From your decor and dress code to how your photos will turn out, your wedding venue influences everything. And let’s face it, there are a ton of pros and cons of a wedding venue.
We hear you. That’s why The Sixpence Team is here to break down all the wedding venue advantages and disadvantages and everything in between. With this wedding venue comparison guide, we’re helping Indiana couples like you find the perfect fit for your 2025 wedding celebration.
Pros and Cons of Different Wedding Venue Types
Choosing a wedding venue? Each one has its own vibe and a few trade-offs. The key is figuring out what matters most to you.
- Does it match your vision?
- Is it worth the cost?
- Are there any hidden fees?
Asking those questions helps you land on the right spot.
We will compare all types of wedding venues people use for their wedding celebration.
Banquet Halls/Wedding Venues
Banquet halls and wedding venues like The Sixpence offer a stress-free, all-in-one space to celebrate your big day in style!
Pro
Banquet halls are wedding machines. They’ve seen it all and know how to handle every hiccup, with experienced staff, built-in catering, and sometimes even accommodations.
These venues are perfect for couples who want a smooth, all-inclusive experience. Many even offer packages that bundle décor, rentals, and day-of coordination to make your life way easier.
Con
The flip side? You might face rules, rigid packages, and vendor restrictions at venues like these. If you’re the type who wants to bring in your own florist or hand-pick every vendor, you might hit some walls.
Plus, the convenience can come at a cost. And since they’re popular for a reason, booking early and budgeting a bit more is key.
Country Clubs/Garden Venues
Want a venue that brings timeless charm and lush scenery to your big day?
Pros
If your Pinterest board is full of floral arches and al fresco toasts, garden venues and country clubs are calling your name. Expect manicured lawns, elegant dining, and photo ops at every turn.
These venues often need less decorating, letting the natural beauty shine.
Cons
Some country clubs may require memberships or at least a few formalities. There’s also the chance you’ll be sharing the space with another event.
And yep, they can lean on the pricier side.
Beach Venues
Sunshine, barefoot vows, waves, and stunning ocean views? Yes, you can celebrate your wedding there as well.
Pros
Saying “I do” with your toes in the sand is pure romance. Beach weddings have a chill, intimate vibe that’s perfect for golden hour ceremonies and relaxed dress codes.
Cons
But Mother Nature doesn’t always RSVP. Wind, heat, or surprise showers mean you’ll need a solid backup plan.
Plus, beach logistics, like setup and curious sunbathers, can be a little extra for anybody.
Churches/Houses of Worship
Churches and houses of worship offer a heartfelt, meaningful setting surrounded by tradition, love, and a sense of sacred joy.
Pros
For many couples, getting married in a place of spiritual significance is deeply meaningful. Churches often come with beautiful architecture that adds instant gravitas to your ceremony.
And they’re usually more budget-friendly than commercial venues.
Cons
The tradeoff is that you may face some limits on music, décor, and photography. Plus, if you’re planning a reception elsewhere, there’s the added task of coordinating two locations as well as guest capacity considerations.
Museums/Art Galleries/Castles
With these types of venues, you get to wrap yourself in a bit of history as you create your own!
Pros
Talk about a statement! These spaces are packed with character and charm. You might not need much in the way of extra décor.
And guests will love the immersive experience of celebrating in a castle, gallery, or museum.
Cons
On the downside, these gems often come with high price tags and tight rules. Like, no red wine near the priceless artwork.
You might also run into space limitations or curfews that can affect your event flow.
Hotels
Not too picky about where you say “I do”? Book a hotel!
Pros
Hotels are like a choose-your-own-adventure wedding venue. They offer flexibility, accommodations for out-of-towners, and often the option to host your whole day under one roof.
This makes them convenient, customizable, and guest-friendly.
Cons
Of course, with all that flexibility comes more decision-making. You’ll likely need to coordinate with multiple vendors.
Even so, some hotels can feel generic unless you go big on styling. But with the right touches, it can be a showstopper.
Backyard/Home Weddings
What’s more intimate than a beautiful wedding surrounded by the people you love right in your own backyard? (Or someone else’s)
Pros
There’s nothing quite like celebrating at home, whether it’s your own backyard or a family estate. These weddings are personal, memorable, and budget-friendly when it comes to rental fees.
Cons
Still, turning a backyard into a wedding-ready space is no small feat. You’ll need to bring in everything: tents, bathrooms, lighting, power…you name it.
You’ll also need to watch for local ordinances around noise or guest capacity.
What Type of Wedding Venue Should You Choose?
When it all comes down to it, do it. The real question is, do you see yourself inside or outside?
Your answer to indoor vs. outdoor wedding venues clears out everything.
Outdoor Venues
Outdoor weddings have a natural wow factor. Just know that with great beauty comes great unpredictability.
Pro
You get natural light, scenic views, and plenty of room to breathe. They’re perfect for couples who want a unique, open-air celebration that feels connected to nature.
Con
Weather is the ultimate wild card. With the increased probability of weather impact on wedding venues like these, you’ll want a solid plan B and maybe a C too.
Permits and outdoor logistics can also add a few moving parts to your plans.
Indoor Venues
If you’re all about peace of mind, an indoor venue offers exactly that.
Pros
With controlled temperatures, reliable lighting, and no rain delays, it’s easier to stick to your plan. These venues are great year-round, especially in Indiana’s less predictable seasons.
Cons
You might miss out on those sweeping nature views. And depending on the space, guest flow or dance floor room might take a little strategizing.
A Solution Too Sweet To Pass Up
With multiple picturesque opportunities for capturing memories inside, outside, with natural and designed backgrounds, overnight accommodations, and full-day, exclusive access, The Sixpence lets you plan your big day your way.
Whether you crave barefoot vows under the sky or a ballroom dance floor full of confetti and cousins, our award-winning venue is ready to flex.
As the co-owner and designer of The Sixpence, Shelby Dempsey brings her extensive background in wedding photography and videography to create a purpose-built venue that blends aesthetics with functionality. After capturing nearly 400 weddings across the country and internationally, Shelby designed The Sixpence with a photographer’s eye, ensuring that every space not only looks beautiful but also serves the practical needs of both couples and photographers on their special day.
