Booking a venue is one of the first things you'll do as you start planning your wedding. It's a big decision in the planning process because it's the place where you'll host most or all of your celebration.

Your venue needs to fit your style, date, location and budget. But there are even more factors to consider, such as practical details, conveniences and guest comforts. While these considerations may seem small, they can be significant if you haven't planned for them.

"Because your guests are a big part of why you're having a ceremony, it's important to consider how comfortable and happy they will be about attending your wedding," says Whitney Cox, wedding coordinator at Vegas Weddings. "Getting in the guest's mindset will make you a better host and make your wedding more enjoyable for you and everyone else.

*Mark Your Calendar

Consider when and where you'll be hosting your fete and how that schedule might impact your party and your guests. Make sure there aren't many other events happening at the same time or place. High demand can often result in higher than usual prices and that could mean it'll be too expensive for some of your guests to attend your wedding.

Cox recommends checking the local calendar of events. "You and your guests could have trouble finding affordable rooms, flights or local transportation if there's a major music festival or business conference happening in the same city as your venue," she says.

*Timing Matters

Wedding planner Meggie Francisco of Meggie Francisco Events advises her clients to consider sunset time and venue access timelines.

"If you envision an outdoor wedding in the winter, but the venue won't let you in until 5 p.m., you may be marrying in the dark," she says. "Even if it seems like you have enough time to have your ceremony before sunset, you might not be allowing enough time for photos afterward."

*Weather

Check out what the weather is typically like during your wedding week or month.

If it's hot during the day and you want an outside ceremony, consider getting hitched in the morning or late afternoon. Help guests stay comfy by giving them fans, cold water and sunglasses. Don't forget the sunscreen.

"Ensure there is some sort of contingency plan in the event of inclement weather, especially if you're planning to host part of your wedding day outdoors," says Karen Norian of Simply Eloped, a company that helps couples plan their elopement.

She says couples should ask the venue about plans for stormy weather, too. Ask things like do they have tents to protect guests outside? Are there indoor alternatives? Will a staff member keep track of guests' things, such as umbrellas and rain jackets?

Have a plan if your location is cold or windy as well. Does your venue have heaters you can use or rent to keep guests warm? Tell guests to pack a sweater or jacket. Consider having a basket of blankets for guests to use if it gets chilly.

*Special Considerations

Accessibility is a big factor to consider if you have elderly or disabled guests. Envision every aspect of the ceremony and reception from the perspective of a guest with accessibility concerns. Are there ramps and elevators? Are restrooms nearby? Is there a place guests can rest if needed?

Don't forget to think about how guests will get to your wedding, such as by car or shuttle. Which airport will out of town guests fly into? Does your venue have on-site accommodations and can they offer a group discount?

*Share the Plan

Keep guests informed of your wedding plans by creating a wedding website with all the information guests will need.

"When your guests feel informed, it will help them feel more comfortable so they enjoy your celebration to the fullest," says Francisco.