How To Choose A Wedding Reception Venue
Choosing where you'll celebrate your wedding reception is one of the most important decisions of your entire wedding journey. Your venue sets the stage for everything: the atmosphere, memories, and even the enjoyment of your guests. That's why understanding how to choose a wedding venue is essential if you want your celebration to feel unique, romantic, and stress-free from start to finish.
This guide will walk you through what to consider, when to start searching, why venue viewings matter, which questions to ask, and how to confidently book your dream reception space.
Things to Consider Before Booking a Wedding Venue
Before you say “yes” to the venue, it's important to consider the practicalities that will influence your entire wedding experience. Choosing the right space isn't just about style - it affects your budget, guest comfort, logistics, and the overall atmosphere of your celebration. Here are the key factors to weigh up before booking a wedding venue, so you can feel confident that your choice is the perfect fit for your special day.
Budget
Know your maximum spend early on to narrow down options and avoid disappointment, as costs can vary widely.
Guest Count
Confirming numbers helps you choose a venue that's intimate or grand enough, preventing overcrowding or empty spaces.
Style and Theme
From stately homes like Stone Court House to chic modern lofts, pick a venue that reflects your desired wedding look and feel.
Indoor vs Outdoor Options
Decide what's most important to you - a romantic ballroom, charming gardens, or the flexibility for both.
Accessibility and Location
Prioritise venues in accessible places, especially if you have guests travelling from afar.
Amenities and Inclusions
Double-check what's included, such as on-site catering, décor and technology to simplify planning and save costs.
Read our guide on wedding planning mistakes to avoid here
When Should You Start Looking for a Wedding Venue?
Securing the perfect wedding venue starts by booking as early as possible. Ideally, couples should begin their search 12 to 18 months before their desired date, making allowances for even earlier enquiries during the busiest summer months or if your sights are set on popular, award-winning spaces like Stone Court House in Maidstone.
Booking early allows you to select the best venues without compromise, helps with locking in budgets, and provides time for proper coordination with vendors. Before you visit, have a realistic guest count, an approximate date, and a vision for your wedding day. Remember, some in-demand venues can be reserved up to 2 years in advance - don't leave it too late if you want your dream celebration!
Planning a wedding in/around Maidstone?
Take A Look At Our Wedding Packages!
Is It Worth Viewing a Wedding Venue Before Booking?
Absolutely! While beautiful photographs and five-star reviews are a good place to start, in-person venue viewings are invaluable for couples to make their final decision. Viewing your shortlisted venues allows you to:
- Experience the scale, lighting, and ambiance that photos can't fully capture.
- Meet the team and get a personal feel for their service and communication.
- Evaluate the comfort and quality of guest facilities.
- Check if the décor and furnishings match your vision.
- Picture how your chosen theme will work in the space.
- Identify practical details, such as the flow of guests or accessibility.
- Ask those all-important, venue-specific questions.
- Feel confident and excited about saying “yes” to your venue!
What Questions Should You Ask a Wedding Venue Before Booking?
Before committing to your dream wedding venue, it's essential to ask the right questions. Getting clear answers ensures there are no surprises later and helps you feel confident in your decision. From availability and pricing to what's included and any venue rules, these key questions will help you compare venues and find the perfect setting for your celebration.
Availability
Is your desired date open and how far in advance do you allow bookings?
Pricing Details
What is the complete pricing breakdown, including deposits, packages, and any minimum spend requirements?
Included Items
Which amenities and services are included? Is décor, catering, or furniture part of the booking?
Setup and Pack-down
What are the timings for access before and after the event for setup and collection?
Outdoor Contingencies
If there are outdoor elements, what plans are in place for bad weather?
Supplier Policies
Do you have to use recommended suppliers, or is there flexibility to bring your own?
Noise and Alcohol Regulations
Are there any rules about entertainment finish times, noise limits, or alcohol licensing?
Payment and Cancellation
What is your payment schedule, and is the deposit refundable should plans need to change?
Read our comprehensive guide on questions you should be asking a wedding venue before booking
How to Find and Book a Wedding Venue
Finding and booking the perfect wedding venue might feel overwhelming, but with a clear plan, it's much easier to navigate the process. By following a few simple steps, you can shortlist, compare, and secure a venue that truly matches your vision and priorities. Here's how to get started on your journey to the ideal wedding reception space.
Read Reviews and Awards
Seek venues with consistently high guest feedback and accolades.
Compare Packages
Review what's included in different packages, as booking all in one place can save up to 30%.
Shortlist and Contact
Draw up a list based on suitability, then reach out for availability and detailed information.
Book Venue Viewings
Visit your shortlisted venues and take notes to compare them later.
Review Contracts Thoroughly
Check all terms, inclusions, and cancellation policies before paying deposits.
Secure Your Date
Confirm your booking as soon as you are happy and ready. Your dream venue could be snapped up quickly!
Inspired to Find Your Perfect Wedding Venue?
Start your journey to an unforgettable celebration at a venue where historic charm meets modern luxury. Stone Court House, our hotel in Maidstone, offers exclusive elegance for stylish couples from London and the South East. Explore romantic four poster beds, exquisite Georgian architecture, and private gardens by the River Medway.
Your special day deserves a setting as unique as your love.
Ready to see it for yourself?
Call us on 07500 070065
or email reservations@stonecourthouse.com
to arrange a tour or enquire about our wedding packages.