When you're searching for a unique event or party venue, meeting facilities or conference centers, there are several factors to consider. Here's a little list that will help you narrow down the herd:

1. Type of Facility – Hotels and conference centers are great and often appropriate. But also consider restaurants capable of handling larger groups, college alumni centers, museums, converted mansions, old theaters and a short destination venue like a lake/river/ocean cruises.

2. Ambience – Why spend thousands trying to create a theme when many facilities have a definite feel built right in. When planning business meetings and corporate events, choose a simple atmosphere that isn't too distracting and that is comfortable to your audience.

3. Thanks for the Memories – Every bride dreams of having the perfect wedding and it's often the venue that achieves her dreams. When choosing a venue, think about the overall impact it will have on your guests as they drive up, enter and dance the night away.

4. Flexibility - Some facilities require that you rent for the entire day and other rent in blocks. Make sure the venue is amenable to the length of your event – day-long meetings, one hour meetings, evening parties and overnight conferences.

5. Technology Resource – If you need A/V hook-ups or equipments, you need to discuss that with the venue in advance.

6. Affordability – Found the perfect place, but it's too much. Ask about off-season pricing and downtimes. And remember: while finding the perfect location is important, when the event goes off without a hitch because of your planning, that's what people will remember.