What to ask a venue owner when debating venues!
If you’ve recently got engaged and are deep in the ‘what kind of wedding do you want?’ phase, we’re hear to help! This week on our podcast, we had the lovely Jenny from Swanly Meadows on to talk all things involved in being a venue owner, as well as giving us the run down on what a Tipi wedding looks like!
Picking a venue is one of the fist big decisions you’ll make and it affects almost every other part of you wedding, your date, the budget, the guest list, the vibe! No pressure right?
Start with how you want your day to feel
Before looking at locations, Pinterest boards, or instagram reels, take a moment to talk about the feeling you want.
Ask yourself, do we want something relaxed or formal? Intimate or big celebration? Traditional or a bit different? More party, more romance, or a mix of both? When you focus on feeling instead of aesthetics, choices become much clearer.
Be honest about your guests list
Your venue and guest number sneed to work together, not fight each other. Some key things to consider include setting a realistic maximum guest count, whether you want a full day our evening only celebration, space for dancing,, mingling, seating! A venue that’s too big can feel empty. One that’s too small can feel stressful. The right fit should feel comfortable, not cramped.
Decide what you want included
Venues vary hugely on what they offer, suits important to know what you want help with. Some venues include the tables, chairs lines, catering and bar services along with post he day coordination and decor or styling elements. Others are more blank canvas’ giving you full creative freedom. Neither is better, it just depends whether you want support or flexibility.
Set a venue budget (and stick to it)
Your venue will likely be one of your biggest wedding expenses, so decide early you total wedding budget, what you are comfortable allocating to the venue and also ask what’s included at that cost! Getting the full breakdown avoids any surprises later down the line.
Think about location & Logistics
A beautiful venue is great, a practical one is even better. Consider the travel time for guests , on site accommodation or nearby hotel options, parking and accessibility as well as they key for English weddings… a weather back up plan! A venue that works logistically will make your day smoother for everyone.
Trust how the venue makes you feel
This part matters more than people realise. When you visit a venue make sure you are asking yourselves:
Can we imagine getting married here?
Does it feel like us?
Are we excited or just ticking boxes?
Often, couples will know very quickly when a venue is right, even if they can’t explain why!
Ask the right questions
Don’t be afraid to ask:
What’s included in the hire?
Are their supplier restrictions?
How flexible is your timeline?
What happens if the weather changes?
Who will be our point of contact?
Good venues will welcome these questions, and it also shows to them that you’re taking the decision seriously.
Don’t let trends decide for you
This is so important! Trends come and go but your venue should reflect you! Not what’s popular right now. If it fits your style, budget and guest experience, it’s the right choice regardless of what’s trending online!
Choosing your venue isn’t about finding the best one out there its finding one that’s best for you! Take your time, trust your instincts, and remember… once you’ve chosen your venue, eveyrhtign else will start to fall into place.
That’s when wedding planning gets really fun <3
Love from
Totally Absolutely Engaged x