Over the past couple of weeks, I have toured quite a few local venues and the rest of the month is brimming with even more. This last week I had the pleasure of touring two very distinct venues, Keswick Vineyards and The Bradbury. These two spaces represent the full spectrum of offerings in and around Charlottesville, and my visits have got me thinking. How do you go about picking a setting for your wedding, especially in an area saturated with venues? I have broken down five essential considerations when choosing the locale for your nuptials.

1. Talking the talk: Speaking with your planner
2. Vision Casting: Aligning your venue with your vision
3. Guest list. Guest list. Guest list.
4. Money, money, money: Budget and inclusion
5. Experience

Talking the Talk: Speaking with your Planner

If you can swing it, book and talk to a planner before your start looking at locations. We have dozens of events under our belt. Why not use our expertise to your advantage when choosing the perfect space for your wedding? Chances are we know more about the venue than a brochure and salesperson.

Vision Casting: Aligning your Venue with your Vision

What is your aesthetic? What ambience do you want to surround your guests with? Answer these questions before you pick a spot to host your day. Stick to your vision when searching for your venue. The plethora of options in Charlottesville has advantages–there is a perfect place for you. Keswick Vineyards is perfect for the bride looking for a gentrified outdoor affair. And The Bradbury offers art deco architecture with eclectic modern art. The stars will align. The angels will sing. You will find what you’re looking for.

Guest List. Guest List. Guest List.

The perfect place also needs to accommodate your perfect guest list. Knowing how many people you plan on inviting before you start looking will save you major disappointment. You don’t want to fall in love with a venue, only to find out you need to halve your guest list. That being said, you might discover your second cousin once removed can see the pictures on social later.

Money, Money, Money: Budget and Inclusion

This consideration goes beyond what the venue will cost you. Knowing your total budget is essential, so you know where to save and where to splurge. It is wise to consider what is included in your venue package and weigh that with the conveniences some pricier venues offer. The Bradbury for example has a permanent bar and houses Harvest Moon Catering on sight. Every email to the venue also goes directly to the caterer. Less stress and less headache may be worth a little splurge. Decide where you want your money and stick to your guns. Remember, we want to avoid heartache during the planning process.

Experience

Consider the venue from your guests’ perspective. How close is it to the hotel you have blocked? Does the venue partner with a transportation company if it’s a ways out. Take into account the experience within the venue. Sure the venue technically fits your guest count, but is there space to breath.

Keep this list handy as you begin scrolling the pages of google looking for the perfect spot with the best light. You will find it, and LD Events Co. is only a click away, if you need us.

Links:

https://lemondropeventsco.com/contact

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