Choosing a wedding venue can feel overwhelming, so we’ve put together these questions to think about when talking to possible venues. In addition to being in love with the look and feel of the place, you need to be sure it can accommodate all the specifics of the event you are wanting. Use this list to help guide you in getting the information needed to make the right choice for your big day!
Basic
- What dates are available?
- How many people can the location accommodate?
- What packages are available, what’s included with each package, and what’s the cost? Be sure you know how many hours you will have the day of the wedding, as well as availability for your rehearsal.
- Can the ceremony and reception be held here?
- Are changing rooms for the Bridal Parties included?
- What are the payment details? (deposits, payment types accepted, payment plans, and cancellation policy)
- What happens if it rains? Is there an indoor or covered space available as a back-up?
- Does the venue have liability insurance? Are there any insurance requirements expected of me or my vendors?
- Will there be any other event hosted there on the same day? If so, will it affect my event in any way?
Food/Drink/Cake
- Is in-house catering available? If so, can I do a tasting and is there a fee?
- What are the options for serving food (buffet, family style, individual plates)?
- How many food/drink choices can be offered?
- Can special diets be accommodated?
- If choosing an outside caterer, is there a kitchen available?
- Are there restrictions on serving or consuming alcohol on the premises?
- Is there a cake-cutting fee?
Music/Dancing
- Is there a sound system available? (speakers, microphone, etc.)
- Are there any time restrictions on how late the music can play?
- Is there a dance floor and how many will it accommodate?
Decorations
- Are there any on-site decorations available?
- Can I use my own decorations?
- Are there any decor restrictions? (moving venue items, using real candles or sparklers, rice/confetti, lawn games, etc.)
- When can I start decorating?
Vendors & Staffing
- Who is the my main contact? Will it be the same person on the wedding day?
- Can I hire my own vendors or is there a preferred vendor list I am required to choose from?
- What time can my vendors start setting up?
- Are there any photography restrictions?
- Is there on-site coordination? If so, what is included?
- If the same area is used for different purposes, who is in charge of rearranging? (ceremony to reception, dinner to dance floor, etc.) How long does it take?
- What staff is provided on the wedding day? (servers, cake-cutting, table/chair movers, gift transportation, etc.)
- What is the clean up policy? What is provided by the venue and what is my responsibility?
Logistics /Guest Comfort & Convenience
- Are tables, chairs, linens, plates, glasses, silverware, boosters or highchairs provided?
- Where do guests park, how many spaces are available, is there valet, and is parking free?
- Is there handicap access?
- How many bathrooms are available?
- What are the climate control options?
- Is there a designated smoking area?
- Is there a coat check service?
- How are guests directed? Are signs or other options available for use?
- Are any overnight accommodations available or suggested?
And, of course, be sure to ask about situations that may be specific to your event. If you’re set on arriving in a horse drawn carriage, having Lassie as the ring bearer, providing a bouncy house or food truck, or leaving in a helicopter, make sure the venue is on board with your plans.
Warmest wishes,
Chris and Jeannette
