You’ve got a few dates in mind for your wedding day, crunched the numbers on your estimated budget, and asked yourself the following question: One big party or intimate reception?

Now, guess what’s next? It’s time to begin researching wedding venues!

But how do you know if a venue is the one? Here are the top 6 things to look for before making your decision!

1. Location.

Photo credit: The Bold Americana — *Photo credit:* *The Bold Americana*

This is especially important if you’re planning on holding your ceremony and reception at two different locations. Not to mention, if you expect a good number of your guests to be coming in from out of town. Those things considered, you should factor in the ease of getting from one place to the next.

Is it out of the way for those traveling to and from their accommodations? Will guests have to jump on a major highway? And is there ample free parking nearby or even at the venue itself?

2. Compatibility with your vision.

Each venue offers something different. One might have a rustic feel with exposed wood beams and barn doors, while another provides a more traditional ambiance with large windows boasting views of the Kansas City skyline and a ballroom in the center of the room.

So when researching and taking tours of venues, keep your wedding day style and theme at the forefront of your mind. Non-removable decor such as walls, chairs, curtains, carpets don’t have to match your vision to a T. But they should enhance your theme, not clash with it.

3. Package inclusions.

Are you hoping for a venue that takes care of everything for you (aka full service)—from the catering to the table settings, and even the wedding cake? Or are you looking for a venue that offers the foundation (such as set up, tear down, and clean up of tables and chairs; bridal suite access), but also allows for more customization so you can piece together your dream vendor team? Either way, focus on the package inclusions as they tend to play a significant role in your overall investment and how your once-in-a-lifetime day comes together.

4. Limitations.

If you’re dead-set on a particular venue, take a closer look at the limitations that come with booking your wedding at the space. All sites have limitations—from the capacity to a preferred vs. recommended list of vendors, rental time (ex. definite end time), and more.

Therefore, you and your spouse must have honest conversations with one another. Talk about what you’re not budging on so you can stay true to yourself while not sacrificing too much for a venue that ultimately doesn’t suit your style.

5. Back-up plan.

If you’re going with an outdoor venue, while it’s not ideal to have to think about rain putting a damper on your ceremony and reception, there must be a back-up plan for whatever the weather decides to do.

That said, does the venue offer an outdoor and indoor space just in case? If so, the venue staff can work with you and your wedding planner to lay out alternative plans at least 30 days in advance. That way, you can rest assured knowing that everything will work out, and also that everyone is on the same page to do exactly that!

6. Kind staff.

You may think that this isn’t necessary, especially if the staff won’t be on-site during your big day. But your interactions with them during email and phone chats, as well as the tour, can tell you a lot. You can get a better feel for their level of professionalism, timeliness, organizational skills, and commitment to help make your dream wedding celebration a reality.

Ready to begin your search? Get in touch with the team at McKenzie Phillips Events - either by phone at 913-2070-9288 or email. Having worked at many wedding venues in the Kansas City area, we can help you narrow down your list to a space that works for you and share how to make it your very own!

6 Things to Look for When Choosing a Wedding Venue