PROS & CONS: Bridal Suites
Pros of using a bridal suite at a venue to get ready:
1. Convenience: Having a bridal suite at the venue allows you to stay on-site and eliminates the need for transportation to a separate location. This saves time and reduces stress on your wedding day.
2. Spacious and Comfortable: Bridal suites are designed to accommodate the bride and her bridal party. They often feature ample seating, mirrors, dressing areas, and private bathrooms, providing a comfortable and spacious environment for getting ready. (sometimes they can be dated, ask to tour it first)
3. Privacy: Bridal suites offer a private space for the bride and her party to prepare for the ceremony. This allows for a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere, away from the hustle and bustle of the main venue.
4. Access to Amenities: Many bridal suites come equipped with amenities such as a mini fridge, snacks, drinks, and sometimes even spa services. This adds an extra level of luxury and convenience for the bridal party.
Cons of using a bridal suite at a venue to get ready:
1. Additional Cost: Some venues may charge an additional fee for the use of the bridal suite. This cost should be factored into your wedding budget.
2. Limited Availability: Depending on the venue, the bridal suite may be limited in size and availability. If you have a large bridal party, it may be challenging to accommodate everyone comfortably. It’s also good to check the hours the suite is available. Wedding day beauty services usually start really early and some venues have limited access to when we can enter the suite. Pro Tip: Check with your venue first before deciding if it’s the best place to get ready at. There may be additional fees for early access and venues won’t tell you until you ask!
3. Less Flexibility: Using the bridal suite at the venue means you are limited to that specific location for getting ready. If you had other preferences or plans for getting ready, such as a specific salon or at home, this option may not align with your vision. Some venues are really involved with planning and will want to dictate more than they should. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, & read your contract throughly to see what involvement they will have with wedding day details and timeline restrictions. There’s one venue in mind and I won’t name them but the owner can be very difficult. Just know what you’re going to be up against in case there are personal details that are really important to you!
4. Potential Distractions: The bridal suite may be located near other areas of the venue where guests or staff are present. This could lead to potential distractions or interruptions during the preparation process. From experience I’ve seen some venues give tours to inquiring brides on wedding days and enter the suite while we’re using it. It left an uncomfortable feeling for my bride who wasn't expecting it. Check with your venue and ask if there will be anyone else entering the suite other than vendors, & the bridal party to avoid any awkward moments.
It's important to consider these pros and cons and assess whether using a bridal suite at the venue aligns with your preferences, budget, and overall wedding day vision.
xx Stef