For couples who fall in love with a particular venue, there
would have to be something pretty major wrong with the packages on
offer, or the terms of the sales agreement, to put them off. But if
you're looking at the decision more logically, by comparing the pros
and cons
of two or three potential locations, try to ensure that you're
comparing like for like. The best method of choosing a wedding venue is
to sit down and try to work out what each element of the day will cost
- that way you can estimate the total price for every one.Comparing like for like
Financial comparisons are more complicated if you're looking at different types of venues, for example a hotel and a town hall. If you're on a tight budget the town hall option can be tempting, and may well be your best option. But don't forget to factor in costs that are probably already incorporated into the price quoted by the hotel, such as decorations, lighting or hiring equipment such as tables and chairs. Likewise, if the venue is remote, remember to add in the cost of getting everybody to and fro.
Package deals
Many venues offer wedding packages, usually where you pay a price per guest, with most providing a range to suit different budgets. Some venues are proud to tell you that they don't do packages; their selling point is that every wedding is bespoke - 'individually tailored to your needs' is a popular phrase. One of the main advantages of taking a package is that it should give you a good idea of the likely costs at the outset. And never assume that something will be included 'as standard' - complimentary overnight accommodation for the bride and groom is not a given, for example.
Price per head
Initially, a price per head might sound like a lot, but seem more reasonable when you understand everything that's included. However you shouldn't get taken in by an impressively long list of benefits when looking at all-inclusive packages. When choosing a wedding venue, look long and hard at the actual value of each item on their package and write down what you reckon they're worth.
Pay less
Most people want to get married on a Friday or Saturday in the summer, so if you are prepared to hold the wedding at any other time, you should find that you can pay less. Ask venues about discounts for winter and midweek weddings, there are some excellent savings to be made. Some venues offer ten or 20% off winter weddings as standard. You might also get a good deal by making a late or last-minute booking. Even if none of these conditions apply, it's always worth finding out whether you've been offered the best possible price, there's no harm in asking!
Beware hidden costs
Get yourself a written contract so you know exactly what you're signing up to and read the small print - this is too important not to. If you're unclear about anything, ask. Sometimes a venue charges extra for things that you might assume would be free, for example use of any gardens or grounds for photography, or a 'glass hire charge' on top of the corkage fee. Also ask whether VAT has been added and check whether there are restrictions on minimum numbers.
Down to you
You can minimise costs by not spending any more than you need to. Only hire rooms you will actually use, and hire the venue for as long as you need to be there.
It also helps if you can find a flexible venue, where staff are willing to negotiate over factors that affect the overall price, for example allowing you to alter the menu or go for a buffet-style service. Have you thought about how the bar will be run? Hotel bar prices can be steep, whereas if you're bringing in caterers you will have more control - to go back to the town hall example, get the bar set-up right and you could make some of the money back that you spent on those decorations!
Pay less
If your budget is tight, do remember that it would be silly not to at least try a bit of haggling, whether it's negotiating a lower price per head, or asking the venue to throw in a few extras, such as a wedding cake or flowers. If they are keen to secure a booking, it's in their interests to try to be accommodating. You will probably have more luck negotiating with an independent venue than a large hotel chain, because you're more likely to be in direct contact with the owners who can instantly say yes or no. But either way, it's got to be worth a shot.
Got a question about choosing a venue? Get help from other brides-to-be on the Scottish Wedding Directory Forum
