Location, Location, Location.
When looking for the perfect location for your wedding, there are 7 key aspects to consider.
1. Is it big enough? Can this venue accommodate the number of guests you are expecting? Or, are you going to have to squeeze everyone into the space? If it's borderline, you are already adding stress to yourself, so make sure that the space fits your guest list!
2. Do you love the look and atmosphere? If there are too many aspects that you want to change about the venue because of unsightly carpeting, or dated décor, then this might not be the best choice for your wedding. If you're talking yourself into your venue, it's probably not a good "fit" for your desires.
3. Is there ample parking or transportation options? If the place is perfect otherwise, but your guests cannot easily get into your venue, this could be an absolute nightmare for you! Some venues overcome their potential parking issues by having creative transportation services. Explore these options and ask questions to find out if this works for you and your guests.
4. What are the total charges you should expect? Is everything in black and white, written out on your contract in front of you? Or, do you need to read between the lines? When in doubt, ASK. I would like to know all of the potential charges to expect, or even better...ask for past wedding invoices that reflect similar services that you want. They can "black out" the clients' personal information and just give you the numbers. This will give you a VERY good indication of what to expect.
5. Are they giving you enough time for setup and breakdown for your wedding? If a venue only gives you 5 hours total for your wedding, that's not nearly enough time. Don't just consider the amount of time needed for your party. Also include the amount of time needed for setup (usually 2 hours or more depending on your wishes on either side of the event is needed).
6. Are you allowed to bring in your own caterer, or do they have someone in-house? Is alcohol purchased through the facility and served by their staff, or can you purchase the alcohol and have them serve this? All of these answers will determine the price tag for your wedding, PLUS you want to make sure that you love the in-house company's products and services! Know all of their policies.
7. If you are considering an outdoor ceremony or reception, does this facility offer "Plan B" options? You definitely cannot control the weather leading up to or own your wedding day, so it's imperative to have contingency plans in place. Some facilities do not offer this at all, so it's best to know now than to have a surprise the week of your wedding. Don't assume anything!
Your Fab Bride Assignment:
The more questions you ask, the more prepared you will be. When in doubt, ask, ask, ask, and ask again. As always, it's YOUR wedding AND your responsibility to get the info you need!
© 2008 Soirée! Ltd./Natalie Bradley Events
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Wedding and Event Planner Natalie Bradley publishes the "Fabulous Planning" weekly e-zine. If you're ready to take your wedding from Mediocre to Fabulous, get your F*REE report and tips now at www.NatalieBradley.com.
About the Author:
For years, Natalie Bradley has planned and designed hundreds of weddings and other social events. After rapidly creating a 6-figure wedding planning company and having a full wedding planning practice, Natalie developed a proven, step-by-step system to teach others the keys to being a truly successful wedding professional. As the CEO and Bride Attraction Expert for Soirée!, Ltd., Natalie helps wedding professional entrepreneurs create not only a profitable business, but one that creates wealth, abundance and joy in their lives. Natalie believes that success and freedom must go hand-in-hand! Natalie Bradley has been featured throughout the media, including Inside Weddings, Modern Bride Atlanta, The Knot Georgia, Lake Oconee Living, Weddings with Style, Brides.com Blog, Southern Distinction, Georgia Living TV and Holiday Home. At www.BrideAttraction.com, Natalie shares free resources, articles and strategies for wedding professionals to propel their businesses and lives to true success.
Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - Location, Location, Location.