Wedding DJ Tips: Selecting a Hudson Valley Wedding Venue
Having provided wedding DJ services for over 10 years, we have worked at an array of Hudson Valley wedding venues. We have found that each of our couples have different wants and needs for their wedding venue. A couple having a small wedding in a historic house has different style preferences and needs than a couple having a 250 guest wedding in a ballroom. To help with your planning process, we have put together some tips for choosing the perfect Hudson Valley wedding venue.
Setting
Before beginning your search for a wedding venue, first decide what type of atmosphere and setting you want for your wedding. Would you prefer a more traditional wedding, with the ceremony in a church and reception in a ballroom? Are you looking for a natural or rustic setting, with breathtaking views? Or maybe you’ve always dreamed of a having your wedding under a beautiful tent. Whichever your preference may be, deciding on your personal style for a wedding venue is a good way to narrow down choices from the start of your search.
Location
Will the venue’s location be convenient for wedding guests? Is it close to a hotel or airport for easy access for out-of-town guest? If you are having your ceremony at a separate location, is the reception venue nearby? These are all things you will want to take into consideration when selecting your Hudson Valley wedding venue.
Guest Capacity
Whether you are planning on having an 80 guest wedding or a 300 guest wedding, capacity is an important factor to consider when choosing your wedding venue. You do not want to have a venue that is too large for your wedding and feels empty, or a venue that is too small with guests crammed inside. We recommend putting together your guest list in advance, before you start looking for wedding venues. That way, you have an accurate idea of how many guests will be in attendance. A good rule of thumb is that 80% of invited guests will attend your wedding.
Weather
Weather is an important factor to consider when searching for the perfect wedding venue. If you are having an outdoor wedding, you’ll want to make sure that your venue has a weather backup location. If it rains or is extremely hot or cold on your wedding day, you may want to have your wedding moved indoors. If you’re having an outdoor ceremony, another consideration is the direction of the sun during the time of your ceremony. You’ll want to find out which direction the sun will be shining, so you can avoid have the ceremony facing direct sunlight.
Extras
There are many Hudson Valley wedding venues to choose from. Ranging from standard ballroom atmospheres to venues that offer a bit of uniqueness, you are certain to find a venue that fits your personal style and specifications. We recommend finding a venue that will allow you some added bonuses that not all venues allow:
- Separate locations within the venue for your ceremony, cocktail hour, eating & dancing
- Ability to choose the hours of your wedding, without set wedding times
- Exclusive use of the venue for your wedding – only 1 wedding per day at the venue
- Ability to customize decorations and tailor the venue to your wedding theme
Take a look below to see a few of our favorite wedding locations in the Hudson Valley area!
Ballroom Venues:
The Grandview – Poughkeepsie, NY
Venues That Can Accommodate Outdoor Tents:
Garden Style Venues:
Highlands Country Club – Garrison, NY
F.E.A.S.T at Roundhill – Washingtonville, NY
Venues with Mountain and Water Views:
Dutchess Manor (ballroom style)





