Public Building Wedding Venue
By Anna K.
January 9, 2012
January 9, 2012
So, you want to have your wedding in a public space? You go, girl. There are a range of public venues from local and state parks, museums, and galleries. The catch is that while the location fee for public buildings is often quite reasonable -- it's the rentals, tents, generators, security, port-a-potties, and cleanup crews that decimate your budget.
Deal or No Deal
Before you finalize your location, make sure you know what is included. Some public buildings, such as synagogues, have their own banquet tables, caterers and pre-approved staff. They can also offer you a package deal. Galleries tend not to be able to offer much at all -- leaving you responsible for all the rentals. Knowing what's included is vital when planning your wedding venue budget.
You've selected a building because of its architectural integrity, so don't cover it up with tons of flowers and décor. Minimal décor will keep the focus on the building itself -- and help save your budget.
Hidden Extra Costs
Having your reception in your place of worship is considered a major money saver. If you have a long-standing relationship with your synagogue, church, or temple, they'll be more likely to work within your budget. But make sure you know what you're signing up for -- the rentals needed to turn your modest place of worship into a bridal ballroom may send you off packing.
Prep work and Break down
Another thing to watch out for is that the time for deliveries for public buildings is often tightly scheduled. This may mean expensive fees from your vendors when they realize they have to rearrange their entire day around your location's timetable. See if you can get your venue manager to give you more wiggle room, and watch your vendor's delivery fees drop dramatically.
Do you have to use a pre-approved cleanup crew? If you run over, what penalties can you expect? Expect the unexpected when coordinating a wedding at a public building, and make sure you have at least 10% extra padding in your reception budget for last-minute expenses.
Don't Save for a Rainy Day
We know you've been obsessed with those amazing roses in the public gardens, but take it from us. Keeping your wedding reception inside can mean big savings. You won't have to rent a tent or deal with the hassles of, God forbid, a bad weather backup plan. So have cocktails outside, but keep the main event under that sturdy and waterproof roof.
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