well as the dance floor. Other venues might have catering restrictions.

If the idea of finding the perfect venue, rental company and caterer stresses you out then you might want to choose a full service option.

When it comes to outdoor weddings, be sure to ask if there are any facilities provided in the quoted venue rate in case it gets too hot or starts raining.

Find out if the venue provides alcohol as some venues don’t allow you to bring your own alcohol. Permits are normally required and without one – you won’t be able to serve alcohol at your wedding. In cases where you need to bring your own alcohol, some venues will require you to source your own permit.

Ask about the wedding liability insurance as some venues will ask you to have this in case of any alcohol related accidents, injuries or any damage to the property.

Another thing to consider is a cancellation fee in case of unpredicted illness. The last thing you need is a surprise bill after your wedding day!

You need to know that the venue you choose buys into your vision and is willing to go beyond their call of duty to make your dream wedding a reality.

Make sure that you pay attention to the venue as a whole. Look at everything – even the kitchen area, lighting, restrooms and the foyer to see that everything is up to scratch.

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