Questions to Ask Your Wedding Venue

Booking your wedding venue is one of the top 3 things you will do once engaged.  You may already have a favorite place in mind or you will be visiting area venues to see what they have to offer.  What are some of the questions you need to ask.

How many guests can they accommodate?  Depending on your expected numbers this could pose an issue for you.  When asking this question let them know if you are planning on having a band, photo booth, or evening coffee bar or candy cart as these services can take up some extra space.

Who will be the Manager on site and what can you expect from him/her?  This will help determine if someone will be available to help with coordination of the day such as putting out your favors, table numbers and ensuring all vendors arrive to set up.  If so, is there a fee for this service?

Pricing for food and beverage.  Make sure to go over all cost involving food and beverage as this will be the largest portion of your bill.  Some facilities have set menus but ask if you can meet with the Chef to customize a package special for you.  Can you bring in your own alcohol or if not how are the drink prices based.  Are fees by bottle or shot?  In addition, is the wine charge by bottle or glass?

Hours of use.  Make sure to know when your decorator will have access to the hall and when do they have to tear down.  When you book the hall ask how many hours do you have it for?  Can they book an early morning breakfast or meeting prior to your wedding?

Do they allow you to bring in your own decor, music, florist, etc….or are you required to book their in-house vendors.  If you are doing an outdoor wedding ceremony at the location what is their back up plan should weather not cooperate?

Confirm gratuity and service charge.  Is this automatically added to your bill or are you allowed to choose the gratuity given to the staff that evening.

Is the facility handicap accessible and what is parking and proximity to washrooms.  Is there a bridal room? Will they provide linens, microphone, dance floor and any other extra tables you may require.  Is there a rental fee on top of the food and beverage?

Deposits, Contracts and Cancellations.  This is very important and make sure you fully understand their terms and conditions.  What deposit is required and is it non-refundable?  What payments need to be made leading up to the wedding and  do they require credit card, cash or cheque.  When is the final bill due?  What happens should you need to cancel? Ask to see a sample contract so there are no surprises after you book.

Once you are comfortable with your answers and feel this is the right venue choice for your wedding then go ahead and give your deposit.  Make sure you have a good connection with your venue’s manager as you will be working with them for many months.