One type of venue that's getting a lot more popular is the informal wedding venue. More and more couples are deciding to have a more creative reception, and many of them are themed. Many people choose to rent a venue that's well coordinated with their theme.

However, no matter what venue you choose, there are a few questions you should ask yourself before making a reservation. They include your preferences, budget, and how many guests you can accommodate in a given venue, as well as the amenities that may or may not come with the venue.

The normal rule of thumb is to spend no more than thirty percent of your wedding budget on your venue. However, some couples choose to spend more, and others far less. Non traditional locations may be less expensive than dedicated reception centers. They may also not be used to hosting weddings, so keep this in mind.

Talk about how much you can spend in advance, and set a firm budget before you make a reservation. When giving consideration to conventional venues, ask about package deals that can help you save money.

If your venue doesn't provide food, drink, and entertainment, factor the cost of those into your budget, too. Everything adds up, and you'll need to be sure that you're ready for expenses.

When deciding on a venue, first narrow down your choices. Do you want an indoor wedding, or one that's outside? If you're planning to be married outdoors, you should also plan to have an alternate indoor wedding venue in case of inclement weather.

Ask yourself if your wedding has a theme. If it does, what sort of venue would be appropriate? Outdoor settings are great for Medieval or Western themed weddings, while interesting local buildings will add flavor to others.

Should you choose an alternative type of venue, make sure you know what's needed to use it. You may be responsible for cleanup, or special arrangements could be required. Remember that travel distance and accessibility are important factors for making sure that guests will enjoy your wedding venue.

Think about venue size, too. The wedding venue you choose must be able to accommodate the number of people you're planning to invite, without being so large that they feel like marbles in a shoebox. If you're planning to have a DJ or live music, they'll need space for their equipment, and space for dancing will be required, too.

It's important, when looking at venue size, to do more than just ask how many people can use the venue. Find out how the area will be laid out, to make sure that none of your guests are relegated to the hall or corner.

Once you find a venue that feels perfect for you, book it well in advance and get a receipt. The better organized you are, the better your wedding will go. One way to make sure that your wedding is great is to be certain there are no problems with the venue.