10 Things To Consider When Choosing A Wedding Venue

We're spoilt for choice when it comes to the number of notable wedding venues in Australia and picking just one can feel... hard. Here is some advice to help make the decision a little easier.

Key Points

• Have a tentative budget in mind
• Be clear on anything non-negotiable (eg. the ability to BYO alcohol or have live music)
• Understand what the venue hire fee actually includes (eg. are you required to bring your own furniture, cool room facilities, glassware etc. or are all these things included in the price)
• Consider accommodation options, travel logistics and seasonal events when defining your ideal wedding destination
• Leverage the power of AI, social media and Google images to find a wedding venue you love and streamline the process
• Tap into local wedding vendor knowledge
• Come prepared to venue viewings knowing the right questions to ask and what details to look out for
• Check out Wedshed's venue directory

Congratulations! You’re engaged! Hopefully, it’s been a time of popping champagne, giddy celebrations, and *that* glorious never-ending natural high. Relish this moment, because soon enough, you’ll be diving into the thrilling (and occasionally overwhelming) world of wedding planning. And at the very top of that to-do list? Finding the perfect wedding venue.

Let’s not pretend - this is a big decision. In fact, choosing the right wedding venue is one of the most pivotal steps in your wedding journey. It’s the foundation for everything else, setting the tone for your big day, shaping your overall wedding style, and influencing the experience your guests will have. There’s a good chance your wedding venue will also be your biggest spend so if you've set a wedding budget, it’s a decision worth giving some serious thought.

But with so many options out there, from spectacular 1,000 acre properties and private estates to charming wineries and retreats and everything in between, it can feel a little overwhelming. Where do you even begin?

It’s a question that had us scratching our heads over a decade ago when we first got engaged and the answer at the time was far from simple. It’s a huge part of why we launched Wedshed in the first place, wrote a book and launched our own online wedding planning portal (and why we’re writing this blog post now).

Consider this your ultimate playbook for finding a wedding venue that makes your heart skip a beat. Whether you’re envisioning a grand celebration with all the bells and whistles, an intimate micro wedding brimming with charm, or a magical elopement under the stars, these tips will help make the process smoother, more enjoyable, and dare we say it – quite fun!

1. Keep a tentative budget in mind

Let’s start with the practical stuff because, like it or not, your budget will inevitably shape the kind of venue you book. We use the word "tentative" because budgets have a sneaky way of evolving during the wedding planning process. The key is to have a general idea of what you can realistically afford but remain flexible enough to adjust in other areas if necessary.

When requesting quotes, don’t just look at the venue hire fee - dig deeper. Does the price include tables, chairs, glassware, or even staff? Or will you need to hire these separately? Some venues are all-inclusive, while others may require you to rent essentials like furniture, AV equipment, or even bathroom facilities. If you’re planning a marquee wedding or booking a blank canvas venue, these additional costs can add up quickly, so it’s important to factor them in.

When comparing venues, it’s helpful to use a venue comparison spreadsheet to keep a running tally of the total costs (we’ve got a handy one you can access here). Knowing the full picture will help influence your other wedding decisions and avoid any surprise costs later on.

2. Define your ideal wedding destination

Location, location, location—it’s everything when it comes to finding your perfect wedding venue. Start by asking yourself some key questions. Are you dreaming of a destination wedding where you can turn the celebration into a mini holiday? Or is it more practical (and meaningful) to stay closer to home?

Once you’ve nailed down the general vibe, think about logistics such as:

• Guest travel logistics: How far are your guests willing to travel, and how much will it cost them?
• Accommodation availability: Does the region have enough places for your guests to stay? Is there a mix of options to suit different budgets?
• Seasonal events: Check the local tourism calendar to avoid major events that might lead to accommodation shortages or increased costs.

Australia is home to an incredible variety of wedding destinations. You’ve got the rolling vineyards of the Hunter Valley, the timeless year-round beauty of the Southern Highlands, the serene escape of Kangaroo Valley and Mudgee and the relaxed coastal charm of Byron Bay. And that’s just in NSW! Each region offers its own unique flavour, so think about what resonates most with your vision as a couple and start sending off some enquiries.

Keep in mind that on average couples book their venue around 18 months in advance. Fortunately, midweek weddings, winter weddings and lunchtime weddings are all becoming more popular, meaning venues have more availability year-round.

3. Use Google Images as a secret weapon

Here’s a hack that not many couples think of: Google Images. While it might seem like an unconventional research tool, it can be a goldmine for finding hidden wedding venue gems.

Simply type in your preferred region along with keywords like “wedding” or “ceremony” (e.g., “Adelaide Hills + wedding”). Instead of sticking to the default “All” search results, click on the “Images” tab. This often leads you to photographer and wedding blog galleries featuring real weddings at unique spaces that may not appear in standard venue directories.

4. Dive deep into social media

Social media is your best friend when it comes to wedding planning - especially platforms like Instagram and Pinterest. Start by exploring hashtags like #[destinationname]wedding (e.g., #SydneyWeddingVenue). Don’t forget to stalk venue-specific hashtags or those created by couples for their big day. These often give you an authentic glimpse into what a wedding at the venue looks like. TikTok will also open up a huge (yummy) can of worms. Leverage the search bar, explore hashtags, and utilise the discover page to find relevant content like trending wedding venues, wedding themes and more.

Follow photographers, planners, and other wedding vendors in your desired region. Their accounts often showcase venues they’ve worked at and can introduce you to options you might not have found otherwise. It’s like having your very own insider guide to the area.

5. Tap into local wedding vendor knowledge

If you’ve narrowed down your location but are struggling to find the right venue, reach out to local wedding vendors. Florists, photographers, and planners often have insider knowledge about venues in the area. They’ve worked at dozens of venues and can give you honest insights into their pros and cons—everything from how the light hits during golden hour to how accommodating the staff are.

Many vendors also share real wedding stories on their social media or websites, which can give you a peek into how different venues look and feel in action. Don’t be afraid to reach out for recommendations—they’re usually more than happy to share their expertise.

6. Be clear on your non-negotiables

Before you start booking venue tours, take some time to get clear on your must-haves and dealbreakers. These will act as your guiding compass as you navigate the decision-making process.

For example:

• Catering flexibility: Are you required to use the venue’s in-house caterer, or can you bring in your own?
• Accessibility: Does the venue cater to guests with mobility challenges? And is there easy access for vendors (eg. band, stylists, caterers etc.)?
• Alcohol policies: Can you BYO, or are you required to purchase alcohol through the venue?
• Accommodation: Is there accommodation available on-site or nearby? What are the logistics involved?

Being upfront about your priorities will save you time and help you focus on venues that genuinely align with your vision. To help you get started we have a simple, free and fun exercise to help you and your partner set your wedding priorities. Download it here.

7. Come prepared for venue viewings

Visiting venues is one of the most exciting parts of wedding planning, but it can also be a little overwhelming if you’re not prepared. To make the most of your viewings, here's what we'd recommend doing:

• Before you go: Work out your rough guest numbers to make sure the venue can accommodate your party; ensure it's in your price range; and check if they have availability in the months you'd be happy to get married in.
• Bring a checklist: Use a venue viewing guide to ensure you’re covering all bases - capacity, inclusions, restrictions, etc.
• Take photos and videos: These will come in handy when you’re comparing venues later.
• Ask the right questions: What’s the backup plan for bad weather? Are there noise restrictions? Is there an on-site coordinator to assist on the day? What happens with rubbish?
• Read this blog: This is a detailed breakdown of everything to do before, during and after your venue viewing.

The more prepared you are, the easier it will be to make an informed decision.

8. Leverage AI tools for recommendations

In today’s tech-savvy world, AI tools can simplify your wedding venue search. Platforms like chatbots or virtual assistants can analyse your preferences - such as style, budget, and location - and recommend venues that align with your vision, saving you hours of research.

Some AI tools even provide personalised planning tips, cost comparisons, and reviews to make the decision-making process faster and easier. If you’re feeling stuck or overwhelmed, let technology do some of the heavy lifting for you.

9. Be flexible

If after some solid research you still feel like you can't find a venue that fits the bill, consider re-thinking your plans. Sometimes what we want, our budget, our guest numbers and what exists just don't align and the ability to be flexible and adapt your wedding plans can be a useful skill that will save your sanity (and probably, your relationship).

If you're feeling frustrated that you can't find a venue that ticks every box, take a break and then come back to it with a more flexible mindset. Would you elope? Could you reduce your guest list to make the venue you love a viable option? Would you consider getting married somewhere closer to home to save on travel costs? While ultimately we want everyone to find their "dream" wedding venue, it's important to be realistic too.

10. Check out Wedshed's venue directory

Shameless plug alert: We’re here to help! Wedshed’s venue directory is packed with unique wedding venues from Australia, New Zealand and Indonesia that cater to all styles and budgets. From rustic barns to modern industrial spaces, we’ve curated a collection of properties that we’d happily get hitched at ourselves.

Whether you’re planning a micro wedding, an elopement, or a grand celebration, you’ll find plenty of inspiration on our platform. Browse our directory and start shortlisting your dream venues today.

Conclusion

Finding the perfect wedding venue can feel like a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. By staying organised, tapping into local knowledge, and using resources like Google, social media, AI tools, and Wedshed’s directory, you’ll discover a space that feels just right for your big day.