I’m so humbled by the wonderful response to my first Munaluchi blog post and I’m excited to share the next installment in my journey to “I do.” As you already know, my fiancé Michael, aka MikeMusic,  and I are members of Munaluchi’s exclusive Coterie and we are tying the knot later this year. Since we both work in the wedding industry, as a DJ and planner respectively, we are often asked if that’s the way we met. Did we cross paths at an industry event? Did we have neighboring vendor booths at a bridal expo? Or was it love at first sight when we locked eyes during a wedding reception?

But surprisingly our paths crossed in a very unexpected way…

Facebook!

I know, I know…meeting someone online can be very hit or miss, but don’t knock it until you try it ladies! Your very own “Mr. Right” could be just an inbox message away. What started off as a beautiful friendship eventually blossomed into a deep love that neither of us had ever experienced before. They say opposites attract, but I say having common interests trumps that. There is no one else I can talk to for hours on end about music, who appreciates foreign films as much as I do, and who doesn’t mind going salsa dancing on a random Tuesday night. Our chemistry is undeniable and has led to us being partners in love and business.

Having similar interests and tastes served us well in the next step of the wedding planning process: finding a venue. Once the initial excitement of our engagement settled down, we knew it was time to get down to business. As a wedding planner and designer,  I already had a vision of what my dream wedding would look like. Having worked at many New York City venues over the years we both knew exactly what we wanted so our search lasted less than a week. When we walked into our dream space it was love at first site and we eagerly signed on the dotted line.

In an ideal world that’s the way everyone’s venue search would go. But when looking for your own dream wedding venue you may not have that “ah-ha” moment right away. In fact, it can become very overwhelming and frustrating. But by narrowing down the type of wedding you would like to have, your venue search can be virtually stress-free and a lot of fun! So here are my “Victorious Tips” for choosing the perfect wedding venue:

Raw Spaces

Industrial-chic wedding venues have become increasingly popular over the years, especially here in New York City. With an abundance of converted factories and renovated warehouses, you would be hard-pressed not to find a raw space that suits your needs, style and budget. The vaulted ceilings, exposed brick walls, and original classic elements — like oversized chandeliers and marble and brass accents — make for a truly unique canvas that is far removed from the traditional ballroom experience.

Things to consider: Although it can be very enticing to let your creativity flow with customization options on everything from furniture rentals to food trucks, it can also become very costly and time consuming. With a busy 9-5 work schedule, carving out time to conceptualize turning an empty space into your dream wedding can be exhausting. Be sure to take on this major project with the assistance of a professional wedding planner  to make sure everything goes off without a hitch.

Private Estates

If you are a hopeless romantic, then an estate wedding may be just the right fit for you. From sprawling private mansions to enchanted castles, these properties are hidden treasures for couples looking for supreme elegance and refined opulence.

An estate wedding also offers a fantasy element. How many times in your life will you have the opportunity to have an entire mansion or castle all to yourself? It’s an iconic turn of the century dream for those seeking a taste of first-class sophistication and style.

Things to consider: Booking a private estate as the backdrop for your nuptials can often come with a hefty price tag.  Site fees, administrative fees and taxes can be thousands of dollars before you even get to catering and furniture rentals. Consider if these fees are worth the cost of old world charm.

Restaurant Reception

If an intimate wedding is more your speed, consider having your reception at one of your all-time favorite restaurants. You will receive the full service wedding experience without having to fuss over the tiniest of details while also providing your guests with a four-star quality meal that they will rave about for years to come.

Not only can a restaurant wedding be the perfect answer for the quintessential foodie, but it can also save you some major bucks. Many times you can avoid paying thousands of dollars in site fees as long as you meet the restaurant’s food and beverage minimums.

Things to consider: Some restaurants may have restrictions in regard to elaborate décor, so make sure that you are generally happy with the overall look of the space before signing any contract. Floral centerpieces and candles can go a long way so don’t be discouraged by limitations.

Beach Destination

If your main goal is to have a wedding attended by only your closest family and friends, a beach destination wedding could be your best option. This will give you the most control over your guest list and you won’t feel obligated to extend an invitation to every third cousin twice removed and your former kindergarten classmates. Those who are closest to you will make the effort and financial commitment to be there with you.

In addition, having a destination wedding gives you the opportunity to celebrate your union on multiple days. Hosting a welcome BBQ the day before, an all night after party, and a farewell brunch the next day will make it a truly unforgettable experience for your guests.

Things to consider: Although having a destination wedding can weed out your guest list, it can also mean that some key individuals may not be able to attend due to scheduling conflicts, finances or health reasons. Take into consideration how important it is that these people share in this celebration of your union.

Now I can’t give away which type of venue Michael and I chose just yet…but trust me it’s a real stunner. You’ll just have to keep following the blog to find out!

Stay tuned for my next blog post where I’ll dish on the way we asked our friends to be in our bridal party plus DIY tips on creating your own “bridesmaid proposal.”

Happy Planning!

Xoxo – Victoria

[divider]

Victoria Nee-Lartey is a contributing author for Munaluchi Bride Online, Coterie Member and owner of Victorious Events NYC.  To keep up with her, follow her on Instagram  and Facebook.