Planning a baby shower, bridal shower, birthday party, or just a celebration with friends? Finding the perfect spot can feel like a burden, but asking yourself these four questions below can really help narrow down the selection and help you get one step closer to celebrating your next special occasion.
When picking a venue, consider what kind of event you are hosting and what type of venue may add to the experience. For example, if you are looking for a spot for a friend's birthday party, breweries with outdoor space and lawn games are always a fun choice. Or if you are hosting something a little more formal, like a bridal shower, consider a winery, or banquet hall. There are lots of venue types out there and when planning a social event it allows you to be a bit more creative with where you can host!
Will you need space for a dance floor? Do you plan on having a DJ? Do you want a spot with some Instagramable backdrops? All of these considerations will play a part in what type of venue you pick. Some spaces are not conducive to a dance floor, while others are the perfect spot for a dance party. Or, if you don’t want to think about providing entertainment, consider a venue with built-in entertainment - like axe throwing, or bowling.
Whether your event is a casual affair or a more formal soiree will help determine what kinds of foods you will be serving. You’ll also want to consider the time you are hosting your social event - will it be an evening event where people are expecting a heavier meal? Or will it be something where some light apps will do? Thinking about the formality and time of your event will help you determine a venue that will be able to accommodate those needs.
And finally - the deciding factor that ties it all together - budget. Making sure that all the other items align with what you want to spend is the most important aspect when picking your social event venue. What you are willing to (or are able to) spend at a venue will help all the other items fall into place. Be sure to keep in mind costs you might not be aware of such as taxes, administration fees, and staff gratuities that may not be included in a venue’s preliminary quote or when considering a food and beverage minimum or room rental fee.