Planning your wedding and not sure where to start with venues? Our comprehensive guide covers everything from budgeting to touring, with the essential questions you need to ask every venue.
Your Complete Guide to Choosing the Perfect Venue
Choosing your wedding venue is often the first major decision you'll make as an engaged couple – and it's one of the most important. Your venue sets the tone for your entire day, influences your budget, and creates the backdrop for memories that will last a lifetime.
Here's our step-by-step guide to finding the perfect venue for your celebration.
Step 1: Define Your Vision
Before you start searching, take time to discuss what you both want from your wedding day.
Questions to ask each other:
- What atmosphere do we want to create? (Formal, relaxed, romantic, fun?)
- Do we prefer indoor or outdoor ceremonies?
- How important is the aesthetic and décor potential?
- What season are we thinking of getting married?
- How many guests do we want to invite?
Create a non-negotiable list:
Identify your must-haves versus nice-to-haves. This will help you quickly filter venues that don't meet your essential criteria.
Step 2: Set Your Budget
Venue costs typically account for 40-50% of your total wedding budget. Be realistic about what you can afford and remember to factor in:
- Venue hire – the base cost for using the space
- Catering – whether included or separate
- Accommodation – for you and your guests
- Hidden costs – corkage, overtime charges, supplier restrictions
Top tip: Ask about off-peak pricing. Many venues offer significant discounts for midweek weddings or quieter months.
Step 3: Research and Shortlist
With your vision and budget defined, it's time to start researching.
Where to look:
- Wedding venue directories and websites
- Social media (Instagram is brilliant for real wedding inspiration)
- Recommendations from recently married friends
- Local wedding fairs and open days
What to check online:
- Capacity – can they accommodate your guest numbers?
- Location – is it accessible for your guests?
- Style – does it match your vision?
- Reviews – what do other couples say?
Aim to shortlist 3-5 venues to visit in person.
Step 4: Visit Your Shortlisted Venues
Nothing beats seeing a venue in person. Book private show rounds and prepare your questions in advance.
Essential questions to ask:
About the space:
- What's included in the venue hire?
- Are there any restrictions on décor, music, or suppliers?
- What are the ceremony options?
- Is there a backup plan for outdoor ceremonies?
About catering:
- Do you provide in-house catering or can we bring our own?
- Can we do a tasting before booking?
- How do you handle dietary requirements?
About logistics:
- What time can we arrive for setup?
- When does the evening need to finish?
- Is there on-site accommodation?
- How many weddings do you host per day/weekend?
About the team:
- Will we have a dedicated coordinator?
- Who will be our main point of contact?
- Can we see examples of previous weddings?
Step 5: Trust Your Instincts
When you've visited all your shortlisted venues, reflect on how each one made you feel.
The right venue should:
- Feel welcoming and aligned with your vision
- Have a team you feel comfortable working with
- Fit your budget without constant compromises
- Excite you both when you imagine your day there
Red Flags to Watch For
Be cautious if a venue:
- Is evasive about pricing or adds unexpected fees
- Has poor communication or takes ages to respond
- Rushes you to book without answering questions
- Has mostly negative or mixed reviews
- Feels more interested in their agenda than yours
Why Couples Choose Salomons Estate
At Salomons Estate, we pride ourselves on transparency, flexibility, and genuine care for our couples.
What sets us apart:
- No hidden costs – clear, comprehensive pricing from the start
- Flexible packages – tailor your wedding to suit your vision and budget
- Dedicated coordinators – support from enquiry to the big day
- On-site accommodation – 47 bedrooms and 6 cottages for your guests
- Stunning grounds – 36 acres of gardens, woodland, and lakes
- Multiple ceremony options – indoor and outdoor licensed spaces
Ready to Visit?
We'd love to show you around Salomons Estate and answer all your questions. Our friendly team is here to help you plan your perfect day, with no pressure and no hard sell.