Chattanooga Wedding Planning Checklist
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Planning your dream wedding is an exciting yet overwhelming experience, especially with so many details to consider. If you’re tying the knot near Chattanooga, TN, you’re in for a treat! From stunning mountain views to charming venues, this area offers a range of options to make your big day unforgettable.
To help simplify the process, we’ve created the ultimate Chattanooga wedding planning checklist. Whether you've just said “Yes!” or you’re ready to start touring venues, this comprehensive guide will set you up for success from day one.
Thanks so much for stopping by our Chattanooga wedding planning blog! We’re a locally owned wedding venue, and if you’re planning your big day, we think that’s something important to know. We’re all about creating an amazing guest experience, being transparent with our pricing, and building a trusted reputation.
Unlike corporate venues or big wedding groups that sometimes cut corners, we’re fully committed to exceeding your expectations. Your safety and happiness (and your guests’ too!) are always our top priorities.
You’ll find all our pricing right here on our website—no secrets, no surprises. If you’re ready to schedule a tour of our venue, contact us today—we can’t wait to meet you! In the meantime, check out our real wedding videos to see more photos and all the gorgeous features we have to offer.
Chattanooga Wedding Planning Checklist, image by @SavKBrown Photography
Step One Find the Perfect Chattanooga Wedding Venue
Your wedding venue sets the stage for your entire celebration. For couples near Chattanooga, The Views at Sunset Ridge is a must-see. Imagine exchanging vows surrounded by breathtaking vistas of rolling mountains and scenic landscapes. It doesn’t get more magical than this!
Why choose The View at Sunset Ridge?
Our Chattanooga Wedding Venue is Breathtaking: At The Views at Sunset Ridge, we’re more than just a Chattanooga wedding venue—we’re a full-service destination for unforgettable Tennessee mountain weddings. Perched atop Red Clay Ridge in Cleveland, Tennessee, our 200-acre private property offers unmatched panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Appalachian Mountains, Cumberland Plateau, and Great Smoky Mountains.
Privacy: This is a top priority for our wedding couples and their guests. At many venues, strangers can wander in during weddings, or public events might take place simultaneously, disrupting the special day. At our venue, we offer acres of exclusive event space, ensuring a truly private and intimate wedding experience.
Convenience: Located just a short drive from Chattanooga, it’s easy for wedding guests to attend.
Variety of Packages: We offer micro weddings, venue only and all inclusive wedding venue packages. We truly have something every couple.
All Inclusive Packages: From catering to décor, our Chattanooga wedding venue handles all the details for you. Stunning Views: Say "I do" with the iconic Chattanooga mountain views as your backdrop.
Access to Ammenities: Our location offers the convenience of being near a wide range of hotels to suit any budget. Guests can choose from numerous overnight accommodation options and enjoy easy access to an array of restaurants, bars, entertainment, and activities to enhance their stay.
20 Questions To Ask YOur Wedding Venue Before Booking
The venue tour is one of the most important steps in your planning process. To make the most of your visit, come prepared with questions. Here are 20 essential questions to ask wedding venues before booking:
To help you make an informed decision, we have compiled a list of questions that you should ask potential wedding venues near Chattanooga before booking.
- What is your capacity? Knowing how many people a venue can comfortably accommodate is essential when creating your guest list. You want to ensure that all of your guests have enough space to move around and enjoy the celebration.
- What is included in the rental fee? Many venues have different packages with varying levels of amenities and services included. Make sure to ask what is included in the rental fee so you can accurately budget for your wedding.
- Can we bring our own vendors? Some venues may require you to use their preferred vendors, while others allow you to bring in your own. If you have specific vendors in mind, make sure the venue allows outside vendors before booking.
- Is there a backup plan for inclement weather? Outdoor weddings are beautiful, but they come with the risk of bad weather. Ask if the venue has a backup plan in case of rain or other inclement weather. This could be an indoor space, a tent option, or a designated rain date.
- Is there onsite accommodation for guests? If you have out-of-town guests attending your wedding, it's important to consider their lodging options. Some venues offer onsite accommodation such as hotel rooms, cabins, or cottages for your guests to stay in.
- Are there any noise restrictions? If you're planning on having music and dancing at your reception, make sure the venue has appropriate sound systems and doesn't have any noise restrictions that may affect your celebration.
- What time do we need to end the event? Some venues may have specific time restrictions for events, so it's important to know what time you'll need to end your celebration. This can also affect the timing of your ceremony and reception, so make sure to plan accordingly.
- Are there any decoration restrictions? Before getting carried away with decorations, be sure to ask the venue if they have any specific guidelines or restrictions on what can be used. Some venues may require you to use certain vendors for decorations, while others may have limitations on open flames or hanging items.
- What is the payment schedule? Be sure to understand the payment schedule for the venue, including when deposits are due and when final payments need to be made. It's also important to clarify if there are any additional fees or taxes that will be applied to the final bill. Make sure to budget accordingly and plan for these payments in advance.
- Is there ample parking? Make sure to ask about parking options at the venue, both for guests and vendors. If there is limited parking available, you may need to arrange for shuttle services or provide alternative transportation options for your guests. Additionally, find out if there are any parking fees that your guests will need to cover.
- What is the venue's cancellation policy? It's important to know what will happen in case of unexpected circumstances and you need to cancel your event at the venue. Ask about their cancellation policy and make sure it aligns with your expectations. Some venues may have strict policies that require a certain amount of notice before cancelling, while others may be more flexible.
- Are there any additional fees or charges? When finalizing the contract with the venue, it's crucial to ask about any additional fees or charges that may not have been mentioned before. These could include setup and cleanup fees, corkage fees for bringing in your own alcohol, or service charges. Knowing all the costs upfront can help you avoid any surprises on your final bill.
- Is there a preferred vendors list? Some venues may have a preferred vendor list, which includes recommended vendors for catering, photography, and other services. This can be helpful if you're feeling overwhelmed with finding reliable vendors for your event. However, keep in mind that some venues may receive kickbacks from these preferred vendors, so it's important to still do your own research and make sure they are a good fit for your event and budget.
- What is the venue's alcohol policy? If you plan on serving alcohol at your event, it's important to ask about the venue's alcohol policy. Some venues may have restrictions on outside alcohol or require you to use their bar services.
- Is the venue accessible to mobility challenged guests? If you have guests with mobility challenges attending your event, it's important to ensure that the venue is accessible for them. Ask about wheelchair ramps, elevators, and other accommodations that may be needed.
What Makes An All Inclusive Wedding Venue in Chattanooga An Ideal Choice
Choosing aa Chattanooga all-inclusive wedding venue, like The Views at Sunset Ridge, can save you time, stress, and money.
Benefits of going all-inclusive for your wedding day:
Streamlined Planning: Everything you need is in one place. Time-Saving: Skip vendor hunting, as many services are included. Decor and Rentals: Say goodbye to juggling separate contracts for tables, chairs, and linens. Catering Options: Enjoy premium, built-in catering services. Expert Coordination: Work with professionals who know the venue inside and out.
Steps to Begin Wedding Planning Near Chattanooga Your first 90 days after engagement are critical for laying the groundwork for your big day. Here’s a step-by-step guide to kickstarting your wedding planning:
First Month
Celebrate your engagement and enjoy the moment! Set a tentative wedding budget. Draft a preliminary guest list with your partner. Book tours for potential venues in Chattanooga. Choose a target wedding date or season.
Second Month
Finalize your venue and lock in your date. Start looking for vendors such as florists, photographers, and DJs. Decide on a wedding theme or color palette. Create a wedding website for your guests. Begin dress shopping (and don’t forget your party’s attire!).
Third Month
Send save-the-dates to your guest list. Book your honeymoon and make travel arrangements. Schedule engagement photos in a scenic Chattanooga location. Start thinking about your ceremony details and vows. Plan a menu tasting (if provided by your venue). Turn these first steps into action, and you’ll be off to a smooth start on your wedding-planning adventure!
Wedding Planning Is So Much Easier at an All Inclusive Chattanooga Wedding Venue
Planning your wedding can feel like an enormous task, but with an organized checklist and plenty of support, everything will fall into place. Remember, finding the right venue is one of the most important decisions you’ll make, and if you’re planning a wedding near Chattanooga, The Views at Sunset Ridge is a venue worth exploring.
Schedule a tour today and see why so many couples choose this breathtaking location for their big day. Wherever you are in your planning process, keep this checklist handy, and enjoy every step of creating the wedding you’ve always dreamed of.
Planning your big day? [Schedule a venue tour][4] with The Views at Sunset Ridge today to see the magic for yourself! We are friendly, so please connect with us on [Facebook][5], [Instagram][6]and [Pinterest][7].
contact@theviewsatsunsetridge.com | 423.458.7827 | 8150 Dalton Pike Cleveland, Tennessee
The Views at Sunset Ridge is one of the top Tennessee mountain wedding venues in Chattanooga with stunning hillside views and a unique industrial farmhouse vibe.
Cover image by Sarah Larae Photography [7]: https://www.pinterest.com/theviewsatsunsetridge/ [6]: https://www.instagram.com/viewsatsunsetridge/ [5]: https://www.facebook.com/ViewsatSunsetRidge/ [4]: https://www.theviewsatsunsetridge.com/inquire
