Here are my top 10 venue options for a budget conscious couple that include some tried and true locations as well as some less well known or obvious ones.
Ultimately what you are looking for is a venue with an open space large enough to accommodate the number of guests you invite at a wedding using a format that you have decided upon.
However, I cannot stress enough that you have to look for spaces where you have backup options for bad weather. Most importantly you MUST love your weather back up plan, maybe not as much as your ideal location, but enough that you won’t feel a huge sense of loss or disappointment if weather interferes with your master plan.
Here goes:
1. A great restaurant with outdoor space or a view
Beware of these possible budget or dream busters: A too high minimum spend. Limited seating capacity. Cost of standard menu and beverage plans. Image Credit
2. Art Gallery
Beware of these possible budget or dream busters: You should ideally like the art but may not know what is intended on your wedding day until it’s almost there. You may have limitations on flowers, candles, lighting or even flash photography
3. Antiques Store
Beware of these possible budget or dream busters: You may have to work around store hours which leaves little time for set up. You may not have kitchen facilities for catering support. You may have to limit numbers. Image Source
4. Vacation Rental
Beware of these possible budget or dream busters: Minimum number of days rental which may be prohibitively expensive. If you are looking for outside space, you might only need it for one or two nights. Make sure you have a weather backup plan that won’t cost thousands extra. Image Source
5. Ski Lodge
Beware of these possible budget or dream busters: Off season times are best but make sure they have access to good staff. If you are looking to get married during the winter season, you’ll need to watch out for operating hours. Transportation of goods can prove challenging. Image Source
6. Theatre
Beware of these possible budget or dream busters: You might have to work around operating hours or show bookings. There may be limitations on what you can bring in and/or use such as candles. Support items like tables and chairs may need to be brought in. Image Source
7. Winery
Beware of these possible budget or dream busters: During high season your costs will escalate. You may have to book a minimum number of rooms if the winery also has accommodation. Watch out for the minimum spend and their specific alcohol regulations that may restrict beer or full service bar. Image Source
8. Community Center or Town Hall with Outdoor Space
Beware of these possible budget or dream busters: Make sure you like the backup plan if you are hoping to use the outdoor space. Does it have kitchen facilities and support items like tables, chairs, dishware, cutlery, etc. Image Source
9. Botanical Garden
Beware of these possible budget or dream busters: You may have to work around their operational hours. You may be facing limitations particularly if there is sensitive plant or animal life present. You should check if tables, chairs, etc are available. Find out the catering policies and facilities that are available. Image Source
10. Barn / Farm
Beware of these possible budget or dream busters: These locations have become immensely popular over the past number of years so availability may be an issue. Is there local accommodation available for guests? Check on the catering companies and facilities on site and make sure the washrooms are suitable for the number of guests. Image Source
I hope this has helped you open your mind to other possibilities.
Lori x
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