Congratulations, you're newly engaged! Task number is to secure a date...task number two is to find a venue! Or that could be reversed. Sometimes determining a date depends on venue availability. Try not to get hung up on a date if it means you have a preference of your venue. There are SO many in the DFW area but I will admit to having some favorites.
"What makes it a favorite" you might ask? There are several things that go into creating a venue,so when the designer thinks about the little things that not only are work friendly for the photographer but for the guest and clients, that makes it a favorite. Here is a short list of mine:
Hidden Pines Highland Village. This is a venue owned by Walters Wedding Estates. Walters owns several throughout the DFW area and each are unique in their own way and all are wonderful locations. I just happen to love Hidden Pines in Highland Village because of it's setup and size. It's perfect for a larger party that plans to dance at the reception. Their hall is enormous! It's perfect for a winter and summer wedding when you may not be able to get outside. Their style is light with a touch of sophisticated rustic accents. A recent wedding couple, and latest at their venue, Justice & Adrian hosted a beautiful summer wedding. Visit their gallery here!
Of course they have many other venues to accommodate your style.
Aristide Colleyville is another favorite. The tuscan charm of their venue in the mix of downtown Colleyville, transports you instantly to what seems like a little italian village. Their setup offers you a large hall next to the chapel or a more intimate setting just around the corner. Either option is beautiful and having a choice is excellent. Our latest wedding here was when it was still known as Piazza and it has only improved since then. Visit a preview of Ali & Andrews gallery for a peek into Aristide, photographed under our previous brand Charming Fox Photography.
Things to look for in your venue while your searching:
Where are the bride & groom's prep rooms located? Or they close to each other? Personally, I prefer them on opposite ends of the building, especially if you're going to stay with the trend of the "First Look" being when the bride walks down the aisle.
How large is the prep room and will it hold comfortably all of your wedding party while they are getting ready, as well as your parents? Will it host easily your hair and makeup artist or would you need to have that done off site?
Do they offer bridal portrait session time? If you are interested in a bridal portrait session, this is key. Don't know if you want to have a bridal session? That is a whole 'other blog!
Does it match your theme? Is it light and airy but you want a dark and moody vibe? Take into consideration the theme, style, etc. of your wedding. Typically a light and airy wedding vision will not work in a building surrounded in brick, brass, and no windows.
There is so much to consider and my partners at The Knot have come up with some great resources too. Follow their suggestions here!
I welcome any questions on any venue you might have in mind and if I have not photographed there, I will research it beforehand so not to be blindsided upon my arrival. I also like to share any images captured with the venue, if they ask.
Happy Planning!
