How to Find a Wedding Venue
Hudson Valley Weddings:
How to Find a Venue
When it comes to finding a venue for your wedding reception the possibilities are endless, which can become overwhelming at times. With so many options, how does a couple find the perfect venue? We're glad you asked! Here are a steps to help you make an informed decision with less anxiety.
- First, discuss what kind of atmosphere you want the wedding to have: formal, informal, outdoor, etc.. Look at the season you will be married in as well. If it's a season where there will most likely be lots of rain it wouldn't be wise to plan an outdoor reception with out a plan B.
- How many people will be in attendance? It's hard to have an exact count at the time you need to secure the venue, so work off of an estimation. Size is a big factor when it comes to the type of venue your looking for. Do you want a small gathering of family and close friends? or a banquet fit for a queen? If your looking for something small and intimate you might consider looking at a bed & breakfast.
- What's your budget? Be sure to have a realistic budget set aside specifically for the venue and stick to it. A venue can be within your budget and meet your needs at the same time.
After discussing the top three questions with your spouse-to-be, it's time for phase two:
- Brainstorm. Based on the previous questions, create a list of venues you are interested in. This is the time to write down as many places as you can find. Search the web, talk to family and friends, drive around, do whatever you need to to create this list.
- Edit. Whittle that same list down to a handful you both agree on and would like to visit together. Then schedule a time to visit. If possible, visit each site around the time your event will be held. This way you can see the atmosphere/lighting of each venue.
- Ask Questions. Questions will reveal a lot of information that isn't necessarily available on their website. How many weddings are held in a day? Are there plans for any major changes to the venue? For example, will they be installing a fountain where there is currently open landscape? What do they offer? Do they supply tables, chairs, etc.. What they supply will factor into your budget. Do they deal with post-party cleanup? If you have a wedding planner, bring them along so they can see each space. They can talk to you about the potential of each space and how they would work with the room. You can never ask too many questions.
A few examples of possible venue spaces: Historical homes, resorts, restaurants, a bed & breakfast, and hotels. Those in the Hudson Valley are in the perfect position to find a venue with a view of the river.
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Supporting a Cause on your Wedding Day
Hudson Valley Weddings:
How to support a cause on your wedding day
Have you thought about giving back on your wedding day? Many couples have a cause they're passionate about; whether it be recycling, volunteering, helping the homeless, or donating to cancer research. More and more couples are finding different ways of incorporating their love of giving back into their weddings.
A few ways to do this are:
- Give your guests the option to donate to your charity of choice as their wedding gift to you. Guests can also give a gift certificate that allows the bride and groom to choose which charity they'd like to donate to through Justgive.org
- Create a charitable wedding registry with I Do Foundation
- Increase awareness by incorporating information throughout your reception; such as on your wedding favors.
- Purchase environmentally friendly wedding favors
- Arrange for any reception leftovers be given to those in need
- Donate your wedding dress
Be sure to verify groups you want to donate to. Two sites that offer reports on a large list of charities are: Better Business Bureau and charitynavigator.org.
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Hudson Valley Venue Spotlight
Hudson Valley Venue Spotlight:
The Roundhouse at Beacon Falls in Beacon, NY
One of the great things about living in the Hudson Valley is that you can always find a stunning wedding venue that is on the water. The Roundhouse at Beacon Falls is one of them. As the name states, this building has a great view of the Beacon Falls; and let's face it... who doesn't want to get a picture taken in front of a waterfall? Large floor-to-ceiling windows let in a lot of light and gives the space an airy and open feel. There is also a wrap-around terrace and plenty of space to dance. Check out more photos below of this beautiful location and the lovely couple we had the privilege of photographing.
Hudson Valley Weddings: Venue Spotlight
Hudson Valley Venue Spotlight
Locust Grove in Poughkeepsie, NY
This wedding was held at the beautiful and historic Locust Grove estate, also known as the Samuel F. B. Morse house, located in Poughkeepsie, NY. The Locust Grove is somewhat of a hidden gem in Poughkeepsie. It's scenic landscape makes it a great spot for spring, summer, and fall weddings. Just imagine how gorgeous it must be when autumn arrives and the leaves start changing. Nothing beats New York during the fall. Check out more photos from this location below.
The sunlight made the reception room glow.
Have you ever visited Locust Grove? If not you should go see it if your ever in Poughkeepsie.
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Charming Children
Hudson Valley Wedding Photographer - Documentary Photography
Charming Children
One thing I love about photographing weddings is the spontaneity of young children throughout the day. Wether the ring bearer tries to make a getaway with the rings in hand or the flower girl steals the spotlight on an empty dance floor, children always find a way to bring a smile to the face of every guest at the wedding. Here's a handful of images that will surely brighten your day.
Do you have a favorite shot? Let us know in the comments below.
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