Over the past four decades, I’ve catered thousands of weddings at my own venues and at other event venues. And I am truly compassionate for those who go into the wedding venue search process with no idea of what’s involved. Here are the top five mistakes, I have seen couples make that have cost them time and money.
1. NOT KNOWING THEIR TOTAL BUDGET
Weddings are expensive, with the average nuptial celebration costing somewhere between $35,000 and $40,000 for a guests count of about 100. I have seen many teary eyes when they discover that even the average budget will not give them the wedding of their dreams. It doesn’t even come close.
2. THINKING THAT WHEN RENTING A VENUE IT INCLUDES EVERYTHING
Non-hotel, banquet room, and country club venues are very popular. But when couples rent these types of event venues, they basically get the ground and floors they walk on and the air they breathe. If you plan on using one of these venues, remember that the venue rental fee should be 15 to 30% of your total budget.
3. NOT PRIORITIZING THEIR WANTS AND NEEDS
Few couples have unlimited budgets where they can get the best of the best for the wedding venue, catering, bar, entertainment, décor, photos, etc. When searching for venues and vendors, try to have a good idea of what you can’t live without, and what you can live without. Try to be realistic on the cost for all the services.
4. NOT HIRING A PLANNER—AT LEAST A “DAY OF” PLANNER
I remember one bride who was crying her eyes out as she struggled with her seating chart only three hours before her wedding. With a planner this would never have happened. A day of planner starts working for you about 30 days before your treasured day, making sure everything is in place and then oversees the daily details as your wedding and reception unfold.
5. EXPECTING PERFECTION ON YOUR WEDDING DAY
Trust, me it won’t happen. At my own son’s wedding the limo broke down with the grandparents in it and the ceremony sound system was faulty. Here’s my advice to you, do all you can before your big day and then trust the professionals to deliver what they promised. And most of all, be a guest at your own wedding. Take in the moment and enjoy!
