How to Plan a Wedding in a Raw Venue Space
There are plenty of reasons to plan your wedding in a raw or blank space including room for creativity and the ability to use any vendors you’d like. While it can be extremely exciting for a motivated couple, keep in mind that it does require more heavy lifting than an all-inclusive venue. Below you’ll find all the things you need to consider when planning your wedding with a blank slate.
Understand the Costs
It may seem appealing to book a raw venue based on the initial price tag alone, but it is not always going to be a less expensive option. The reason these venues have lower rental fees is because very little is included. If you’re interested in a raw space based on cost alone, I’d recommend doing a cost analysis
Getting Started
Not all raw venues are created equal and it’s important to understand this as you begin your search. Some raw spaces like barns may not have finished floors, while others like industrial warehouses may have lots of columns in the middle of the space. Further, some will be equipped with essentials like kitchens and restrooms, while others will require a caterer to set up a makeshift space and you’ll be responsible for restroom trailers.
Walk throughs Are Crucial
Once you’ve selected your venue, set up time for a walk through (with your planner if you have one). It would be ideal to visit around the same time that your wedding will take place if it’s a venue with lots of natural light. You don’t want to accidentally set your ceremony chairs facing the sun as it’s setting and blind your guests! Be very thorough during this site visit and take lots of photos. If you’re going to be hanging lights or other decor, note how many beams there are and if you’ll need to provide your own hooks.
Note how the space is naturally set up and try to use that to your advantage. Are there columns that create a natural division, allowing you to set ceremony on one side and reception on the other?
Hire the Right Vendors
After you have a really good sense of the space you’ll be working with, it will be time for your vendor search. My suggestion would be to start with your caterer. If possible, going with a full-service caterer will be tremendously helpful. Typically, they’ll be used to setting up in unique spaces, will handle both your food and beverage, and also take over ordering your rentals. If your venue has very low lighting, consider speaking with a lighting professional. Sometimes acoustics are an issue in really large open spaces, so it’s best to bring in a DJ or band that will come with a sound tech. No one wants to hear echoing all night!
Think About Guest Experience
Sometimes, raw spaces are a bit more difficult for guests to navigate, so consider this from the moment you start your communication. Is it a warehouse space that shares a parking lot with other buildings? Is the entrance an unmarked door, or are there multiple ways to enter? You may want to include a small map pointing to the exact location, or a route for guests to follow once they arrive on premises.
Something else to note is accessibility. Make sure there are ramps for wheelchairs and elevators for handicapped guests.
If your guests have a long walk to your site (this is common at farm venues), a great idea is to offer a welcome drink for them to consume on their way.
Have a Plan for Set Up and Breakdown
Set up and breakdown includes all the big ticket items like tables and chairs, but also your decor. If the venue is not providing tables and chairs, you’ll need to speak with your caterer and rental company to see who will be in charge. You may end up paying an extra fee to have the rental company set up. In that case, make sure you have a coordinator on-site overseeing. If you’re decorating with string lights or hanging flowers, ask the venue if there is a ladder available for your use. Deciding to go with a table board instead of escort cards? You’ll need an easel.
Temperature Control
Depending on the venue type, you may need to rent fans or heaters to ensure your guests are comfortable. The venue should tell you what you need, but it’s always a good idea to ask.
Now that you know how to plan your wedding in a raw venue, here are some great blank spaces to consider in New York for your intimate weddings.
Rental Fee Includes: round tables & chairs
Rental Fee Includes: rectangle tables, chairs & string lights
Rental Fee Includes: nothing, blank space
Rental Fee Includes: folding chairs
Rental Fee Includes: nothing, but they do offer rentals for an extra fee