How to Choose a Wedding Venue in Minnesota: 10 Things to Consider
- Ryan Ernster

- May 15
- 3 min read
Choosing the right wedding venue in Minnesota is one of the biggest decisions you'll make for your big day. With everything from rustic barns to urban lofts to historic buildings, the options are wide — and so are the differences in what you actually get for your money.
Before you fall in love with a mood board, here are 10 things every couple should evaluate when venue shopping in Minnesota.
1. Guest Count Flexibility
Be honest about your guest list — both your ideal number and your maximum. Some venues cap at 100 guests, others at 400+. Make sure the space can comfortably accommodate your seated dinner, dance floor, and cocktail hour without feeling cramped.
The 3 Ten Event Venue in Faribault, MN accommodates up to 430 guests reception-style and 300+ for ceremonies, so even large guest lists have room to breathe.
2. What's Actually Included in the Price
This is where venues vary the most. Some quote a low base price but charge separately for tables, chairs, linens, a bartender, cleanup, and more. Always ask for a full breakdown.
At The 3 Ten, the base rental includes: wood Chiavari chairs, farm and harvest tables, whiskey barrel pub tables, LED downlighting, a bartender, setup and teardown, and all-day access to getting-ready suites — at no extra charge.
3. Location and Driving Distance
Consider where most of your guests are traveling from. A venue 30–45 minutes outside the Twin Cities can offer significant savings without being inconvenient. The 3 Ten sits in historic downtown Faribault — about 40 minutes south of Minneapolis — making it accessible from the Metro, Rochester, Owatonna, and Mankato.
4. Ceremony Options
Do you want your ceremony and reception in the same place? Ask whether the venue offers an on-site ceremony space and whether there's an additional fee. Some venues charge $1,000–$2,000 extra for ceremony add-ons.
5. Open Vendor Policy vs. Preferred List
Venues with a preferred-only vendor list can significantly limit your choices and drive up your costs. An open vendor policy means you can hire any licensed caterer, photographer, or florist you want. The 3 Ten has a fully open vendor policy.
6. Bar and Catering Flexibility
Find out if catering is in-house only, whether you can bring outside food, and how bar service is structured. Some venues require you to use their bar at high minimums every night of the week.
At The 3 Ten, Thursday and Sunday events have no bar minimums — a major selling point for budget-conscious couples who still want a great space.
7. Accessibility and ADA Compliance
Make sure all guests can participate fully. Ask about elevator access, accessible parking, and accessible restrooms. The 3 Ten is fully ADA accessible with elevator access to both spaces.
8. Getting-Ready Spaces
Many couples overlook this until the day of. Dedicated, private getting-ready suites make your morning calmer and your photographer happier. The 3 Ten offers two fully furnished private suites available all day.
9. The Vibe and Aesthetic
No amount of planning can fix a space that doesn't match your vision. Walk the venue at the time of day your event will take place. Look at lighting, ceiling height, and flow between spaces.
10. The Team Behind It
The venue staff you work with matters as much as the building itself. Are they responsive? Do they communicate clearly? Do they have experience managing your type of event? Read reviews and trust your gut when you tour.
Ready to See The 3 Ten in Person?
The 3 Ten Event Venue in Faribault, MN offers two fully independent event spaces — the historic street-level Ballroom and the rooftop Loft with panoramic city views. We'd love to show you both.
Request your pricing guide or book a tour today at 3teneventvenue.com.

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