Wedding Venues

My Magazine 2022/03

2 min

Booking a wedding venue can be one of the most daunting tasks involved in wedding planning. The location of the ceremony sets the mood for the whole event. Depending on the atmosphere you're trying to create, the options to choose from are so many, whether you're looking for a traditional village setting, church or mosque, stunning hotel suite, a cosy restaurant, or a quiet stretch of beach.

Before choosing a venue, you shall consider a few things:

Choose a venue that aligns with your vision
How many guests do you want to invite
What is your budget
Consider your guests' experience
Think about what is included
Determine your wedding style
Prioritize your must-haves
Stay true to yourselves

The Gambia is a destination where you can choose from many options of venues.

1. Restaurant

If you are not planning a huge wedding with over 300 guests, then restaurants are top on the list for venues. There are options for all budgets, styles and cuisines. The Gambia will not disappoint you when it comes to food. Gambian, Indian, Lebanese, Chinese, Jamaican, Mediterranean, grilled specialities, Creole, and more. Everything is available. And for all budgets.

2. Hotel

Many hotels and lodges in The Gambia offer lovely areas, both indoor and outdoor, such as bars, beaches, pool areas, bantabas and gardens. Booking your wedding venue at a hotel has its perks, such as rooms for out-of-town/country relatives, catering, gorgeous reception areas, and entertainment.

3. Private Home/family compounds

Many wedding ceremonies happen in the family compounds. A private space for the big day is a great idea for couples who find hotels and restaurants to lack the personal touch. Having your wedding at home/family compound opens up more to flexibility. You’re doing what you want on your own time, instead of following the time constraints hotels and caterers designate.

4. Beach

You can select from beautiful pre-arranged beach wedding packages, or build your own package if you’d like! The beach wedding packages are designed to make your marriage ceremony unique, elegant and memorable. From a simple to a larger beach affair, The Gambia offers the perfect beach wedding packages for you.

5. Halls

Hall wedding venues are not only functional, they’re fabulous too and offer a beautiful backdrop for you to officially get wed. The intimate setting allows you to personalize your nuptials in ways that a larger wedding wouldn't, resulting in a celebration that's a reflection of you and your fiancé. Isn't that what your wedding should really be about, anyway?

6. Boats

Your entire wedding can take place on board, so you won't have to worry about the logistics and extra expense of transporting everyone from the ceremony site to the reception. Many boats offer all-inclusive packages with everything included. Some even offer a DJ, along with an onboard lighting and sound system.