Your wedding venue is everything. Seriously! It sets the tone, defines the atmosphere, and becomes the foundation for the entire day (not to mention the backdrop for all those gorgeous photos). Picking the right destination wedding venue in Santa Fe isn’t just about finding a beautiful space (although that’s a huge plus). It’s about making sure it feels right for you, your partner, and your guests. After all, your venue will bring your wedding vision to life. So, let’s talk about what to look for when choosing the perfect spot!
But first, are you dreaming of a stunning Santa Fe wedding but feeling a little overwhelmed by all the details? That’s where we come in! As your dedicated New Mexico wedding planners, we specialize in full-service wedding design that takes the stress off your plate. From finding the perfect venue to bringing your unique vision to life, we’ve got it covered. Ready to make it happen? Let’s chat and start planning the wedding of your dreams!
Ok, now let’s get back to what to look for when choosing your destination wedding venue!
1. Location, Location, Location! (Yes, it’s that important)
Santa Fe is famous for its breathtaking landscapes, stunning desert views, and rich history. There’s no shortage of incredible options, from luxurious hotels to historic chapels, sprawling ranches, and enchanting outdoor spaces. But when you’re planning a destination wedding, location is more than just what looks pretty in the background. It needs to be accessible, too.
Ask yourself: How easy is it for your guests to get there? If you have loved ones traveling from all over, it’s important to consider transportation. Is the venue near the airport or are there reliable shuttle services? Will your guests be comfortable driving out to a remote (but oh-so-gorgeous) venue, or would something closer to the city center make more sense?
And don’t forget the scenery! Santa Fe has such an eclectic mix of backdrops—think desert vistas, adobe buildings, mountain views. Whether you’re dreaming of a romantic sunset ceremony in the mountains or a charming wedding at a centuries-old church, pick a venue that speaks to your vision while giving your guests a true Santa Fe experience. We want them to feel like they’re stepping into a magical destination, right?
Want some inspiration for choosing the perfect venue? Check out our blog on the Top 5 Santa Fe Wedding Venues to see some of the most breathtaking options the city has to offer!
Photo Credits: Katherine Rose Co.
2. How Many People Are Coming?
It may seem obvious, but the size of your guest list will absolutely impact which venues make it to the final round of your selection. A small, intimate wedding can be beautifully staged in a cozy art gallery or private estate, while a larger affair will need the space to handle not just your guests, but things like a DJ booth, a dance floor, tables for a seated dinner, and room for all the extra touches you’re planning.
Each destination wedding venue in Santa Fe has its own capacity limits, so it’s super important to have a solid idea of your guest list before you fall in love with a venue that might be too small or too big. Plus, having the right amount of space (not too cramped, not too empty) can make all the difference in how your wedding day feels. It should be cozy and full of life!
3. Does the Venue Match Your Wedding Theme?
Next, let’s talk style! Your venue should align with the overall vibe you’re going for. And you’re in luck, because Santa Fe has it all! But not every venue can pull off every style.
Here are a few popular wedding styles and the venues that complement them:
- Rustic: Ranch venues, historic adobe buildings, or outdoor spaces with Southwestern charm are perfect for a boho or laid-back theme.
- Modern: Sleek hotels, art galleries, or industrial spaces with minimalist design and architectural flair are great for a clean, modern look.
- Classic: Upscale ballrooms, luxury hotels, or historic estates create the perfect setting for a timeless, sophisticated wedding.
Think about how your venue will complement (or clash with) your color scheme, floral design, and decor. If you’re envisioning a wedding filled with lush greenery and wildflowers, an outdoor venue might be ideal. However, if you’re going for a more polished, formal affair, a high-end resort or luxury hotel might check all your boxes.
Looking to add Santa Fe’s unique culture and art into your wedding day? Don’t miss our blog for creative ideas and inspiration!
Photo Credits: Maryssa Rose Photography
4. Consider What Services the Venue Includes (And What They Don’t!)
This is where your wedding planner (hint: us!) really comes in handy. Not all venues are created equal when it comes to what they offer. Some are full-service, with options for catering, decor, and guest accommodations right on-site. Others may offer a gorgeous space but leave the rest up to you.
When you’re evaluating a destination wedding venue in Santa Fe, ask what’s included in the package:
- Does the venue offer in-house catering?
- Will they handle tables, chairs, and linens, or do you need to rent those?
- What about sound systems and lighting?
- Do they have a list of preferred vendors for things like florals and photography? (we can also give some fantastic suggestions)
Full-service venues can be a huge stress-reliever, especially for destination weddings where logistics can get a bit trickier. On the other hand, some couples prefer to bring in their own team of vendors to create a totally personalized experience. It all depends on how much you want to handle—and we’re here to help guide you through it all!
5. Have a Backup Plan for Bad Weather
Outdoor weddings are stunning, especially in Santa Fe where you can have jaw-dropping desert sunsets or mountain views. But Mother Nature has a mind of her own, and no matter how perfect the weather forecast seems, having a contingency plan for bad weather is an absolute must. Trust us, you don’t want to be caught off guard if those clouds roll in.
When visiting venues, ask about backup options. Does the venue have an indoor space you can use in case of rain? Or, do they have tents or other coverings available for rent? Some venues might have restrictions on when or where they can set up tents, so it’s good to know in advance what your options are. We always recommend planning for the best weather but preparing for the worst, especially if your heart is set on an outdoor ceremony!
Thinking about a cozy, magical winter wedding? Check out our blog on Why You Should Have a Winter Wedding in Santa Fe to see if it might be the perfect choice for your big day!
Photo credits: Shutter Force Photography
6. Visit Multiple Venues and Compare!
This is the fun part! Once you’ve narrowed down your list of potential destination wedding venues in Santa Fe, take the time to visit them in person (if you can). You’d be surprised how different a place can feel in real life compared to pictures online. Walk the space, envision your ceremony and reception there, and ask tons of questions!
Pay attention to how the venue feels when you’re standing in it. Does it inspire you? Do you feel comfortable and excited? Is it easy to imagine yourself saying your vows in that exact spot? Your venue should feel like the one—just like when you found your partner!
But we totally understand that not everyone can visit all the venues in person—especially when planning a destination wedding. That’s where having a local Santa Fe wedding planner comes in handy! Since we know the Santa Fe area inside and out, we can recommend venues that match your theme and vision perfectly. Plus, we’ll make the process easier by offering virtual walkthroughs, so you can see the space and make confident decisions even if you can’t be there in person.
Photo Credit: Maura Jane Photography
Finding Your Perfect Destination Wedding Venue in Santa Fe
Your destination wedding venue in Santa Fe is such a crucial piece of the puzzle, and it’s worth taking the time to find the perfect fit. Whether you’re envisioning a rustic ranch wedding under the stars or an elegant, upscale celebration in a luxury hotel, Santa Fe offers endless possibilities. Just remember: location, style, guest count, included services, and those all-important contingency plans are key to creating the day of your dreams!
And hey, you don’t have to do it all alone! We’re here to help you through every step of the planning process. We’ve worked with so many incredible venues in Santa Fe, and we know just how to match you with the one that’s perfect for your love story. Reach out today, and let’s make magic happen—together!