FAQs About Wedding Packages

Are you newly engaged? After the initial excitement of your engagement winds down, it's time to start planning. Before you book a venue or start a vendor search, take a look at what you need to know about wedding packages.

What Are Marriage Packages?

Packages are bundled venues offer. These include everything from the space for a ceremony and reception to the catering and entertainment. Along with the amenities, activities, or services included in a package, many venues also add in professional planning. This can reduce the chaos and confusion of the planning process, allowing you to take a step back and make fewer choices.

What Does a Package Include?

Again, packages include a variety of different wedding-related services. The specific parts of a package vary by venue or planning service. Common parts of a package or options are the venue space itself, an event planner/specialist, décor, catering, beverages, the cake, a photographer, a band, a DJ, set-up and clean-up, and everything you need for a sit-down reception meal (tables, chairs, linens, dishware, glassware, and flatware).

Some venues offer basic packages that provide a way to keep your wedding within, or even under, budget. A venue may also have different packages or options with additional features or services. To learn more about what your potential future wedding venue offers, ask the coordinator, director, or planner about packages, prices, and what each choice includes.

Why Choose a Package?

There's no universal answer to this question. Some couples prefer the simplicity of a package, while others choose this option as a way to save money. A package can help you save time and energy during the planning process. Instead of multiple vendor visits, you can plan the entire day through your venue. This eliminates the need to schedule appointments or interview outside planning professionals.

How Should You Choose a Package?

Before you select a package, discuss the overall wedding budget with your fiancé. After you agree on the budget, you can begin to learn more about the options, services, and selections. Decide what is important to you and how you want your wedding to look. Specific details to discuss with the venue planner or to look for in a package include:

• Food: Do you want a buffet or a sit-down meal? Along with this choice, ask the planner if the package includes beverages, appetizers, dessert, or the cake.
• Entertainment: Does the package include a band, DJ, or other types of entertainment?
• Size: How many guests will attend your wedding? Some packages may only include meals or beverages for a specific number of guests.

Along with the details, ask the venue planner if packages are customizable. This provides the option to pick and choose specific services based on your specific wedding needs.