The Essential Wedding Planning Series: Choosing the Perfect Wedding Venue

Finding the right wedding venue is one of the most exciting moments in the planning journey. It’s the decision that shapes everything else — your date, your style, your suppliers, and the overall feel of your day. Whether you’re picturing a countryside celebration, a modern space with clean architectural lines, or something deeply personal and low-key, the perfect venue is out there. It’s just about knowing what to look for.

Here’s how to choose the venue that truly fits you as a couple — and sets the tone for the whole celebration.

(This blog is part of our ‘Essential Wedding’ series – a step-by-step guide to creating your dream wedding. Be sure to check out the rest of the series for expert tips and inspiration!)

Research time: finding your dream wedding venue

Start With Your Non-Negotiables

Before falling in love with pretty barns and gorgeous manor houses (we’ve all been there), take a moment to get practical.

Ask yourselves:

• How many guests are we inviting? Your venue needs to comfortably hold your real guest list, not the dream version you hope might shrink.

• What’s our preferred location? Are you happy to travel? Do you want something close to home? Is accessibility important for any guests?

• What style of celebration feels right? Romantic countryside, elegant marquee, rustic farm, contemporary gallery — defining your vibe narrows your search massively.

• Do we want exclusive use? Some couples want a private experience; others don’t mind a hotel with other guests in the background.

• Inside, outside, or both? Think about weather back-ups, especially here in the UK.

Once these pieces are clear, everything else becomes easier.

Consider Your Budget (and What’s Included)

Venue costs can vary wildly depending on the time of year, day of the week, and what's included in the hire.

When comparing options, always ask:

• What’s included in the hire fee?

• Are tables, chairs, and linens provided?

• Is there an exclusive catering list?

• Are drinks packages mandatory?

• What time do we need to finish?

• Are there additional fees for evening guests, ceremony setups, or use of outdoor spaces?

A venue that looks affordable at first glance can creep up quickly once everything is added. Keep an eye on that full picture so there are no surprises later.

Think About the Flow of the Day

A beautiful venue is wonderful — but a beautiful venue that works is game-changing.

Walk yourselves through the day from a guest’s perspective:

• Where will guests arrive?

• How easy is it to move between ceremony, drinks, dinner, and dancing?

• Are there natural spots for photos?

• Is there shelter if the weather flips?

• Will older guests or children find it easy to navigate?

Your venue should support the experience you want to create: relaxed, joyful, and seamless.

Check Supplier Restrictions

Some venues have a fixed list of approved suppliers, especially for catering. Others allow complete freedom. Neither is inherently better — it just depends on how you want to plan your day.

If you have a favourite florist, photographer, or planner in mind (hi 👋), make sure the venue allows external suppliers or that your preferred people are on the list.

Accommodation & Transport Considerations

If your venue is rural (hello Somerset countryside!), think about:

• On-site accommodation for family or the wedding party

• Nearby hotels for guests

• Taxi availability (this one gets couples all the time — rural taxis often require advance booking)

• Parking and accessibility

• End-of-night logistics for your suppliers

A venue that makes life easier for your guests is always a win.

Visit at Least Twice

Your first visit will usually give you that “yes, this could be it” feeling.

Your second visit? That’s where the practical questions come out.

Visit once for the vibe, and once for the details. If possible, go at a similar time of year to your wedding so you get a realistic sense of lighting, weather, and how the grounds feel seasonally.

Trust Your Gut (It’s Stronger Than You Think)

The right venue isn’t just about ticking boxes — it’s about how you feel when you’re standing there. Do you feel excited? Can you picture getting ready on the morning, walking down the aisle, celebrating with your favourite people?

If a venue feels aligned with who you are as a couple, that’s usually the sign you need.

Finding your dream venue is worth the investment of time.

Final Thoughts

Choosing your venue is a milestone moment — once it’s booked, everything else starts to slot into place. Take your time, ask lots of questions, and trust both the practical details and that lovely gut instinct.

If you’re ever unsure, working with a planner can help you see the possibilities clearly and avoid costly missteps. And yes, I absolutely love venue sourcing — especially when it means matching couples with spaces that genuinely suit their personalities and priorities.