When couples begin planning their wedding, the venue selection is a top priority to check off the list, and quite often, it’s the most difficult decision to make. Even when budget constraints are not a factor, many couples are surprised at where they end up, as expectations vs. reality don’t always align.
We’ve helped hundreds of couples choose their wedding venues, and there are always surprises to be found once the visitation process begins. What may attract someone in a photograph, website, or Instagram story may not resonate in person. It’s important to keep an open mind and decide based on a visceral feeling, not just reputation/description.
So, with that sentiment in mind, we’ve provided some wedding venue tips for those just beginning their search!
Aligning Tastes, Personalities, and Presentation
In a world where grandiosity and spectacle often take center stage, it simply works better for all parties when the focus is on the union of two souls, and the venue serves as a beautiful supporting character. Again, even if cost is no issue, we believe in matching the couple’s tone, tenor, and tastes, and steering clear of the temptation to choose opulence or modernity for its own sake.
If the wedding venue doesn’t align with the couple’s personalities, it doesn’t matter how beautiful it is; it simply won’t gel. Couples should be honest with themselves and each other about the “vibes” they feel when visiting a venue and talking with the personnel on hand. Being honest with each other is a priority #1 when choosing a venue.
Here are some of our favorite Boston wedding venues that meet a range of tastes, desires, and personalities:
With its historic charm, the Boston Athenaeum is perfect for history buffs and romantics alike. It will speak to those who appreciate culture and the beauty of a stately New England landmark but want a venue that will leave an impression.
On the other side of the spectrum lies Stonehurst, a bucolic Waltham estate that dances in nature’s serenity. Amidst lush landscapes and architectural elegance, celebrations at Stonehurst come to life. For those seeking a canvas that embraces the outdoors, Stonehurst awaits!
Then, there’s the regal Commander’s Mansion in Watertown, an event space with classic allure. This venue is a haven for those who want the perfect blend of history and contemporary charm—a space where echoes of the past harmonize with the promises of the future.
Go With Feeling, and Every Detail Will Fall Into Place
As Boston wedding planners, we truly understand that what makes a luxury wedding is not just extravagance but the seamless fusion of dreams and reality, and most often, a venue will immediately “speak” to a couple once they step inside. It could be the warm personalities of the on-site coordinators or some beautiful feature of the architecture that is unexpected and wonderfully familial.
The point is that choosing a wedding venue is more subjective than objective, and couples who are the happiest with their decisions are usually not guided by what others are telling them they should enjoy. Let the wedding planners worry about the details.
Contact us today to learn more about Boston-area venues and our wedding planning services.
