First off, congratulations on your engagement! Now it’s time to start planning for one of the most exciting times of your life. One of the most important decisions that you’ll have to make during the wedding planning process is choosing the perfect backdrop for your big day. To help you with this decision, here’s everything you need to know before booking a wedding venue.
Why the Venue Matters
Your wedding venue is more than just a backdrop; it’s where some of the best memories are made. Choosing the right venue will enhance the theme and the atmosphere that you have envisioned for your wedding. There are so many options to choose from within Northeast Ohio, from rustic barns to ballrooms, it’s important to figure out the “look” that best suits the two of you and your vision.
Key Considerations When Choosing a Wedding Venue
1. Budget
The first thing that you need to do is establish your budget. Venues can take up a significant amount of your budget, so it is important that you choose a space that won’t break your bank. Some things you should consider are what is included in the venue’s packages (catering décor, etc.) and any additional costs that may arise (like taxes and service charges). Here at The Hidden Abbey, we offer different level packages that are perfect for any couple.
2. Guest List
Knowing your guest list size will come in handy because it will greatly influence which venue you choose. Before you start visiting your potential venue choices, you should have a rough estimate of how many people you plan to invite. Knowing this number will help you find a venue that can comfortably accommodate your party without feeling cramped. Our venue is the perfect place for those looking to have approximately 100 guests. Our Sanctuary is the perfect backdrop for a intimate wedding. However, we can accommodate up to 180 guests using both of our levels. If you need some help figuring out your guest list, visit our on “How to Create Your Wedding Guest List in Northeast Ohio”.
3. Venue Style
How do you envision your wedding? Are you thinking about something more classic and traditional or something modern and chic? There are plenty of wedding venues in northeast Ohio that can accommodate any theme you may be thinking about. Many venues offer a variety of settings, here at The Hidden Abbey, we offer a beautiful outdoor space that can be used for a wedding ceremony or an outdoor cocktail hour. We also offer two unique spaces inside, our Sanctuary with vaulted ceilings is a beautiful place for your ceremony and reception and our Lower Level, that offers a cozy vibe, is another great spot for a cocktail hour. You can check out the beauty of our venue by viewing our Gallery!
4. Location
Consider the location of your venue in relation to where your guests are coming from. Is the location easily accessible? Are there nearby accommodations for out-of-town guests? The venue’s location can impact your guests’ ability to attend, so keep that convenience in mind. Some venues, like our venue, offer overnight accommodations. We have two overnight suites that allow up to 4-6 guests. We are also conveniently located within less than 10 miles from 6 hotels.
5. Availability
Popular wedding venues book up quickly, sometimes years in advance. Once you get your top choices, you will need to check their availability around your desired wedding date. Some venues have their available dates their website. We display our calendar on our website to allow potential clients to see if their preferred date is available. Flexibility may be needed if your desired date is already booked.
6. Services and Amenities
When searching for a venue, it’s important to find out what services and amenities the venue offers. Do they have in-house catering or preferred vendors? Are tables, chairs, and linens included? Knowing the types of services you want your venue to provide will help avoid any unexpected costs. At The Hidden Abbey, we offer a Preferred Vendor list and we list out available amenities that are offered in our packages.
7. Restrictions
Every venue has its own set of rules and restrictions. Some may pertain to the noise restrictions within their town/county or limits on alcohol consumption. Others may require you to use their vendors exclusively. We have a 5-hour limit for serving alcohol and the only vendor that we require is a certified (something like serv-safe) and insured bartenders. Understanding these restrictions upfront will help prevent any surprise issues later.
Questions to Ask During a Venue Tour
When you plan a tour at a venue on your list, it’s important to come prepared with questions. It’s a good thing to write down and bring with you. During our tours, we will most likely answer all of your questions during the tour, but we always encourage our couples to ask all their questions at the end of their tour. Here are some key ones to consider:
- What is the capacity of the venue?
- What is included in the rental fee?
- Are there any hidden costs?
- Can we bring in our own vendors?
- Are there any restrictions we should be aware of?
- Is there a contingency plan for bad weather (if considering an outdoor venue)?
- How many events do you host in one day?
- Is there a backup in case of power failure?
- What is your cancellation policy?
- Can we do a food tasting before the wedding?
- How Long will our vendors have to set up?
- Are there any vendors you don’t allow?
- Do you offer any planning tools that will be helpful?
- What types of décor do you include in the venue rental?
- Do you offer wedding planning services?
Also be sure to take note of the venue’s aesthetics, cleanliness, and overall atmosphere. Also pay attention to how responsive and accommodating the staff are as they play a crucial role in making your day run smoothly. Our staff at The Hidden Abbey, we take pride in providing great customer service. We want your special day to go off without a hitch!
After visiting venues and gathering all necessary information, compare your options based on what is most important to you and what each venue offers. When considering which venue you are going to pick, can you envision your wedding in the space? Can you see yourself celebrating your love with all of your family and friends?
Making your decision on where your wedding is to take place is a huge step in the wedding planning process. There is a lot to consider and it’s always best to start your search early. Remember, the perfect venue should not only be within your budget, but is should also be the space that you can create your wedding vision.
We would love for you to come and tour The Hidden Abbey to see what we have to offer. Click here to see our availability.
The Hidden Abbey Event Center is a locally owned and operated business. We sincerely hope to encourage couples to learn more about planning a wedding locally. We want to give a special thanks to some amazing wedding venues across the United States who inspire us and help support our venue. We are also thrilled to support other wedding venue owners from around the country with a shout out in each of our blogs. You can find locally owned wedding venues featured on this wedding venue map.
Great article! I really appreciate the clear and detailed insights you’ve provided on this topic. It’s always refreshing to read content that breaks things down so well, making it easy for readers to grasp even complex ideas. I also found the practical tips you’ve shared to be very helpful. Looking forward to more informative posts like this! Keep up the good work!