How To's for I Do's- Choosing A Venue!

Now that you have your wedding planner, it's time to start looking for that magical place- your venue!  There are so many venues to choose from, but you need to choose what is best for you and your groom.  Are you a traditional kind of bride, looking for a ballroom?  Are you a country couple looking for a barn wedding? Do you want to start with a blank canvas and have your wedding in a tent so that you can make it exactly what you want?  All of these are questions that you need to ask yourself.  Your wedding venue, just like everything else we talk about should represent YOU!

I recently sat down and spoke with Joanne Heard, the Director at Oxon Hill Manor.  She gave me good insight on what should be important to a bride when choosing her venue.

"Brides looking for a venue for their wedding day should consider what factors are a priority for them. There are many types of venues and choosing which type is for you is very important. Budget of course is always a consideration, so asking what amenities are included in the rental price is a must! Such as, does the site offer catering services? And is there an option for indoor or outdoor wedding? The other thing that a bride needs to consider when walking into a venue is, are the grounds kept and well maintained.  Is it clean?  Does it really show what type of person you are?   If at that point you absolutely love the site, it's important to keep in mind that you may need to be flexible in your preferred date, especially if it is during peak wedding season."

While Joanne brought up many great points,  Jill Jenkins from Pier 5 also brought a few to my attention. "A bride must consider their guests.  Do you have a lot of out of towners?  Does the venue offer a hotel room for overnight accomodations.  And while your guests are here, does the venue offer activities and excursions to entertain them?"  She also reminded me of photo opportunities! "A great photographer can do wonders! But help him or her out and choose a venue that has plenty of vistas for some beautiful shots and a breathtaking wedding album!"  Thanks for the awesome tips Joanne and Jill!!

We hope that this helps you on your journey in finding the space that is perfect for you and your groom.  If you have any questions, please call the Party Plus Team and we can help guide you to the perfect location! 1.800.TENTING

Bridal Shows- Tricks of the Trade!

Bridal shows are something each and every bride should experience!! They can be somewhat overwhelming so that's why we decided to give you tips on attending!

Be Picky!! Don't just attend the first free bridal show!  Usually the ones that cost money and that are more on the small side can be better then the huge "free for all" shows.  The vendors can sometimes be more qualified at boutique bridal shows then those that are at big convention centers.  These shows are more intimate and are great for first time bridal show brides. It will give you experience and be less chaotic.

Create a Seperate Email!  Before going to the show, start a new email account that is strictly for wedding information!! During your walk through at the shows, the vendors will ask for your email and then send you information.  In doing this, you will be more organized.

Bring a Friend!  You may want to consider bringing your groom, maid of honor or mom.  It's good to have someone to bounce ideas off of, as well as be there to help you with all the goodies that you will get.

What to Bring?  Bring a pen and some paper.  You may find a dress designer that you never heard of during the fashion show or come up with an idea that you didn't think of earlier.  When you get home you can review all of your notes to help you with the planning!

Visit as Many Vendors as Possible! Certain shows may have a scavenger hunt where you win something if you get all of your vendors stamped,but others may not require you to see every vendor. It is in your best interest to see them all!!  Each vendor has something to share and great ideas! If you visit their booth on the day of the show they may offer a bridal show discount.

Expect a good time! If you go with the right attitude and a level of expectation, it should be a great time!!  Wear comfortable shoes for walking and talk to other brides, it may get you some great ideas and even new friends! A big plus? You get to taste some delicious food and yummy cake!

We hope to see you at the next show!

Our Next Shows Include:

1/29/2012- 12:00 noon - 3 pm
Embassy Suites Hunt Valley


2/25/2012- 12:00 noon - 4 pm
Pier 5 - A Harbor Magic Hotel

3/11/2012 - 1:00 pm -4pm
Oxon Hill Manor