Spotlight: Setting the Scene
How to Choose a Venue That Reflects Your Story
November 30, 2025
A wedding venue is more than a setting. It is the place where your story comes to life. It shapes the mood, the movement, and the overall energy guests feel from the moment they arrive. While capacity and cost matter, the most meaningful decisions come from looking beyond logistics and paying attention to how a space feels and what it naturally supports.
Notice How the Venue Makes You Feel
At Belle Âme Vineyard, Natalia Brummond encourages couples to trust their instincts when touring spaces. “Notice your first reaction. Do you feel comfortable here? Can you picture your guests? Does the space make sense for what you want? Those instincts usually say more than any checklist,” she explains.
According to Brummond, the venue you choose sets the pace and energy of the entire day. She advises couples to think about how people will move through the space, where the light hits, and what kind of atmosphere the venue naturally creates. “If you have to force too much to make it work, it is probably not the right fit,” she adds. Brummond emphasizes that the ideal venue should allow the celebration to unfold effortlessly, letting the moments feel authentic and connected.
Let Your Vision Guide Your Choice
Lauren Wooden of Glass House suggests that couples consider how they envision their wedding photos when choosing a venue. “When you picture your gallery, do you see lush greenery and natural light, something minimal, or a bold, dramatic setting? Let that vision help guide your venue choice,” she says. Choosing a space that aligns with the couple’s aesthetic ensures a cohesive and authentic celebration.
Look Beyond the Numbers
Jenna Z. from Bavaria Downs and Bellagala reminds couples that the true cost of a venue goes beyond the listed price. “Ask about any added charges or hidden fees. What may cost extra at most venues might already be included at others, so it’s important to understand the full picture,” she says. She encourages couples to spend time in the space and pay attention to the energy they feel. “It’s about more than just the venue. It’s about the experience and trusting your instincts,” Jenna explains. To avoid surprises, she advises creating an all-in comparison that includes rentals, décor, lighting, and staffing so couples can make fully informed decisions.
Define the Mood of Your Day
Lorah Palmer, Director of Hospitality at 7 Vines Vineyard, emphasizes that a venue shapes the rhythm and feeling of the entire wedding. “Selecting your venue sets the tone for your day - it influences the atmosphere, flow, and comfort of your guests,” she says. She encourages couples to start with their vision and how they want guests to feel when they walk into the wedding: is it romantic, intimate, joyful, airy or is it playful and unique? "Venues influence the mood, and each venue offering will help you decide. You want the space to reflect your personalities and your story."