Heaslip Events

The right venue can make your event feel effortless—or leave you feeling frazzled. I always tell clients that a venue is more than just a pretty backdrop—it’s the foundation for your entire celebration.

When I help people choose a venue, I think about size first. The space needs to comfortably fit your guest list. Too big, and it feels empty; too small, and everyone feels cramped. I often encourage clients to walk the space and imagine their guests moving through it—dining, dancing, mingling—so they can feel the flow before making a decision.

Location and accessibility matter just as much. Easy parking, nearby public transit, or shuttle options make the guest experience smooth and stress-free. I also consider the amenities a venue offers. Things like tables, chairs, AV equipment, or a prep kitchen can save so much time and energy on the day of the event. And of course, the atmosphere is key. Does the venue feel cozy, elegant, whimsical, or professional? The vibe of the space influences everything from decor to music to how people interact.

Before booking, I like to make sure a venue ticks all the right boxes. Here’s a quick mini-checklist I always use when shopping for venues:

• Capacity: Does it comfortably fit your guest list?
• Accessibility: Parking, public transit, entrances for all guests
• Amenities: Tables, chairs, AV equipment, prep areas
• Restrictions: Noise, decorations, catering, or timing limits
• Atmosphere: Does it feel like your event’s vision?
• Flexibility: Can the space adapt to your ideas and timeline?

Finding the right venue is like finding the perfect outfit—it has to fit, feel right, and make you excited. Once it’s chosen, the rest of the event planning falls into place, and everything else just clicks!