How Far in Advance Should You Look for a Wedding Venue?

People gathered under a clear roof for a wedding



When planning your wedding, one of the first major decisions you will have to make is where you want the wedding to be held. In fact, because most other planning choices, from the size of the invite list to the decor and flower arrangements, will be influenced by the location, picking out a venue is a necessary first step. So, how far in advance do you need to book your venue? Here are some things to consider before answering that question.

What Are You Looking For?

The Knot advises couples to book a venue generally nine months to a year in advance. But before trying to find the right date, figure out what it is you want. Some venues have long waiting lists, so if you have your heart set on an iconic location like St. Louis Cathedral in New Orleans, you may have to wait up to two years for a weekend wedding during peak season (May to October).

If you want something smaller and more intimate, a shorter timetable such as six to nine months may be workable. A smaller crowd opens up more flexible venue options and possibly more dates. Are you set on having it outside? Do you want a space with indoor and outdoor options? The more specific must-haves you pinpoint, the farther out you should book to make sure you can get what you want.

How Flexible Are You?

Once you have determined what you’re looking for, you may need to decide how much wiggle room there is in your vision of the perfect ceremony. Are there family members who can only travel at certain times of the year? Are you and your future spouse absolutely set on being married in a specific month? Are you open to a wedding earlier in the week, the afternoon or even a morning ceremony? Venues can accommodate flexible couples on shorter notice, so if your plans are rough outlines you may be able to book something on a shorter time table. (but this short timeline isn’t guaranteed!).

From venue booking to the day of details, Z Event Company provides hands-on, personalized luxury planning and decor that will elevate your event. Our team will work with you to make your dreams come true with memories that will last a lifetime! Learn more about how we work, then call (504) 510-5838 or contact us online today to get started.

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