Choosing the perfect wedding venue is one of the most significant decisions you’ll make during your wedding planning journey. The venue sets the tone for your entire day and influences many other aspects of your celebration, from the number of guests to the style of your decorations. To help you find your dream location, we’ve compiled a list of essential tips and considerations, questions to ask potential venues, and a highlight of some unique and unusual venue options. As a Columbus, Ohio wedding photographer for the past 12 years I can attest to how important the following considerations are!

Tips on What to Consider

1. Location:

• Proximity to Guests: Consider the convenience of the venue for the majority of your guests. If you have a lot of out-of-towners, choosing a venue near a hotel or with accommodations on-site can be beneficial.
• Travel and Transportation: Evaluate the accessibility of the venue. Is there ample parking, or will you need to arrange transportation for your guests?
• Destination Weddings: If you’re considering a destination wedding, think about the travel logistics for you and your guests. Make sure there are enough activities and amenities in the area to keep your guests entertained.

2. Size

• Guest List: Have a rough idea of your guest list size before you start looking at venues. Ensure the venue can comfortably accommodate your guests without feeling too cramped or too empty.
• Event Spaces: Check if the venue offers multiple event spaces, such as separate areas for the ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception.

3. Style:

• Aesthetic and Theme: Choose a venue that matches your wedding style and theme. Whether it’s a rustic barn, a glamorous ballroom, a beachfront location, or a chic urban loft, the venue should reflect your personal style.
• Decor Flexibility: Some venues come with their own decor and restrictions. Ensure you have the flexibility to personalize the space to your liking.

Questions to Ask Potential Venues

1. Availability:

• Is the venue available on your preferred date(s)?
• Are there any other events scheduled for that day?

2. Capacity:

• What is the maximum capacity for a seated dinner versus a cocktail-style reception?
• Is there a minimum guest count requirement?

3. Cost and Inclusions:

• What is the total cost, and what does it include (e.g., tables, chairs, linens, setup, and teardown)?
• Are there additional fees for things like overtime, service charges, or corkage fees?

4. Vendor Policies:

• Does the venue have a list of preferred or exclusive vendors?
• Can you bring in your own vendors, or is there a fee for doing so?

5. Logistics:

• What is the plan for inclement weather if you’re having an outdoor wedding?
• Is there a dedicated space for getting ready?
• What are the parking arrangements?

6. Accommodations and Amenities:

• Does the venue provide on-site accommodations, or are there nearby options for guests?
• Are there any restrictions, such as noise ordinances or decor limitations?

Highlighting Unique and Unusual Venues

**1. *Historic Mansions and Castles:*

• Ideal for fairy-tale weddings, these venues offer grandeur and a sense of history. Look for places like the Oheka Castle in New York or the Biltmore Estate in North Carolina.

**2. *Botanical Gardens and Conservatories:*

• Perfect for nature lovers, these venues provide a lush, green backdrop year-round. The New York Botanical Garden and the Garfield Park Conservatory in Chicago are stunning options.

**3. *Industrial Warehouses and Loft Spaces:*

• For a modern, urban vibe, consider repurposed industrial spaces. These venues offer a blank canvas for your creativity. Check out the Foundry in Long Island City, NY, or the Millwick in Los Angeles.

**4. *Museums and Art Galleries:*

• These venues offer a unique cultural experience, surrounded by art and history. The American Museum of Natural History in New York and the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art are fantastic choices.

**5. *Vineyards and Wineries:*

• Perfect for a romantic, rustic wedding, vineyards offer beautiful scenery and the bonus of on-site wine. Explore options like Napa Valley in California or the Willamette Valley in Oregon.

**6. *Beaches and Coastal Venues:*

• For a laid-back, scenic wedding, beach venues provide a stunning natural backdrop. Consider locations like the Outer Banks in North Carolina or Maui in Hawaii.

Choosing the perfect wedding venue is a significant step in bringing your wedding vision to life. By considering location, size, and style, asking the right questions, and exploring unique venue options, you can find the ideal setting for your special day. Happy planning!

Caroline Stiers is a Columbus, Ohio wedding photographer, NYC wedding photographer and destination wedding photographer specializing in curating a joyful experience while delivering candid, romantic, emotional imagery with an editorial flare.