The location you choose for your ceremony and reception will help determine the theme, colors and formality of your wedding. There are a myriad of venue types to choose from - hotels, restaurants or private homes - and each one has its own pros and cons.
Instant Weddings: From "Will you?" to "I Do!" in Four Months or Less has a breakdown of each type of location to help you find the perfect setting for your big day.
Where to Look
Once you have a sense of the number of guests, you can start looking for a location. The venues listed in bridal guides are most likely to be taken, although that's not necessarily a given. People do cancel. Prime Saturdays are sometimes mysteriously skipped over. If there's somewhere you have in mind, but you think it's not likely to be available, pick up the phone anyway! You may be surprised at what a little sweet-talking and finagling can get you. Perhaps the main ballroom is booked, but a lovely suite is open. Your favorite restaurant might be full but able to cater an event that's held elsewhere. You won't know until you try.
Fortunately, there are many great alternatives and effective techniques for betrothed couples to find a place in a hurry. Here are a few suggestions to help get your creative juices flowing:
Embrace Monday Through Friday
Is there a spot you've dreamed of for your wedding? Don't despair if it's booked every weekend until 2040. Call up the place and ask in your sweetest voice if there's an opening on a weekday or weeknight. Friends and family worth their salt won't mind taking a day or two off for your wedding.
Break It Up
If your ceremony spot is only available in the morning and your reception venue of choice can only make room for you in the evening, consider splitting the events up. Invite close friends and relatives to an intimate morning ceremony followed by a fabulous bash that evening. Everyone gets to take a nap, and you get to spend a luxurious long day with your now-husband before putting on your party dress. What's not to love?
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