Help! When should I book the venue?

kjkmjm

Looking for a swank venue in downtown DC for a small wedding (50-60 guests) in Spring 2011. I have heard stories about waiting too long so that the date you want is not available for the location, etc. I want to avoid that - and of course feel like I can't really plan much else (dress shopping, etc) until a location and date are firm! Is it too soon to book a venue now (18 months early)? Will places even book that far in advance?

Brie2010

We booked our venue 16 months in advance and we got the last Saturday available in May 2010.  So, no, I'd start looking and book soon if you're in an area that books up fast.

apple_green

So you're about a year and a half out? Is my math right? If so, you can book now. Especially for an urban location - those seem to book up sooner.

notquiteblushing

We booked 15 months out for our July 2010 wedding and 2 weekends in July we're already booked.  Early bird gets the worm.  Good luck!

lpstl

Most places in major cities will accept bookings up t o 2 years in advance, but this is completely dependent upon the venue's policies. I'd make a list of potential venues and start making calls, you'd probably find your local board helpful with this as well.

Catwoman708

As soon as you have a date locked in, have a good idea on the size of the guest list, a good idea, realistic idea of your budget, and a firm, reliable plan in place for saving the money or having it put aside already. And if your plans change, be able to afford to forfeit your deposit. Many people have financial set backs during the planning process and have to downsize, parents back out of paying, jobs are lost, couples change their minds and elope, or guest lists get out of control, etc... A lot can happen in the next year or two.

sarah0725

You're definitely at the right time to start looking. One of the benefits of a long engagement is having your pick of venues.

Bobbysprncss

We are booking ours next month for June 2011. The place we want is a historic building and they were almost completely booked for 2010, but they just opened up 2011 for booking so we got any date we wanted.  I'd say go ahead and book.