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I'm a follower of Christ, wife, mother, published wedding photographer, sweet tea enthusiast and I adore all things weddings. 

Together, my husband, business partner + favorite hand to hold, Trevor, and I make Kayce Stork Photography + Films.

I enjoy writing here on our online journal and sharing the knowledge that I've learned over the years in the wedding industry with not only my couples, but anyone who want an extra hand to hold during this amazing, yet busy season of life!

In my career, I've photographed everything from precious newborns to a past United States President, but my passion and focus has been for the wedding industry for over the past 10 years. I truly love this calling and feel blessed each day!

Grab a sweet tea, or your drink of choice, and take a look around.




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Selecting a Wedding Venue in South Mississippi and beyond!

Tips

May 7, 2017

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Things to Consider When Selecting a Wedding Venue

Finding the right wedding venue takes a lot of time and research and can often be one of the hardest parts of planning a wedding. You need to make sure that your venue ticks all the right boxes before you make a final decision.

Your venue will influence your budget as well as the atmosphere on the day so before you sign on the dotted line, below are three important things to consider before you decide on your wedding venue.

1. Venue Size

 Look at how many people you’re planning to invite to your wedding versus the number of people the venue can comfortably cater for. A crowded reception can be quite uncomfortable and if a venue is too large, it can affect the atmosphere and the overall look and feel.

Put an initial guest list together before you start venue shopping so that you can make a better decision.

2. Drinks

 Alcohol and drinks can be a big part of your wedding so it’s important to find out whether you can bring your own alcohol and what the costs are, or if the venue will supply the drinks.

Since you will also need a licensed bartender to serve alcohol, find out whether the venue can assist with this so that you can factor those costs into your final budget. Some catering companies can help with this, also!

If you choose not to serve alcohol then this is something you need not worry with!

Wedding cake from French Kiss Pastries with specialty draping by Southern Event Productions with a pin light on cake for dramatic entrance into reception hall

*Spotlight on cake & draping provided by Southern Event Productions. Cake by French Kiss Pastries.*

3. Preferred Vendors

Many venues require you to use their vendors so you will want to find out about this before you make a booking. If you already have signed contracts and retainers in place with several vendors you may want to look elsewhere for a venue. Some vendors may even ask for cancellation fees.

If they do work with specific vendors, make sure that you’re happy with their experience, style, and personality!

When a venue works with preferred vendors, it does mean they’re confident in their experience and ability to delivery, but it’s more important for you to choose vendors that you feel will give you the best experience and make your day a dream come true!

Some venues that have a specific vendor list may have nothing to do with the vendor’s experience, but instead the vendors they recommend pay annually to have their name on the list. (This happens more than you would think, especially in large tourist areas!)

( While I haven’t ran into this issue in Biloxi, Gulfport, or even on the Alabama side in Mobile and Fairhope, I thought this next point was very valid and worth sharing! )

Bride and Groom toasting at wedding in Biloxi at Slavonian Lodge

There are many different factors to consider when choosing the perfect wedding venue, and these are just a few, but most of all, make sure that it’s a space that speaks to your personalities and style as a couple.

This is your day, and I believe it should be your vision come to life!

A few of my favorite Vendors are below if you’d care to view their work!

Makeup Artist | Jackie Merlau Makeup

Wedding Planning | After the Proposal Weddings & Events

DJ | Nightshift Sounds Entertainment

Specialty Lighting & Draping | Southern Event Productions *Featured*

Cakes | Cakes by Tina

Cakes | French Kiss Pastries *Featured Cake*

Catering | Taste! Catering

Want to view more tips on making your wedding day spectacular? Click here to read more!

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Facebook Copy-color Created with Sketch.
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Explore

I'm a follower of Christ, wife, mother, published wedding photographer, sweet tea enthusiast and I adore all things weddings. 

Together, my husband, business partner + favorite hand to hold, Trevor, and I make Kayce Stork Photography + Films.

I enjoy writing here on our online journal and sharing the knowledge that I've learned over the years in the wedding industry with not only my couples, but anyone who want an extra hand to hold during this amazing, yet busy season of life!

In my career, I've photographed everything from precious newborns to a past United States President, but my passion and focus has been for the wedding industry for over the past 10 years. I truly love this calling and feel blessed each day!

Grab a sweet tea, or your drink of choice, and take a look around.




I'm kayce!

Hey!

I'm so glad you're here!