"9 Key Points Brides Should Check When Choosing Their Wedding Venue: The Keys to Success!"

2016.10.26 published

The first step in wedding preparation starts with choosing the ceremony venue ♩

After the proposal from my beloved, the first step in preparing for the wedding begins with "deciding on the ceremony venue." No matter how dreamlike the decorations or performances may be, they cannot begin without a wonderful ceremony venue being chosen first.＊

@1020wedding

Choosing a venue is crucial and can significantly influence everything about the wedding. To avoid later regrets such as "This wasn't what I expected…", here are 9 points to keep in mind when brides choose their ceremony venue!

@haru_0611wd

Checkpoint 1: Can the venue accommodate the number of guests you want to invite?

First, check the venue's capacity ♡ In the case of a chapel, the number of seats is limited due to built-in benches.

If there are many guests attending the ceremony, there may not be enough seats for everyone, leading to some guests having to stand.

@mi.8877

Additionally, in a Shinto wedding, it is common for only family to be allowed inside the ceremony venue, with other guests watching from outside.

Given these limitations, it's necessary to clarify how many guests you will invite before choosing a venue.＊

@sapphosugawara

Checkpoint 2: Is the location and access good?

You want to choose a venue that your guests can easily find, even if they are coming from far away and are not familiar with the area.

Be sure to check the convenience of the nearest station, access from the station, availability of shuttle services, and the number of parking spaces.

For viewings, some venues offer transportation from the station by car, but it's recommended to walk and check the route yourself! There might be dark alleys along the way or roads that require using an overpass.

Make sure to check whether you can comfortably walk in high heels while carrying heavy gift bags. If it seems difficult, it would be kind to inform your guests ahead of time, saying, "It's just a short taxi ride, so please share a cab with your friends."＊

If there are elderly guests, be sure to check the accessibility to the reception venue. Confirm whether there is an elevator available in case there are stairs to climb.

@e_wd212

Checkpoint 3: What if it rains?

Chapels with open ceilings or garden weddings are wonderful for their sense of openness. However, in the event of rain, be sure to check if an alternative indoor location can be set up and what kind of arrangements will be made.

You want to choose a venue where you can say, "It's unfortunate that it rained, but the indoor venue is beautiful, so I'm happy ♩."

@t.kana_wedding._.g

For independent wedding venues, also check whether guests will get wet while moving from the ceremony venue to the reception venue.

Checkpoint 4: What kind of officiant will lead the ceremony?

If you chose a beautiful chapel dreaming of an overseas wedding, it would be disappointing if the officiant on the day was Japanese and didn't match your envisioned image. It's reassuring to find out in advance who the officiant or Shinto priest is and what they are like.

Checkpoint 5: Is the BGM live music?

Many brides think ahead about BGM for the reception, but the music for the ceremony can often be overlooked. It is an important element that enhances the solemn atmosphere of the ceremony. Make sure to confirm whether it will be live music, like a pipe organ or traditional Japanese music, or pre-recorded audio.＊

@ayumimimi__wd

Checkpoint 6: Will there be a rehearsal for the ceremony?

Confirm if there will be a rehearsal that mimics the actual ceremony to practice the timing of entrance and bowing, and to check the flow. It's natural to feel nervous on the day of the ceremony. After the rehearsal, you’ll want to do a thorough mental simulation to prepare for the big day!

@shococo.wd

Checkpoint 7: Can you have performances after the ceremony?

There are many performances you might want to do after the ceremony, such as flower showers, balloon releases, or group photos with all the guests. Even if you haven't decided whether to do them yet, it's best to first check if it's possible.

@mochan_40

Checkpoint 8: Will there be other ceremonies besides yours?

During the popular wedding seasons of spring and autumn, some venues may host multiple weddings in one day. Check how much time you will have before the next ceremony starts, whether guests might mix together in the lounge, or if there’s a chance you might see another bride within the venue.

@milkwd1104

Checkpoint 9: Is the waiting space spacious enough and are there enough restrooms?

The waiting space where guests will gather before the ceremony can be crucial. Some guests may arrive over 30 minutes early, so if the area is too small or there aren't enough chairs, it could be uncomfortable.

@natsumi__wedding_

Additionally, if there are not enough restrooms, long lines may form. Make sure that your guests can wait comfortably!

@nagisa_marry

We have shared the points to consider when choosing a ceremony venue.＊

The location where you will hold your wedding, a once-in-a-lifetime event, is extremely important. Because you absolutely don't want to regret your decision, please pay attention to these 9 checkpoints while choosing your venue ♡ We wish all brides-to-be find a wonderful ceremony venue! ♡

@yuih_wd