By Twila Jones
Sales Manager of Religious, Multicultural & Social Markets
Columbia Metropolitan Convention & Visitors Bureau
Go to our "Top Ten Conventional" & "Top Ten Unconventional" Meeting Facilities lists to get started in your search for the perfect Columbia venue for your special day.
Columbia is a beautiful area to plan a wedding. Whether back dropped amidst the stained glass windows of one of our local churches or posed in a gazebo at one of our historical homes and gardens, couples can find just about any wedding setting they wish in our capital city. But beyond nature’s beauty and architectural treasures, brides and grooms are sometimes challenged with the tedious job of planning the wedding itself.
Whether you opt for a traditional ceremony or a Hollywood style celebration, deciding what you want and putting the plan into action is key. Before you watch the next episode of “Weddings of the Rich & Famous”, consider the following:
Budget
Times have changed. Today, many couples pay for their own wedding. Suggestions from others are fine, but make sure you don’t get off track by listening too much to family and friends. They may have lots of ideas but you’ll be the one writing the checks when it’s all said and done.
Venue Selection
Unless you are marrying in your backyard, each property you rent comes with a price tag, so choose wisely. Consider utilizing the same venue for several events (i.e. rehearsal dinner, lodging for guests, reception, etc). Properties often will reduce your costs when multiple events will be hosted on site. Certain months are also more popular than others, so you may have to be a little flexible with your wedding date in order to get the venue you want.
Upgrade Wisely
Everyone wants to have the wedding of the century but most of us don’t have the funds to pull that off. Before you pick your menu, order your flowers or schedule your honeymoon, sit down and reflect on what is most important to YOU not your guests. Don’t break the bank on everything, choose one or two areas in which to splurge, then use simpler ideas when planning the rest.
Contact the Convention & Visitors Bureau
Everyone likes when they can get something for nothing. Well, when you call our staff, that’s literally how you will feel. Whether you’ve hired a wedding director, have a big sister, or rely on Mom, we can make planning your wedding even easier. We assist brides year-round with site selection, hotel rates and accommodations, visitor information, transportation quotes and more. Our services are complimentary and require little effort on your part. Simply contact us, tell us what you have in mind, and we’ll take it from there.
