You and your babe are freshly engaged, and the number one thing on your to do list (besides basking in your bliss for a bit!) is to nail down your wedding venue. This decision can feel like a doozy; not only does it nail down the where, but also the when. But don’t stress it, hun! I’m here to give you a little look into how I help my couples find their perfect venue.

There are a few questions that will take your wedding venue potentials from pages to a handful (which is MUCH more manageable… ain’t nobody got time to tour all of Tampa)!

the 4 questions you need to answer before looking for your perfect wedding venue

1. How long is your guest list?

This is a big one! There are a lot of amazing, intimate spaces, but those aren’t worth considering if your guest list is 200+! So, make sure to do some research and find out the max capacity before touring. Also keep in mind any additional set ups, such as a band (vs a DJ) or buffet (vs plated), as these will shave away at that guest space.

Tip: This goes for the opposite situation too. There is such a thing as “too much room”! A set up for 50 people will look lost in a ballroom meant for 300. This could lead you to spending more money on additional decor just to fill the void.

2. Do you want your ceremony + reception at the same venue?

If you don’t envision your ceremony in the church, you’re most likely wanting to have your ceremony and reception at the same location! Some venues (like the Vinoy + Armature Works) have multiple gathering spaces, so they can accommodate your guests in different settings throughout the event. Others (like CAVU + The Orlo) have 2 areas, so the ceremony space is “flipped” and set for the reception while your guests are enjoying their cocktails. Both scenarios work, but a flip does come with additional logistics to consider. If your reception plans are extensive or time sensitive, a venue that requires a reset might not be the way to go!

3. Is having some fresh air a make or break for you?

For some clients, having access to an outdoor area is a big “must”. And who can blame them? We live in a paradise down here in Florida!

The Vinoy Renaissance, St. Petersburg Resort & Golf Club

Well, most of the time. Florida weather is known to be tricky, and our seasons are not as set in stone as other places in the country. So my big advice here is to not only love your “Plan A” outdoor space, but also your “Plan B”. The perfect wedding venue for you will be one you love, rain or shine!

Tip: Always make sure there is a Plan B! If your venue does not have a backup indoor space for your event, confirm that you are allowed to have a tent installed if weather requires it.

4. Are there any vendors you are required to use?

It is getting more and more common for venues to form partnerships with outside vendors. It streamlines the process, guarantees that the vendors on site know the rules and logistics, and ensures quality to the clients. All GREAT things, right? Well, depending on the required vendor, this can also push couples into contracts that are either not the right fit or out of the budget. Because of this, make sure you are A-OK and on board with all required partners before signing with the space. Ask for proposals, check out those reviews, and do the research!