Wedding Venue or Wedding Planner… Which Should You Book First for Your Raleigh Wedding?
Getting engaged is an exciting milestone, but it doesn’t take long for the reality of wedding planning to set in. With so many decisions to make, one question often leaves couples feeling stumped during the early stages of planning: “Should we book a wedding venue or hire a wedding planner first?”
The answer is not a simple one-size-fits-all. Instead, it depends on several factors, including your vision for your big day, your budget, and how much support you’ll need during the planning process. This guide will walk you through the pros and cons of each option, so you can choose what’s right for you when deciding should you book a wedding venue or wedding planner first for your Raleigh wedding.
Somos Family Weddings & Events is a beautiful and affordable wedding venue nestled on 50 acres near Raven Rock State Park.
The Case for Booking a Wedding Venue First
Why the Venue Matters
Your wedding venue plays a major role in shaping the entire event. It not only sets the tone but also determines many logistical details, such as the number of guests you can invite, the date of your celebration, and even which vendors you can work with. Popular venues often book out 12-18 months in advance, so securing your spot early is crucial—especially if you have your heart set on a specific location.
How Venues Impact Your Budget
Your venue will likely be one of the biggest expenses in your wedding budget, often accounting for 30-50% of total costs. Booking your venue first gives you a clear understanding of how much you’ll have left to allocate to other aspects of the wedding, such as catering, décor, and photography.
Venues Often Have “Preferred Vendors” Lists
Many wedding venues work with preferred vendors, including planners, caterers, and florists. If a venue you love has restrictions on who you can work with, it may impact your ability to bring in an external planner. Booking your venue first ensures you fully understand these terms before hiring a planner.
When Booking Your Venue First Makes Sense
You already have a strong vision for your wedding theme or style.
You're working with a strict timeline and need to secure a venue quickly.
You prefer in-house services offered by the venue, such as catering or décor.
One of the many things that our couples love about Somos Family Weddings & Events is that we leave the choice for wedding vendors open for you to find who fits your budget and vision. However, if you would like some suggestions, we have a list of wedding pros on our website to help you get started in your search.
Brides love our elegant bridal suite with lots of lighting for amazing pictures.
Why Hiring a Wedding Planner First Can Be a Game-Changer
Taking the Stress Out of Early Planning
Planning a wedding can be overwhelming, especially during the initial stages. Hiring a wedding planner early allows you to tap into their expertise and take advantage of their industry connections from the very beginning. They can guide you through the venue selection process, helping you find options that align with your vision and budget.
Professional Guidance Saves Time and Money
Not all venues are created equal, and it can be easy to fall in love with a location that doesn’t quite fit your needs. A wedding planner understands the fine print that many couples overlook, such as hidden fees or rigid policies. By hiring a planner first, they can help you avoid expensive pitfalls and ensure your venue supports the overall flow of your big day.
Another thing couples appreciate about Somos Family Weddings & Events is that we have transparent pricing on our website. There are no hidden fees, no surprises, no submitting your email or having to book a tour before seeing our prices. We value your time and will not add to your wedding planning stress. You will not have to worry about falling in love with our venue and then find the pricing does not fit within your budget.
Planners Set the Stage for Your Dream Wedding
Wedding planners work closely with brides and grooms to establish a cohesive vision for the wedding. They bring clarity to your ideas, helping you prioritize what’s most important and avoid decision fatigue. Whether you’re envisioning an intimate rooftop garden or a grand ballroom, a planner can match you with venues that make those dreams a reality.
When Hiring a Wedding Planner First Makes Sense
You’re unsure of your overall wedding style, budget, or vision.
You have a demanding work schedule and need help managing logistics.
You want access to exclusive venues or vendors that may not be easy to find on your own.
Choose from 4 beautiful outdoor ceremony options with use of arches/arbor included.
Balancing the Two Decisions
Choosing between booking a venue or hiring a planner first doesn’t have to be a black-and-white decision. For many couples, the best option may be to pursue both tasks simultaneously. Here’s how to strike the right balance based on your unique circumstances.
Steps to Take if You Know Your Dream Venue
If you’ve already fallen in love with a specific venue, reach out to them to check availability and request a detailed list of their policies. Once you’ve secured the date, consider hiring a planner to take over the rest of the logistics. Planners can coordinate with the venue’s staff, recommend vendors, and ensure everything runs smoothly.
Steps to Take if You’re Still Exploring Options
If you’re still exploring venues, hiring a planner first can be invaluable. They’ll work closely with you to define your preferences, create a list of potential locations, and even set up site visits. This way, you’ll feel confident that the venue you choose is the right fit.
Our Enchanted Forest makes couples swoon. 😍
Pro Tips for Making Your Decision
Think About Your Budget: If your budget is tight, focus on securing an affordable venue that offers built-in services. This could reduce the need for a full-service planner, though you might still benefit from hiring a day-of coordinator.
Assess Your Time and Energy Levels: If you’re overwhelmed by the thought of planning or don’t know where to start, a planner can provide the hands-on support you need.
Communicate with Your Partner: Talk openly about your priorities and expectations. This will help you align on what’s most important and guide your next steps.
Reach Out for Recommendations: If you have friends or family who’ve recently tied the knot, ask them about their experience. Did they book their venue first, or did they work with a planner? Their insights can provide valuable perspective.
📷: Hint of Blue Collective
What’s Right for You?
When it comes to the question of venue vs. planner, there’s no wrong answer—only what works best for your specific needs. Some couples thrive on managing every detail themselves after booking their dream venue, while others prefer the professional expertise of a planner to keep them on track.
At the end of the day, your wedding should be a reflection of you and your partner. Whether you choose to book a venue, hire a planner, or tackle both decisions at once, take the time to savor the process. This is your special day, and every decision you make brings you one step closer to saying, “I do.”
Ready to take the next steps in securing your wedding venue? Check out our available dates and book a tour with Somos Family Weddings & Events. Come see why so many couples fall in love with all we offer to make their dream day a reality.
For more wedding tips, themes, and step-by-step guides, be sure to follow our blog.
Happy planning!
Our venue, Somos Family Weddings & Events, is a locally owned, family business. When planning your wedding, choosing a locally owned venue can make your day even more special and meaningful. These venues offer a level of warmth and care that’s hard to find elsewhere, with personalized service that makes every detail feel uniquely yours. Additionally, booking a local venue directly supports the community, helping small businesses thrive and contributing to the local economy. By selecting a locally owned space, you're not just celebrating your wedding—you’re creating heartfelt connections with the people and the place that make it truly special. In an effort to support locally owned wedding venues, we will feature five small business wedding venues in each of our blogs.
The Ma Maison
Chapman Hill
Topeka Social
Lone Star Oaks
Blueberry Hill Wedding Venue
