Scouting for possible wedding venues in Orange County is more than just checking out the aesthetics. Remember that this location will be significant to you for the rest of your life as this will be the spot where you will exchange your “I do’s”. So spare yourself from soon-after headaches by knowing how to determine the best venue for your wedding.
1. Do your homework. Before doing anything else, arm yourself with the basic knowledge about the venues around your area. This is simply done by researching directories online or asking some friends for referrals. Do not forget to gather all the venues and note their contact numbers and email.
2. Touch base through phone or email first. Eliminate weak choices by calling them and asking the basics. Check for their availability on your preferred wedding date. Also check their rates if it fits your budget and their seating capacity if it can accommodate your target number of guests. Verify the information stated on their website as well i.e. ongoing promos, off-peak discounts, etc. This is also your chance to check whether they respond fast to client inquiries. If they do, that is a plus point since it just tells that their staff values their client.
3. Narrow down your search to three or four venues. Never settle for just one venue especially if you have not set your foot there. There are a lot of venues that post misleading photos on their website to encourage brides and grooms to book them. At the same time don’t judge a venue based solely on the photos you see on their website. If they are getting good reviews then they must have some potential. If you have time, visit them. Some venues look better in person than in photos.
4. Consult your wedding theme. Do you have a particular theme in mind? If yes, make sure the venue will be able to accommodate this or the location is aesthetically apt for it.
5. Make a visit. Always a must! Before booking, be sure you are able to get a look at the wedding venues in Orange County. Be there in person so you can ask all the necessary questions and see the venue’s potential.
6. Prepare a questionnaire or checklist. Make your visit worthy. Ready a list of questions that you need to know about the venue. Cover every detail – the rate, amenities, other charges, technical aspects, cancellation and rescheduling policies, etc.
7. Know all the charges. Ask the venue personnel to give you the total cost plus all the other charges. Avoid future problems due to unexpected expenses by making sure you ask for applicable corkage fees, electrical charges, tax computation and service charges.
8. Bring a digital or video camera. If you are doing your visits for just one day, it is possible and expected to forget some details that each venue that you find particularly special at that time. So having some photos or videos of the Orange County wedding venues you have visited will help you a lot in making comparison. Just remember to arrange the photos according to the venue to make your selection more organized.
9. Make sure you visit all the amenities provided on the brochure. Did they mention a man-made waterfall? How about a dressing room for the bride? Or maybe they posted something about a grand staircase? Make sure you are able to see these because it will be very helpful in your decision-making.
10. Note everything. Put everything in writing. If you have a planner or organizer made for your wedding planning, have one file labeled “Venue” to keep you coordinated. Document all details and information that you have gathered from the venue staff that entertained your inquiry to your personal observation about each of the Orange County wedding venues to help you once you are ready to do your pick.
by Kerry Johnson – Follow Kerry on G+!
