When you start planning your wedding, one of the biggest decisions you’ll make is choosing the right venue — and how much support you want from said venue. Some couples love the simplicity of an all-inclusive experience, while others prefer the creative control that comes with a DIY-style space.
At Radius, we’ve seen it all. That’s why we designed our venue to offer the best of both worlds: a hybrid model that gives couples structure, convenience, and support while still allowing for flexibility and personalization.
So, let’s break it down: What’s the difference between all-inclusive and DIY venues, and which one might be the right fit for you?
The Pros of All-Inclusive Venues
All-inclusive venues typically provide everything you need for your day, such as catering, bar service, rentals, staffing, and sometimes even planning. You simply choose your package, make a few design choices, and show up ready to celebrate.
Here’s why many couples love this route:
1. Convenience
When everything is handled under one roof, planning becomes simplified. You don’t have to worry about coordinating as many vendors, managing deliveries, or creating timelines; your venue team handles it all.
2. Predictable Pricing
An all-inclusive package gives you a clear bottom line from the start. No surprises, no fluctuating quotes, and no hidden last-minute costs.
3. Professional Support
You’ll work with seasoned professionals who do weddings at your venue every weekend. They know the space, the logistics, and how to bring your vision to life efficiently and beautifully.
4. Turnkey Experience
All-inclusive venues let you simply walk in and enjoy your day without lifting a finger. It’s ideal for couples who value peace of mind and want to minimize stress.
The Cons of All-Inclusive Venues
While all-inclusive venues sound dreamy, they’re not for everyone.
1. Limited Creativity and Flexibility
You may have to choose from pre-set décor, catering menus, or vendor lists. For couples with a strong creative vision, this can feel restrictive.
2. Upcharges for Upgrades
Want to customize? That often comes with a price tag. Adding premium bar options or specialty rentals can quickly increase your total cost.
3. Lack of Personalization
Some couples find that all-inclusive venues can feel a little “cookie cutter.” If your goal is a deeply personalized celebration, you might crave more flexibility.
4. Hidden Fees
Even “all-inclusive” doesn’t always mean all costs are included. While catering and rentals might be included, you still have to find a florist, DJ, photographer, and several other vendors. Be sure to also ask about taxes, gratuities, and overtime charges. (We dive into this more in our Hidden Venue Fees blog post.)
The Pros of DIY Venues
On the opposite end of the spectrum, DIY venues (sometimes called “blank canvas” venues) give you the space and freedom to bring in your own vendors, design your own layout, and fully customize your day.
1. Unlimited Flexibility and Creativity
You have the freedom to create a wedding that feels entirely like you. Want a pizza truck instead of plated dinner? Go for it. Dreaming of hanging floral installations? The possibilities are endless.
2. Potential Cost Savings
By sourcing your own vendors, you can control where your money goes. Budget-conscious couples often find creative ways to save on certain aspects while splurging on what matters most.
3. Get Exactly What You Want
Every choice—from the centerpieces to the playlist—is yours. There’s no compromise when it comes to executing your vision.
The Cons of DIY Venues
While the creative control is exciting, DIY venues can also be overwhelming.
1. Logistical Challenges
You’ll need to coordinate everything: rentals, catering, staffing, cleanup, timelines, and setup. If you don’t have a planner, the process can become chaotic fast. (Luckily, Radius’ in-house planning services can take that weight off your shoulders.)
2. Time and Stress
The trade-off for flexibility is time. Expect to spend months researching, comparing, and managing every detail. It’s rewarding, but it’s a lot of work.
3. More Responsibility
If something goes wrong—a vendor runs late or a setup gets delayed—it’s on you (or your planner) to fix it.
How Radius Balances the Best of Both Worlds
That’s where Radius comes in.
We’ve built a hybrid model that combines the ease of an all-inclusive venue with the freedom of a DIY space, so couples can have structure and support without sacrificing personality.
At Radius, we provide the essentials: a stunning modern space, furniture, and in-house bar service. From there, couples have the flexibility to bring in their own caterers, décor, and vendors to personalize the day.
We also offer in-house planning services, ranging from full-service planning to month-of coordination.
It’s a setup that makes planning smoother, more predictable, and far less stressful—without losing that sense of creative ownership.
Why Couples Love Radius
- You get a beautiful, ready-to-go venue without being locked into rigid packages.
- You have support from our team and access to our trusted vendor network.
- You can make the space your own while knowing the logistics are handled.
It’s the perfect middle ground for couples who want a celebration that’s authentic, flexible, and effortless.
Find Your Balance at Radius
Whether you’re drawn to the ease of an all-inclusive experience or the creativity of a DIY celebration, Radius gives you the best of both worlds: a stunning space, expert support, and the freedom to make it uniquely yours.
If you’re ready to start planning your Indianapolis wedding, reach out to the Radius team to schedule a tour or learn more about how our hybrid model can bring your vision to life.
