Few couples would say that a hotel ballroom or banquet hall is the ultimate expression of their personalities. However, traditional wedding venues offer the experience, security and convenience of having hosted hundreds, even thousands of weddings. But for the bride and groom who want a completely personalized wedding day and don't mind some extra work, an unusual venue could be a great choice. Here are some things to consider when deciding between a traditional and non-traditional wedding venue:
Advantages Of A Non-Traditional Venue
There are many advantages to using a non-traditional wedding venue. A venue that hosts few weddings may be willing to negotiate with couples on the rental price. As well, there will be fewer brides and grooms competing for the same wedding date. Choosing a non-traditional venue also allows the bride and groom to be creative and express their personalities, giving their guests a very memorable experience. Brides and grooms using a non-traditional wedding venue will often find they have more flexibility regarding the time and date of their wedding, and that they overall have more control over all aspects of the wedding.
Disadvantages Of A Non-Traditional Venue
It's wise for brides and grooms to consider the disadvantages a unique wedding venue may bring. For example, a venue that is less experienced in hosting weddings may provide less support for the couple planning their wedding. The venue may even require additional planning by the bride and groom, such as table and chair rental, or renting a sound system. And while traditional wedding venues may provide catering and bar service, brides and grooms should expect to book these separately.
Finally, couples may experience family resistance to a non-traditional wedding, and a religious ceremony may not be possible at all venues.
Where Can I Find A Non-Traditional Wedding Venue?
Many couples choose to get married at a venue that has personal meaning to them, like the restaurant where they had their first date. Other couples tie their wedding to a hobby or passion, like the paleontologists who get married in a museum, or the amusement-park enthusiasts who get married on a roller coaster. In selecting a non-traditional wedding venue, couples need to consider not only what best represents them, but what they can afford and where their guests will be comfortable.
Unique And Unusual Venues For Wedding Ceremonies And Receptions:
- museums
- historic and interpretive sites
- farms,ranches and barns
- bars and restaurants
- theaters (live theaters and movie theaters are both popular choices)
- public parks and beaches
- art galleries
- libraries
- amusement parks
- campgrounds and cottages
- castles and historic homes
- zoos
- renting a bed and breakfast for the weekend
These are just a few ideas. With a bit of imagination, almost anywhere has the potential to be a unique wedding venue. Because a non-traditional wedding venue often requires more planning than a standard banquet hall, brides and grooms who are creative, flexible, and independent-minded are often the best fit for this option. The extra work involved is rewarded with a wedding day that friends and family will be talking about for years to come!
Catherine Walsh - Catherine Walsh is a professional actor, playwright, and freelance writer. A graduate of the University of Ottawa, Catherine's film ...
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