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Photographing your moments in San Francisco, California

PORTFOLIO

ABOUT

BLOG

CONTACT

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How to Pick Your Wedding Venue in NJ: What to Ask, Hidden Costs & What’s Not Included

Booking your wedding venue is a huge milestone, but it’s also where a lot of couples overspend, get stuck, or miss key details. Here’s how Well-Dressed Events helps clients choose the right venue without regrets.

Start with Strategy, Not Aesthetic

Yes, the space should be beautiful. But:

  • Can it hold your guest count?
  • Does it align with your budget?
  • Is there a rain plan (and is it cute)?

We help clients identify what actually matters to them before touring. That means smarter shortlists and fewer distractions.

Key Questions to Ask Every NJ Venue

  • What’s included in the rental fee? (Tables, chairs, linens, staff?)
  • Are there time restrictions or noise ordinances?
  • What’s the backup plan for weather?
  • Are outside vendors allowed?
  • What’s your service fee and what’s taxed?

Hidden Costs to Watch For

  • Service charges (usually 18–24%)
  • Required rentals (chargers, upgraded chairs, etc.)
  • Security deposits or cleanup fees
  • Overtime fees if your party runs long
  • Limited vendor access/load-in times

We’ve seen couples go $10k over their budget just from venue extras. Our job is to catch those before you sign anything.

Comparing Apples to Apples

Two venues may look similar in cost but include very different things. We break down:

  • True cost per head
  • Included vs. add-on services
  • What you’ll need to supplement

Venue Types We See Most in NJ

  • Ballrooms (high capacity, built-in staff)
  • Estates & historic homes (romantic, but more rentals)
  • Barns & tents (aesthetic-heavy, high logistics)
  • All-inclusive venues (streamlined but less flexible)

We’ve worked with all types, and we’ll help you weigh the pros and cons based on your priorities.

Bottom Line

Your venue sets the tone and often, the budget. We’ll help you choose one that fits both.

Ready to start venue shopping with strategy? Let’s talk.

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Find the Right Wedding Planning Package in Summit, Ridgewood, SoHo & NYC

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Not sure what kind of planning support you actually need? You’re not alone. This quiz will help you get clear on your style, your priorities, and the level of support that fits best.

Our Wedding Planning Process for Clients in Millburn, Westfield, Short Hills & Manhattan

HOP ON A ZOOM CALL

FILL OUT THE FORM

We just need the basics. A date, a guest count range, a general budget. Nothing has to be locked in. That’s exactly what we help with.

Get A custom plan

We’ll talk through where things stand, what you’re hoping for, and how we can help. It’s honest, helpful, and never pushy.

You’ll receive a clear, tailored proposal that outlines what’s included, what to expect, and how we’ll move forward together.

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Let’s demystify things

Prefer to peek behind the curtain first? We respect that.

JOIN THE PARTY

Planning just got easier.

Well-Dressed Events plans weddings and events across NJ, NY, and NC with full-service support and seriously good taste.