Indian weddings, being the extravagant celebrations that they are, are not just about the union of two souls in love; it is also about family and togetherness. With guest lists going up to more than 300 people, there is simply no room for mediocrity; the setting has to be just right.
As it goes without saying, this necessitates careful thought and attention for every important decision in wedding planning, of which the most critical one is venue selection. The right venue not only helps you fulfill your wedding vision but also sets the tone for the rest of the celebration. It greatly influences the overall aesthetics of the event and plays a crucial role in making your wedding an unforgettable one.
Out of the hundreds of venue options available in the windy city, it can be overwhelming trying to find the best one. Your venue should not only be the best fit for your theme but also must reflect your ideals, all while staying within your budget. As challenging as it may sound, it is indeed possible to find these traits in a venue, and an experienced Indian wedding planner in Chicago can assist you in the process.
For a head start, here are some tips that will help you navigate the process of finding the perfect venue for your big day.
Define your wedding vision
The first element to consider that will give direction to your search is aesthetics. For that, you need a clearly defined wedding vision so that you can look for the attributes that suit the same. For example, do you have a vintage European design in mind with white and ivory details, a rustic barn with warm lighting, or a grandiose traditional Indian palace setting with intricate architectural details?
Consider the style, the theme, as well as the overall ambiance you need; break down your vision into these three elements to determine whether a venue aligns with your requirements, and narrow down your options.
Set aside a realistic portion of your budget for the venue
Next, consider the cost factor. Establish an all-inclusive budget for your venue early on, so that you can rule out options that do not fall within your range. You can also consider having a hard limit and a soft limit for venues that align with most other requirements.
Wedding venues in Chicago are aplenty and can range from intimate and minimal to large and extravagant. Factor in all the costs that influence the venue such as the space rental costs, the furniture rentals, the décor, the catering and bar costs, etc. Determine an approximate range of the costs that you would have to bear if you choose the venue, and compare it with your budget to make a wise choice. Partnering with an efficient Indian wedding planner in Chicago can help you greatly in this regard.
Consider the size of your guest list
Indian weddings are famous for their long guest lists. Consider the number of people you wish to have at your wedding and ensure that the venues you are considering can accommodate the same. Most venues have a minimum and a maximum limit; so, prepare an approximate count of guests before you start looking for options.
Consider the location
The location is another crucial factor to consider as it determines the turnout to a great extent. Think of aspects like accessibility, proximity to their accommodations, and availability of transportation. Does the venue have amenities for all types of people including differently abled? Is the place easily accessible through public transportation means? Does it have good-quality hotels or other accommodations nearby that you can book for out-of-state guests? Pick a convenient location based on these factors to allow all your guests to be a part of your celebration.
Ask the right questions to avoid ambiguities
Conduct detailed tours of the venues you are considering and pay attention to the smaller details as well. Don’t forget to ask the right questions to understand package inclusions, potential restrictions if any, etc. To start with, here are some questions to consider:
- Is the venue available for the desired dates?
- What aspects are included in the rental fees, does it include the furniture, linens, complimentary drinks, etc.?
- Are there any restrictions regarding noise, decorations, or property usage?
- Are there contingency services or backups in place for outdoor events?
Always have your Indian wedding planner in Chicago accompany you on your venue tours as they have the necessary knowledge and expertise to determine the feasibility of a venue.
Examine the logistics
Logistics are one of the most important factors to consider to ensure a smooth wedding day. Examine whether the venue offers enough logistic support; does the venue assign a dedicated coordinator or concierge to manage your event? How much time does the venue allow for setting up and breaking down? Is the venue open for vendor access to facilitate delivery and setup?
Asking these questions will help you find out whether hosting your wedding at the venue will be a stress-free experience. For the same reason, you ideally need a venue that offers ample support in logistics.
Think of the season and time of your wedding
Lastly, think of the season in which you have your wedding dates planned, as it can also influence your venue decision. Some venues are better suited for specific seasons. For example, if you are having a spring or fall wedding, you can consider outdoor locations. A winter wedding on the other hand should be conducted in a warm and cozy indoor venue. However, Chicago being unpredictable in weather conditions, it is wise to prepare contingency plans for outdoor weddings, no matter what the season is. Efficient Indian wedding planners in Chicago can offer you the best guidance and ideas in this regard.
Wrapping up
Finding the right venue for your wedding is an affair that requires careful thought, ample time, deep research, and attention to detail. By following the above-mentioned pointers, you can make the process much simpler and narrow down options sensibly. While keeping the objective factors in mind, don’t forget to also trust your instincts. It is your big day after all, and if you fail to establish a connection with the venue, or if you cannot see yourself getting married in the place, it is ok to keep looking for more options.
Seek the help of an efficient and experienced Indian wedding planner in Chicago to make venue selection easier and smoother.
To start venue scouting for your Indian wedding, contact ForUrEvents – a one-stop wedding service provider in the windy city.
