Just Engaged? Your First Five Steps
Just Engaged? Your First Five Steps
Congratulations. Before the group chats fill up with opinions, here's where to start. These five steps come first because every other decision depends on them.
Step one: one place, or two?
Decide whether your ceremony and reception will happen in the same spot. It shapes which venues you tour. Two locations means a drive in between, a gap in the schedule, and two sets of logistics. One location keeps everyone together for the whole day.
At 314 Exchange, most couples hold the ceremony outside under the covered barn structure and the reception in the historic hall a few steps away.
Step two: start with your guest list
A rough count is enough. You don't need names and addresses yet, only a number you both believe. That number decides which venues fit and shapes what the day costs, since catering, rentals, and bar service all scale with it.
For reference, 314 seats up to 120 guests.
Step three: have the money talk early
Decide together what you want to spend, and find out who's helping, before you start touring. It's a much easier conversation before you've fallen for a place than after.
Look for venues that publish their rates so you can compare before you visit. Ours are on the Inclusions & Rates page.
Step four: pick a season, not a date
Staying open to two or three weekends gives you many more places to choose from. The same goes for the day of the week. Fridays and Sundays are often open when Saturdays are booked, and they usually cost less.
Step five: tour venues first
Your venue sets your date. Photographers, caterers, and florists all book around it, so there's little to gain from calling them before you know when and where. Tour two or three places, choose one, and then build the rest of your team around that date.
The takeaway
You don't have to plan the whole wedding this month. Settle these five things and the rest of the decisions get easier, because each one narrows the next.
When you're ready, come see us. Schedule a tour.

About the manager
Ashley Kimble
As the venue manager at 314 Exchange, Ashley Kimble ensures that every event runs smoothly and every person feels supported along the way. Ashley has a passion for building relationships with couples, vendors, and the local community. You will often meet Ashley through a tour or as you're planning your event and have questions.
She brings experience and a hands-on approach to every wedding and event with a focus on organization, communication, hospitality, and guest experience. Ashley is committed to making every celebration seamless, enjoyable, and unforgettable.

About the owner
Cory Adkinson
Cory Adkinson is the owner and operator of 314 Exchange, a premier wedding and event venue. With a passion for creating unforgettable experiences, Cory has dedicated his career to providing exceptional service and a beautiful setting for weddings, corporate events, and special occasions. As an expert in the event industry, he has a keen eye for detail and a commitment to excellence.
Cory believes in building strong relationships with his clients and goes above and beyond to ensure their vision is brought to life. With his expertise and dedication, Cory has become a trusted name in the event industry and continues to exceed expectations.







