How Far in Advance to Book a Wedding Venue
You've finally found the one, and your happily ever after is just around the corner. Each couple is unique, but it's best to book a wedding venue early — at least a year in advance if possible. Doing so gives you peace of mind, plenty of time to plan and a greater chance at snagging that picture-perfect setting.
Should I Pick a Date Before Talking to a Venue?
Whether you choose a date or a venue first depends on what you value more and how much flexibility you want to offer. If possible, try focusing on where instead of when. You'll learn more about each other and get to find a spot that both of you love for your ceremony. Instead of a single date, choose several to make booking more manageable and increase your chances of finding a wedding venue that reflects who you are.
Your wedding is an excellent chance to showcase your personality as a pair, and your decisions should showcase that. If you have your heart set on a date, start your venue search as soon as possible to ensure you get it. However, note that a specific timeframe may impact your options.
Common Wedding Venue Mistakes
Wedding planning is a rewarding and challenging experience. How do you make the process smoother? Here are seven common pitfalls to look for when finding a wedding venue.
1. Procrastination
Your start date can vary depending on your needs and preferences, but beginning your search early makes planning easier. Procrastinating affects your venue choices, the number of people you can invite and other crucial parts of your special day. Get a headstart if you can, especially if you want to:
Get married during peak seasons, like during the summer.
Host your wedding on a specific date or a common wedding day like Saturday.
Achieve a particular setting or vision.
2. Reaching out Too Early
You'll want a timeframe and location that's just right for your wedding. Check how far in advance you can reserve a venue and any cancellation policies. You can also sit down with your partner and discuss what's important to both of you. If you want to enjoy your engagement and save money in the meantime, take your time researching and touring. If you're certain about your venue choice, book away!
3. Spending Too Much on One Vendor
From catering to photography, many pieces make up your dream wedding. Establish a budget and seek out all-inclusive venues with all the features you want in one convenient location. Investing in one of these locations ensures you have everything you need and makes it easier to focus on the big picture — creating a storybook marriage!
4. Under-Communicating
Planning a wedding is a significant commitment, and you want to achieve quality, polished results. That's why it's important to make your needs and expectations clear to your partner and vendors. Hire someone who communicates clearly and promptly. They'll make the planning process quicker while ensuring your celebration is everything you imagine it to be.
5. Not Having a Backup Plan
You might have to take a detour on the path to your happily ever after, and that's okay! If you're hosting an outdoor event, consider brainstorming a list of backup options, such as a tented reception, to accommodate inclement weather. A backup plan offers peace of mind and lets you host your wedding rain or shine.
6. Taking on Too Much
There's nothing like a job well done, especially if you complete it yourself. However, a helping hand can improve your experience. Hire a professional wedding planner to receive valuable insight before making major choices or deposits. They'll work with you to get the services you want, cover all your bases and answer your questions and concerns.
7. Not Enjoying Yourself
Wedding planning is a special time for both of you — have fun with it! From cake tasting to venue touring, be sure to cherish each moment that brings you closer. You'll enjoy looking back on your journey once the big day arrives.
Download Our Wedding Planning Guide to Answer All Your Questions
At Baywood Weddings, we know that every detail counts. That's why we offer everything you need to plan your fairytale wedding. From budgeting to finding a venue, our guide simplifies the entire planning process. You can count on us to help you coordinate your special day from start to finish.
Ready to get started? Download the guide here!