How to Choose the Perfect Wedding Venue

Choosing your wedding venue is a bit like dating—you want somewhere that gives you butterflies and fits your style, but with so many options, where do you even start? Let's break it down...

Set Your Budget: The Foundation of Your Planning

Before falling in love with a venue that costs as much as a small island, set a clear budget. Some venues include everything from tables to fairy lights, while others are a blank slate. Know what you're working with to avoid any nasty surprises.

Guest List: Who’s Coming to the Party?

You don’t want to cram 200 guests into a venue that comfortably fits 50. Likewise, a massive ballroom for a small, intimate wedding can feel a bit empty. Have an estimated guest count before venue hunting so you can find a space that’s just right.

Indoor vs. Outdoor?

• Outdoor Weddings 🌿

If you love breathtaking scenery, golden sunsets, and a natural backdrop, an outdoor wedding might be the dream. Whether it’s a beach, vineyard, garden, or woodland setting, the fresh air and open space make for magical moments. Plus, your wedding video will look absolutely stunning with all that natural light!

However, Mother Nature is unpredictable, so a backup plan is essential. Always check if the venue has an indoor option or allows for marquees and tents in case of unexpected rain, wind, or extreme heat. Also, think about practicalities like guest comfort, accessibility, and sound (a strong breeze + a microphone = a sound engineer’s nightmare).

• Indoor Weddings 🏰

Want a little more control? An indoor venue keeps things predictable—no surprise storms, no muddy shoes, no sunburnt guests. Indoor weddings work especially well for colder months, formal celebrations, and couples who love the elegance of a ballroom, historic manor, or modern loft space.

With beautiful lighting, floral arrangements, and creative décor, an indoor venue can be transformed into something truly magical.

Ambiance and Style: Match Made in Heaven

Your venue should feel like “you.” Whether it's a rustic barn, elegant manor, or beachfront paradise, pick a place that complements your wedding vision. After all, your venue sets the stage for your Big Day (and your wedding film will look incredible because of it).

Amenities and What’s Included

Before signing on the dotted line, ask what’s included. Some venues provide tables, chairs, and lighting, while others require you to rent everything. Knowing what’s in the package helps you plan your budget and avoid unexpected surprises.

DIY Venue vs. All-Inclusive Packages

• DIY Venues: Full Creative Control

If you have a strong vision and love personalisation, a DIY venue might be your perfect match. This could be anything from a blank-canvas barn to a rented estate where you bring in everything—catering, decorations, furniture, and even toilets (yes, really!).

The pros? You get complete freedom over every little detail, from food trucks to custom-built bars. It’s perfect for couples who want a truly one-of-a-kind wedding.

The cons? It can be a logistical headache. You'll need to organise all suppliers, deliveries, and setup (unless you hire a wedding planner). Costs can also add up quickly since everything is à la carte.

• All-Inclusive Wedding Venues

If the idea of juggling 10+ different suppliers makes you break out in a cold sweat, an all-inclusive venue might be the way to go. These packages often include essentials like catering, furniture, décor, a coordinator, and sometimes even flowers and entertainment.

The pros? Less stress, fewer decisions, and often a better deal since vendors are bundled together. Plus, you won’t need to worry about logistics—they’ve got it covered!

The cons? You might have less flexibility to bring in outside vendors or customise every little detail. If personalisation is super important to you, make sure the venue allows some creative freedom.

Location, Location, Location

Think about how easy it is for guests to get there. If your dream venue is in the middle of nowhere, consider transportation options and nearby accommodation. Bonus points if it has stunning views—your guests will love it, and so will your wedding video!

Also, consider whether your ceremony and reception will be in the same location. If they’re at separate venues, think about the travel time between them. A short drive can be fine, but if guests need to navigate a long, complicated route or battle through traffic, it could cause delays and stress.

And of course, check that both venues work seamlessly together for your overall wedding aesthetic!

Rules and Restrictions: Read the Fine Print

Every venue has its own rules. Some limit how late you can party, others have preferred vendors, and a few might not allow sparklers or confetti (gasp!). Get all the details upfront so there are no surprises.

Trust Your Instincts: You’ll Know When It’s The One

When you find the right venue, you'll feel it. If you can already picture yourself walking down the aisle or partying on the dance floor, that’s a good sign! Go with your gut and enjoy the process.

One Last Thing… Make Sure It Looks Incredible on Video! 🎥

Your venue is the backdrop of your wedding film, so choosing a visually stunning space is key. At CloudHigh Weddings, we specialise in capturing every breathtaking detail of your Big Day, from the venue’s charm to your most heartfelt moments.

Want a wedding film that lets you relive your day forever? Get in touch and let’s make it happen!