Congratulations on your engagement! 🎉 

Now that you’re basking in that “just said yes” glow, it’s time to take the first steps in planning your dream wedding. Attending venue open houses is a fantastic way to explore your options, gather ideas, and meet professionals who can help make your big day everything you dream of.

In this article, we’ll share the benefits of attending open houses, offer tips to get the most out of your visits, and help you feel confident and prepared as you start planning your Florida wedding.

Why Attend Open Houses?

Looking at photos of a venue is one thing, but visiting in person is where the experience comes to life. Walking through the space lets you feel its atmosphere and imagine how it could host your special day. Open houses provide a unique opportunity to see the venue fully set up, helping you clearly visualize your ceremony and reception.

In addition to touring the venue, open houses often bring together wedding professionals like florists, caterers, and photographers. This gives you the chance to meet potential vendors in a relaxed setting, ask questions, and see examples of their work. It’s a practical and inspiring way to move your planning forward.

Many open houses also include exclusive perks like discounts or added services that can help you stay within your budget. Attending these events can save time, reduce stress, and leave you feeling more informed and confident about your choices.

Looking at photos of a venue is one thing, but visiting in person is where the experience comes to life. Walking through the space lets you feel its atmosphere and imagine how it could host your special day. Open houses provide a unique opportunity to see the venue fully set up, helping you picture your ceremony and reception with clarity and confidence.

At Lakeview Gardens, we host open houses throughout the year, often with seasonal themes to inspire your wedding vision. From winter wonderland setups to spring garden celebrations, our open houses let you experience the venue at its best. We also include fun perks, like giveaways and free planning guides, to make your visit even more valuable.

In addition to touring the venue, open houses often bring together wedding professionals like florists, caterers, and photographers. This gives you the chance to meet potential vendors in a relaxed setting, ask questions, and see examples of their work. It’s a practical and inspiring way to move your planning forward.

Many open houses also include exclusive perks like discounts or added services that can help you stay within your budget. For example, at Lakeview Gardens, couples who book their wedding during an open house often enjoy special offers. At our next event, we’re even offering a complimentary sunset photo by the lake with one of our preferred photographers. It’s a perfect keepsake and a wonderful way to showcase our most popular ceremony spot.

How to Find Open Houses Near You

Start by following local venues on social media platforms like Instagram. Many post open house announcements on Instagram or Facebook, often with details about what to expect. Wedding directories like The Knot and WeddingWire are also helpful for finding events in your area. Don’t underestimate the power of word-of-mouth, either. Ask recently engaged friends or check out Florida-specific wedding planning groups for tips and recommendations. Facebook groups have tons of wedding planning and venue groups that you can leverage as a resource. Lastly, Eventbrite is a great place to research and find local events from wedding venue open houses to expos and more.

Be sure to visit the websites of venues you’re considering—some list their open house dates right on their homepage. At Lakeview Gardens, you can find upcoming event details on our Eventbrite page and our website, where we update our upcoming events page regularly so couples never miss a chance to visit.

Who Should You Bring to an Open House?

First and foremost, bring your partner. Touring venues together will help you both be on the same page about what feels right for your wedding. If you’d like extra input, consider inviting a close family member or friend whose opinion you trust. Keep your group small to avoid feeling overwhelmed by too many perspectives. If you’ve already hired a wedding planner, this is the perfect time to bring them along as well. They’ll know exactly what questions to ask and can help you assess how the venue fits into your overall vision.

Tips to Make the Most of Open Houses

Before attending, do a little prep work. Bring a notebook or use your phone to jot down notes, take photos, and record key details. Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll likely be exploring the venue inside and out.

Ask thoughtful questions during your visit. Find out what’s included in the venue’s packages, any restrictions they might have, and how they handle weather contingencies—especially important in Florida’s unpredictable climate. Take your time walking through the space, and don’t be afraid to picture how it could work for your ceremony and reception.

After the event, take some time to reflect. What stood out to you? Did anything feel off? Share your thoughts with your partner and make a plan to follow up with venues or vendors that felt like a great fit.

What to Expect During and After the Open House

While you’re at the open house, explore every corner of the venue. Pay attention to details like lighting, layout, and the overall vibe. If food or cake samples are available, take the opportunity to try them—it’s a fun way to preview what your guests might enjoy. Capture the details that resonate with you by snapping photos or recording short videos to review later.

Lakeview Gardens goes above and beyond to make these experiences memorable. At our open houses, you’ll meet a variety of talented vendors, sample delicious treats, and enjoy special activities like the free sunset photo we’re offering at our next event. These extras not only enhance your visit but also give you a deeper connection to what makes our venue so special.

Afterward, compare notes with your partner and prioritize the venues that felt most aligned with your vision. Reach out to schedule a follow-up tour or consultation if you’re interested in learning more, getting more details on pricing, or discussing availability.

Why Florida Open Houses Are Worth It

Florida is home to an incredible variety of venues, from sunlit beaches to lush gardens and historic estates. Open houses allow you to experience these settings in their full glory, often with seasonal décor and vendor setups that highlight the space’s best features. Whether you’re drawn to a tropical vibe or something more timeless, seeing the venue personally helps you narrow your options and start planning your day.

Florida’s year-round warmth also means you can attend open houses no matter the season. For couples looking to prioritize sustainability or natural beauty, many venues emphasize eco-friendly practices and beautiful outdoor settings, which are often showcased during these events.

At Lakeview Gardens, we love incorporating seasonal elements into our open houses. From spring blooms to autumn accents, our events reflect the natural beauty of Florida and give you an authentic feel for what your wedding day could look like.

Final Thoughts

Attending open houses is a helpful way to kick off your wedding planning journey. These events provide the perfect mix of inspiration, connection, and information to help you make informed decisions about your big day. With the right approach, you’ll leave feeling excited, prepared, and one step closer to your dream wedding.

At Lakeview Gardens, we’re proud to host open houses year-round, including our special “Ringing in the New Year” Open House event on Saturday, January 18, 2025. Don’t miss the chance to tour our beautiful venue, meet preferred vendors, and start planning your unforgettable celebration. Visit our Upcoming Events page to learn more and reserve your spot.

Cheers to a beautiful beginning! 💕