the venue

As a Wedding Planner I have always prayed for the brides that have figured out where they wanted to get married before coming to me.  It's a time consuming and incredibly personal decision that I absolutely hate trying to make.  I really thought that it would be easier for me ... I started with a visual in my head and thought it would all flow from there.  One million google searches, 10,000 emails and 3 pleas to my parents to do site checks later and I have narrowed it down to 2. 

They are both in Milton, they are both barns and they are both museums ...but they are totally different.

The Halton Museum & The Agricultural Museum.

The Pros & Cons.

When I started thinking about my wedding I really wanted a barn. I wanted that rustic feel, and I really felt that it suited Wayne's childhood and personality.  I wanted the challenge that decorating the inside would bring, but also the blank slate that wood really has.  While I love the beauty and simplicity of planning  a wedding at a Golf Course or a Hotel, the type of event that I am planning really didn't fit.

My parents saw the Halton Museum first and the pictures are gorgeous.  I have a proposal from the caterer and the food would be amazing.  But it's small and I would have to watch my guest list and consider renting a tent if I want to use the patio, which really increases the budget.

Then Wayne mentioned the Agricultural Museum.  It's a far larger venue (can hold up to 750 people if necessary ...which is both a plus and something to consider because there is nothing worse than an empty room,) has the wooden feel that I had originally envisioned and the grounds around it are beautiful.  But communication with them has been extremely frustrating and their caterer is onsite.

Have a look at the pictures.

The Halton Museum

This is the patio where the tent would cover if I went that route.

I love the look of the walls, but you can easily tell that the room is not overly spacious. Don't worry, I wouldn't use those chairs.

The Agricultural Museum

Again, never - never would I use those chairs ...but the room is spacious and open and definitely rustic.

This is the patio that is attached, it has a cover over it.

I think overall our goal is really to have an amazing party and to celebrate both our wedding and our family & friends.  Of course this means making sure the food is great and the bar is plentiful.  I want a lot of time and room for socializing, drinking and celebrating. 

And I want to keep it simple.

Decisions, decisions.