What To Look for When Touring Wedding Venues

When comparing potential wedding venues, touring each one in person will help clarify what they offer. Seeing the venue yourself also lets you visualize how the space will support your wedding timeline. At The Laboratory Mill, we provide couples with private tours so they can get a full understanding of our venue and services. Here are some things to look for when touring wedding venues:

Architecture Style and Layout Flow

A venue’s architecture influences how wedding events will function and feel. Restored buildings, like The Laboratory Mill, might include distinctive materials and textures that aren't available in modern venues. Tall windows, original wood, and exposed brick can create visually appealing backdrops for your wedding. Look for a venue with interior design styles that complement your wedding decor. 

The layout of a venue affects the way your guests can move around during your event. A venue that offers a clear path from the ceremony to the reception area will reduce delays and confusion. Some venues are segmented, having multiple floors or disconnected rooms. Others have an open concept layout that allows for a more natural flow from one event to the next. During a venue tour, walk through each phase of the wedding as your guest would. Make note of how much walking is required and where transitional issues might occur. Wedding venues with flexible layouts support custom wedding setups. The Laboratory Mill’s open reception space allows for a variety of seating arrangements and guest accommodations.

Natural Surroundings and Photo Opportunities

Outdoor wedding venue features contribute to your event's overall setting and atmosphere. Some venues are located near residential developments, industrial areas, or roads. Others, like The Laboratory Mill, are positioned on or around open land, woods, and rivers. These surroundings create a sense of privacy and reduce distractions from nearby noise.

Outdoor ceremony spots should have easy access and be shaded and well-maintained. During a venue tour, take note of the ceremony area’s proximity to bathrooms and parking. If the weather becomes less favorable, the venue should support a transition to their indoor spaces without too much disruption. Photographic settings also vary vastly across venues. Landscaped grounds, water features, and bridges provide ideal backdrops without the need to purchase or rent decorations for photos. The Laboratory Mill’s riverside location near the woods provides plenty of photo opportunities for you and your guests.

Bride and Groom Suites

Private bride and groom suites within a venue give your wedding party space to prepare before the ceremony. You can use these rooms for prepping hair and makeup, dressing, and storing personal belongings. When touring a venue, check for suite features like attached bathrooms, seating, and full-length mirrors. The spaces should be large enough to allow multiple people to get ready comfortably without overcrowding. At The Laboratory Mill, we offer separate bride and groom suites designed to support wedding preparation tasks and keep your loved ones comfortable. Touring these areas in person helps you confirm they are equipped to meet your unique needs.

Schedule a Tour of Our Wedding Sites

Touring potential wedding venues in person is an effective way to filter options and avoid unexpected issues on your wedding day. On the day of your tour, bring a list of your venue priorities and ask direct questions to clarify whether the site matches your planning goals. Contact The Laboratory Mill today to schedule an appointment for a private tour.