Contributed by The Barrie Country Club

A wedding’s style starts with where you choose to celebrate

“How much will it cost for me to hold my wedding at your venue?”

It’s not the most difficult question that they will encounter as a venue for weddings, but nearly impossible to answer without additional information. You may want to start by asking yourself: how much do you want to spend?

Venues can build any event to suit and accommodate any budget. It’s all a matter of getting what you pay for. Some brides prefer to book a complete package, be it the ‘Cinderella Package’ with a full open bar and all the luxuries money can buy. Others choose a more budget-conscious package including a cash bar and basic linens. The venue’s event coordinator will be able to help guide you through the planning of your special day and the decisions that follow. Is this wedding going to be over the top? One of dreams and fairy tales? Or is it, in reality, going to be an elegant-but-affordable affair?

Asking the right questions can save you money and loads of time. Can you book and plan a wedding inside of six months? Of course, but for most of the premium venues you will require more time in order to secure your preferred date. Prime days, such as Saturdays, can be booked up to a year and a half in advance. That’s something to keep in mind.

Do you need help deciding on a location? Not sure where to start? Ask your friends and family. More often than not they have all been to a wedding or special event held in a variety of venues and will have some ideas for you. Also keep in mind things like the distance from the church or ceremony site and its proximity to hotels suitable for your out of town guests. Does the venue have adequate parking? Can you arrange a site visit? Will the venue provide a catering package that meets your needs? Is there a place for an onsite ceremony? If it is outside is there a back-up plan should Mother Nature have her own ideas? What will it cost to use it? Are there onsite gardens or architectural details that will lend themselves well for photographs? If so is there a fee to use them?

Once you’ve viewed the facility, more questions will arise including; what is incorporated into my rental fee (i.e. décor, centrepieces, candles, cake cutting, standard linens, etc.)? Are there any hidden costs that will be added to the bottom line (i.e. SOCAN fee, minimum guest counts, set-up fees, upgraded linens, etc.).

How can the event coordinator save you money? There are numerous places to cut costs without appearing thrifty. Perhaps you could consider a punch reception and/or wine service through dinner instead of an open bar or cocktail hour. Cash bars are a huge money saver for you and are no longer out of fashion. Every newly married couple has concerns regarding their guests’ safe drive home; cash bars have a tendency to assist in curbing the excessive consumption.

Varying the day of the event can generally lower the costs as well. The weekend has three nights not just one. Each has a unique mood; Friday’s are great for an elegant cocktail party with reception style food stations and a dance-club-feel to finish it off.  Sundays are also becoming more popular with a more relaxed, casual atmosphere. The meal can be served a bit earlier and the bar tab is generally smaller. Sunday’s lend themselves well to an afternoon celebration with a light meal, live music, close family and friends.

When considering the meal you have to think about which style you prefer, buffet or plated service? Budget plays a big role here. Will it be stuffed chicken or filet mignon? Will it be three or ten courses? If the venue will not allow several entrée choices what will be a safe selection for the majority of your guests?

How will you pay for your night? Probably the most difficult question you will ask yourself. Get a budget from your venue and ensure it lines up with your own plan. Know all your costs up front by asking all the right questions. Ask about deposit and payment schedules. Is there a cancellation policy in effect just in case? Be up front and honest with your coordinator and they will work with you to achieve the experience you desire without breaking your bank.

Now that you’ve booked the venue it’s on to the invitations, flowers, attire, transportation…

Congratulations and good luck! Your journey has just begun.