How to Choose the Perfect Venue for Your Destination Wedding
A destination wedding can be a dream come true! A beautiful setting surrounded by loved ones can make for an unforgettable experience. However, choosing the perfect venue for your destination wedding can be a daunting task. I understand exactly what you are going through, I just booked my own destination wedding venue! With so many options to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start. In this blog post, I'll give you some tips and tricks that I wished I had, to help you choose the perfect venue for your destination wedding.
Decide on Your Wedding Style and Theme
Before you start looking at venues, it's important to decide on the style and theme of your wedding. Are you looking for a rustic barn wedding, a beach wedding, or a formal affair in a grand ballroom? Your wedding style and theme will help guide you in choosing a venue that will suit your vision. Make sure to discuss this with your partner, so you are on the same page.
Consider Your Guest List
The size of your guest list will also have a big impact on your venue choice. If you are having a small, intimate wedding, a private villa, boutique hotel, or even a beach wedding may be the perfect choice. On the other hand, if you are inviting a large number of guests, you may need to look for a larger venue, such as a resort or a hotel/convention center.
Research Your Destination
If you have a specific destination in mind, it's important to research the area thoroughly. Look for venues that are well-regarded and have experience in hosting destination weddings. You should also consider factors like weather, local customs, and accessibility when choosing your venue. Make sure to choose a venue that is easy for your guests to reach and is in a safe and desirable location.
Review the Venue's Wedding Packages
Most venues that cater to destination weddings will offer wedding packages that include everything from the ceremony to the reception. Review these packages carefully to make sure they offer everything you need for your dream wedding. Be sure to ask questions about what is included, such as catering, décor, and entertainment, and what additional services are available to you, as well as ones you will need to procure on your own. Some venues require vendors to have a certain type of insurance, and if you source vendors elsewhere, you'll have to make sure to communicate this to them.
Take a Virtual Tour
It's not always possible to visit a venue in person, but many venues offer virtual tours that can give you a good idea of what to expect. These tours may include 360-degree views, videos, and photos of the venue. Take the time to explore the venue thoroughly and look for any details that might be important, such as the lighting, the sound system, and the layout of the space. Another type of "tour" you can get is to search Youtube and look up the name of your venue + Wedding Video to see what comes up. This will also help you get a good idea of what your photos and videos will end up looking like for the location/backgrounds.
Read Reviews and Ask for Referrals
Reading reviews from other couples who have had a destination wedding at the same venue can be a great way to learn about the experience. Look for reviews on the venue's website or on popular wedding planning sites like WeddingWire or The Knot. You can also ask for referrals from friends, family, your wedding planner, or any other vendor you book who may have experience with the venue, or know someone who has.
Schedule a Site Visit
If possible, it's always a good idea to schedule a site visit before making your final decision. This will give you the opportunity to see the venue in person, ask questions, and get a better sense of the atmosphere. You can also meet with the venue's wedding coordinator or event planner to discuss your vision and get their recommendations.
In conclusion, choosing the perfect venue for your destination wedding takes some careful planning and research. Start by deciding on your wedding style and theme, considering your guest list, and researching your destination thoroughly. Review the venue's wedding packages, take a virtual tour, read reviews, and ask for referrals. Finally, if possible, schedule a site visit to see the venue in person and get a better sense of the atmosphere. With these tips and tricks, you'll be well on your way to finding the perfect venue for your destination wedding! And if you need a referral for a photographer or videographer, just slide into my DM's and see if I'm available :)
