How to choose your dream wedding venue: Tips from an expert
Wedding planner Connie 'Sis Connie' Mathobela shares expert tips every couple should know when choosing the perfect venue.
Behind every perfect wedding day are months, and sometimes even years, of careful planning, right down to the nitty-gritty details.
The wedding venue sets the tone for the day, making it one of the details that cannot be overlooked or rushed.
September to March is peak wedding season in South Africa thanks to the warm weather and festive energy, making this the perfect time to secure a venue that will suit your wedding vision.
Wedding planner Connie Mathobela, who's been running Raesibe Catering for over 20 years, shares expert tips on what couples should consider when choosing a wedding venue.
Decide on a venue that will accommodate your guest list
Mathobela says the first thing a couple needs to decide on when choosing a wedding venue is the guest list.
“It is very important for couples to first decide on a wedding list, knowing exactly how many people are expected to form part of the wedding ceremony,” she says.
If you're planning a large wedding, choosing a venue that comfortably fits all your guests is non-negotiable.
Choose a venue that can accommodate your guests and bring your decor vision to life.
If you’re also having an "African wedding", you may want to make provision for some uninvited guests, thanks to your aunt or distant cousin who didn't RSVP and showed up with a plus-one.
Have a budget
The second most important thing is deciding on a budget.
“Consider your budget and see which venue would suit your pocket, because venues also come with different costs. So it’s important to ensure that your budget matches the type of wedding that you plan to do,” says Mathobela.
Choose a venue that matches your wedding aspirations
Mathobela says it’s important to look at the type of space you are hiring, and not just be comfortable with getting a hall.
Consider whether the hall is beautiful or if it’s just an empty space. You have to consider the interior and exterior to ensure that it meets your standard for the kind of wedding that you want to pull off.
“It’s very important for you to go and see if the hall is clean because some halls, they’re not clean inside, whether it’s the walls, whether it’s the floor, whatever you need, make sure that the hall is clean,” she says.
Check the location
Mathobela says you have to consider the location of the venue.
If the venue is too far for your guests, you need to consider how convenient it will be for them to travel.
Pick a venue that has parking facilities
Consider the parking space as well.
“People will be driving to come to your wedding, and you need to think about where their cars would be parked. So when choosing a venue, try to find one that can accommodate the number of cars you are most likely to expect.”
It wouldn’t be fair to make people park far away and then walk to the venue. Alternatively, if there is no parking close by, consider an option where guests can park somewhere else and have a shuttle service that will take them to the venue.
However, also consider the implications that this might have on big day, including the additional costs and logistics.
Choose a venue that comes with convenience
Lastly, she says couples should choose a venue where the bridal party will have a place to change and refresh.
If guests are travelling from far away, they should also be able to find accommodation in nearby places.
Have a venue where the bridal party can get dressed without having to drive far or hire another place to change. Ideally, the venue should come with rooms that will enable them to get ready.
With wedding season approaching, it’s important to book your venue on time.
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