Selecting wedding grounds

By Esther Muchene

Don’t we all love green and well-manicured grounds? They look great on photographs and create an aura of happiness.

However, choosing wedding grounds can be one of the hardest and most frustrating things you may experience while planning your wedding. It will entail you making several trips to different locations, with some being worth your time while others are a total let down.

Many of us can testify to how we rushed to a certain venue because what was presented in the brochure looked amazing, only to find the opposite.

At one time we went to view a venue with a couple whose wedding I was planning and it looked so different we thought we were in the wrong place.

Lesson learnt; never book a venue before going to the place physically. Know exactly what you want before you can go looking for grounds.

Have in mind factors like; expected number of guests, distance (especially if the reception and church ceremony are at different locations), security and parking among others.

This will help you make the decision quickly. Remember you are not the only one getting married and all those who are will be checking the same venues and vendors.

Visit several locations before settling on any. Compare the facilities, any extras provided and the prices. Choose what fits your requirements and place a deposit as soon as possible. It is heartbreaking for a bride to hear her favourite location has been booked.

Depending on your budget and the kind of wedding you want, there are several options to choose from.

School grounds: For those on a tight budget, this would be a good option as most are well maintained and come with ample parking.

On the other hand, some school grounds hold more than one wedding at a time making them impersonal. You are also bound to have gate crushers.

Hotels: Most hotels have beautiful gardens. Some throw in complimentaries such as a free photo session.

You also do not have to worry about security and, at times, catering as most establishments offer these services and do it well.

Homes: Your home or a friend’s backyard could serve as wedding grounds if they fit with what you are looking for.

Parks: For those wanting a safari theme or wild outdoor theme, you can have the option of holding your reception at a park.

Should you want to be in touch with nature and be surrounded by lush green trees, then you may consider the arboretum.

When having your wedding outdoors, remember to factor in toilet facilities. Imagine how disastrous it can turn out when one has forgotten to hire toilets yet the wedding is being held in the wilderness.

The writer is a wedding planner.

evebridal@standardmedia.co.ke