Planning your Central Florida wedding, but still haven’t nailed down the venue? No one needs to tell you this is one of the most important tasks any bride and groom face, given none of the other tasks can proceed until you check this box. Before you speak to the caterer, the florist or your Orlando wedding photographer, you need to know where your event will be held. But fear not! Here is a simple step-by-step strategy for finding the venue of your dreams.

1. Choose Your Main Location

Indoor or outdoor? Ballroom or rustic cabin? Country or city? Before you can select a venue, you have to know a) what city or town you’re getting married in, and b) what type of venue you’re looking for. Discuss the options, considering whether you have an “in” anywhere – like a large estate in the family or a friend who works at a winery. Make a list of possible options that meet your criteria, but don’t decide on anything yet.

2. Choose a Date!

Can’t do much without a date, now can you? Talk to all the stakeholders, making sure those can’t-miss people are available, then ink it in. While you’ll only send your save-the-dates 6 months in advance, it’s best to book your venue 12 months ahead.

3. Draw Up Your Guest List

Before you can choose a venue, you need to know how many people will attend. Make sure you and your partner do more than consult one another; there may be family members you overlook. Your mother could pay for all eternity if you forget to include long-estranged Aunt Marge, so take inventory by talking important family members before making a final tally.

4. Set a Budget

You’ll need to look at the entire budget for your wedding and then dedicate the correct portion to your ceremony and reception locations. Include food, drinks, special clothing (dress and tux), and Orlando wedding photography. Also be sure to include often-overlooked items such as:

• Save the date cards

• Rehearsal dinner costs

• Gifts for the wedding party

• Tips for service professionals

• Extra outhouses, if needed

5. Consider Your Needs

Do you have a favorite restaurant you want to cater the place? Do you want the venue to provide the drinks and the cake? Would you like a wedding planner and florist included? Or do you want to put all the pieces together yourself? It’s important to sort this out ahead of time, as venues usually fall into one category or another: all-inclusive, or venue-only, though some offer tiered packages.

6. Research Venues

Now it’s time to combine the above information. You know your location, your head count and your budget, so it’s time to find a venue that can meet all three criteria. Keep in mind that some venues charge by the head (especially if they’re serving your dinner) while others have a flat rental fee. If this isn’t listed on the site, you’ll need to call or email to find out.

Before you begin phoning around, however, it’s a good idea to draw up a list of every venue you might consider. That way, you can sit down at an opportune time and go through the entire list, which will save major brainpower. If none of your potential venues fit the bill, ask for a recommendation of one that will seat your guest list more affordably.

7. Contact a Photographer Soon!

Already have your venue? Ready to book a Central Florida wedding photographer today? Get in touch to ensure you nail down a good artist and get your special day captured from start to finish.

New here? My name is Zac Wolf. I’m a New England and Orlando wedding photographer capturing your love through joyful, vibrant, and honest wedding, elopement, and engagement photography. I use my blog to share tons of vibrant engagement, elopement, and wedding photo ideas for inspiration, along with honest tips for wedding planning coming from a wedding photographer with over a decade of experience in the wonderful world of weddings. It also gives you a chance to see what it would be like to work with me as your wedding photographer. I would love to work with you one day! Contact me here.

About Zac Wolf Photography: New England and Orlando Wedding Photographer
Hi, I’m Zac, a New England and Orlando wedding photographer capturing your love through joyful, vibrant, and honest wedding photography. I make magic with your photos––regardless of the venue, the weather, or how you feel in front of the camera––I know how to make your photos look how you feel.
With me as your wedding photographer, you can enjoy the present moment of your special day and count on me to capture everything you’ll want to remember in the years to come. My 10+ years of experience as an engagement, elopement, and wedding photographer in Central Florida, New England, and across the country means I know how to make the process go as smoothly and easily as possible for you.
I can’t wait to capture your love. Let’s work together.