Skipping these steps can lead to stress, wasted money, or a venue that does not fit. A little organisation helps.
With Wedlock, you can keep tasks, budget items, and decisions together.
1. Finalise your guest count
Before you shortlist venues, get a rough idea of how many guests you are inviting. A venue that fits 60 people comfortably can feel cramped at 90, while a ballroom built for 300 can feel empty with 100 guests.
Create your Guest List in Wedlock. Group guests by day or evening, then adjust the numbers as plans change. That will make comparing venues easier.
2. Agree on your wedding style or theme
Before you view venues, decide what kind of atmosphere you want to create. Are you picturing a rustic barn, a city rooftop, or a classic manor house?
This will narrow your shortlist and help you rule out venues that do not fit.
3. Choose your season or date range
You do not need an exact date yet, but a preferred time of year will narrow the options. Consider the weather, seasonal pricing, and your guests’ availability.
A flexible date range can help if you want the venue to guide the final choice. In Wedlock, you can create a task such as “Check summer availability at venue” to keep track of it.
4. Check ceremony and reception locations
Some venues offer both ceremony and reception spaces, while others handle only one part of the day. If you are having the ceremony elsewhere, check the travel time and logistics for your guests and yourselves.
Create two Venue Tasks in Wedlock: one for the ceremony and one for the reception. Keep them separate so the details are easier to compare later.
5. Draft your priority supplier list
Photographers, caterers, and florists often book up as quickly as venues. Make a shortlist of the suppliers you need and check their availability before confirming dates.
Store their details and quotes in your Wedlock project using the Budget tools, so you have the information when you need to make a decision.
6. Check accessibility and accommodation
Think about your guests’ needs, especially older relatives, children, and anyone travelling a long distance. Does the venue have ramps or lifts? Is there nearby accommodation or parking?
Add a simple checklist in Wedlock for each venue you’re considering. Tick off essentials like “on-site parking” and “bridal suite included”.
7. Review venue rules and restrictions
Many venues have their own policies, including preferred suppliers, alcohol limits, music curfews, and décor restrictions. Knowing these early can prevent problems later.
8. Set a realistic budget
A venue can be well above your price range. Set your budget before you book and stick to it.
In Wedlock’s Budget Tool, track deposits, set payment reminders, and see what has been paid and what remains. Include extra costs such as taxes, service fees, and tips.
9. Get input from the people making decisions
Before signing anything, make sure both of you agree. Include parents if they are contributing financially. A quick conversation now can prevent awkwardness later.
10. Visualise the day from start to finish
Imagine how the day will flow: the ceremony, drinks reception, meal, and dancing. Will guests move between spaces? How long are the breaks? Is there enough time for photos?
Take your time before booking
Completing these ten tasks before booking can help you choose a space that fits your budget, style, and guest list.
Wedlock keeps tasks, budgets, guests, and countdowns together.
Start planning your wedding for free
Already booked your venue? Use our next 10 wedding planning tasks and free printable checklist to decide what to do next.