Planning a wedding in Central Kentucky? Here are five things every couple should consider when choosing a wedding venue — from guest count to packages to photo backdrops.
When my husband and I started planning our own wedding, I remember how overwhelming it felt to look at venues. Barns, ballrooms, vineyards, hotels, country clubs — Kentucky has them all. We quickly realized that the venue isn’t just “the place you get married.” It’s the backdrop of your photos, the flow of your day, and one of the biggest factors in how stress-free (or stressful!) the planning process becomes.
Now that I spend my days in the wedding industry, I see couples ask the same questions again and again. If you’re searching for the perfect wedding venue in Central Kentucky, here are the top five things you should consider before signing a contract.
1. Guest List & Capacity
It sounds obvious, but your guest count matters more than almost anything else when choosing a venue. A space that feels charming and cozy for 100 guests can feel crowded and uncomfortable with 250. On the other hand, a massive ballroom might swallow a smaller group and take away the intimacy you want.
Tip: Start with a rough guest list before you tour venues. That way, you’ll know right away whether a space actually fits your vision.
2. Indoor & Outdoor Options
Central Kentucky is blessed with four distinct seasons — and as any Kentuckian knows, weather can change quickly. Having both indoor and outdoor options (or a seamless backup plan) is key.
- Outdoor spaces are beautiful for ceremonies, especially in spring and fall when the rolling hills are at their best.
- Indoor reception areas provide peace of mind if it rains, gets too hot, or you want an air-conditioned dance floor.
Tip: Ask venues what their backup plan looks like. A great outdoor view is wonderful, but only if there’s a solid alternative when the forecast shifts.
3. What’s Included in the Package
Some venues provide “just the space,” while others include tables, chairs, linens, and even an on-site coordinator. Neither option is right or wrong — but knowing what’s included helps you compare apples to apples.
Questions to ask:
- Do you provide tables and chairs, or do we rent those separately?
- Are linens included?
- Is there a bridal suite or groom’s room for getting ready?
- Do you have a coordinator or staff to help with setup/breakdown?
Tip: Sometimes an all-inclusive venue is actually more budget-friendly, because you won’t be sourcing all the basics separately.
4. Flexibility with Vendors
Every couple has a different vision. Some want to bring in a favorite caterer or florist, while others want recommendations and preferred vendor lists. Make sure your venue aligns with the kind of flexibility you need.
- If you want control, look for a venue that allows outside vendors.
- If you’d rather have guidance, ask if they have a curated list of trusted professionals.
Tip: Always ask about catering and bar rules up front — those can be big cost drivers.
5. The Vibe & Photo Opportunities
At the end of the day, your venue sets the tone and aesthetic of your wedding. Do you want rustic charm? Elegant countryside? Modern chic? Think about how the space will look in photos, because those photos will be on your walls for decades to come.
Tip: When touring, picture yourself in the space. Walk through where you’d say your vows, where you’d enter the reception, and where you’d take golden-hour portraits. If you can already imagine it, that’s a good sign you’ve found the right fit.
Bonus: Trust Your Gut
Checklists are helpful, but sometimes it comes down to how a place makes you feel. Does the space feel welcoming? Can you see your friends and family laughing there? Does it feel like “you”? Don’t ignore that instinct — it’s often the best guide.
Closing Thoughts
Choosing a wedding venue in Central Kentucky can feel like a big decision, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By thinking about your guest count, indoor/outdoor options, what’s included, vendor flexibility, and the overall vibe, you’ll narrow your list quickly and find the perfect fit.
At the end of the day, your venue should reflect your story, your love, and the experience you want to create for your guests. Take your time, ask questions, and most of all — enjoy the process. This is the fun part!
Vendor Credits:
Venue: Willstone Acres (@willstonevenue)
Event Planner: Alex Williams (@alexwilliamseventplanning)
Photography: Winn’s Lens (@winns.lens)
Be the first to comment