When you’re looking at wedding venues, there are a few questions you want to make sure to ask before committing. Through our experience hosting many weddings over the years, we have put together a list of the most important questions for you to ask any venue you are considering.
1) Does your availability match my ideal timeframe?
Decide what time of year you want to get married. If you’re flexible about the timeframe, decide what time of year you don’t want to get married. Make sure the venue can accommodate your wishes. If you want a particular date, you may have to shop around or book a venue further in advance.
2) Can the venue hold both my ceremony and reception, if needed?
Some brides prefer their ceremony and reception at the same location. It’s super convenient for everyone. If this is your goal, make sure the venue you are interested in has a designed space for wedding ceremonies.
3) What is included in the cost estimate and does it match my budget?
All venues will give you a cost estimate when you go in for an appointment, but make sure to find out what is included in it. If you have special requests, make sure that they are included in the price or find out what the add-on price will be and make sure that it fits into your desired budget.
4) How many people can the venue hold in comparison to how many people I want to invite?
Find out what the capacity is for the venue. Most venues can accommodate small to medium sized weddings but it’s best to find out ahead of time. If you are planning a large wedding, this is especially important because you don’t want your guests to be crammed and uncomfortable.
5) Is catering included?
Some venues provide inhouse catering services which is very convenient because it’s one less thing for you to have to plan and worry about. If this appeals to you, make sure that the venue does inhouse catering and double check to make sure it’s included in the cost estimate you received.
6) Is there a backup plan in case of bad weather?
If you venue is outside, it’s a given that you will want to have a rain plan. Don’t leave such an important day to chance. If the weather is bad, find out where the venue hosts the ceremony and what the setup is like if it must be done last minute. Even if your ceremony is going to be inside, you may still want some changes made such as what door you go in/out to avoid extra exposure in bad weather.
7) Can I see myself getting married here?
Really think about if you can envision yourself getting married here. Look at pictures from previous brides and make sure you see yourself looking back and loving the venue you chose.
If you take the time to think about these items and have an in depth conversation with any potential wedding venue, you will feel more confident about booking a place. The more planning you do ahead of time, the more comfortable and confident you will feel the day of your wedding.