Getting married means big plans. It’s a fantastically exciting moment that most celebrate to the maximum. It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity to celebrate a happy couple! And for many…the celebrations last much longer than the actual wedding.

And the hours of celebration following the actual wedding has almost always been preceded by an entire lifetime’s worth of thoughts, dreams and sometimes concrete plans (mostly on the part of brides and their mothers). And all of this thought and planning occurred before the actual wedding was even a concrete possibility.

Fully outlined (and detailed) wedding plans are often available before the date has even been set. Why is that? It’s because girls have been looking forward to this particular celebration since the first time they read a fairy tale ending with a beautiful wedding and a “happily ever after.” A lot of “almost brides” already have their flower picked out and their bridesmaids reserved and their dresses purchased…but not very many have already obtained their venue.

How should brides go about choosing a venue? There are so many things to consider that it’s impossible to fit them all into one conversation much less one article, but the basics are simple to share.

1. A central location is vital for a good wedding reception venue. Why? Because to have a fantastic wedding reception you have to have people you love and like there to celebrate along with the bride and groom. Nothing starts the party off on the wrong foot like a lack of guests.

2. Check the design style of your potential venues. Some are quite versatile, but others are very limited. Venues with limited design styles can still be the perfect one for an individual; it just has to be considered prior to booking. The best venues offer a variety when it comes to design styles and venue layouts.

3. Availability is an absolute necessity, of course. Never plan on a specific venue until you have officially reserved the spot. Sign on the dotted line and hand over your deposit prior to printing any invitations or purchasing any decor for the event.

The wedding reception is unique and celebrates a new beginning. Make sure it’s the most wonderful celebration you can imagine. It’s going to be a good start to an even better marriage. Making your wedding reception great starts with a great venue. So don’t sell it short!

Contributed by Rachel Hansen. To find more tips on wedding venues, events and wedding planning visit Villa Sienna.