In a world filled with wedding venues of all kinds, sometimes it is hard to make the right choice. Venues range from having everything included, to basically renting an empty room.
I have worked with a broad range of venues from both ends of the spectrum.
Let's take a look at the 3 most general kinds.
1: All-Inclusive - This venue provides the space, tables and chairs, set up, linens, food, alcohol, and most other decor you would like. This venue is appealing for the bride who doesn't want a planner, as most of these venues include a day of reception coordinator to make sure you are running on schedule and everything is set up appropriately. These places are obviously on the more expensive side. A good example of a venue like this would be a hotel.
2. Somewhat Inclusive - These venues typically include the space, standard tables and chairs, and sometimes the food and alcohol. Places like this are perfect if you have a great eye for detail and enjoy planning and design, as you are generally going to be helping with decor. This type of venue usually just sets up the room to your preference, and you/your planner are typically responsible for reserving the linens and all other decorations. Most college dining halls and ballrooms fall under this category.
3. No-Frills - This venue is typically just an empty space. Usually the most affordable, you must factor in the cost of renting/buying generally everything - tables, chairs, linens, decor - not to mention hiring out a company for catering and alcohol. I strongly caution you to have a planner with a venue like this, or at least a team of people who are very, very helpful. A plus side to this type of venue is that they will typically allow you access the room for set up and decoration a day or two before. While these venues typically have very low room rentals, they can end up being more expensive after factoring in all the additional charges - plus you are left with clean up afterward. VFW halls and lodges are an example of this type of venue. Couples who choose to host a tent style wedding typically fall under this category as well.
In the end, the decision falls on you and your family as to which best suits your wedding day dreams. Regardless, make sure you have a great team in place, whether it is a a professional or just some great family and friends. The last thing you want to do on your wedding day is worry about the reception.
