Get ready for an inside scoop on the secrets behind a flawless event and pick up some great tips to make sure your special day is a smooth success.
After chatting with some friends in the industry, we gathered their candid thoughts on what guests do that drives them up the wall, and what they wish they could say, but don’t. And wow, did they spill the beans! Take a look!
You Are Responsible For Your Guests
While you’re enjoying your party or reception, remember that you are responsible for your guests and their actions.
For instance, if your guests leave 25 cigar butts in our front windows, it can cost you your entire deposit. We have explicitly stated in multiple places, and reiterated verbally, that smoking debris is prohibited on the premises. It’s not just about keeping the place clean—cigarette butts can be a fire hazard and leave lasting damage to the property.
Advice: Clearly communicate the venue’s rules to your guests and enforce them. Designate someone to help manage and remind guests of these rules during the event. A pre-event briefing or a friendly reminder from the DJ or emcee can help ensure everyone is aware of and adheres to the rules.
Arriving Early is a Big Pet Peeve
Guests might want to see the bride, be unsure of the venue’s location, or simply prefer to arrive early. However, early arrivals interfere with photo sessions, decoration, food setup, and more. The bride can no longer roam freely, and the early birds often place their belongings on tables or chairs before photos are taken, or ask the staff for drinks and directions. This not only disrupts the workflow but also puts extra pressure on the venue staff who are trying to prepare everything to perfection.
Advice: Inform your guests to arrive 15-30 minutes before the ceremony and wait at the designated area. This respects the preparation time and ensures a smoother event flow. You can include this information on your wedding website, invitations, or even send a reminder text on the day of the event.
Many Venues Are Not Kid-Friendly
When we ask a child not to run, it’s for their safety—not because we’re being mean. Kids can trip over equipment, spill food and drinks, or even get hurt, leading to unnecessary stress for everyone involved. Moreover, certain areas might be off-limits for safety reasons, and children may not always understand or respect these boundaries.
Advice: If you bring children, ensure they are supervised at all times. Consider hiring a babysitter or setting up a kid-friendly area to keep them entertained and safe. Activities like coloring books, games, or a small play area can keep kids occupied and prevent them from wandering off. Including a note about childcare options in your invitations can also help parents plan accordingly.
It’s a Wedding, Not a Dive Bar
Even if you think your family doesn’t drink much, free alcohol can change that.
Excessive drinking can lead to unruly behavior, property damage, and even safety issues. This can tarnish the joyous atmosphere of your wedding and create awkward situations.
Advice: Set clear expectations with your guests about alcohol consumption. Consider having a limited bar or drink tickets to manage intake and prevent overindulgence. Hiring a professional bartender can also help manage the flow of alcohol and keep an eye out for guests who might need to slow down. Including a message about responsible drinking in your wedding program or website can gently remind guests to enjoy themselves responsibly.
Planning an event is a collaborative effort. By understanding the secrets your venue might not voice outright and taking proactive steps to avoid common pitfalls, you can ensure a seamless and memorable experience. Remember, venues are there to help you celebrate life’s special moments, and with mutual respect and clear communication, your event will be everything you dreamed of and more.
Did you know…when you choose a locally owned wedding venue you are helping to develop and improve the local economy? It’s true! Your locally owned wedding venues are small business owners creating hundreds of jobs every year. Please consider a locally owned venue, you can find more on this wedding venue map. Here are a few locally owned wedding venues around the country: Cornerstone Ranch Events Center, SpringHaus Farm, Adler Ranch, Cakes ROCK!, & The Venue @ 112.
Thank you for supporting our locally owned venue: 1860 Schulhaus!
