Congratulations on your engagement!! You must be overjoyed with excitement and ready for your next steps to start planning your wedding! Choosing the perfect outdoor venue in is an important decision in your wedding planning journey. This will determine what type of setting you will have for your celebration, but also plays a role in other elements of your special day. To help you get started with planning your wedding this article will help you choose the perfect outdoor wedding venue in Alabama.
Key Considerations When Choosing an Outdoor Venue
Budget
The first step in selecting an outdoor venue is choosing a location that fits your budget. What is your budget? The cost of a venue can consume a lot of your budget, so understanding what you can afford is crucial. Take into account what the venue's packages include, (such as set up, clean up, decorations and photography/videography and any extra expenses (including insurance and security.) Also, does your wedding venue require a retainer fee? Can you make payments or is the full balance due at the time you book? Here at The Stables at Cypress Creek we require a $500 retainer fee to get your date on the books. You can use this deposit towards your remaining balance. After booking, our contract states that the final payment is to be made no later than one month prior to the event. Our affordable wedding venue in Tuscaloosa, Alabama typically books out anywhere between 6-18 months out for those popular wedding dates!
Why The Location Matters
Does the venue provide easy access for your attendees, especially those who might not have transportation? Consider the distance from the hotel, for your guests. Check to see if your venue has parking on site, and if not do they offer a shuttle service or valet for your guests.
The surroundings of your venue is important when choosing an outdoor wedding venue. Is there a busy road close to the venue, can neighbors see the ceremony? Is it situated on a beautiful natural setting that feels peaceful and inviting ? The Stables at Cypress Creek offers a peaceful inviting setting surrounded by trees that gives you the feel of being away from all the busyness, while you are still in the city of Tuscaloosa Alabama close to hotels and restaurants. This is one of the reasons our guests say that our venue is a hidden gem.
Guest List
The size of the venue must accompany the number of guests you are inviting.
You should know an approximate headcount before scouting locations. This will give you confidence in knowing the venue can accommodate your guest list comfortably, without being overcrowded. Venues like The Stables at Cypress Creek have several outdoor ceremony locations that can host anywhere from 50 guests for a smaller more intimate wedding (Chicken Church pictured above ), and other locations at the venue that can accommodate up to 150 guests for your larger ceremonies.
Weather Considerations
When hosting an outdoor event, whether plays a role in the planning process. Always have a backup plan in place, and choose a venue that offers options for weather-related issues:
Does the venue offer covered areas if it rains on your big day? Here at the Stables at Cypress Creek we offer a covered awning at The Stables for cocktail hour and for smaller more intimate wedding receptions. We also have large high peak tents available to rent for our guests as part of their wedding package. If there is a significant chance of rain on your special day, making a decision no later than 24 hrs before your wedding ensures you and your guests will enjoy having options to celebrate in the dry.
Consider what time of the year you are having your wedding. Does the venue provide shade for your guests during the ceremony. We love our Large Southern Magnolia trees that provides ample shade and helps cool down our guests at The Stables at Cypress Creek.
Services and Amenities
Determine the services and amenities provided by the wedding venue. Check if they offer in-house catering or have a list of preferred vendors. Verify whether essentials like tables, chairs, and linens are part of the package. Create a checklist of your requirements and match it against what is offered by each venue to prevent unforeseen expenses. Here at the Stables at Cypress Creek we always include tables, chairs, and set up in each and every one of our affordable wedding packages. No need to rent extra, we have more than enough for up to 150 guests.
The Perfect Setting
Most outdoor venues have an their own unique atmosphere. Make sure you consider these options before booking. Does the venue have beautiful natural settings—like gardens, farm, trees and privacy—that will add to the ambiance? Are you able to personalize the venue? Can you bring in decorations, lighting, or flowers that accompany your unique style? Some venues with large Southern Magnolia Trees have greenery year round which makes for beautiful weddings during the winter months.
Restrictions
Each wedding and event venue comes with their own rules and limitations. Some may impose noise restrictions or have caps on alcohol consumption, while others may necessitate the exclusive use of their vendors. Being informed of these restrictions in advance can help avert unexpected problems down the line.
Making the Final Decision on an Outdoor Wedding Venue
Once you've visited the wedding venues and gathered all the essential information, evaluate your choices considering what's important and the offerings of each location. Don't rush into making a quick decision—imagine your wedding day at each venue. Which venue speaks to your style and setting you are going for? At which venue can you imagine a celebration with your family and friends?
The process of selecting a wedding venue is a crucial decision in planning your special day. Given the many factors to consider, it's vital to begin your search early and focus on what's most important to you. The ideal venue will not only accommodate your practical requirements but also embody your unique style and the dream you have for your wedding.
After discussing which venue is perfect for you and signing the contract, you can proceed with the remainder of your planning, feeling confident and excited!
If our Tuscaloosa Alabama wedding venue has you wanting to know more, contact us today for a private tour!
Special thanks to the locally owned and operated wedding venues from across the country who continue to inspire us and support our small business daily.
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