By: Lillian Miller

Securing the ideal venue for your event or wedding can take time and effort. With so many factors to consider, knowing what to look for is essential to ensure your vision becomes a reality. While there are various places to get married in Suffolk, VA, each will offer different amenities. Therefore, research is important before signing a contract with a venue and vendors. Here are our top 5 tips for securing your wedding venue. 

Reserve your wedding venue as early as possible.

Finding a venue on your specific wedding date may be difficult, so booking ahead is always a good idea. However, if you are flexible with the date and time, you may have more options, whether looking at places to get married in Suffolk, VA, a month or a year in advance. Because you may need to remember what you want to ask your potential wedding venue during the tour, keep a notebook with your questions. Advance planning will also give your guests enough time to make arrangements to ensure they can come to celebrate with you. 

• Consider the size of your guest list and the venue’s capacity. You don’t want to choose a venue that is too small or too big for your wedding party.
• If you’re planning at a Suffolk outdoor wedding venue, have a backup plan in case of inclement weather.
• Ask about the venue’s catering options and if outside food and beverages are allowed. Again, this can impact your budget and menu choices.
• Inquire about any restrictions or guidelines the venue may have regarding decorations, music, and photography.
• Finally, read the contract thoroughly and understand all terms and conditions before signing.

Transportation and overnight accommodation

When looking at places to get married in Suffolk, VA, you should look at transportation and sleeping room accommodations for your guest traveling for the event. You want to make it as easy as possible for you and your guests attending the event. I would also consider adding these accommodations to your invitations to help your party.  What’s even better than spending more money on transportation? It’s having your wedding at the Suffolk Conference Center, connected to the Hilton Garden Inn Suffolk Riverfront. Guests can take the elevator home after a memorable night of celebrating. It’s the ideal place to get married in Suffolk, VA. 

Make sure the space is appropriate for your guest count.

It is critical to ensure the event space can hold your entire party. When looking at places to get married in Suffolk, VA, understand your approximate headcount to give your event planner to ensure enough space. At the same time, you want a manageable venue that can accommodate everything you need. You also don’t want a too large space that makes the area feel empty.  Some event spaces can work with you if your count increases by a little or a lot. Wedding venues like the Suffolk Conference Center have flexible event space that has moveable airwalls to transform the space. Talk to your venue as soon as you realize these changes may be happening so they can help you adjust.

Confirm if the Suffolk wedding venue offers catering.

One of the most important things to look for is food. First, confirm if the wedding venue provides on-site or if you must find your own catering. It is very convenient if they have it on-site, so you do not have to worry about food getting there late or miscommunication. However, if you are planning on a specific caterer, it is essential to ask if outside catering is allowed. When looking at places to get married in Suffolk, VA, and they offer catering, it’s important to look closer at their menu options. Some venues may offer a limited selection, while others may have a full-service kitchen that can accommodate a range of dietary restrictions and preferences. You may want to ask if they offer tastings so that you can sample the food before deciding on the menu.

Learn all that is included in the room rental. 

Each place to get married in Suffolk, VA, offers amenities, but they will vary from venue to venue. It can save you time and money if you completely understand what is included. Most places will provide tables and chairs, but not all will provide linens, silverware, and glassware. Specialty linen can cost a lot to rent, so ensure it’s within the budget. Also, understand that specialty linens can completely transform the space, and when you rent from a reputable company, you can put your mind at ease. The basics are included at wedding venues like the Suffolk Conference Center, which saves time and money. 

That’s not the only thing to think about, how long can you access the wedding venue? This will determine when vendors like decorators, bakeries, DJs, or linen companies can come in and set up. If you have planned your event at a Suffolk outdoor wedding venue, understand what the backup plan will be for bad weather.  Knowing these things ahead of time is essential and will help your planning process go smoothly. This is where knowing the right questions to ask when touring places to get married in Suffolk, VA is critical. It will help with the planning process and avoid surprises. 

When researching places to get married in Suffolk, VA, the Suffolk Conference Center is the perfect place to start! If you’re looking for a beautiful indoor and outdoor venue in Suffolk, VA, the Suffolk Conference Center might be the perfect fit. With stunning views of the Nansemond River, this location is ideal for couples wanting a picturesque wedding. The staff is known for their exceptional service. Additionally, the catering team can create a custom menu that reflects your taste and style. Don’t hesitate to contact us to schedule a tour and discuss your wedding vision!