Planning events in multiple cities, offers challenges with finding the perfect location that will capture and enhance the individualism and style of each client. All of this has to fit within a set budget and accommodate an estimated guest count that may be above or below the going average. It is important to consider these top 3 elements when narrowing down your venue list:

1. The estimated guest count. Your estimated guest count plays a significant role in determining your event location. Plan for adequate square footage to accommodate your estimated guest count (or more in case your guest list grows) as well as all of the design elements you plan to include in your event (i.e. furnishings, staging, bars, dance floor, etc.). Making your guests comfortable and your event flow well are vital to an event’s success. Coordinate with your planner or the venue’s catering manager to properly plan your event space.

2. The budget. Nowadays there are venues available to fit most any budget. However, make sure your venue truly fits your budget by reading the contract thoroughly and making certain it includes everything you expect to receive on the day of your event. This will help minimize unexpected expenditures appearing on your final bill.

3. The season. Having an outdoor event under huge oak trees or the rich shades of orange and yellow at dusk sounds simply perfect. However, the most picturesque setting can be ruined by the blazing heat and humidity, freezing temperatures and sleet or Mother Nature’s creepy “crawlies”. Whether your event is indoors in June or outdoors in October consider the time of year you are hosting your event. What is the climate typically like during that time of year? Is it hurricane season? Consider consulting a Farmer’s Almanac, just as a reference tool, not as an absolute prediction of the day’s weather. After all Mother Nature is, well, finicky.

Hopefully you gained a little insight and picked up a few key things to consider when selecting your venue. If not, here are a few of my faves to host any special event:

Houston
Hotel Derek: Houston's location for urban sophistication. www.hotelderek.com
Hilton Clear Lake: Newly renovated, suburban resort hotel where their service is second only to true Texas Hospitality. www.hilton.com
The Parador: Designated as a Texas Historical Landmark and one of Houston's premier event venues. www.paradorhouston.com

New Orleans
Latrobe’s on Royal: An architecturally significant building located in the heart of the French Quarter. www.latrobesonroyal.com
The Riverview Room: Offers panoramic views of the Mississippi River, the French Quarter riverfront and Vieux Carre. www.riverviewroom.com
Windsor Court Hotel: Exhibits an atmosphere of a grand English country estate, all rooms have windows and elegant architectural details and are lavishly decorated with antiques and fine art. www.windsorcourthotel.com