Wedding Venue Mistakes Couples Make and How to Avoid Them!

Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of helping countless couples find their perfect wedding venue, and I’ve seen first hand how easy it is to get swept up in the excitement of it all.

But while choosing a venue is one of the most important decisions you’ll make, it’s also where many couples make avoidable mistakes.

Let’s dive into some of the most common pitfalls I’ve seen and how you can sidestep them.

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couple outside the lowry wedding venue — IMAGES: **WALLACE & WILD**

1. Skipping a Budget (And Then Falling in Love with a Venue You Can’t Afford)

Let’s be honest—weddings can be overwhelming, and it’s easy to get carried away when you find that dreamy venue.

But trust me, nothing brings on stress faster than realizing you’ve committed to a venue that’s way out of your budget. Before you start touring, sit down with your partner and set a realistic budget.

This helps you narrow down your options and ensures that you won’t have to sacrifice other important aspects of your wedding later on.

2. Ignoring the Guest Count

I can’t tell you how often couples fall in love with a venue without thinking about how many guests they plan to invite.

If your space is too small, your guests will feel cramped, but if it’s too large, you might lose the intimacy you’re going for.

Get a rough estimate of your guest list early on and make sure your venue can comfortably accommodate everyone.

3. Not Considering the Season

Ah, the allure of an outdoor wedding! But before you commit, think about the time of year.

Each season has its quirks—whether it’s the heat of summer or the unpredictability of spring rain.

If you’re dreaming of an outdoor celebration, have a solid backup plan in place.

This might mean renting tents or heaters or even booking an indoor space just in case.

couple inside lowry wedding venue — IMAGES: **WALLACE & WILD**

4. Overlooking Hidden Costs

It’s so easy to get caught up in the base price of a venue and forget about all the extras. Service charges, taxes, mandatory vendor fees—these can all add up quickly.

Always ask for a detailed quote and go through it with a fine-tooth comb. The last thing you want is to be hit with unexpected expenses just weeks before your wedding.

Still looking for you perfect venue? Head to out wedding venue guide now! Full of top tips, expert advice and all the top wedding venues for each city!

5. Not Visiting the Venue in Person

Photos can be deceiving, and virtual tours don’t always capture the full picture. Whenever possible, visit the venue in person.

This gives you a real sense of the space, the flow, and any potential issues that might not be obvious in photos.

Plus, you’ll get a feel for the ambiance—something that’s crucial when planning such an important day.

6. Neglecting Transportation and Accommodation Logistics

If your venue is a bit off the beaten path, think about how your guests will get there and where they’ll stay.

It’s easy to overlook, but transportation and accommodations can make or break your guests’ experience.

Consider setting up shuttles or booking room blocks at nearby hotels to make things easier for everyone.

couple inside glass lowry venue room — IMAGES: **WALLACE & WILD**

7. Not Asking About Venue Restrictions

Every venue has its rules, and it’s important to know what they are before you book.

Whether it’s restrictions on decor, noise levels, or which vendors you can use, make sure you’re fully informed.

This way, you won’t be disappointed later when you find out you can’t bring in your favourite caterer or hang those beautiful string lights you’ve been dreaming about.

8. Being “Venue Poor”

It’s easy to fall in love with a stunning venue and sign on the dotted line without thinking about the rest of your budget.

But remember, your venue is just one piece of the puzzle. Make sure you’re leaving enough room in your budget for other essentials like decor, catering, and entertainment.

The goal is to have a beautiful venue and a wedding day that feels complete and reflects your vision.

Wedding Venue MIstakes to Avoid

By keeping these tips in mind, you can avoid common venue-related stressors and ensure that your wedding planning process is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

Remember, the right venue is out there—it’s just a matter of finding the one that fits your vision, your guest list, and your budget.

Still looking for you perfect venue? Head to out wedding venue guide now! Full of top tips, expert advice and all the top wedding venues for each city!