Whether you're dreaming up a grand ballroom wedding at a hotel, a stylish backyard or a urban restaurant, there are pros and cons to think about for each type. Before you book a wedding venue, here are the details you need to know.

Hotels and resorts are popular options, since they offer the most convenience for you and your guests.

PROS

• Experienced Staffers
  Hotels are familiar with entertaining and hosting large groups of people. So you can rely on an established team and an organized system.
• Rentals May Be Included
  Many hotels will furnish all the things you'll need for your wedding, including tables, chairs, dance floor, china, flatware, linens, and glassware.
• Built-in Accommodations
  You will most likely be able to reserve a room block for out-of-town guests at a discounted rate. As an added benefit, many hotels offer wedding packages that include free honeymoon stays.
• Access to Hotel Catering Managers
  Catering managers will help you create a menu, and will usually stay at your wedding to make sure everything unfolds smoothly.

CONS

The great outdoors offer the opportunity to channel natural elements and sunlight during warmer months of the year.

PROS

• Reduce Décor Costs
  Let's just be honest, who needs extravagant decorations when a glowing sunset, fragrant blooming flowers and lush green rolling hills can be your backdrop?
• A Unique and Picturesque Setting
  Beautiful trees and mountain scenery can feel far removed from a bustling city venue. Is there really any better wedding designer than Mother Nature?

CONS

• Unexpected Weather and Temperature
  Be flexible and understand that weather and the change in temperature are out of your control. Possible risks include rain, high winds, extreme humidity, snow, bugs, allergens or unforeseen natural disasters. So having an indoor backup plan is a must.
• Tented Weddings Can Be Expensive
  The price of tent rentals can vary drastically, based on size, type and structural design. Not only will you need to cover the cost to rent the tent, you should expect to pay more for the tables, chairs, and other rented items that are rarely included in site fees.

If exceptional food and service are important elements to you, consider tying the knot at a fine restaurant venue.

PROS

• Great Food
  Foodies who love a well-constructed menu and to-die-for cocktails will appreciate a restaurant that prides itself on creating a wonderful dining experience.
• Reduce the Cost
  Restaurant weddings are generally less expensive than a hotel wedding, and won't blow your budget to turn a raw space into something appealing. Many restaurants have unique and tasteful settings already designed for you.
• Well-Trained Servers
  Restaurants thrive on making good food and providing excellent service-you can expect servers to be experienced in handling a large party.
• Requires Minimal Rentals
  Since restaurants are already equipped with tables, chairs, linens and other service items, your rental costs will be much lower for a restaurant wedding than for a banquet wedding.

CONS

Getting married away from home is thrilling, exotic, and somewhat unexpected. And many of your guests will certainly be happy to join in on the fun.

PROS

CONS

Having your wedding at home (or at a friend or relatives residence) is a nice way to create a warm and intimate atmosphere on your wedding day.

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CONS

To keep it simple, you can have your ceremony and reception in the same place: a catering hall/hotel, a country club, or a church or synagogue that has an event space.

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CONS

Featured Cover Image: Katelyn James Photography