Bride Abroad: How To Choose A Venue Without Visiting

Welcome to the wonderful chaos that is wedding planning, and you, like myself, have decided to tie the knot in a destination wedding. It may pose new challenges that your friends who kept their wedding local did not run into.

That’s why I’m here, I am in the thick of this process too and loving every bit. Choosing a location for your wedding is huge, and feels especially daunting if you can’t visit in person.

Stop panic searching flights, here are my tips for booking the perfect destination venue from the coziness of your home.

What Do I Need Before Beginning My Venue Search?

Let’s have the basics set before you dive into calling/emailing venues! You will need an overall idea for budget, guest list, and wedding vibe. Do you have your heart set on a beachside wedding, or do you dream of a chapel wedding?

If you begin with no point of reference then you will quickly find yourself overwhelmed.

You have those ready? Now get cozy and let’s find you a venue.

Research, Research, Research

Google, yes… But my favorite way to research was social media. Youtube, TikTok, Instagram, Pinterest, Blogs just like this one! I can’t even begin to tell you how many Youtube videos I watched and I am so thankful for those creators! They provided a close up and personal look into venues that I craved since I couldn’t walk the property myself.

You can also find the venue website! They may have virtual tours, wedding photos from previous events, and someone to connect with.

Read Reviews, But Not Too Many...

This is what caused my first wedding related meltdown... after reading too many Google reviews on too many venues, I decided it was best to get married at the courthouse and invite no one.

After calming down, I took a break from reading. Please remember, NO PLACE will have perfect reviews. People love to be upset and love to tell everyone about it in great detail, and positive reviews tend to be more simple. It is why I did a large amount of research with all the social media, I could SEE it. Find creators that go over pros & cons of venues.

Pick Your Favorites & Get Info

Narrow your search to 2-4 places. Have a checklist of venue nonnegotiables to help!

Reach out to the Venues! Ask for detailed information on what’s included in the wedding package, such as catering, decor, and any additional services. Request high-resolution photos, floor plans, and any virtual tours available. Make sure you have a clear understanding of what you’re getting and what you are not.

Connect With Someone Who Has Been

Maybe you are super lucky and personally know a former bride or even guest who has been on the location and can provide you with the best insight!

If not, then don’t worry, you have options.

A Venue Representative
A Travel Agent
A Blogger/Influencer
A Friend of A Friend

Ask around! You never know who you know!

TRUST YOURSELF & PARTNER

In the end, trust your instincts. If a venue feels right, has great communication, and checks all your boxes, it might be the one. It is so important for you and your partner to have confidence in your choice even without a physical visit.

Take a deep breathe, and book.