Planning a Wedding around Omaha? Here’s How to Tour Venues the Right Way

Tori Bruno Photography

When you’re newly engaged, touring wedding venues is one of the most exciting parts of planning, but it’s also one of the most misunderstood. After hosting hundreds of venue tours over the years (and seeing a few etiquette flops along the way), I realized something: most couples aren’t being rude, they just don’t know what’s expected.

If you’re touring wedding venues in the Omaha area, here’s how to make the most of your visit, respect the venue’s time, and set yourself up for a smooth planning experience from the very beginning.

Tip #1 - Confirm the Big Three Before Scheduling a Tour

Before booking a tour, make sure the venue:

• Has your desired date (or dates within your timeframe)

• Can accommodate your guest count

• Is within your realistic budget

  
  

Venue tours take time for both parties. Confirming these basics beforehand ensures no one’s time is wasted, and avoids disappointment when a venue simply isn’t the right fit.

Pro tip: Many venues (like us!) list this information clearly on their website. Reviewing it before inquiring makes your tour more productive.

Tip #2 - If You Can’t Make It, Communicate ASAP

Life happens - delays, weather, work, family things. Venues understand that.

What is difficult is no communication.

Many wedding venues (including ours) don’t have staff on-site full-time. If you’re the only tour scheduled that day, someone may be driving out specifically for you. A quick message with as much notice as possible is not only appreciated, it’s respectful.

Even a short:

"Something came up and we won’t be able to make our tour today. So sorry!"

…is far better than a no-show.

Tip #3 - Be On Time, But Not Too Early

Being punctual is appreciated, but arriving more than 15 minutes early can actually create awkward timing issues.

Many venues schedule tours back-to-back. If you arrive too early, you may be walking in while another couple is wrapping up their tour, which takes away from their experience and yours.

Best practice:

• Aim to arrive 5–10 minutes early

• If you’re significantly early, send a quick text or email

• Let the venue guide you on whether they can accommodate you or if you should wait

This small courtesy goes a long way.

Tip #4 - Come Prepared With Questions

A venue tour isn’t just about how pretty the space is.

Come ready to ask about:

• Rain plans

• Vendor flexibility

• Setup and teardown timing

• What’s included vs. add-ons

Prepared couples get far more value out of their tour.

Tip #5 - Follow Up Instead of Ghosting

After your tour, most venues will follow up with you, either to answer questions or see if you’d like to move forward.

If you decide to go with another venue, a simple message like:

"We decided to move forward with another venue. Thank you so much for your time!"

…is more than enough.

If you’re willing to share why (location, price, style, availability), it’s incredibly helpful feedback, but never required. Just please don’t disappear. Vendors are humans too.

Final Thoughts on Touring Wedding Venues

Touring wedding venues should feel exciting, not stressful. A little courtesy, preparation, and communication helps create a positive experience for everyone involved and sets the tone for a great working relationship if you decide to move forward.

And if you’re currently touring wedding venues in the Omaha area and think ours is a good fit, we'd love to have you out! Schedule a tour with us now!