What to Look for When Choosing an Event Venue
Whether you’re planning a lavish wedding, an intimate gathering, or something in between, the event venue you choose can make all the difference. While the food and entertainment are certainly important, the venue sets the mood for the entire event.
Your choice of venue could have more influence over your guests’ overall experience than any other factor. But with so many local event venues to choose from – how do you know you’re making the right selection? Start by considering these important points.
1. Ambiance and Mood
First impressions mean a lot, so when you’re searching for event venues, pay attention to how the space makes you feel. Are you looking for a space that is elegant and upscale, cozy and quaint, or trendy and high-tech? The more the venue’s ambiance already matches the vibe you’re going for, the less work you’ll have to do.
2. Size and Capacity
It’s important to make sure the venue you’re considering is large enough to comfortably accommodate all of your guests. Make sure you have an accurate estimate of your guest count before you book your venue so you won’t run into any issues.
Keep in mind that the maximum capacity of a space isn’t always a good representation of what is comfortable. Consider how tight the seating will be and whether there will be room to freely move around. Also think about whether you want the space to feel open and spacious or cozy and comfortable. It’s entirely possible for two venues with the exact same capacity to feel very different depending on how the room is laid out.
3. Services and Amenities
Consider what types of services the venue offers. For example, some venues offer a banquet menu while others may require you to bring in your own food. If you’re planning a wedding or large event, ask if the venue offers a coordinator. Is there a set-up and clean-up crew? Does the cost of your rental include tables, chairs, and linens? These are all important questions to ask.
4. Parking
Look for a venue that has plenty of self-parking, valet parking, or both. This is the easiest and most convenient option. However, if you fall in love with a venue that doesn’t offer sufficient parking, you could consider renting out a nearby parking lot or having your guests park off-site and providing transportation to and from the event.
5. Technology
Depending on the type of event you’re planning, the technology available may be another important consideration. This is especially true if you’re planning a corporate event where you may need access to AV equipment. You may also inquire about any special lighting you need and whether guests will have access to Wi-Fi.
6. Location
If most of your guests are local, you’ll want to choose a venue that is within reasonable driving distance from their homes. If people are coming to your event from out of town, you may consider choosing a venue that is conveniently located near hotels and a short distance from the nearest airport.
Trust Tara Golf & Country Club for Your Next Event
If you’re looking for the perfect event venue in the Bradenton/Sarasota area, consider Tara Golf & Country Club. Our gorgeous grounds and numerous indoor venues make this the ideal location for weddings and events of all sizes. You’ll love our incredible menu, impeccable service, and friendly staff. Give us a call at 941-756-7775 to learn more.
