With so many amazing venues in the Northern Virginia area, it can be hard to know how to pick a wedding venue that will be perfect for your day. Before booking any venue tours, be sure you know the answers to these 6 questions that will help you find the venue that’s just right for you.
1. WHAT TIME OF YEAR DO YOU WANT TO GET MARRIED?
Spring and fall are the most popular times of the year. September and October dates especially. Popular months typically book 12-16 months in advance, or more. If your ideal date is booked, are you willing to consider other times of the year?
2. ARE YOU OPEN TO A FRIDAY OR SUNDAY WEDDING?
Saturdays are in high demand, especially in the spring and fall. If you are set on a particular month or season, are you open to non-Saturday dates?
3. HOW MANY PEOPLE DO YOU EXPECT TO ATTEND?
Make a list of who you want to invite before contacting venues so that you know your potential guest count. Be sure to ask parents for their attendees too! This will ensure you are looking at venues that have the appropriate capacity. Our advice is to look at places that have capacities slightly higher than the number of people you expect to invite or attend so that you are most comfortable fitting into the space. It’s not always a good idea to use the very maximum seating available.
4. WHAT KIND OF VENUE DO YOU WANT?
For instance, if you want a “rustic” or “barn” wedding, what does that mean to you? On one end of the spectrum, you’ll find barns that are working farms or have animals on site. On the opposite end, some barns have been built brand new with modern finishes. Other barns, like 48 Fields, fall somewhere in the middle. We retain our original architecture and authentic character but also have updated amenities like heating and air conditioning, level flooring, and romantic lighting.
5. WHAT IS YOUR OVERALL BUDGET & YOUR VENUE BUDGET?
Your venue and catering will likely account for the bulk of your wedding budget. Knowing how much you have to spend on a venue is essential to know before you visit.
6. ARE YOU INTERESTED IN HAVING OR WILLING TO HIRE A WEDDING COORDINATOR?
Many venues in the Northern Virginia area require couples to have some kind of planner or coordinator on their vendor team. Before you start touring venues, familiarize yourself with what a wedding coordinator or wedding planner does, and whether you plan to hire one.
We hope this list helps you with how to pick a wedding venue! Knowing the answers to all of these questions before booking your venue tours will help make your touring time more efficient and will ensure that you are only considering venues that will be a good fit.
48 Fields Farm is a Leesburg VA barn wedding venue for celebrations of all sizes.
Our countryside barn and vast fields are peacefully set in the heart of Northern Virginia wine country.