You just got engaged (cue the happy tears and celebratory drinks!) and you’re diving into the world of wedding planning. One of the first steps? Finding the perfect place to say “I do.”
Whether you’re dreaming of an intimate mountaintop elopement or a full-day celebration surrounded by all your favorite people, your venue sets the tone for your entire day.
Your wedding venue is not just a backdrop for pretty photos; it’s the space where all your dreams, people, and love come together. And while the thought of finding “the one” can feel overwhelming (I mean…have you seen how many options there are?), I’m here to help you sort through the chaos and choose the perfect wedding venue that feels true to your relationship, values, and vision.
Choosing the right wedding venue isn’t about what you’re supposed to do, it’s about what feels like you.
Choose a Venue That Aligns with Your Vision
Before you start touring venues or requesting pricing guides, let’s slow down and think for a second. Close your eyes – what does your dream wedding feel like?
Do you picture golden hour vows under the open sky? A cozy forest ceremony with string lights and a string quartet? Or maybe a modern space filled with natural textures and moody candlelight?
Your wedding venue sets the tone for your entire day, and your photos. So when you’re looking at potential venues, compare them with your vision board or Pinterest inspo. Does the space bring that vision to life? Does it feel right?
Don’t Forget Your wedding Budget
Let’s talk real life: your wedding budget matters. And your venue will likely take up a big chunk of it.
Most venues offer packages based on guest count and what’s included (tables, chairs, catering, etc.), so having a general idea of your budget before you tour can save you time and heartache.
Ask yourself:
- How many people do we really want to invite?
- Are we hiring outside vendors or using in-house services?
- What’s our max for venue spend while still having room for photography, attire, and all the other things we care about?
Sometimes the dreamiest venue isn’t the most expensive one, it’s the one that lets you focus on what matters most. Celebrating your marriage with the love of your life your way.
Know Your Guest List (Even If It’s Just the Two of You)
Guest count isn’t just a budget thing. It also helps determine what venues will actually work for your day. Some intimate wedding venues cap at 75 guests, others can host up to 300, but that doesn’t mean bigger is better. What kind of experience do you want for your guests (and yourself)?
Ask the venue:
- What’s the a comfortable guest count for the space?
- Is there room for a dance floor or lounge areas?
- How will the space feel with your specific number of guests?
And if you’re planning an elopement or micro-wedding, make sure the space fits that intimate vibe.
Take a Good Look at What’s Included at Each Wedding Venue
Not all venues are created equal, especially when it comes to what’s included. Some are all-inclusive, while others are more of a blank canvas that require you to bring in all your wedding vendors and rental tables.
Here are a few things to consider:
- Are tables, chairs, and linens included?
- Is there a bridal suite or getting-ready space?
- Do they provide catering, bar service, or day-of coordination?
- Are you allowed to hire your own photographer or do you need to use the venues preferred vendor list?
You’ll want to compare what’s included vs. what you’ll need to book separately. Sometimes an all-inclusive venue saves you stress, while other times DIY-ing your vendor team lets you curate your day exactly how you want.
Curious what a wedding photography package can add to your wedding venue budget? Here’s my wedding packages and pricing.
Consider Location & Accessibility
This one’s huge, especially if you’re planning a destination wedding or expecting out-of-town guests.
- Is the venue easy to find?
- Are there nearby hotels or Airbnbs?
- Are there enough parking spaces?
- Is it walkable for driveable for all your guests?
Also think about the experience for you and your guests.
- Will your 80-year-old grandma be able to comfortably make it to the ceremony space?
- Is there a plan B if it rains?
Think Beyond the Wedding Planning Checklist
At the end of the day, choosing the perfect wedding venue isn’t just about checking off amenities or comparing packages. It’s about the feeling you get when you walk through the doors—or the trees or the red rock canyon—and think:
“This is it. This is where we’re going to start our forever.”
Trust your gut. Ask the right questions. Imagine your day unfolding in the space. Picture yourself walking down the aisle, hearing your vows echo through the trees, dancing under the stars.
Your venue should feel like an extension of your love story—not just a space, but a place with meaning.
Still Deciding Between Two Wedding Venues?
I’ve been there. It’s normal to fall in love with more than one space.
If you’re stuck, go back to your why. Revisit your vision. Imagine waking up on your wedding day at each venue—what’s the vibe? Which one gives you butterflies?
And if you’re still unsure, talk it out with your planner or photographer (hey, that’s me!). I’ve seen what works (and what doesn’t) and can help guide you based on experience, lighting, and the kind of day you want to create.
Still searching for your dream venue? I’ve photographed weddings everywhere from Oregon’s secluded forests, a Colorado ceremony with 30mph winds, to Sedona’s bold red rocks, and I’d love to help you find the space that matches your adventure.
Looking for more wedding venue inspo?
Check out these other galleries and tips to start planning
Hey, I’m Kelcee!
I would love to be your wedding Photographer
I’ve been documenting weddings since 2021, and it’s my passion to help awesome couples like you remember the little moments that make your perfect wedding day.
Your wedding is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and you deserve the support to make it uniquely yours. Together, we’ll create quality memories that beautifully tell your love story, lasting a lifetime.