Issue link: http://digital.canadawide.com/i/619218
realweddings.ca 19 Lay it all out "Some couples have a certain configuration in mind, like a head table or sweetheart table," says Armstrong. "So, when you look at a venue, think about whether it can accommodate your ideal floor plan and layout." Check with the venue coordinator on site – they know the space and what's worked there in the past, and they may be able to send over floor plans. Don't forget to look out for poles or structural columns that may obscure the view for your guests. Time it right Read the contract carefully to see when you can set up and tear down. "You want to make sure there's ample time to complete the vision without affecting the time you get to spend with your guests," says Armstrong. A good window of time for setup will also help avoid making your vendors feel rushed. Light it up "If you want beautiful event photos, make sure the lighting is superb," Armstrong recommends. Visit the space during the time of day you'll be having the reception to check on how well it's lit at nighttime or how the sun affects it during the day. (Remember that time of year will also change the light.) If you want candlelight, you'll need to check with your venue. "It's important to a lot of my brides to have romantic candlelight, but in some venues, you can't burn candles – for good reasons," laughs Armstrong. Get flexible Flex spaces can be invaluable in helping your big day run smoothly, so ask if your venue option has room outside of the main ceremony area that you can use. "You might want an area for the bride and groom to change in, or somewhere for vendors to store some- thing, or a place to drop things off the night before," notes Lee. Deposit danger e best-laid plans can change, so make sure you're committed to your venue before you pony up your deposit. "I had one bride and groom promise me they'd have 150 people, and it crept up to 250, so we had to cancel the small venue that had been booked," says Lee. at change cost them $800. e lesson: don't rush in. Be sure about what you want and need from a space before you go all in – just the way you're sure about the person you're marrying. rw For details, visit realwedding.ca/submissions Get Featured in Submit your engagement or wedding photos and we just may feature them in our next issue. Alexandra & Nick featured in Real Weddings Spring 2015 Shari + Mike Photographers SubAd-1/3 square size.indd 1 2015-11-18 1:14 PM Dushan Floral.indd 1 14-09-22 9:19 AM