We recently visited the popular Anchorage, Alaska venue, the Bayshore Clubhouse to give couples the insider’s scoop when beginning their search for the perfect wedding venue.
Q: What can couples do prior to their consultation with a venue to be better prepared?
A: Do a little pre-event research to determine what time of year they would like to be married, how many guests they expect to have, are there any needs for ADA accommodations, is there a certain time of day they prefer, whether they need a venue for the ceremony, reception, or both, and if they are looking for inside accommodations, outside, or both.
Q: How far in advance should couples plan on reserving a venue?
A: It depends upon the popularity of the venue and the couple’s flexibility with the date. If the couple needs a specific Saturday during peak season, they should plan to book at least a year out from the day of the ceremony.
Q: What is the peak season here in Alaska?
A: May 15 – August 15 and again during the holidays in December
Q: What are some tips for last minute or budget planners?
A: Booking a venue during the shoulder season (non-peak months) will almost certainly allow couples to book at reduced rates. Additionally, rates and availability are often better Monday – Thursday even during peak months.
Q: Any planning tips specific to Alaska?
A: With our short summers, consider having a Thursday evening wedding for better attendance as many guests make their own summer weekend plans to camp, fish, and vacation. A Thursday wedding allows guests to both attend your event and keep their coveted summer weekend plans.
Q: What questions should couples be asking a venue at their consultations?
A: In addition to asking what is included when booking with the venue (tables, chairs, event space, etc.), be sure to ask what is not. Understand the additional charges that you may be charged. Know the food and alcohol policies and restrictions. Ask what the decorating rules and policies are. Find out if other events will be scheduled at the venue the same day as yours. Know the setup and breakdown/cleaning policies. Ask what the policy on damages is. Be sure to look into the cancellation policy (i.e. in the event you get more RSVP’s and now need a larger venue, etc.). Find out if there will be a representative from the venue onsite during your event for trouble-shooting, etc.
Q: What are the typical deposit requirements?
A: This is specific to each venue but couples should typically expect to give a non-refundable booking deposit to hold a date.
Q: If you could pass on one planning tip to couples when selecting a venue, what would it be?
A: Size matters. The perfect venue for your event should convey the emotion of the day by both feeling warm and intimate yet being large enough to comfortably accommodate all of your guests. If the venue is too large, the event can feel cavernous, be hard to decorate, and a bit stale. If the venue is too small, the event risks being uncomfortable for both the wedding party and guests. Know the number of guests you expect to attend and select a venue with friendly staff and the right size for your event and vision.
A big thank you to Glenn Hagberg, Event Manager, at the Bayshore Clubhouse for making time for our questions during this busy peak season! Give him a call to schedule a consultation to hear all of what Bayshore can offer. Glenn can be reached at 907.522.4910 and the Clubhouse is located at 3131 Amber Bay Loop in Anchorage.
Next week: Flowers and Decorations
Happy planning!
Elegante Light Photography
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