How to Choose a Black Hills Wedding Venue

There are many amazing wedding venues in the Black Hills — how do you pick just one? Check out our guide for tips and things to consider.

The right venue can make your wedding event a huge success, from creating the perfect backdrop to accommodating your guests in a comfortable and inviting atmosphere they won't soon forget. We’ve pulled together a comprehensive checklist to help you find the Black Hills wedding venue of your dreams. Click here to download and print this list for your venue meetings.

Staying organized is key to finding a fabulous reception venue.  There are many details to consider, so use these questions to prepare yourself before meeting with the venue’s coordinator:
 

• What is the fee for the venue and for each additional hour

• How many hours of rental are included?

• Do the hours include catering set-up, decorating, and DJ set-up time?

• Is there a security deposit required?

• What is the cancellation policy?

• Are there reduced rates for off-season, off-hours, or off-days?

• Are you able to hold the ceremony at the venue? Is there a fee?

• Is the location’s wedding coordinator included in the fee?

• Does the facility provide security?

• How much for additional staff?

• Does the fee include the staff to serve the meal?

• Is there a caterer available in-house?

• If not, do they require use of a caterer from an approved list?

• Is there parking available for the guests?

• Can alcohol be served on the property? Who supplies the bar?

• What is the fee for a bartender?

• Are there additional charges for set-up and tear-down?

• What are the gratuity and sales tax to be added to these fees?

• Does the fee include tables, chairs, and linens?

• Are the dance floor, lighting, and sound included in the fee, or are they available to rent?

• Are you responsible for any additional event insurance?

• How late can the DJ play music?

• Are there enough electrical outlets?

• Are there any discounts for hotel rooms for wedding guests?

• What are the fees associated with decorating the reception site? Can you decorate the site yourself?

• When will the decorating be able to take place?

Objectively review the list of answers received from all of the wedding venues you visit before making the final decision to reserve one. The site should comfortably accommodate your guest list and fit within the budget. Pay close attention to fees, services, and timlines will ensure that you make an educated decision. Find your dream venue but realize it's too small? Check out our tips on narrowing down your guest list!

FEATURED PHOTO COURTESY OF LEGACY PHOTO AND DESIGN