When you’re in the midst of planning your wedding, choosing the perfect venue is a significant step. Wedding venue shopping is an exciting but crucial process, as it will set the tone for your big day and influence many of the decisions you make thereafter, from the style of your ceremony to your wedding theme. However, while considering the decor, the view, and the space, many brides (and grooms) forget an important detail: What should they wear when visiting wedding venues?
Choosing the right outfit for a venue tour is key to ensuring comfort and practicality, but also to making the right impression on venue staff and vendors. After all, a wedding venue tour is not only about imagining your dream day but also about feeling confident and practical while making decisions. The last thing you want is to be uncomfortable or distracted because of an ill-fitting outfit.
In this article, we’ll walk you through some of the essential points to consider when picking out what to wear for wedding venue tours, from comfort and practicality to style and professionalism.
Why Does What You Wear Matter for Venue Tours?
Choosing the right outfit for a venue tour might seem insignificant, but it plays an important role in setting a positive tone for your visit. Here are a few reasons why it matters:
Comfort: Venue tours often involve walking around large spaces, including outdoor areas or uneven terrain. You’ll want to wear comfortable shoes and clothes that allow you to move freely.
Professionalism: You’re meeting with venue staff and possibly vendors, and you want to present yourself in a way that shows you take the process seriously.
Practicality: A well-chosen outfit allows you to envision yourself in the venue, moving around, sitting in chairs, and walking down aisles—so you can assess if the space suits your needs.
Ease of Movement: You’ll likely be bending down to inspect details, climbing stairs, or walking around multiple spaces. An outfit that restricts movement could distract you or make the tour less enjoyable.
Now that we’ve highlighted the importance of choosing the right attire, let’s dive into the specific clothing options and tips that will help you look and feel your best during the venue tour.
1. Consider the Venue Type
The type of venue you are touring can dictate what you wear. A rustic barn wedding, for instance, might require more casual or comfortable attire, while a high-end ballroom may lean toward a slightly dressier look.
Outdoor and Barn Venues
If you are touring a barn or garden wedding venue, your outfit should reflect the outdoor nature of the setting. You’ll want to wear comfortable shoes that can handle grass or dirt paths, such as ankle boots, flat sandals, or supportive sneakers.
Outfit Suggestions: A casual yet polished look might work best. A nice pair of jeans or pants with a blouse or button-up shirt could provide the perfect balance between practicality and style.
Avoid: Stilettos, as they can sink into the grass and will make walking uncomfortable.
Ballroom or Hotel Venues
If you’re touring a luxurious ballroom, hotel, or traditional indoor venue, it’s appropriate to wear something a little more polished, as these venues typically require a more formal dress code.
Outfit Suggestions: Opt for smart-casual attire—perhaps a midi skirt or dress paired with a blazer or a tailored jumpsuit. A pair of stylish, comfortable shoes that allow you to walk around effortlessly is important. Heels are fine here but should be something you can wear for a while.
Avoid: Very casual outfits like leggings or sweatpants, as they might appear too laid-back for a formal setting.
2. Comfort Is Key
When you’re touring wedding venues, you may be walking around for hours. Comfort should be your top priority when selecting what to wear. While you want to look good, you also want to be able to move freely, bend down to take notes, and feel confident.
Shoes Matter
The venue tour will likely include different surfaces, such as grass, gravel, or stairs. It’s essential to choose shoes that allow you to move comfortably, regardless of the terrain.
Outfit Suggestions: Opt for closed-toe shoes like flats, low heels, or comfortable sneakers. If you want to wear heels, consider wedges or block heels for extra stability.
Avoid: Shoes that are too high or uncomfortable, as you may have to walk or stand for long periods.
Weather Considerations
Remember that you may be touring both indoor and outdoor spaces, and weather conditions can vary.
Outfit Suggestions: Dress in layers for easy adjustment. If the weather is unpredictable, consider bringing a light jacket or shawl that you can easily add or remove.
Avoid: Wearing thick, heavy fabrics that could make you too hot or cold during the tour.
3. Mind the Fit and Practicality
While you want to look stylish, it’s crucial to ensure that your clothes are functional for moving around and interacting with the venue.
Outfit Suggestions: Choose clothing that fits well but doesn’t restrict your movement. A flowy midi skirt or a pair of fitted trousers paired with a relaxed blouse will allow you to move without feeling constrained.
Avoid: Extremely tight or loose-fitting clothing that may make you uncomfortable, particularly when you need to climb stairs or squat down to inspect seating arrangements or lighting.
4. Look Polished but Not Overdressed
You want to strike a balance between looking presentable and staying comfortable. You don’t need to wear your wedding dress or a formal outfit to the venue tour, but you should avoid wearing something too casual, like sweats or old t-shirts.
Outfit Suggestions: A chic dress, skirt, or tailored pants with a smart blouse could be a perfect choice for most venue tours. This gives you a polished look without being overly formal. Pair this with comfortable yet stylish shoes.
Avoid: Anything too flashy, such as clothing with bold graphics or excessive accessories, as the focus should be on the venue, not on your outfit.
5. Bring a Tote or Practical Bag
When touring wedding venues, you’ll need a way to carry around your notes, a camera or smartphone, and possibly even samples or brochures you may be given.
Outfit Suggestions: A structured tote bag or crossbody bag is perfect for keeping all your essentials within reach while also looking stylish.
Avoid: Tiny, impractical bags that won’t fit everything you need, or bulky, overly large bags that will be cumbersome during your tour.
6. How to Accessorize
When it comes to accessories, the key is subtlety. You don’t need to overdo it with large statement pieces. Opt for accessories that complement your outfit while keeping things simple and elegant.
Outfit Suggestions: Simple earrings, a delicate bracelet, or a neutral-colored scarf can enhance your outfit without being distracting.
Avoid: Over-the-top jewelry or accessories that might overshadow your attire or make it difficult for you to comfortably tour the venue.
7. Consider What You’ll Be Doing After the Tour
Finally, think about what you’ll be doing after the venue tour. Do you plan on meeting with other vendors, dining at a local restaurant, or shopping afterward? If so, you’ll want an outfit that can easily transition from a venue tour to other activities.
Outfit Suggestions: A versatile dress or outfit that can be dressed up or down depending on your plans after the tour is ideal. A blazer can also elevate your look for meetings or lunch.
Avoid: Outfits that are too casual and require a lot of re-adjustment if you have other plans afterward.
Conclusion
Choosing the right outfit for a wedding venue tour is a blend of comfort, style, and practicality. It’s important to wear something that allows you to envision yourself in the space while keeping in mind the need for comfort, mobility, and a polished appearance. By considering the type of venue, the weather, your comfort, and the need to maintain a professional yet approachable demeanor, you can ensure that your venue tour experience is both enjoyable and successful. With these tips in mind, you’ll be ready to find your perfect venue with confidence and ease.
