Selecting a Non-Traditional Wedding Venue

Most of the time, the bride and groom will want to be married in their place of worship. If they prefer a civil ceremony, to be held in a less traditional location, there are many possibilities. Most of these venues are available in North America, but if the couple’s dream wedding is in a castle, or in a lighthouse on a cliff top location, many such venues are available in Scotland, Ireland, and Great Britain.

· Where the bride and groom had their first date
· Wedding chapel
· Beach or marina
· Botanical gardens
· Cruise ship, steamboat or yacht
· Art gallery
· Country Club
· Museum
· Country Inn or Bed and Breakfast
· Resort or Hotel
· Historical site
· Park
· Winery

Once the desired venue has been selected, there are many questions that need to be asked. What is the fee for renting the venue and is there a security deposit? Are there insurance requirements? Will there be other weddings on the same day? Will it be possible for the bride and groom to use the venue for a rehearsal the day/evening before the wedding? The couple will need to assess the seating capacity, parking availability and restrictions regarding decorating and picture taking. Once the contract is prepared and agreed upon, it should eliminate future misunderstandings or loss of security deposit.

The bride and groom may also inquire if they may have the ceremony any day of the week. They will want to know if there is a discount for weekday weddings, off-season weddings, or weddings that are all inclusive.




Kathleen Terrana is the owner of Beautiful Bridal specializing in discount tiaras, veils and bridal jewelry.