This last expo I went was fun.
I'm getting a hang on these I think. Or I'm not going in it as overwhelmed.
There wasn't much for me there. There were about 4 caterers and 2 bakers. A lot of videography and venues (where were they when I was looking! LOL).
I am looking at event planners but honestly I'm also looking at a lot of DIY options.
One major item has been checked of our list...THE VENUE!
The crazy thing about it was that we were suppose to view it in December but cut the day short because of unseasonable warm weather!
It is a state park, which means DIYing, which is making us happy. It means we are not tied down on any particular vendor and we can decorate as we wish.
Scott liked it right at first. It checked our boxes. We wanted a wooded/garden wedding next to water. The ceremony itself will be outdoors while the reception is inside. They provide table and chairs, a kitchen for use, and even an ice maker (which is a big deal when you're looking into venues, carters, and bartenders). He was happy. I was more cautious wanting to continue to look around but after two weeks I realized that since we saw it and got more in depth info I wasn't stressed!
Venue hunting on a budget has been stressful. Finding something we both agreed on, even more so (he is trying to be involved in the planning :)). But once I realized that I wasn't worried about looking anymore, I realized I had found my spot.
Also it helps that even though the wedding isn't until 2023. The staff has super helpful every time I called with questions. While they don't have a dedicated line for event rentals, any of the staff have been able to answer my questions without answers changing slightly in between people.
If you find yourself not being sure on something don't be afraid and give it some thought. For someone like me I'm not always 100% immediately. I'm a planner so I have to weigh the pro and cons. Once I did that I was happy and I asked my other half how he felt.
Now onto my next big items caterers, decor, and photography.
We have been going EVERY where looking for an affordable venue. The amount of phone calls and emails I've made and sent is staggering to think about.
I have learned many things in this search...
1. All-inclusive.
The word "all inclusive" should always be put inside quotations. I would even go as far as making rabbit ears when thinking this word. I have search through Georgia, Florida, and South Carolina extensively and only found ONE venue that was under 10k that was a true all inclusive.
2. Food and Beverage minimums suck!
These are how they get you! Some require you to go with particular outside caterers while still meeting the F&B. Are you getting a kickback somewhere?! If we have to use an outside caterer it shouldn't matter what the client is paying but that's just my thoughts on it.
3. NO potlucks.
ALOT of venues I talked with no longer allow you to have a family potluck. One venue did explain to me some of their experiences and why they put the policy in place. Basically not everyone knows how to set up a buffet without causing damages or cleaning up after themselves.
4. Caterers contracts.
No matter if you cater with you own venue, from a preferred list, or someone independent, what are you getting? A lot of caterers have their own set of rules but there can be some common ones. Like price increasing based off fair market price. There are a few options when working with this one.
The easiest would be if you budget $2000 then look for $1500. It will give the wiggle room to handle a sudden increase. Find one that will lock in the price (this is getting harder when dealing with companies that do nothing but cater).
Other things to look for is what are they charging you for staff -does it include service charge? What do they supply with with the food (warmers, plates, silverware, cups, ice, etc)?
5. Alcohol.
Some venues won't allow it, some require it, and others will leave it to choice. If you are thinking of doing alcohol, or if the venue is requiring it, then ask about their "cash bar" policy. Most have one that allows/requires alcohol but they don't advertise they have a cash bar policy because they would prefer for you to purchase one of their packages.
6. Traveling?
Depending on the areas you are looking at, if you plan on traveling get as much information as you can first. If a venue isn't willing to do a virtual tour or give you as much information as your asking for then maybe cross them off your list. It is rather disheartening when you go to a place and learn more about fees or price increases they were not willing to discuss with you over the phone.
7. Do you both feel equally about?
If you find a place that you like but your other half doesn't have much feelings towards than maybe that isn't the venue for you. This happening a few times with my other half and I...believe me it did cause a little tension. Be honest with each other. Talk about why your don't like it and what you do like. Put it on the possibility list and continue on.
8. Contracts.
Please read the contracts in depth while hunting and don't be afraid to ask more questions. If you get that answer that they would have to check with someone else and you like the venue set up a time to meet with that person. It's important to know about hidden fees, what exactly you are getting for that price, add ons, service charge, and fees.
9. ADA Access.
If you are having guests in wheelchairs -How many? This is important! Just because a venue is set up for one person in a wheelchairs doesn't mean it can handle 3 to 5. Also are you or your wedding party in a wheelchair? I have seen several places that have their venue set up for guests in wheelchairs but their bridal and groom's suite are not.
10. Closing.
Wedding planning can be fun but also very stressful. While it's important to have an idea what your vision is you should also leave room to wiggle for something you might not realize you and your partner like.
Our venue hunting has come to an end. But that was just one major important steps. I already have lists and plans growing now that we know where we will be hosting our wedding.
I'm not going to be done planning or driving my other half nuts with ideas and lists until I am going down that aisle.
Okay so health problems have rained down on us this year! :(
Most recently, we both recovered from COVID-19. I'm not going into the gory details but Covid sucks. I had it for three weeks and now am recovering.
