SETTING THE SCENE
There are many things to consider when choosing a wedding venue. Annie Slevison speaks with Amie Harvey from The Pavilion at The Marina Mindarie about what to ask a wedding coordinator before locking in your dream wedding location.
Choosing a wedding venue is a vital part of organising your special day. Deciding on the place where you and your guests will share in the joy and commitment of love can be overwhelming, so what should you know before you decide on a venue?
With more than 15 years’ experience in the wedding industry, Harvey has helped many couples create their dream wedding. Having built long-lasting relationships with both her clients and suppliers, Harvey knows the conversations that every couple and wedding coordinator should be having. “Planning a wedding can be stressful, [however wedding coordinators] can assist couples in planning and coordination to ensure their wedding is everything they’ve ever hoped for,” she says.
MEET AND GREET
Harvey believes the initial stages of choosing a wedding venue are the most important. Upon meeting your wedding coordinator, it is vital that you are able to work together and achieve your desired result. She says that while some brides prefer a hands-on approach to the planning, many others like to receive more assistance from the wedding coordinator. “I recommend [advising] your coordinator of the level of involvement you would like to have,” she says. “It is imperative you feel comfortable communicating your vision and requirements.”
THE KEY ESSENTIALS
Deciding on what type of wedding venue you want can be challenging. However, Harvey suggests narrowing it down to three simple components. “[It’s important to consider] location, budget, and [whether] your venue accommodates the needs of your guests,” she says. Remember to take into consideration other aspects such as wheel chair access, should these be needed. Another tip from Harvey is to look at the online reviews of the venue and see what previous couples have had to say. This is a good indicator of whether the venue will suit you and your wedding party.
PHOTO FINISH
It is easy to get swept up in the excitement of your wedding day, but to avoid any unnecessary stress, Harvey suggests finding a location that permits you to be present throughout the entire day. “Look for a venue with fantastic photo opportunity close by,” she says. “This allows for less travel time, giving you more time to enjoy your reception with your guests.”
GET THE LOOK
The style of your wedding is a very personal choice that should reflect you and your partner’s unique personalities. Harvey says that while wedding styles differ slightly, many couples opt for a common, well-known theme. Therefore, most wedding coordinators are able to offer advice on how to obtain the look you and your partner are aiming for. Many venues also offer the chance to work with outsourced suppliers, should you require a specific product or service. Harvey notes that The Pavilion at The Marina Mindarie is able to recommend some fantastic local vendors that can help create your dream wedding.
STYLE GUIDELINES
It is also important to find out if the venue has certain style guidelines you must adhere by. Before you decide on a colour palette or where the DJ will be positioned, make sure to consult with your wedding coordinator about any restrictions. At The Pavilion at The Marina Mindarie, Harvey is happy to note that the neutral venue can accommodate any style, from bohemian to classic, with breathtaking views that will enhance any chosen look.
WRAPPED UP IN A PACKAGE
Most wedding venues will have custom-design packages for couples, however it is essential to check with your wedding coordinator prior to booking. Selecting a wedding package that suits you and your partner is vital to ensure the smooth running of your big day. The team at The Pavilion at The Marina Mindarie understands the importance of this and carefully plans the day based on your desires. “As no two weddings are the same, we custom design our packages to meet the individual needs of our couples,” says Harvey
An important element in your wedding package is the menu. Finding out if the venue has an in-house caterer or off-site culinary team will aid in determining whether you are able to try the food beforehand. “[The Pavilion at The Marina Mindarie] also offers a complimentary menu tasting [to ensure] the menu is exactly to your taste,” says Harvey. This is a great way to know exactly what you and your guests will be eating on the day, and allows you to make dietary requirements if necessary.
IMPORTANT EXTRAS
If you find yourself falling in love with a wedding venue, be sure to ask as many questions as possible. Asking if the venue has noise restrictions will give you peace of mind when you and your guests are belting out your favourite Beyoncé tunes on the dance floor.
Similarly, if you’d like to involve your furry friend in the celebrations, make sure you check with the venue beforehand. Pet-friendly weddings are becoming increasingly popular, and more venues, such as at The Pavilion at The Marina Mindarie, are catering to these requests. “We love all family members… right down the four-legged ones,” says Harvey. “[Pets] can be involved in the ceremony and photos around the marina.”
Harvey is proud that The Pavilion at The Marina Mindarie can offer all its clients a custom-designed package to meet the individual needs of all couples. Located an easy 30 minutes from the CBD, and with exceptional waterside views and a space that can accommodate to any style, The Pavilion at The Marina Mindarie is a beautiful location in which to say I do.
When choosing a wedding venue, it is important to know what you want your big day to look like, and work with your wedding coordinator to achieve that vision. However, it is just as important to remember that your wedding day should be a celebration of love and a joyous occasion shared with the ones who mean the most.
