What A Bride Wants.. Dear Venues Listen Up

What Brides Wish Wedding Venues Would Change: 

In the flurry of emotions that come with planning a wedding, the venue plays an integral role. It’s the backdrop to a couple’s most cherished memories, and therefore, it’s critical for it to meet their expectations. I recently asked my Instagram audience what are the key things they would love their venue to change and here is a lengthy list!

1. Interiors and Decor:

• Carpet: Consider updating worn-out or outdated carpets. They might seem insignificant, but they contribute to the overall aesthetic of the space.
• Chair Covers: Standard chair covers can sometimes clash with a couple’s theme. Offering a variety ensures compatibility with different themes and styles.
• Standard Centerpieces: While it’s efficient to have standard centerpieces, offering customizability can let couples express their unique style and vision.
• Decor Features: Attention to detail can make a significant difference. For instance, a dark ceiling can sometimes create a gloomy atmosphere. Brightening up such features can elevate the ambiance.
• Worn-Out Dancefloor: A pristine dancefloor invites guests to let loose and celebrate. Consider regularly refinishing or replacing worn-out dance floors.

2. Food and Beverage:

• Hard Bread Rolls: Simple as it may seem, the quality of bread can impact the overall dining experience. Ensuring fresh, soft bread rolls can greatly enhance guest satisfaction.
• Menu Tasting: This is an essential part of the decision-making process. Offering menu tastings can help couples feel confident about their menu choices.
• Corkage Fees: If high corkage fees are a necessity, consider alternatives like offering a more extensive wine list or allowing BYOB under certain conditions.
• Canape Charges: Small bites can carry a hefty price tag. Including canapes in the main pricing or offering cost-effective alternatives can ease the financial burden on the couple.

3. Service and Communication:

• Email Responses: Prompt responses to queries and concerns can reassure couples that their big day is in capable hands.
• Team Consistency: While it’s common for several team members to be involved, assigning a dedicated contact can provide a personalized and consistent experience.
• Service Speed: Staffing appropriately to ensure quick, efficient service can significantly enhance guest satisfaction.

4. Pricing and Policies:

• Transparent Pricing: Including all service charges in the main price and avoiding surprise price increases can build trust and allow couples to budget effectively.
• Ceremony and Speech Flexibility: Allowing some flexibility with ceremony and speech timings can accommodate unforeseen delays and make the day less stressful.
• Excess Charges: Extra charges for bringing in musicians or other vendors can be off-putting. If such charges are necessary, communicate them upfront to avoid surprises.

5. Facilities and Accommodation:

• Room Allocation: Offering assistance with room allocation can relieve a significant burden off the couple.
• Ceremony Room: If possible, design a dedicated ceremony room rather than converting a meeting room. This can provide a more authentic and elegant ceremony experience.
• Bar Arrangements: Having the bar in the same room keeps the party going. If that’s not feasible, consider extended bar hours to keep the celebrations alive.
• Confetti Policies: Allowing biodegradable confetti can add to the celebratory feel without harming the environment.
• Unisex Bathrooms: These can be a thoughtful addition, catering to all guests and making everyone feel welcome.

For those of you who are about to embark on your wedding venue hunt,  have a checklist within my digital wedding planning guide, available to download today!