Booking a Wedding Venue? Read This Before You Say Yes

Booking a Wedding Venue? Read this before you say YES!

Your wedding venue isn’t just a location, it’s the stage for your love story, the foundation of your entire aesthetic, and the first step in creating an extraordinary experience. At The Art and Romance, we don’t just plan weddings; we curate immersive, editorial-worthy celebrations across Ireland and Europe, where every detail is intentional, and every moment is unforgettable.

Before you rush to book that dreamy château, sleek modern estate, or sun-drenched villa, here’s what you need to consider.

1. Is Your Venue a Blank Canvas or a Limiting Frame?

If you envision soft pastels, ethereal florals, and a fine art aesthetic, your venue needs to reflect that. A grand historic hall with heavy wood and dark interiors could work against your vision. Instead, look for light, airy spaces, venues that enhance, rather than restrict, your dream design.

Design and creative direction by The Art and Romance.

2. The Hidden Price Tag – What’s Really Included?

Luxury isn’t just about looks, it’s about seamless service. Ask:

Are tables, chairs, linens, and lighting included, or are they extra?
Will you be required to use in-house catering, or can you bring in the best?
Does the bar allow for curated cocktails, rare wines, and bespoke drinks menus? If not, can you negotiate corkage?
What are the hidden fees, service charges, overtime costs, or supplier restrictions?

3. The Guest Experience: Effortless or Exhausting?

A breath-taking venue in the middle of nowhere sounds romantic, until your guests struggle to get there. Consider:

How far will guests need to travel?
Can they stay on-site? If not, does nearby accommodation match the style of your wedding?
Are transport and logistics effortless, or will guests spend the weekend figuring out directions?

A wedding should feel flawless and cinematic, not like an endurance test.

4. The Fine Print: Permissions & Flexibility

To bring your vision to life, you need a venue that allows creativity to flow. Ask about:

Installations & decor – can you suspend florals, create immersive spaces, or have candlelit dinners?
Indoor vs. outdoor options – does the venue have a stunning backup space in case of unpredictable weather?
Supplier policies – are you locked into using their vendors, or can you bring in a team that truly understands your aesthetic?

5. The Smartest First Move? Hiring a Wedding Planner First.

Here’s the truth: booking a venue before consulting a wedding planner/stylist can limit your options and lead to unexpected challenges. At The Art and Romance, we don’t just help you find a venue – we curate an entire world of beauty and effortless experience.

Before you sign anything, let’s talk. We’ll guide you through the insider details, connect you with the most sought-after venues in Ireland and Europe, and ensure that every decision feels effortless, intentional, and uniquely you.

Extraordinary weddings don’t happen by chance – they happen by design. Enquire today.

Design and creative direction by The Art and Romance.

Images in this post are for inspiration purposes only and sourced from Pinterest.

All credit goes to the original creators.