How to Find a Unique Wedding Venue
The days of having your wedding reception in your church basement are long gone. I mean, that’s still an option if that’s your jam. However, I’ve found that most couples are looking for something a little more unique and representative of their relationship. Having your wedding ceremony and reception at a place that makes you feel happy should be your number one priority. A unique wedding venue means an extra level of connection to all memories from your wedding day. It can be such an amazing way to celebrate your marriage by incorporating a location that fits your personal values + priorities.
If you visualize your wedding day closely connected to nature, then perhaps a location with lots of windows or a clear tent or outdoor patio space would work. If you picture your wedding day with out-of-this-world food, then your favorite restaurant would make a great option! Bonus…restaurants already have amazing ambiance!
So if you’re feeling a little uninspired with the never-ending list of golf courses and hotels, grab a glass of wine and sit down to answer these questions with your boo. By the end of the night you’ll have a good list of places that inspire you, 100% unique to your relationship.
Step 1 – Answer these questions :
- How many guests are we having?
- How far are we willing to travel? Are accommodations required?
- Are we willing to rent chairs/tables/place settings etc ourselves?
- Do we require a caterer on site?
- What kind of ambiance do we want? Connection to nature? Elegant ballroom? Modern lines? Moody? Rustic Barn?
- Do we require a back-up indoor location incase of weather?
Step 2 – Brainstorm ideas out of the ordinary :
- Your favorite restaurant or coffee shop.
- Mostly empty spaces such as art galleries or small museums.
- Group use spaces like summer camps, yacht clubs, or nature conserves.
- Seasonal locations like greenhouses, ski lodges, or farmer’s markets.
- Warehouses.
- Rentable spaces like AirBNB or VRBO.
- What activities do you love to do together or with family that you can incorporate? Skiing? Fishing?
- Your favorite place on earth that can accommodate a tent.
- Sentimental locations like your first date, your parent’s wedding venue, family cabin, etc.
Step 3 – Figure out the Logistics of a Unique Wedding Venue :
Make a spreadsheet, grab a pen + paper, do whatever works for you. Figure out your priorities and whether logistically the location can accommodate them. Nontraditional wedding venues often require additional planning for catering, electricity, lighting, restrooms, noise levels, liquor licenses, rentals, accommodations for guests, and more. At this point, contacting a wedding planner will be greatly beneficial! They’ll be able to source the most information for you in the shortest timeframe, saving you both money + time! Unique wedding venues may require a little bit more planning upfront, but you’re guaranteed to never regret making your day 100% YOU.
Need more help planning your Wedding or Elopement?
Hey there! I’m Megan, a travelling wedding photographer based in British Columbia, Canada. I’m not a label gal, though. I promise to be so much more than your photographer. I will be your guide, the person you turn to for support and guidance, and will empower you to plan a day that fits your values and priorities. If you find yourself glued to the screen unable to stop scrolling through the unconventional, kick-ass, and adventurous weddings I’ve photographed, let’s be friends!
More helpful articles include :
Everything you Need to Know to Elope in BC
How to Incorporate Leave No Trace Principles in your Wedding
Tips for Writing your Guest List
