Bridal Spectacular Features Las Vegas wedding venue, Canyon Gate Country Club.

Selecting your wedding venue is without a doubt one of the most important aspects of the planning process. And, with so many incredible ceremony and reception locations throughout Las Vegas, narrowing down your choice is certainly no easy feat.

So, to make your venue selection process a little easier, we at Bridal Spectacular teamed up with Dawn Ulrey, the Private Event Director for Canyon Gate Country Club to provide you with all the tips and information you need to know to choose that perfect spot to say your “ I Dos!”

Bridal Spectacular_Las Vegas Wedding Venues_Canyon Gate Country

Bridal Spectacular Q&A with Canyon Gate Country Club

Bridal Spectacular: What is the very first step a couple should take when choosing their wedding venue?

Dawn: Picking a venue may be the biggest decision a couple will make while planning their wedding. Before beginning the search for the perfect wedding venue, there are three things to decide: an overall budget, how many guests will be invited, and a wedding date (if the date is not flexible). Making these three decisions first allows you to focus only on the venues that can suit your specific needs.

Bridal Spectacular: How far in advance should a couple book their venue to ensure they get the wedding date that they want?

Dawn: If a specific wedding date is an important part of your planning, start contacting wedding venues at least 12 months in advance. If you have your heart set on a certain venue or have chosen a novelty date such as 7-7-17, it would be wise to allow 18 months or more to ensure the availability.

Bridal Spectacular: What would you recommend to a couple if they found their dream wedding venue, but it is out of their budget?

Dawn: This is a tricky situation, but may not be the end of the world if a couple is willing to be a bit flexible. First, consider the season and timing. Venues are more willing to negotiate pricing during off-peak months when they need the business. Also, ask the venue if pricing changes for a Friday or Sunday wedding as opposed to Saturday. Next, trimming your guest list down can help an unaffordable venue to become affordable.

Bridal Spectacular: What are your top three tips you would recommend to couples to help them narrow down their venue selection?

Dawn: Select at least three places that may be a good fit for your budget and style. For each venue you visit, factor in all of the various spaces for the ceremony, cocktail hour and dinner/dancing. Think about how you will use the rooms and make sure there is a seamless flow from one room to the next. Also, check out the area wedding photographers’ social media pages or blogs to see real wedding photos of venues you’re are considering. You will get a “picture” of what your wedding may really look like.

Bridal Spectacular: How about your top three don’ts that you suggest couples stay away from?

Dawn: DO: Make appointments with the wedding planner at the venues you want to tour. If you just pop in they may not be available to chat at the time or the venue could be booked with another event and you might not be able to see it. DO ask the venue coordinator for a few moments alone to discuss the venue privately if you like what you see. DO ask for a final price quote that includes all additional fees and an example of a payment plan so you know the bottom-line.

DON’T get overwhelmed when you begin your initial venue search, especially if you live in a city like Las Vegas where there are so many options. DON’T rule out a venue that a friend used for their wedding. If you love it, make it your own as your wedding has its own story. DON’T get on Pinterest the second you become engaged. It will overwhelm you. Get addicted to Pinterest only after you have thought about your wedding style first and chosen a venue.

Bridal Spectacular: Is there anything else you would like to add or share to help couples choose their dream wedding venue?

Dawn: It’s so important to choose a venue that offers a wedding coordinator that is passionate about your wedding. You will know when you meet them, as they will spend a lot of time asking questions and getting to know you. A great wedding coordinator will help and offer advice about all things to do with your wedding.

About Canyon Gate Country Club

Couples can enjoy their wedding ceremony and reception in a private country club setting surrounded either by a beautifully landscaped golf course or at a lovely clubhouse balcony with views of the majestic Red Rock Mountains, flowing waterfalls and tranquil lagoons. The staff at Canyon Gate understands the importance of your wedding day and they pride themselves on their ability to host the wedding Las Vegas brides dream of. As a full-service event venue, Canyon Gate hosts events seven days a week, including, Bridal Showers, Engagement Parties, Brunches, Groom’s Golf Outings, Bridesmaid Pool Parties, and Rehearsal Dinners.

Save-the-Date for the Next Bridal Spectacular Show

To learn more about weddings at Canyon Gate Country Club, please click here. And, be sure to save-the-date to attend our Winter Bridal Spectacular Show January 20 and 21 where you can meet their team in person! Receive $5 o­ff admission when you buy tickets online! Click here and enter promo code: BLOG2017

For more wedding planning tips and ideas, please visit Bridal Spectacular at bridalspectacular.com or follow us on Facebook, twitter and Pinterest.

Photos: Photos by Larotonda, KMH Photography, Moxie Studio and Adam Frazier Photography Author: Deidre Bakker-Riches