WHERE DO I START?
Just remember- planning a wedding is not a sprint and it’s not a marathon…. It’s more like a nice long walk. With a little thoughtful pre-planning, you should have a great experience!
Before you begin to look for any vendors- sit down with your peeps and outline what you’re looking for. There are no right answers. Go with what speaks to you and your fiancé and families.
· A big wedding with lots of guests or an intimate affair. Think about how many guests you’d like.
· What type of wedding? Outdoor/Indoor? Art Gallery? Hotel Ballroom? Country Club? Barn? Winery?
· What day of the week and times? Is brunch your ideal party or would you prefer a traditional sit-down dinner on a Saturday night.
When you work out these questions- the whole process will be much smoother.
After you outline your ideal ceremony and reception- now it’s time to DIG IN with BUDGET!! UGH. I know. Thinking about money sucks. But it is a must. There are plenty of FREE Budget Planners out there that will do the work for you.
HOW MUCH SHOULD BRIDE AND GROOMS ALLOT FOR THE RECEPTION?
You put in your budget and it will separate how much couples will typically spend in that category. For example—your OVERALL reception costs should be about 50%-55% of your budget. This includes venue, beverages, food, rentals, etc. This doesn’t include décor or entertainment.
I have seen exhausted couples and parents touring venue after venue- eating up their entire weekend. Touring totally different styles of venues and places that they could not afford.
WHAT SHOULD B&G’S PUT IN THEIR INQUIRIES
Your Name / Your Fiance’s Name- They Count Too.
How to contact you. Email/Phone
The Date(s)
The Times
How many guests
The type of wedding- Give a little information
Why you’re asking about their venue.
When their sales team gives site visits.
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After you book the interview- don’t forget to let the tour guide know who is coming with you. Try to keep the group to immediate family and maybe key players.
WHAT ARE SOME QUESTIONS YOU SHOULD ASK ON THE TOUR THAT MOST PEOPLE DON’T THINK TO ASK
How many hours are included with the rental? When can my vendors/family arrive for set up?
Are there any décor restrictions?
How many parking spaces? How many handicapped?
Are you ADA Compliant?
How many restrooms do you offer? Take a look!
What is the deposit? What is the payment structure?
What about cancelling?
Tell me about your insurance.
