Be sure you are in the hands of professionals when choosing a wedding venue. Here is a great check list of questions that engaged couples can ask potential wedding venues:
- Does the venue suit your theme?
- Is it big enough to accommodate all your guests?
- Do they have an in-house wedding co-coordinator and is there an additional cost?
- Do they have equipment you can use or will you have to hire tables, chairs, linens, plates, glassware, etc?
- Do they have in-house catering or must you hire your own?
- Do you have an option to bring in your own caterer and how about specialist wines and champagnes?
- If you are bringing a caterer in, will they have access to a kitchen, power, running water, etc?
- Will you be having finger food, a buffet or a sit down meal – can they accommodate this?
- Will there be food provided for both the reception and the evening reception?
- If they’ll be supplying the food, are they flexible with their menu choices? Can you make suggestions?
- Is there a vegetarian/vegan alternative? Can they accommodate special dietary requirements, i.e. allergies or gluten-free etc?
- Do you need to pay extra to hire the cake stand & knife?
- Do they have a license to consume alcohol? Can you supply your own alcohol? Is there a corkage fee?
- Will you have a free bar or paid bar – can they accommodate both?
- How late will the bar be open?
- How will the staff be dressed? How many will be available for your wedding?
- Can you meet the manager beforehand to go over the details?
- Is entertainment permitted? Is there a sufficient power supply for any entertainment/sound systems you may require?
- Are there any requirements for suppliers (ie the DJ has to have public liability for his equipment)?
- Does the venue have a public address system available for speeches?
- Are there noise level restrictions that must be adhered to?
- Do they allow fireworks or lanterns?
- Is the lighting at the venue suitable for your photos?
- Do they have an alternative space for photos/drinks for an outdoor reception in case it’s raining?
- Are the tables/chairs/linens appropriate – can the venue accommodate any changes?
- Are there any restrictions on where the flowers and decorations will be placed?
- Are there any restrictions on types of decorations (for example, do they allow candles etc?)
- What kind of confetti does the venue allow, and will they charge you for the cleanup of it afterwards?
- Is there a safe place for guests to store coats and personal belongings?
- Is there a safe place for gifts?
- If you are having outside staff or decorators in, what is the earliest they can have access?
- Will the venue decorate to your theme or allow you to decorate?
- Does the venue have disabled access?
- Are there adequate parking facilities?
- Can guests leave their cars overnight and collect them the next day?
- Is there on-site accommodation for the guests? If so, is there a discount available for your guests?
- Does the venue have public liability insurance?
- How far in advance are bookings required?
- What is the cancellation/postponement policy?
- How much is the deposit to secure the date and when is it due?
- How soon after the event is the balance due?
- Can they confirm any arrangements in writing?
- Do they provide a complimentary suite to the bride/groom for their wedding night?
- Will there be any other weddings/receptions/large parties at the venue on the same day?
- Can they meet your budget?
- Is there an extra charge for bringing your own suppliers?
- Does the package include menu tasting?
- Does the venue provide catering for children?
- Are there discounts available for the bridal party if they book rooms at the venue before the wedding?
- What is the difference in cost if you only have the reception at the venue vs ceremony and reception?
Most importantly – if you are seeing multiple venues, it’s absolutely essential to write everything down or go on a famous Marriage Meander Journey – it will keep you well organized and will let you remember which venue said what and offer free service thereafter. And whatever happens, don’t be intimidated by anyone – this is your day, so go and have fun and enjoy the planning.
Celebrate your wedding inspired pics by tagging #MarriageMeander
