Lyla Dejesus
Choosing a wedding venue is a big decision and there are many factors to consider. Some couples opt for a destination wedding, which can be abroad or within the US but away from home. This can be a fun adventure for you and your guests, but it may be more challenging to plan and some guests may not be able to attend. A wedding in your current location is often more convenient and affordable, and it can be nice to show off your hometown to friends and family. You may also choose to marry in your or your partner's hometown, which can be a nostalgic choice and may make it easier to get more RSVPs. Other factors to consider include the season and style of your wedding, as well as your budget and the number of guests. It is recommended to tour multiple venues and read reviews before making your decision.
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What You'll Learn
Local vs. destination wedding
Deciding where to host your wedding is a highly personal decision. Some couples prefer to marry in a location that holds a lot of meaning for them, such as their current city of residence or their hometown. Others may opt for a destination wedding in a stunning, exotic location, whether that's a beachsIDE ceremony or a celebration in a far-flung city.
There are several advantages to having a local wedding. For one, it is often more convenient and affordable for both the couple and their guests, as there are no travel or accommodation costs involved. Local weddings also offer more flexibility for guests of all budgets, as they can choose from a range of nearby accommodation options. Additionally, planning a local wedding is generally easier, as you can easily meet with vendors and tour venues in person.
On the other hand, destination weddings can offer a unique and memorable experience for the couple and their guests. They can create a vacation-like atmosphere and provide a change of scenery, which can be especially appealing if you're looking for a more intimate or casual celebration. Destination weddings can also be more affordable in terms of venue costs, as some packages may even offer the venue for free.
However, there are a few potential drawbacks to consider when it comes to destination weddings. Planning can be more challenging, as it often has to be done long-distance, and certain details may not turn out exactly as desired. Additionally, destination weddings may require a narrower guest list due to the travel involved, and some guests, especially elderly relatives, may find it difficult to attend. It's also worth noting that hosting a destination wedding may result in fewer or smaller gifts, as guests may consider their presence at the wedding to be a significant contribution.
Ultimately, the decision to have a local or destination wedding depends on your personal preferences, budget, and the overall vision you have for your special day.
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Wedding venue reviews
The traditional route
According to tradition, a wedding should take place in the bride's hometown. This option adds a sense of nostalgia to the big day and is a great way to connect with your roots. It is also more likely to yield more "yes" RSVPs, as you won't be asking your friends and family to travel. If you and your partner share a hometown, it can feel natural to host the wedding there.
Your current home
A large proportion of couples (58%) choose to marry where they currently live. This option makes planning a breeze, as you can easily meet with vendors and tour venues. It is also more affordable, as you won't have travel costs. It is a great way to showcase your new hometown to your friends and family.
Destination wedding
If you are feeling adventurous, a destination wedding can be a fun option. Whether it's Mexico, France, or even Las Vegas, a far-flung location can offer great weather, scenery, and cuisine. However, be mindful that planning from a distance can be challenging, and some guests may not be able to make the trip. It is important to consider the extra costs that may be incurred by your loved ones.
Venue logistics
When choosing a venue, it is important to consider the logistics. How many guests are you inviting, and what is your budget? Don't forget to include tax and gratuity in your calculations, as these can quickly add up. Be sure to tour at least three venues to find the perfect one for you, and don't forget to read reviews from past couples to get an honest opinion.
Seasonal considerations
The season and style of your wedding venue are also important factors. If you love autumn, consider a venue with colourful foliage. Or, if spring flowers are more your style, opt for a venue with beautiful gardens. Think about the colours you want in your photos and whether you want an indoor or outdoor ceremony.
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Wedding season and style
When it comes to wedding season and style, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, do you want to get married in your current city or town? 58% of couples choose to marry where they currently live, as it makes planning easier and is more convenient for friends. It can also be a great way to show off your new hometown to friends and family.
However, if you're set on a destination wedding, there are still some things to keep in mind. Firstly, will your guests be able to travel to your chosen location? While it might be a fun adventure for some, it could be a burden for others, especially if it's an expensive or far-flung place. You might also want to consider the time of year and the weather at your chosen destination. For example, if you're dreaming of a wedding in New York City, October could be a great choice, with mild temperatures and the chance to see the fall colors in Central Park.
If you're happy to stay closer to home, you could consider a "domestication wedding", a term used for weddings located within your home country or a short drive from your residence. This could be a great way to find a balance between a new and familiar location, and it will be more accessible for your guests.
When it comes to wedding style, there are endless options to choose from. Do you want a cozy restaurant, a stunning barn, an elegant ballroom, or a quiet beach? You can also base your decision on the style of weddings you've seen online, such as those on Pinterest. It's important to visit and tour several venues to get a feel for the space and ensure it aligns with your vision.
Finally, don't forget to consider the practical aspects, such as the cost of renting the space, catering, decor, and floral design. In-house catering, for example, can be more convenient but may come with a price-per-plate cost structure. Be sure to get estimates and break down your budget by category to stay within your financial means.
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Hometown wedding
There are many advantages to having a hometown wedding. Firstly, it's familiar. You know the ins and outs of the area, and you will have friends and family who can recommend vendors, having used them before. This can make planning a lot easier. It is also convenient for your friends and family, who won't need to spend as much on travel costs and accommodation.
If you and your partner share a hometown, it can feel natural to host the wedding there. You can also split the itinerary throughout the weekend, with a rehearsal dinner on the Friday and opening gifts on the Sunday, for example. You can get ready in your childhood bedroom and walk down the aisle in a spot filled with memories.
If you want to make your hometown wedding feel like a destination wedding, choose a unique venue. A museum or aquarium, for example, will make your day feel different and unexpected. You can also give your wedding a theme, such as beach vibes or tropical tones, to make it feel like a destination event.
A rustic barn venue with a city chic style is another option for a hometown wedding. This theme can be achieved with modern black chairs, hanging bistro lights, and farm-to-table organic centrepieces. You could even have a macrame ceremony backdrop or a dark wood hexagon backdrop with dried grass arrangements for a modern bohemian touch.
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Wedding costs
There are ways to keep costs low, such as opting for a courthouse ceremony or having the wedding in your current location, which can make planning easier and more affordable. You can also consider a "domestication wedding", which is an event located within your home country or near your current residence. This can provide a balance between a new location and convenience for your guests.
The cost of the venue is typically one of the largest expenses, and can include fees for the ceremony space, cocktail hour space, and reception ballroom. Some venues provide tables, chairs, linens, and audio equipment at no additional cost, while others charge extra for these items. It's important to carefully review what's included in the venue fees and compare prices from multiple vendors before making a decision.
Other costs to consider include food and beverages, which can be priced per person, and desserts, which may not be included in the meal price. There may also be additional expenses for themed "save the date" cards, thank-you cards, a wedding planner, photography, and tips for vendors.
To manage costs, it's recommended to track your spending, shop around for the best value, and use resources like wedding budget calculators and checklists to allocate your funds effectively.
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Frequently asked questions
There are several factors to consider when choosing a wedding location. According to tradition, a wedding should take place in the bride's hometown, but nowadays, couples often choose to marry in their current city of residence or a place that is special to them, such as a favourite vacation spot.
Destination weddings can be a fun way to combine your wedding and honeymoon. However, they can be more challenging to plan and may be more expensive for your guests. If you do choose a destination wedding, it's a good idea to pick a location that is not too far for your guests to travel to.
Popular destinations for weddings abroad include Mexico, France, Las Vegas, the Loire Valley, Portugal, Puerto Rico, and New York City.
Consider the practicalities of each location, such as the weather, the availability of venues and vendors, and the cost of travel and accommodation for your guests. It may also be helpful to tour multiple venues in different locations to get a sense of what is available and what will best fit your vision for your wedding.
