8 Characteristics to Look for in a Modern Wedding Venue

Choosing the perfect wedding site can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. There are plenty of options — how do you find the one that embodies your contemporary aesthetic?

Simplify your search and wow your guests with these eight essential characteristics of a modern wedding venue.

 

1. Venue Capacity

Finalizing your guest list is the first step to narrowing your venue choices. Venue capacity is a major factor in determining your budget and guest enjoyment. A room that’s too small will feel overcrowded, while a too-spacious site can make guests feel lost.

Assess the venue’s capacity by viewing photographs of previous wedding receptions. Ask for a seating plan and room capacity to see if the place can accommodate your guest number. If hiring a band, consider the space required for the stage setup, instruments, sound systems and musicians.

 

2. Accessibility

Where will your attendees be coming from? If you’re expecting out-of-town guests, choose a venue that’s easily accessible and has accommodations on-site or nearby. If you envision a dreamy outdoor wedding in the woods or mountains, think about how guests will get there. It’s also worth considering travel time for reception-only guests. Ensure the venue doesn’t require long hours of driving.

 

3. Aesthetic Appeal

A modern wedding venue must have the “wow” factor. You want your guests to be in awe of the stunning atmosphere. Look for key design elements like statement windows, lush greenery, sleek ceilings, chandeliers and exposed brick walls. These touches can add to your venue’s modern appeal.

Consider a venue with plenty of natural lighting. Lighting is crucial for any photography style, whether editorial or lifestyle. Your photographer needs sunlight for mood lighting, which can make your dream modern wedding aesthetic come true.

 

4. Layout

Every wedding is unique, so your venue must offer layout versatility. A modern site must have customization options to match your vision. Look for a location with open floor plans that can be rearranged for cocktail hours, formal dinners and after-party dancing.

Ease of movement is key to an effective wedding layout. As you and your partner are the main attractions, you may consider a sweetheart table or a king table in front of the dance floor. You want to ensure all guests get a good view of the speeches, your first dance and other highlights. Moreover, inquire about the number of bathrooms to avoid long queues.

 

5. Ample Parking Space

Parking facilities are necessary to ensure a positive guest experience. The last thing your guests need is a stressful hunt for a parking spot, circling the block or trekking blocks in heels. Sufficient parking space ensures your event stays on time.

Choose a venue with a well-lit, covered area to protect cars from harsh weather conditions like rain storms and hail. It’s a small detail that can make a big difference in the overall success of your celebration.

 

6. Vendor Flexibility

Not all venues are created equal. Some require choosing from a list of recommended suppliers, while others let you pick your dream vendors. Being locked into a pre-selected list might mean sacrificing your vision, but it can be an excellent solution if you want to simplify wedding planning. However, vendor flexibility lets you form your dream team. If this is nonnegotiable, choose a location without strict supplier rules.

7. Catering and Bar Options

Your wedding cake isn’t the only thing guests will remember about the reception. It’s the overall eating experience, from the appetizers to the beverages. A modern wedding venue must offer flexibility and variety regarding catering. Ask the site staff if they have an in-house culinary team who can customize your dream menu.

In addition to the food, inquire about the style of service. Do you want a formal plated dinner, a food truck experience or a casual buffet? Confirm this information with the staff if you choose their in-house catering services.

 

8. Responsive Staff

The behind-the-scenes can make or break your wedding day. A venue staff with problem-solving skills and a genuine commitment to make your vision a reality is crucial. This team is your support system, guiding you through the weeks leading up to your big day. They ensure everything runs according to plan, from setting up the ceremony space to coordinating the reception flow.

Inquire if the staff are trained to assist guests with mobility aids. This small detail can mean a lot to your attendees with disabilities.

 

Modern Wedding Venue Styles to Consider

Couples spend somewhere in the $10,000 to $15,000 range for a wedding venue, so it’s wise to explore your options carefully. Consider these common modern wedding sites:

• Lofts and Rooftops: These are ideal for an urban, city-chic vibe. Loft or rooftop wedding venues offer sky-high ceilings, natural lighting and a breathtaking city view.
• Galleries: Consider this type of property if you and your future spouse love art. Galleries have built-in decor and plenty of room for dancing and mingling.
• Warehouses: A warehouse wedding venue offers a grungy yet modern effect, making it truly unique.
• Hotels: Many hotels have event halls with shimmering chandeliers and statement windows, which make them ideal for a minimalist, elegant style.

 

Say “I Do” to the Perfect Venue

With these eight characteristics in mind, finding the right wedding site is easier. You’re more equipped to navigate your options and choose a location that reflects your vision.

 

 

Author Bio: Oscar Collins is the editor-in-chief at Modded, where he writes about a broad spectrum of topics. Follow him on Twitter @TModded for frequent updates on his work.

 

 

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