Hot Take: Venues, It’s Time to Break Up with In-House Decor
Here’s my hot take—running a wedding venue is already a whirlwind of logistics, emotions, and countless moving pieces. So why add managing decorations to your plate? While it might seem like a great idea to offer in-house decor, it often causes more headaches than high-fives. Instead, let rental companies do what they do best while you focus on making your venue the ultimate wedding destination. Here’s why:
1. Keep Your Wedding Portfolio Fresh and Fabulous
If every couple is using the same venue-owned decorations, your portfolio of wedding photos will start to look like a never-ending déjà vu. Imagine scrolling through your Instagram feed and seeing the same arch, centerpieces, and signage over and over—it’s not exactly inspiring for future couples. By stepping back from providing decor, you give couples the freedom to personalize their wedding, whether that means bringing in a rental company or crafting DIY pieces. This allows your venue to showcase a diverse range of styles, making it more attractive to potential clients.
2. Strengthen Vendor Relationships (And Your Referral Network!)
Want to build a powerhouse network of vendors who send business your way? One of the easiest ways to do that is by referring your couples to trusted rental companies. It’s a win-win: rental vendors get more business, and in return, they’ll be raving about your venue to their clients. Plus, these pros specialize in decor, so they’ll ensure everything looks flawless and matches each couple’s unique vision—without you having to lift a finger.
3. Say Goodbye to Storage Nightmares and Management Hassles
Think about it—do you really want to deal with broken candle holders, tangled string lights, and missing chair sashes? Keeping up with decor inventory is a full-time job, from maintenance to setup to post-event cleanup. Instead of spending your time tracking down missing lanterns, you could be focused on marketing, client experience, and refining your operations. Handing decor over to rental companies means fewer headaches and more time for what truly matters—running a top-tier venue.
4. Reduce Liability and Potential Damages
Let’s face it—decor items are fragile, and when you’re providing them, you’re also responsible for their upkeep, damages, and even safety concerns. From candles causing fire hazards to glass vases breaking mid-event, the risk factor is real. When couples bring in their own decor or rent from a third party, the liability shifts away from you, saving you from unexpected costs, damage disputes, or worse—potential legal headaches. Less risk, less stress, and a smoother operation overall!
5. Free Up Space for Revenue-Boosting Amenities
Every square foot of your venue is prime real estate, and storing decor isn’t exactly the best use of that valuable space. Think of the possibilities—turn that storage area into a dreamy getting-ready suite, a chic lounge for cocktail hour, or additional seating to accommodate larger guest counts. Rental companies have dedicated warehouses for decor storage, so let them handle it while you use your space in ways that actually bring in revenue.
Final Thoughts
While it might seem like offering in-house decor adds value to your couples, it often creates more work and limits the variety of looks your venue can showcase. By leaving decor to the experts, you’re elevating your venue’s appeal, strengthening key vendor relationships, and freeing yourself from unnecessary management hassles. Focus on what you do best—creating an unforgettable setting—and let the rental companies handle the rest!
Looking to streamline your venue’s operations and maximize your profitability? My consulting services help wedding venue owners refine their business, enhance their offerings, and boost revenue. Book a consultation today and take your venue to the next level!
