06/16/2026
I always see brides asking on social media for venue recommendations, but never for venue non negotiables. And if your job doesn’t revolve around weddings over half the year then how would you know to ask that right??
Here’s my hot take on things that would make me think twice at a venue before booking:
1. Shading - is the venue fully shaded (amazing), fully in the sun (still okay depending on ceremony time), or half shaded (my least fav personally as your photographer). Ask to see the lighting around the time you’d be doing ceremony at.
2. Lighting - this sets the tone of the evening! Are there string lights if your reception is outside? Is it pitch black outside at night? This makes a huge difference on your photos.
3. Bridal suites - is there enough room to comfortably get ready with your closest family and friends? On wedding day there’s a lot of people coming in and out of your space, and being crammed into a small suite can feel even more chaotic.
These are just MY opinions, but honestly if a venue makes you feel like it’s THE ONE go with your gut!
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