Tips for Juggling Two Wedding Day Venues
Many couples are able to host their wedding and their reception in the same location. And, honestly, if you can do this, you should. It’s just a lot more convenient all around. However, that’s not always possible. Your venue may be booked soon after your vows, leaving no time for a reception. Or, you might not be able to serve food at one venue. There are a host of reasons why the ceremony and reception might be held in different wedding venues. If they are, it’s not the end of the world, but it will require a little extra effort and planning on your part.
Make Sure Everyone Knows The Plan
The most important thing to do when juggling two venues is to make sure everyone knows the plan. You don’t want someone getting dropped off at your wedding and then having no way to get to the reception. Even worse, someone might wait around the wrong venue wondering where everyone is and growing madder by the minute. To avoid disasters like these, send out several clear emails with details on what is happening where and when. Even better yet, provide maps and clear directions on how to get from one venue to the next.
Keep It As Simple As Possible
Since having two venues already complicates things, try to keep everything as simple as possible. For example, when you can, get venues that are very close to each other. On Maui, for example, you might have your wedding on the beach and then just walk a few feet to an indoor venue for the reception. Even if you’re not that fortunate, things like having transportation available for moving between venues can help the day to go smoothly.
Allow Some Extra Time
Finally, know that shifting venues, even when they’re close together takes time. As such, be gracious if guests arrive to your second venue a little later than expected. In fact, you should probably plan on it. Factor this extra time into your rental agreements and general planning to avoid unwanted surprises. Even if you don’t actually end up needing it, at least you’ll get to enjoy more time with your loved ones!
Whether you’re in one venue or two for the day, your wedding day can be wonderful. The second option just requires a bit more planning and flexibility on your part, but you can make it work!.
