How to Choose the Perfect Wedding Venue

First and foremost, think about what type of wedding you want to have. Do you envision a rustic outdoor wedding, a whimsical forest function, or an elegant indoor soiree? West Virginia has a variety of venues to choose from, so you and your boo will need to think about the type of atmosphere you want for your big day and find a venue that fits that style.

Some venues offer more amenities than others. Make a list of what's important to you and look for venues that offer those amenities. Things such as a bridal suite, an on-site caterer, or a built-in sound system for your DJ. Hell, even a hot tub to soak in after the party is over can be one of your must-haves (I know it would be one of mine!). Don't be afraid to ask venues about what they offer and compare your options.

As a photographer, I am here to tell you that venue photos can be very deceiving. That's why it's important to schedule a visit to the venue before you make a final decision. Seeing it in person will give you a better idea of what it will be like on your wedding day. Pay attention to the details, such as the condition of the decor, lighting, and layout of the space. Don't be afraid to ask questions or take notes. And if an in-person tour isn't available, try to set up a video walk-through of the venue instead! While it won't have quite the same effect as an in-person visit would, you'll still be able to use this time to envision your own wedding day taking place, ask important questions, and gain a valuable sense of security and peace of mind that you wouldn't have if you book "blindly."

Think about the location of the venue and how easy it will be for your guests to get there. If most guests will be traveling to attend your wedding, is it close to major highways or airports? Are there nearby hotels for guests to stay in? Consider these factors when choosing a venue.

Make sure there is ample parking available for your guests. Consider the size of the venue and the number of guests you plan to invite when assessing parking options. If parking is a bit of a walk from the venue itself, many will provide additional transportation such as golf carts or charter buses, though those services may be limited to the guests with more limited mobility.

Make sure the venue you choose can accommodate the number of guests you plan to invite. You don't want your guests to feel cramped or uncomfortable. Before you start your venue search, create a rough estimate of how many guests you'll be inviting. This will help you narrow down your options. It's also important to be mindful of any disabilities or handicaps that your guests may have and whether the venue can accommodate them.

Some venues require you to use their in-house catering services, while others allow you to bring in your own caterer. If you have a specific caterer in mind, make sure the venue allows outside vendors. If not, consider the quality and reputation of the venue's catering services. Some locations may have few options due to the area of the venue as well.

West Virginia experiences all four seasons, so if you're getting married here, you'll need to think about what time of year you want to get married and make sure the venue is suitable for that season. For example, if you're getting married in the winter, make sure the venue has indoor space and heating to keep your guests warm.

Some venues offer separate spaces for the ceremony and reception, while others offer one large space for both. Think about what you want and make sure the venue can accommodate your needs.

The internet is a great resource for researching wedding venues. Look up reviews and photos of the venues you're considering. You can search them up on Google, Yelp, Facebook (both public posts and in local wedding groups), Reddit, and anywhere else you can think of to find reviews and ensure you're going to get what you pay for. Feel free to ask your wedding planner or photographer for recommendations as they may have worked at a venue of interest before and be able to offer valuable insight.