Local Venues

So I think a lot of this will vary by area. We’re not getting married at any of these types of venues, but I’ve helped throw an engagement party at a bowling alley and a few birthday parties/showers at fire halls/VFWs/golf clubs.

1. The rental for the halls was cheaper, but it meant DIY or bringing in your own for pretty much everything. The bowling alley required a minimum spend and I think for 25 people the final cost (for just lanes, a few apps, and a small room) was close to $1,000. Alcohol was separate and the bride’s parents paid for that part so I’m not sure what the cost was.

2. The bowling alley required all food and beverages be purchased through them. Same with the golf club. The fire hall/VFW allowed outside vendors for food but required you use their bar.

3. None had an early end time per say, but all these rentals were for less hours than a traditional wedding venue usually offers.

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Hey Sarah,

Wow, thank you so much for all this great info. Yes, I figured that doing all your decorations yourself would definitely be a given. Centerpieces, aisle runner, chair sashes, table cloths and things like that. I totally understand that. This info really helped. Thanks a bunch!!

Hey there Andrea

Before making a decision, the best approach would be to price out the two venues options and make your decision this way. The variable cost would change from area to area and venue type to type.

Did you pay a deposit on the banquet hall yet? Is it refundable? If not, this is something you would need to incorporate into the cost of changing the venue!

Have you identified any community centers, fire halls, bowling alleys, etc, in your area you would consider for the wedding?

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Hey,

Yeah I am going to be looking at this new place this Friday. I did pay a deposit on the current banquet hall, but it's nonrefundable. Luckily it wasn't a large deposit so it wouldn't be a heavy loss. I've identified many community centers near me but one really stands out, and that's the one I'm going to be looking at!

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Oh good look with the viewing! Let us know how it goes