How to Choose a Wedding Venue

Maddie
3 days ago
2 min read

Finding a wedding venue can feel overwhelming. But here's the good news, it doesn't have to be.

Schlitz Audubon Nature Center Wedding — Photo above: Schlitz Audubon Nature Nature Center, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Take a breath, sit down, and check out some of these tips on how to choose a wedding venue:

Set priorities

First and foremost, figure out what your priorities are. Are the florals, photos, and music at the top of your list? Maybe you want guest entertainment and activities at number one? Where does the venue fall on this list of priorities? Think about what's important to you on your wedding and how that venue can acommodate those priorities. Keep in mind that your venue and how it looks is still very important. You can have the most beautiful florals and most renowned photographer, but if your venue is run down or doesn't fit your vibe, there's only so much your photographer and videographer can do to give you the photos and video that you desire.
Set a budget

Once you've figured out your vendor priorities, it's time to allot each of those categories a budget. This is very important to help keep stress down. No one wants to start a marriage with a massive wedding loan to pay down and loads of stress. So set a budget and keep in mind that it may adjust as you start your search. And remember, there's no rules on what your wedding has to look like. If you decide to keep it small, or cut costs by opting out of certain traditions...that's totally okay!
Figure out your vibe

Want a western style barn wedding? Then maybe that venue in budget that's just down the road....but is more modern industrial ISN'T the one. Want something timeless and high end? Consider some historical venues, gorgeous gardens, or new build venues.
Consider size and your needs

Keep in mind how many guests you'll be expecting, as well as your needs (liquor license, catering, add-on's, etc).
Location, location, location

Will your guests have a long way to travel? WILL they travel? And if a large amount of guests decide not to make the trip (and therefore missing your wedding) will it bother you? If everyone showing up is important to you, you may want to consider a location that is centrally located to the majority of your guests. Don't care how many people make it? Then maybe you want a location that is a dream spot (hello destination wedding or mountain elopement) or a place that is special to you.

On top of all those tips, I also recommend reading reviews before booking. You can check out their Google listing or even do a search in your local bridal groups to see what people are saying.

In the Wisconsin or Minnesota area? Here are some of my favorite Wisconsin venues: