How to Pick a Wedding Venue

Choosing the perfect wedding venue is one of the biggest decisions you'll make during your wedding planning journey. From logistics and location to style and budget, there's a lot to consider! Here's a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process:

1. Location

Most couples choose a venue close to home — and for good reason. Having your venue nearby means easier planning, quicker vendor meetings, and less stress when it comes to transporting your dress, suit, and décor.

However, some couples opt to get married where the majority of friends or family live, especially if they’ve moved away. This can be a great way to turn your wedding appointments into mini family vacations. Your loved ones will love joining you for tastings and pre-wedding events!

And then there are destination weddings — a beautiful idea but often a big financial and time commitment for guests. If you're considering this route, be mindful of attendance expectations.

💡 Fun Fact: Not all destination weddings involve beaches or mountain tops. At Stone House of St Charles, we’ve hosted several destination weddings where no one — not even the couple — was from Missouri! The venue's central location in the U.S., proximity to Lambert International Airport, and access to over 40 nearby hotels made it an incredibly convenient choice for guests from coast to coast.

2. The Vibe

Do you dream of a city loft, a country estate, a grand hotel ballroom, or a rustic barn?

Start by defining your vision — what kind of environment speaks to you? Once you’ve narrowed down your style, schedule tours at 5–6 venues that match your aesthetic. Keep an open mind — you might fall in love with something unexpected!

✨ At Stone House of St Charles, we blend the charm of a countryside estate with the sophistication of a grand ballroom. Though we're located in a major city, our 10-acre property gives couples the best of both worlds.

3. Maximum Capacity

You don’t need an exact guest list to start looking at venues, but you do need a ballpark figure.

• Micro-weddings (50 guests or fewer) require small, intimate venues — and going over capacity can be a serious issue.

• Some venues have guest minimums — meaning you’ll pay for a set number of guests whether they show up or not.

• Be mindful that "maximum capacity" means just that. If a space holds 250 people, filling it to that number will feel snug.

🥂 With a capacity of up to 400 guests, Stone House of St Charles offers room to breathe — and to dance, dine, and delight. If you're expecting 250 guests, you'll still have space for extras like live bands, dessert bars, photo booths, or even an ice cream cart.

4. Cost

This might seem like the simplest factor, but it’s often the trickiest.

A venue that looks budget-friendly at first glance might only include the bare essentials: an empty room, some folding chairs, and a few tables. Then you’re left footing the bill for everything else — from linens and décor to setup and cleanup.

Other venues (like Stone House of St Charles) include a ton in their rental fees — getting-ready suites, ceremony and reception spaces, Day-Of Coordination, DJ services, elegant furniture, and more — which can make a big difference when you do the math.

📱 Pro Tip: Make a list of what’s important to you. Pull out your calculator and compare total costs, not just base prices. And don’t be afraid to ask questions — it’s your big day, and clarity is key.

Final Thoughts

Picking your wedding venue sets the tone for your entire celebration. Take your time, trust your gut, and stay true to your vision. Once you find the right fit — the rest will fall into place.

💬 I’m Ruth, and I’m here to help! Feel free to reach out with any questions about planning your big day. Text me anytime: 636-541-2698

Happy planning — and cheers to your future!