When it comes to planning your wedding, finding the perfect venue can set the tone for your entire celebration. Tennessee is a state rich in stunning landscapes, deep-rooted history, and lively culture, which gives couples an impressive list of options. From the majestic Smoky Mountains to vibrant cities like Nashville, Knoxville, Memphis or Chattanooga, your choices are endless as they include rural countryside locations across the state. This guide will discuss important factors to help you choose the ideal venue for your wedding day in Tennessee.
Determine Your Budget
The first step in selecting your wedding venue is to set a budget.
Tennessee offers venues across a wide price range, from luxurious hotels and historic mansions to charming rustic barns and scenic outdoor areas. For instance, while a luxury hotel in Nashville might start around $10,000 for a full-day rental, a beautiful barn in the countryside could be as low as $3,000. Define how much you are willing to spend on your venue, as this will help narrow down your options significantly.
Also, remember to factor in extra costs such as catering, décor, and rentals like tables and chairs, music and photography. Some may say that an average wedding in Tennessee costs roughly $30,000, so understanding your budget is crucial. Some locations will see a higher than average cost and some lower.
We at Homestead 32 Wedding Venue in East Tennessee see this average at the high end of the scale in rural areas of the state as we are located on the Cumberland Plateau in the Historic Homestead Community. Prices tend to be greatly reduced for the same quality you might see in an urban area.
Guest List and Capacity
How many guests do you plan to invite?
Your guest list will significantly impact the type of venue suitable for your wedding. Larger venues can comfortably accommodate gatherings of 300 - 500 guests, while intimate spots may host around 50 or possibly less. Knowing your approximate guest count before touring locations will guide you to venues that fit everyone comfortably. This guest count will also be a factor in the overall cost.
For an example; Homestead 32 Wedding Venue in East Tennessee provides tables, chairs, linens, decor for the ceremony and reception for 200 with plenty of room and flexibility. We also include planning support, coordinating and more within one price as well. On the other end, you could rent a cabin in the Smokey Mountains for a group of 25 or less; bring in your decor, food and have a relaxed wedding weekend.
Location, Availability and Access
The location of your wedding venue can set the mood and convenience for your guests.
In Tennessee, your options are many. You might choose a mountainous backdrop in the hills of East Tennessee, a vibrant urban setting in downtown Knoxville, or a charming small town such as Crossville TN. Consider aspects such as guest accessibility, parking availability, and nearby accommodations for those traveling from afar.
For instance, Homestead 32 sits between Middle and East Tennessee and can offer beautiful scenery and a tranquil setting which is perfect for a romantic wedding. Big city vendors will travel to rural areas just as much as being a vendor in the big city market.
Alternatively, venues in downtown Nashville provide an energetic vibe with easy access to bars and restaurants for guests to explore.
Indoor vs. Outdoor Spaces
Choosing between an indoor or outdoor venue is essential, especially in Tennessee where weather can be unpredictable. Having a venue which can provide a back up indoor solution is very important. Whether it includes a ballroom, a tent or you are having your wedding outside and the back up is the reception area as well.
An outdoor wedding can be breathtaking, surrounded by Tennessee's natural beauty, whether in a tranquil garden or a scenic mountain view. An indoor venue for the ceremony and the reception can provide a controlled environment which allow you to enjoy your celebration worry-free.
For example, Homestead 32 offers both indoor and outdoor options, making it a versatile choice for your wedding.
Vendor Restrictions
Some venues may have restrictions on which vendors you can use. Communication during the tour through questions and voicing what your vision is will help to determine if the venue is right for you.
Understanding any limitations before booking your venue can help you avoid potential issues. If you have a specific photographer or caterer in mind, confirm they are allowed to work at your chosen location. Many venues also provide a preferred vendor list, which can be helpful if you need recommendations.
Homestead 32 Wedding Venue has a unique perspective on vendors selections. We welcome all vendors and we also created a vendor selection list to help our couples begin the selection process. Who is on the list? Anyone who has been a vendor at our East Tennessee Venue and who we have had success with as a vendor. This service provides our couples with a beginning point and they can feel secure in the fact that these vendors have been vetted.
Time of Year
Tennessee experiences four distinct seasons, each offering a unique ambiance for weddings.
Spring and fall are particularly popular due to mild climates and beautiful scenery. For example, springtime cherry blossoms in Nashville or the vibrant fall colors in the Smokey Mountains can enhance your wedding photos. While summer temperatures can be hot and winter may bring a picturesque snowfall. Choose a season that aligns with your vision to create the perfect atmosphere.
On the Cumberland Plateau, the seasons flow easily from one to another. Our spring and fall bring cool nights with more greenery in the spring and fall colors give a variety of color options which you might be envisioning for your wedding party attire.
Personal Touch
Finally, selecting a venue that reflects you and your partner's style can make your wedding day extraordinary.
Look for locations that hold personal significance. This could be a favorite getaway you both cherish or a place that symbolizes your relationship. A venue that feels personal will foster a more intimate and memorable atmosphere on your special day.
Wrapping It Up
Finding the right venue for your wedding day in Tennessee involves considering factors like budget, guest capacity, location, and personal style.
By reflecting on these aspects and envisioning your dream wedding, you can discover a venue that beautifully captures the essence of your love story. With Tennessee's stunning landscapes and thriving culture, you'll create unforgettable memories as you embark on this new journey together. Happy planning!
Homestead 32 Wedding Venue in Crossville, TN hopes to use our platform to create awareness for the value of supporting locally owned wedding venues and vendors. You can help support amazing locally owned wedding venues across the country by writing a Google review, following their social media accounts and referring locally owned wedding venues whenever you have the opportunity. We sincerely appreciate your support and want to share a shout out to some of our wedding venue owner colleagues around the country and to some locally owned vendor business on the Cumberland Plateau and surrounding counties. Our goal is to always place quality over quantity and support quality small business owners. Please consider a locally owned venue, you can find locally owned wedding venues featured on this wedding venue map.
Comments