With never ending to-do lists and an abundance of wedding content at our fingertips, it’s only natural to feel overwhelmed when planning a wedding. Among the many decisions that lie ahead is that of choosing a wedding venue. With such a wide variety available, narrowing the search can present a real challenge. Well, worry not! We have put together a step-by-step comprehensive guide for couples on how to choose the perfect wedding venue – just to make your life that little bit easier.

Step 1: Consider Budget

We understand that discussing budgets when planning a wedding can feel like throwing cold water on a fire, but it's a conversation worth having. The venue and catering typically are the biggest expenses for a wedding and overspending might force you to compromise on the little touches that make the big day uniquely yours such as invitations and wedding favours.

It's wise to shape your wedding vision around your budget rather than the other way around. Trust us, this approach will save you from potential disappointment down the line!

Step 2: Your Vision

Now, onto the exciting part: creating a vision for your wedding venue! We think mood boards are the perfect way to do this. Whether you're crafting them on Pinterest or going old-school with magazine clippings on a stray piece of cardboard, it’s the best method for consolidating all your ideas in one place.

If you’re on the search for wedding inspiration, give us a follow on Instagram! It's a great spot to see real-life weddings in our spaces and gather some fresh ideas.

Some things you may consider whilst creating your mood board:

Theme:

Every venue has its own distinct personality and quirks. Identifying the theme of your wedding will quickly help narrow down venues that do not align with your vision. At Rosebery Venues, we're proud to offer a diverse portfolio tailored to suit every couple's preference. From the timeless grandeur of Barnbougle Castle, ideal for traditional weddings, to our Steading, bursting with rustic charm.

While certain venues may not immediately align with your vision, don't underestimate the power of décor. Keeping an open mind to the potential of each venue may lead you to discover the perfect setting!

Seasons:

While it's true that you can't always predict what weather a season will bring (especially in Scotland!), it is still something to consider.

An outdoor venue is not going to marry well with a winter wedding! Similarly, if you're planning a spring wedding, there is always the possibility of rain and sometimes even snow (we are in Scotland after all!). In such cases, it's important to ensure that your venue can accommodate any last-minute weather changes.

That said, here's a valuable piece of advice - keep your wedding dates flexible, especially if you're eyeing a popular season like June to October. Exploring off-peak seasons not only offers potential cost savings but also opens up more options for venue availability. It's all about finding that balance!

Step 3: Logistics

You've got your vision all mapped out and a list of potential venues ready to explore. Now, it's time to dive into the nitty-gritty details. This is the phase where dreams meet reality, so it's crucial not to become too attached to a venue until you've carefully considered the logistics.

Capacity:

Having a rough idea of your guest list can provide insight into whether you're leaning towards a large celebration or a more intimate affair. The venue's capacity is key – too snug, and it might feel overcrowded; too spacious, and it could seem empty.

We accommodate weddings of all sizes, offering tailored packages for ‘wee’ gatherings and event spaces perfectly suited for a more intimate ceremony. For grander affairs, Barnbougle is an excellent option and can even accommodate marquees, hosting up to 450 guests. And our Steading, set amid the rolling countryside to the south of Edinburgh caters for up to 100 with Rosebery House comfortably equipped to host up to 60 guests.

To get a better feel for the space, consider visiting the venue during an open day or perusing photos and videos from past weddings.

Location:

Take into account the accessibility of the venue for your guests, particularly if they're coming from afar. Opt for a location with easy travel connections, nearby accommodation, and close proximity to airports for international guests.

For instance, Barnbougle, located just a 30-minute drive from Edinburgh, offers a tucked-away wedding venue close to the city. Additionally, Rosebery House and Rosebery Steading provide accommodation options for travelling guests, while our new Water Tower offers a cosy retreat for the newlyweds or a special treat for the in-laws!

Step 4: The added extras

When it comes to choosing a venue, it's those added perks that make a difference. Not only do they alleviate much of the stress from wedding planning, but they also guarantee you'll have a team of trusted experts assisting you every step of the way.

Catering:

The menu is a significant aspect of a wedding celebration. We work with several fantastic caterers ready to work with you to create a tailored menu. We've even witnessed couples adding a unique touch to the celebrations by hiring local food trucks for late-night pizza or mid-afternoon ice cream – a saving grace during a hot summer’s day!

Whether you opt for in-house caterers or hire into the venue, ensure that you try everything first and book a tasting well in advance. The last thing you want is a venue with a fantastic atmosphere, a great dance floor, and mediocre food!

Staff:

Don't overlook the importance of the staff! Friendly and attentive staff can truly make or break the entire wedding planning experience. Here at Rosebery, our events team boasts a collective 50 years of experience in planning events, so you can trust that we know a thing or two about weddings. We're here to assist you every step of the way in planning your special day, recognising that this is often a once-in-a-lifetime event.

Step 5: Ask Questions

Rest assured, when it comes to planning your wedding, there's no such thing as a bad question. Believe us, we've heard them all! Whether you're touring a venue or deep into the planning process, don't hesitate to ask any questions that may arise. Your peace of mind is our top priority, and we're here to ensure every detail is taken care of.

In fact, to make sure you're armed with all the information you need before a venue visit, we've compiled a comprehensive wedding checklist on our blog. Good luck planning!

To find out more about hosting a wedding at one of our venues, get in touch with the Rosebery Venues team – we’ll help you design and plan an unforgettable big day!