The wedding venue is the backdrop for your dream day. It should reflect who you are as a couple and it should be able to comfortably host the wedding of your dreams. No matter where you’re getting married, the perfect venue is out there.
Where to Find It
The website The Knot has a database of venues that you can search by category (reception venues, hotels, rehearsal dinners) or by name, and of course, by location. You can filter the results by price, capacity, outdoor space and more.
Other websites, such as Wedding Pro, Wedding Wire and more have similar databases. Search as many as you can to find the perfect place to exchange your vows.
When to Book It
Ideally, you should book the wedding venue 12-18 months out.
It’s one of the first steps you should take after getting engaged because the venue controls so much else about your ceremony.
Online research is great, but you should also visit the venue in person. If you are using a wedding planner, have them come with you and look over the contract to make sure the venue can really accommodate the type of wedding you have in mind.
Budget
The venue will take up a sizable portion of your budget. Know your bottom line before you sign anything. Nothing is more disappointing than finding the venue of your dreams and then learning you can’t afford it. If you’re finding the budget a hardship, consider looking at locations in the off-season when there’s less demand and prices may be lower.
Capacity
Have a rough idea of your guest list before you start visiting venues. Each venue will have a maximum capacity and it’s up to you to make sure you don’t surpass that. Finalize that list before you secure a venue.
Have a Backup
Just in case, pick a venue and a backup venue, especially if you’re planning on an outdoor wedding that is subject to Mother Nature.
When booking a venue, ask whether they have an alternate space and make sure you can visualize your ceremony there, too.
To view a list of local Santa Barbara wedding venues, explore Noozhawk’s Wedding Guide Directory—featuring top-rated locations and helpful links to make your big day truly unforgettable.