A Guide to Choosing Your Perfect Wedding Venue

Choosing a wedding venue is one of the most exciting – and sometimes daunting – steps in planning your big day. At JC Bespoke Events, we understand that the venue you choose sets the tone for everything that follows. Whether you're dreaming of a luxurious beachfront soiree, an intimate garden gathering, or a chic modern villa celebration, we've compiled our top tips to help you find the perfect spot to say "I do." Let’s dive into how to make the process stress-free, seamless, and ultimately unforgettable.

Research Your Ideal Location & Consider Logistics

Begin by considering the overall location: where in the world do you want to celebrate? This is often the first major decision and can shape everything from the style of your wedding to the experience for your guests. If you're drawn to Spain, for instance, the allure of Ibiza’s beaches or Mallorca’s countryside’s scenic landscapes may be appealing. Yet, no matter how breathtaking the destination, the practicality of getting there matters too.

Check transport options for your guests, especially if they’re traveling from afar. Can they fly directly, or will they need to arrange connecting flights? Once they arrive, is there accommodation nearby to suit different budgets? By keeping these logistical considerations in mind early on, you’ll be able to ensure your wedding is both accessible and enjoyable for everyone attending.

Hire a Planner Specialised in Your Chosen Area

One of the best ways to streamline your venue search is by working with a planner who knows the area inside and out. Here at JC Bespoke Events, our experience and relationships with top venues give our clients access to exclusive and hidden gems they might not find online.

With a planner's insight, you'll be able to narrow down your venue options quickly and efficiently. They’ll know the best locations for your style, budget, and vision and can take care of the initial outreach and negotiations, leaving you with only the best options to choose from. Local planners also have insider knowledge on which venues align with different aesthetics, guest capacities, and budgets, making this a worthwhile investment.

Factor in Guest Numbers, Capacity, and Budget

Having an approximate guest count early on is essential for narrowing down venue options. Venues come in all sizes, so knowing how many people you’re hosting will help eliminate options that are too large, too small, or beyond your budget.

Once you’ve set your guest count, review the maximum capacities for any venues on your shortlist. Keep in mind that if your guest list increases, you may need additional space for a comfortable fit. Equally important is understanding the financial aspect. Wedding budgets can be tricky, and venue costs vary greatly depending on location, size, and services included. To avoid unexpected expenses, ask about what’s included in the venue package and be upfront with your budget – transparency can save you both time and stress.

Always Have a Weather Backup Plan

For outdoor weddings, having a weather contingency plan is a must. The dream of a sunlit, open-air celebration can be stunning, but a wise planner knows that the weather doesn’t always cooperate. If you're envisioning an outdoor wedding, look for venues with flexible indoor options in case of rain, high winds, or even intense heat.

For Mediterranean weddings, like those in Ibiza, Mallorca or mainland Spain, where summers can be hot and unpredictable, some venues offer shaded terraces, retractable roofs, or indoor spaces that are equally beautiful. These alternatives not only ensure the comfort of your guests but also allow you to breathe easy, knowing that a little rain won’t dampen your day.

Stay True to Your Vision and Style

Your wedding venue should be an extension of your personal style and the atmosphere you want to create. Before diving into endless venue options, have a clear idea of your wedding aesthetic. Do you envision a chic beachfront ceremony, a boutique hotel with lush gardens, a rustic countryside estate, or a minimalist villa with modern architecture?

Once you know the vibe you're aiming for, it will be easier to evaluate venues and see which ones truly fit your vision. At JC Bespoke Events, we encourage our clients to go for venues that resonate with their personalities and reflect the experience they want to share with their guests.

Have a Few Date Options and Check Venue Availability

Flexibility with dates can open up more venue options, especially during high wedding season or if you’re booking a popular spot. Before falling in love with any particular venue, it’s helpful to have a couple of potential dates in mind. Ask your planner to check availability and note any variations in price or amenities that might differ depending on the season.

Planning a wedding in Spain, for instance, comes with prime dates in spring and autumn, offering more temperate weather. Booking venues in these months may also offer savings compared to the peak summer period, especially if you’re hosting a large event.

Schedule Site Visits

Pictures, videos, and descriptions only go so far. Seeing your venue in person (or via a virtual tour if necessary) will give you a real sense of the space, ambiance, and logistics. When possible, visit venues at a similar time of day to when your wedding will take place – lighting and atmosphere can change depending on the hour.

During the visit, pay attention to details like guest flow, ease of access, and overall vibe. Be sure to bring any questions you have about setup, decor allowances, and the specifics of moving guests from ceremony to reception areas.

Trust Your Instincts

Ultimately, the best wedding venue is the one that feels right for you. This is the setting for one of the most meaningful days of your life, so it’s natural to have strong instincts when you find “the one.” Trust them. A space that resonates with you emotionally is likely to be the place where you can envision the celebration unfolding beautifully. At JC Bespoke Events, we believe in the magic of that “aha” moment, and we’ll be there to help make it happen.

For more guidance on venues and bespoke planning across Spain, feel free to reach out. We're here to make your dream wedding venue a reality.

Love, Johanna x