10 questions you need to ask your wedding venue!
So, you think you’ve found the one.. or have you. Maybe you have, but did you check these details? Before you say ‘I Do’ to the venue, be sure to ask these 10 super important questions that might just save your sanity. And trust us, we know what we’re talking about (we’ve seen it all).
photographer: Helaina Storey
What’s the venue capacity?
Well, duh! It may seem obvious but be sure to check the maximum capacity as well as the minimum numbers that look good in the space (for both the ceremony and wedding breakfast rooms).
2. Is confetti allowed, if so where?
If confetti is a non-negotiable and your dreaming of the perfect confetti shot, then check if this is allowed. Check when and where too. You would be surprised how many venues have strict confetti police!
3. What does the hire cost include?
Avoid those sneaky hidden costs later, that even girls maths can’t help you with, and check exactly what is included in your price. You’ll want to confirm whether things like tables, chairs, linen, cutlery and crockery are factored in. Also, always check if VAT and service charge are included in the quoted price!
4. Are catering and bar in house?
When it comes to food and beverage what are your options? Can you bring your own suppliers, or are they exclusively in-house? Can you BYO booze or will the corkage fee hit hard? Dreaming of a food truck? Check if the venue’s on board.
5. Do they charge corkage?
Can you bring your own drinks? If so, ask about corkage fees, how many bottles you can bring, and when you can start pouring? If you’re set on BYO, get these details locked in early! Spoiler alert… corkage can be expensive.
6. Do they offer menu tasting?
If the caterers are in-house, be sure to ask if they offer a menu tasting! Don’t forget to check when these are available.
7. How many bedrooms are onsite?
How many rooms and how many guests can stay? Can you add extra beds for children? What’s the nearby accommodation scene like? Will your guests need to uber or just stumble back? And seriously, what time are check-in and check-out?
8. What is the finish time?
If the party’s your focus, then an 11pm finish might not cut it! Check what time the bar shuts, when the music needs to stop, and if your onsite guests can keep the vibes going!
9. What is the back up plan for bad weather?
Check your Plan B options for the whole day (ceremony, drinks reception, cocktail hour). Make sure you love the backup plan because the weather is the one thing you can’t control! Don’t let a little rain dampen your big day.
10. What time can we access the room to get ready?
Morning timings are crucial! If you’ve got a big bridal party, think about how much time you’ll need to get everyone ready. Or, if the venue’s tight on space, is there somewhere local where you can get ready? It’s always better to plan ahead than face morning chaos.
This spreadsheet will help you to know what questions to ask, and keep all of that information together!