How to Choose the Perfect Wedding Venue (And Why It Sets the Tone for Everything)

Choosing a wedding venue is one of the most exciting—and important—decisions you'll make during the planning process. It's also one of the first. Before you can send out invites, lock in vendors, or even pick a dress, you need to know where you're getting married. With so many options, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. Do you go modern or classic? Downtown or tucked away? What's included? What isn't? Here's how to simplify your decision and choose a venue that sets the right tone for your big day—and makes the rest of your planning easier.

Start With Your Vision

Before you scroll through endless venue listings, take a step back. Close your eyes and picture your ideal wedding day. Is it an elegant indoor dinner with dramatic lighting and a packed dance floor? A breezy outdoor ceremony surrounded by greenery? Something in between? Knowing your vibe helps narrow your options immediately. Your venue is the backdrop for the entire celebration—it should match your style and elevate your vision without needing a full transformation. That's why so many couples love historic venues like 1899, which blend timeless architecture with modern amenities. With soaring ceilings, indoor and outdoor space, soft natural light, and 110 acres of greenery, the space does half the work for you.

Know Your Numbers

Your guest list doesn't have to be final, but you need a rough estimate before booking a space. A venue that comfortably accommodates 80 might not be able to stretch to 150 without some serious logistical stress.

At 1899, you don't have to worry. The venue seats up to 300 guests for dinner, with space for 150 on the dance floor—and that's just the indoor layout. There's plenty of room to expand outdoors or create different zones for ceremonies, cocktails, and receptions. And with 265 parking spots on-site, your guests won't be left circling the block.

Consider the Location

If you've got out-of-town guests flying in, convenience matters. You'll want a venue that's easy to get to and close to hotels. That's where 1899 stands out: it's just 10 minutes from the airport and 7 minutes from downtown Indianapolis. That means more time celebrating, less time commuting—and plenty of nearby options for lodging, restaurants, and post-wedding brunches.

Ask What's Included (And What Isn't)

Some venues are just four walls and a roof. Others are full-service, with furniture, lighting, staff, and even catering included. Knowing what you're getting helps avoid surprise costs—and saves you time chasing rentals or permits down the road. 1899 offers turnkey solutions that simplify the process. From flexible booking packages to trusted catering partners and financing options, they've thought through every detail. Whether you need AV equipment for speeches, ADA-accessible restrooms, on-site coordination, or catering, it's already taken care of.

Trust the Aesthetic

The more naturally beautiful or stylish a venue is, the less you need to decorate. That means fewer rentals, fewer florals, and less stress. Instead of spending your budget on covering up a generic space, you can use it to elevate the experience—think signature cocktails, live music, or a photo booth your guests will actually use. With its restored brick exterior, vaulted ceilings, and Instagram-ready lighting, 1899 doesn't need much added flair. It's stunning on its own, and versatile enough to fit classic, modern, vintage, or bold themes.

Tour in Person

Photos only tell part of the story. Before you commit, schedule a tour. Pay attention to the flow of the space. Can you envision guests seamlessly transitioning from the ceremony to cocktail hour to the reception without bottlenecks? Are the getting-ready areas comfortable? Is there a rain plan that doesn't feel like Plan B? When you visit 1899, you get more than a tour—you get a team that's invested in your day. You'll walk the grounds with someone who understands weddings inside and out and who can help you start building your vision from the very first meeting.

Let the Space Work for You

The right venue doesn't just hold your event—it enhances it. It supports your style, simplifies your logistics, and lets your personality shine. And ideally, it comes with a team that's just as excited about your wedding as you are.

At 1899, you're not just booking a venue. You're stepping into a space designed to make your wedding feel effortless, elegant, and uniquely yours.

Ready to find your perfect match?

Book your tour today and see how 1899 can help bring your wedding day to life.