Wedding Planning 101: Venues
choosing the perfect venue for your wedding
We’re back with more wedding planning tips, and this week it’s all about location! Choosing the right venue is one of the most important decisions you’ll make in your wedding planning journey—it sets the tone for your entire celebration. If you’ve already established your wedding vision, you’re well on your way! If you haven’t yet defined your vision, take a step back before committing to a space to ensure it reflects the wedding of your dreams.
Your venue should not only match your aesthetic but also align with your budget. Hidden costs can quickly add up, so understanding all fees upfront is essential. Still a little stressed out about the budget? No need to worry. Before reading on, take a peek at our Wedding Planning 101 blog on budgets!
touring wedding venues: what you need to know
When touring potential Twin Cities wedding venues, asking the right questions is crucial. Beyond the basics of rental fees and food and beverage minimums, dive deeper into the details that could impact your overall experience and budget.
Capacity is a common area of confusion. Many venues list maximum capacities based on tight table arrangements and no additional space for a dance floor without removing tables. Always request sample floor plans to ensure your guest count fits comfortably without feeling cramped and be sure that there are only 8 guests at a 60” round table and 10 at a 72” round table.
Catering and bar services can either be provided in-house or through outside vendors. It’s important to understand how this impacts your overall costs and vision for food and beverage service. Does the venue provide a list of preferred caterers at various price ranges to meet your needs? Are there options for the bar, such as paying on consumption, capping at a dollar amount, and butler-passing your favorite signature cocktails?
Additionally, ask for a sample BEO, or Banquet Event Order, which breaks down every cost associated with the venue. This is essential before signing a contract, as it prevents unexpected fees from creeping in later. Other important questions to consider include:
Does the venue provide tables, chairs, and lounge furniture, or are those extra? Do you like the chairs, or do you plan to rent?
Are there bartender fees or bar set-up costs?
Will you need to rent a dance floor?
What are the parking options for guests?
Is security required and is it an additional cost?
By getting clear answers to these questions, you’ll ensure that your venue choice aligns with your budget and vision without any last-minute surprises.
want more assistance?
At Style-Architects Weddings, we bring decades of experience planning stunning, seamless weddings throughout the Twin Cities. We have strong relationships with the best venues and vendors in Minnesota, ensuring that every couple we work with gets access to top-tier services and exclusive insights. We’re experts in helping couples choose the perfect venue that aligns with their style, budget, and desired guest experience. If you want specific venue recommendations, check out Twin Cities Wedding Guide: Part 1.
Ready to get started? Reach out to us today—we’d love to help you plan the perfect wedding celebration!