How to Pick the Right Wedding Venue: Tips from Jess Walker Planning your wedding can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to choosing the perfect venue.

In a recent WedTalk by Jess Walker, a Wedding Coordinator from Tankersley Manor, she shared invaluable insights on how to find the right venue for your big day. Here’s a summary of her top tips:

• 1. Set Your Priorities Jess emphasizes the importance of understanding your top three priorities when searching for a venue. These could range from the type of venue and its location to your budget and guest accommodations. Discuss these priorities with your partner to ensure you are both on the same page.
  
• 2. Budgeting One of the most critical factors in selecting a venue is your budget. Jess advises couples to have a clear idea of their budget before falling in love with a venue that may be out of their price range. Always check for transparent pricing and available packages online to avoid any heartbreak.
  
• 3. Personalization Make sure your chosen venue allows you to personalize your wedding. From catering options (like Jess’s dream of having a pizza truck) to entertainment preferences and even pet-friendly policies, ensure the venue can accommodate your unique preferences and style.
  
• 4. Style and Theme Consider the style and theme of your wedding. Whether you prefer a rustic barn, a modern hotel, or a historical site, make sure the venue aligns with your vision. Think about how your wedding attire and decor will fit with the venue’s ambiance.
  
• 5. Guest Accommodation Jess highlights the importance of considering your guests’ comfort. Venues with on-site accommodation are popular as they make it convenient for guests, especially those traveling from afar. If the venue doesn’t have on-site lodging, look for nearby options.
  
• 6. Research and Social Media Use social media and wedding websites to research venues. Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Bridebook are great for checking reviews, testimonials, and photos. Jess notes that couples typically look at about 14 venues online but only contact half of them and visit about three.
  
• 7. Appointment Scheduling When you find potential venues, scheduling visits efficiently is crucial. Jess suggests using tools like Calendly to streamline appointment bookings with wedding coordinators, making the process smoother and less time-consuming.
  
• 8. Initial Visit Experience Your initial visit to a venue should make you feel special. Jess’s venue, Tankersley Manor, welcomes couples with a reserve sign, welcome drinks, and pastries. Ensure the venues you visit provide a welcoming and informative experience.
  
• 9. Venue Tours and Questions During your venue tours, ask to see the spaces as they would be set up for a wedding. Prepare a list of questions to ensure you don’t forget important details. Utilize wedding planning books or spreadsheets to keep track of the information you gather.
  
• 10. Statistics and Trends Jess shares some statistics: In 2023, the average wedding cost in Yorkshire was £16,000. On-site accommodation was a priority for 77% of couples, and 61% opted for a two to three-course sit-down meal. Also, 45% of weddings took place from August to October, with sage green being a popular color.
  
• 11. Booking Timeline Most couples book their dream venue within two to four weeks of starting their search. Jess advises enjoying the process and focusing on what you and your partner truly want. For more insights and personalized advice, Jess invites couples to visit her at Tankersley Manor Hotel and Spa. Choosing the right venue is about finding a place that feels right for you and your partner, ensuring your wedding day is everything you’ve dreamed of.