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How To Pick a Wedding Venue

Are you recently engaged? Congratulations! The big day is now fast approaching and where do you even begin? 

In case you don’t already have a specific venue in mind, the options we have here in Kenya can be quite overwhelming when deciding on “the one”. 

We’ll make it a lot easier for you to narrow it down during your great quest by giving you a few things you can put into consideration.

Ask yourself these questions:

  1. Budget

 

 

Budget really is everything. This will be a huge consideration when it comes to picking your wedding venue. 

Don’t book a venue you can’t afford (we really do want what we can’t have) but stick within your budget to avoid post-wedding day stress. 

Don’t sabotage your honeymoon!

 

2. Size of the guest list

 

The number of guests you’ll be having greatly influences your wedding venue. 

A small and intimate venue would not be suited to your 300+ guest list! 

Be sure to factor in how big or small the venue is and if it’s suited to the number of guests you’ll be having.

 

3. Wedding date

 

The popularity of the season, unfortunately, creates a peak in demand and a hike in price. 

It is for that reason that you will have to start looking around at least 1 year ahead of time if you want to be certain of getting a specific date.

Remember, the early bird catches the worm.

 

4. Convenient location

 

Consider where you want to have your wedding and how far you’re able to drive between locations on your big day. 

Booking a location that is more than 2 hrs away from your church, for example, is utterly impractical. 

Not only will your guests find this an uncomfortable journey, but who wants to spend a large portion of their wedding day in a car?

Also, put into consideration how easily accessible the venue is. Are the access roads good? Is it safe? Is it easy to find?

Don’t lead your guests into abandoned tunnels and alleyways! 

 

5. Venue package

 

Venue packages differ enormously from one to the other. 

Find out whether these things are included – If not, then you are looking at added hiring costs:

  • Tables and Chairs to seat all your guests – do you like what they offer?
  • Crockery and Cutlery for all – have a look at the quality and make sure you are happy with what they offer.
  • Waiters and Bar Staff
  • Do they allow outside Caterers?
  • Can you bring your own food and drinks and if so, what is the corkage fee?

 

6. Are you having a church or outdoor ceremony?

 

Is the venue’s setting especially over the top? 

You may want to hold your ceremony outside to take advantage of the beautiful scenery.

Make sure to also have a backup plan in case the weather gods are not in your favor!

 

7. Is the venue compatible with your theme and color palette?

 

A gothic-style medieval castle would clash with your overall theme if you are a girly girl who has her heart set on a pink color scheme with lots of sparkles. 

You get the drift right?

 

8. What type of venue are you actually looking for?

 

What overall vision do you have in mind for your wedding? Is it a fairytale palace, a rustic barn, five-star luxury, or a family-friendly local lodge?

Determine just what you’re looking for so you can focus on the top contenders.

 

9. Does the venue have a good reputation?

 

What have you heard from others about the venue? 

Do your research by searching online, asking around, or consulting a wedding planner in your locale.

You’ll get a clear idea of what the place is known for as well as what it lacks.

 

10. Guest accommodation on-site or nearby

 

Check to see if there is adequate accommodation for your guests at the venue, or nearby accommodation if you’re having an out-of-town wedding. 

Are there also late-night transportation options for your guests? 

 

11. Does the hotel offer a special rate for your guests?

 

This will be a nice perk to offer your friends and loved ones seeing as they have traveled to celebrate with you and gifted you with a wonderful wedding present.

 

12. Is the venue child-friendly?

 

It’s important to keep the kids happy during the day (and by that we mean their parents, who deserve a well-deserved break!). 

Is there enough baby-changing space at the venue to make mom’s life easier? 

Is there a babysitting service or an evening kids club available to keep them entertained for a few hours?

 

13. Adequate parking space

 

Your guests will need to park their cars safely somewhere, near the venue might I add!

 

14. Adequate lighting inside the venue

 

A space that is gloomy, dreary, and devoid of windows can be uninviting.

Is there extra lighting provided if the natural light is dull?

 

15. Noise restrictions in the area that will affect your afterparty

 

It’s a good idea to inquire about any noise restrictions or time limits for your evening after-party. 

You don’t want the party shut down by angry neighbors after spending a few thousand shillings on the best DJ in town, you’ll want to make sure you get your money’s worth and that your guests enjoy the night.

 

How do you pick, and what do you consider when searching for a wedding venue? In case we missed out on something, let us know in the comments.

In case you or someone you know is looking for the perfect wedding photographer to capture their big day, you know Virtual Studios definitely does not disappoint.

Simply get in touch with us and we’ll be more than happy to capture your fairytale dream wedding.

Until next time, cheers!