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Finding the Perfect Venue  for your event can be a daunting task. These days, there are so many different options available. From urban-chic settings with lots of glamour, to countryside settings, or even to parties on the beach, determining the exact location, ideal for the theme of your event, is essential.

Some of your options include:

Conference Centers, Event Centers, and Private Clubs

This is your “made in the shade” venue option. These places were designed for you and your event, no matter what your theme. Most often, specifically designated Event Planners are employed to help you plan, execute, and enjoy your party. Things flow seamlessly, without a hitch. That said, you’ll pay a hefty price tag, most often, for such ease. It may certainly be worth it, but you may also prefer a little more choice in the gig – such as selecting a few of your own options and ideas rather than relying on someone else’s advice, or paying an arm and a leg to insert your opinion or hire your favorite caterer.

Hotels
Hotels are particularly popular venues when it comes to event planning. Usually there is easy access, parking, plenty of space inside, and the ability for guests to stay overnight. There are many times various themes options for the type of event you’re hosting as well, including meeting rooms, ballrooms, or even hotel restaurants. However, selecting a hotel for your event may also equate to certain restrictions, as you are only entitled to the specific décor, food, and functionality that hotel has to offer. It’s typically not an option to bring in your own “extras,” such as music, your favorite caterer, or even the decorations you desire, etc. Hotels usually stick to “all in one” event packages.

Restaurants
Restaurants can be a really great option for inclusive and intimate events. Service is usually amazing, as food and service are the industry specialty, and menu options can abound. The downside to hosting an event at a restaurant, though, is space. Even if the entire venue is available to rent or a special room exists, depending on the size of your guest list and your intentions (dancing, etc.), the venue capacity may not be a fit.

Museums and Universities
These venues can be some of the most breath-taking indoor-outdoor facilities available within an urban area. The grounds are well-kept (as most event venues’ are) and the culture offered is quite inspiring. Some of the downsides, though, can be availability due to otherwise scheduled public and private events, exclusivity (other events may be taking place at the same time as yours), and accessibility (parking at a downtown museum or university may be a challenge for your guests).

Gardens
Of course this is your most aesthetically pleasing option. However, thinking of the Pacific Northwest weather unpredictability beyond July-September, you may be asking for a bit of a damp deal. Rain is always a consideration for outdoor venues, particularly those without an indoor backup plan. And, if you don’t have the right caterer or DJ, the capacity for “electronics” may be beyond reach.

Mountainside 
Yes, absolutely, for sure, it’s a go! Well, ideally we would all say yes to an event, nestled within the foothills of Mt. Hood. However, cost can be a huge factor for these venues, as can the accessibility, once again. Your guests may or may not want to drive hours and hours for just another few hours of wining and dining before turning right around again to head home. However, you may be able to arrange for your guests to stay at nearby inns and bed and breakfasts, which creates a nice treat – assuming all fits into the affordability category.

With so many amazing options to dazzle your thought catalog, make sure you consider all of your options carefully in terms of what they offer and what they don’t for your next event!

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