I'm often asked my opinions or recommendations of venues and will always work with the couple to find what matches their needs and wants as closely as possible.  Below I've provided some things to ask yourself and vendors, and on my page "MY VENUE REVIEWS" I've given my thoughts and web site links to some of the ones where I've performed ceremonies. 

While there are still "traditional" weddings and receptions, couples are more often customizing their event and going with what better suits their own preferences, and their own budget.  In over 40 weddings, I've seen many different types of ceremonies, in many different venues.  

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Some questions to ask yourself when considering a venue:

• Indoor/Outdoor?  While we would all hope for a perfectly glorious day when we exchange vows, the fact in our area (Missouri/Illinois), we never know what the weather will be.  If you're choosing an outdoor wedding, I would strongly suggest either a Plan B that your guests are made aware of ahead of time, or being open to a shower or storm brewing around or falling on your day.  The internet provides resources for checking "average" weather for certain days, but again, this is never a guarantee.

• Wedding/Reception in Same/Different Locations?  More and more, couples are choosing one venue to serve as both the wedding and reception location.  This can range from someone's back yard or park, to a glamorous hall. You can invite all or a few to the wedding, and then more to the reception - it really is up to you.

• Budget?  Getting married does not require thousands of dollars, unless you want it to.  There are many options for  whatever you want to do.  There are many combinations to look at:  lavish wedding/lavish reception; intimate wedding/lavish reception; intimate wedding/intimate reception... your options are only limited by your budget, and your imagination.  However, intimate and simple weddings or receptions do not mean that you have to compromise on your dreams... be creative and use creative resources (like family and friends, Pinterest, Google, etc.) to find whatever it is you need to make your day, your way.  You may be surprised what you can make or have made as a cheaper option to straight out of the top stores.  Some have saved and want a lavish event, and some would rather spend their money on a honeymoon, new house, or something else.  Whatever category you find yourself in, be honest with yourself and your partner about what your expectations are, and give yourself a realistic timeline to achieve your goals... it will save TONS of stress on you and your relationships.      

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Some questions to ask venues:​

• Do they have the date available?

• Will there be other weddings there that day?

• How many hours will we have?

• What is the deposit and pay-off deadline?

• Minimum number of guests?

• Do they do their own catering, or do they allow food to be brought in?

• If they do their own catering, who gets "leftovers"?

• Do they set up tables (tablecloths, plates, utensils, napkins, etc.)?

• Do they decorate? (maybe you can set up one table & provide a photo of what you want them to be)

• Do they allow flowers?  (note - some do not)

• Do they clean up or do you?  (if you do, maybe have a designated "cleaning crew" prior to the wedding)

• Do they have nearby lodging (if you would need that)?

• Do they have rooms or places for the couple to get ready prior to the ceremony?

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