When organizing an event, there are a lot of big decisions you need to make, the largest decision being the private event venue you choose. How you come to this determination will ultimately rely on several factors: what the event is for, how many guests are attending…the list goes on! While this could seem intimidating, it doesn’t need to be – the best way to prepare for an event is to go into it with a full understanding of what you need and want. Below, we’ve put together some of our best tips for choosing the perfect venue for your private event!
1. Location, Location, Location
It’s likely this is the first thing that comes to mind, and for good reason – location is super important when it comes to planning your event. Consider where your guests live and whether they will be traveling. Do you need the venue space to be local, or close to overnight accommodations and transportation for those who are coming from a distance? Are you looking for a rustic location, such as a historic barn, or a more city-style backdrop? The location of an event can often impact the number of guests who end up attending, so make this your first priority when considering an event space!
2. Check Your Dates
Time of year can be a huge influence on event decisions, including where you end up hosting it! Depending on the type of event you’re hosting, you may have to be comfortable with being flexible on dates. For example, if you’re looking to have a summer wedding – which is arguably the busiest time of year to get married! – you may have to settle on a weekend or day you didn’t initially plan.
Additionally, your dream venue location and time of year may not necessarily coincide. Let’s say your vision is to have an event in a sprawling lawn and gardens – you wouldn’t want to host that in the dead of winter! Consider all factors before setting a hard date to make sure the venue you want can accommodate your event.
3. Consider Parking Options
Parking is a detail that may not seem like that big of a deal initially but can end up being a huge headache if it’s not thought through completely. When considering a private event venue, make sure you ask about the parking situation. Does the venue have a parking lot for guests? Do they offer valet parking services? If the answer is no to either of these, is there available parking nearby that guests can use? Parking is one of those amenities that truly takes a venue from good to great, so don’t forget to ask about this!
4. Consider Capacity
Choosing a venue based on aesthetics is all good and well, but you want to also make sure that it will hold all the guests you’d like to invite! If you’re hosting a smaller event, such as a bridal shower or corporate meeting, the size of the venue may not be as significant. However, if you’re hosting a larger event, such as a wedding or family reunion, you’ll want to check capacity maximums for each venue you consider. Choosing a venue such as a barn or outdoor venue is ideal for larger parties, so be sure to keep these types of spaces in mind as you research.
5. Balance Budget & Costs
Planning any event typically requires a budget that needs to be followed, so keep this detail at the front of your mind as you research your ideal private event space. What if you fall in love with a space that is out of your price range? A great tip is one we already touched on – be flexible with your dates! Oftentimes, hosting an event during the “off-season” of your ideal venue can mean discounted pricing. It’s great to keep an open mind and look for ways to cut costs as you research!
Contact the 1812 Farm for Your Next Event
The 1812 Farm is a stunning 18th-century historic barn venue, located in Bristol, Maine. With 2,100 square feet of floor space to accommodate your guests, on-site parking, and all the essentials you can think of, let us help you write your very own piece of history at your special event!
To learn more about our venue and available dates, please contact us today at the 1812 Farm!