The Ultimate Guide to Snagging Your Dream Wedding Venue in Under 3 Months
Planning a wedding with a short engagement period can be a challenge, but it also opens up unique opportunities for creativity and intimacy. This is the first of my posts on short engagements. Be sure to come back for my other short engagement posts! But first…the venue. This might seem to be an impossible task but there are a lot of great options out there and you might not have to make a bunch of compromises IF you..
Embrace Flexibility and Creativity
Be Flexible with Dates: Weekdays or off-peak seasons can increase your chances of finding a great venue on short notice. Plus, vendors might offer better rates for non-traditional times. Don’t shy away from calling the traditional places. It’s possible they had a cancellation and a close date may be open. Don’t forget to ask for a discount!
Consider Non-traditional Venues
Look beyond the usual wedding venues to places that might not typically host weddings. This can lead to a more unique and memorable experience. Here are some ideas:
- Local Art Galleries or Museums: These spaces are often available for events and can provide a sophisticated backdrop to your wedding. The artwork adds a unique touch to the ambiance.
- Community Centers or Libraries: Some community centers and libraries have stunning architecture and offer spaces for events at a fraction of the cost of traditional venues.
- Breweries or Wineries: For a more casual and relaxed vibe, consider local breweries or wineries. These places often have great indoor and outdoor spaces for events.
- Public Parks or Gardens: A public park or garden can be a beautiful setting for a wedding. Just make sure to check the permit requirements. These places often have shorter booking lead times.
- Private Homes: Do you have a family member or friend who would be willing to open up their home and yard? It doesn’t have to be a huge home or yard. You could even put up a tent and rent some portable toilets if they prefer not to open up their home.
- Vacation Rentals: Look for large vacation rentals to host your wedding. These could even be in a prime location like oceanfront, lakeside, or downtown if you like the metro city vibe. Be sure to verify with the owner that it’s ok to host your wedding there so you are not hit with additional fees. I would only do this if you plan on having a very small guest list. 25 or less. This can create a personal and intimate setting.
- Farms or Barns: Rural settings like farms and barns are becoming increasingly popular for their rustic charm. Some might not be as booked as traditional venues.
- Boats or Yachts: For a smaller wedding, a boat or yacht can offer a unique and intimate setting with stunning views.
- Zoos and Arboretums: Yes, Zoos! For the animal lover, this would be a fantastic location. Imagine the great pictures of the two of you with the giraffes looking over your shoulders. And Arboretums are already decorated with beautiful flowers. No rushing to decorate before pictures and the ceremony. Easy peasy.
- Historic Sites or Castles: Depending on your location, there might be historic sites or even castles that offer wedding packages. These can provide a dramatic and unforgettable setting.
Tips for Success
- Act Quickly: This probably goes without saying and might even require taking a day off just to make phone calls and visit places. Once you find a venue that fits your needs, don’t hesitate to book it. Availability can change rapidly.
- Use a Wedding Planner: If it’s within your budget, a wedding planner can be invaluable in finding and securing a venue quickly. They have the industry contacts and knowledge to expedite the process.
- Leverage Technology: Use online resources and apps designed for wedding planning. They can help you find venues that are available on short notice.
- Keep an Open Mind: The key to planning a wedding in under three months is flexibility. Being open to unconventional ideas can lead to a beautiful, unique celebration.
Planning a wedding in a short time frame is not impossible as long as you are willing to be flexible and open to unique solutions that will make your day a memorable and personal celebration.
Next week, I’ll explore the possibilities out there for finding your wedding day attire on short notice. Don’t forget to subscribe to my newsletter and I’ll let you know when the next post hits.
Remember, less is more
~ Melissa
