51 Questions to Ask Wedding Venue Staff So You Get the Answers You Need

Couple touring wedding venue

  • Chapelle writes articles for The Knot Worldwide. She covers all things wedding-related and has a personal interest in covering celebrity engagements and fashion.
  • Before joining The Knot Worldwide, Chapelle was an editorial intern for Subvrt Magazine.
  • Chapelle has a degree in English writing from Loyola University New Orleans.

After researching wedding locations on The Knot Vendor Marketplace (*hint, hint*) and narrowing the list to your potential favorites, you could be stuck wondering what now. You might think visiting the site is the next step, but there are at least 51 questions to ask wedding venues you need to know. While it's important to see the venue in person, you must prepare yourself to ask specific wedding planning questions so you book your wedding venue with confidence. For example, you want to ensure there's enough parking if your guests are driving in for the occasion. Or that the venue has ADA-compliant facilities . With everything from the number of bathrooms to alcohol restrictions, our list of wedding venue questions has you covered. See the list of inquiries to know about before, during and after your site tour below.

Questions to Ask a Wedding Venue:

Before You Tour | During The Tour | Regarding Finances | About Food and Beverages | Regarding Vendors | About Decor | Final Meeting

Printable Wedding Venue Questions Checklist

Want something you can quickly reference when talking to the venue staff and don't want to write every question down? Save this checklist (with some of the most important questions) to your phone's photo gallery or print it so you can use it as a resource before, during or after the venue tour.

Checklist of essential wedding venue questions to ask

Questions to Ask a Wedding Venue Before Your Tour

You can ask the wedding venue questions below over the phone or in an inquiry email . Just ensure you sort out your wedding details ahead of time so that when the venue staff responds, your answers aren't vague.

1. When is the venue available?

If you have your heart set on a specific wedding date and aren't flexible about moving it, you definitely need to ask this question. Hopefully, the venue is available for your desired date––otherwise, you'll have to keep looking. If you don't have a particular date in mind, ask the venue about what dates are open for your preferred season and year.

2. How far in advance can I reserve the venue?

For couples who've had their hearts set on a particular wedding venue, we suggest asking how far out you can reserve it. This question is especially important for popular locations. Some venues require a year in advance, while others are more flexible.

3. What is the venue's rental fee?

Remember that your venue's rental fee and catering will likely take up about half of your total wedding budget . If the entire venue cost (not just the food and beverage minimum) doesn't fit within your budget, you may have to move on unless you're open to cutting something else.

4. What is the style of the venue?

This will likely be the most obvious yes or no decision about your venue. Are you envisioning a romantic rustic atmosphere, but the venue staff describes the place as a sleek and modern loft? Then you'll probably need to cross the space off your list immediately.

5. Does the venue have space for a ceremony and reception?

To take some hassle out of planning and traveling for guests, some couples try to have their ceremony and reception at the same venue. If keeping everything at one location is important to you, ask the tour guide if there are separate ceremony and reception spaces.

Couple by the pool at their wedding venue

Questions to Ask a Wedding Venue During Your Tour

Once you've scheduled a venue tour, it's time to get answers to the crucial details that could influence whether you book or not. Here are 17 questions to ask when touring a wedding venue.

6. How many people does the space accommodate?

A venue's capacity directly relates to your guest list and budget. If you love the space but it only comfortably fits 75 people and your guest list is close to 200 (not including your pros), you have to decide if having the venue or your guest count is more important to you.

7. Is there an area to have the cocktail hour?

Who doesn't love a fun cocktail hour with tasty drinks and food? But before you create the menu, you have to talk about logistics. Ask if the venue has a place for guests to mingle after the ceremony.

8. What's the walking/driving distance from the ceremony location?

If you're hosting your wedding ceremony and reception in different locations, you'll need to know how long it'll take to get from one site to the other. Also, ask what the traffic is like around your wedding time to ensure you and your guests don't get stuck on the road.

9. Is the venue near hotels, and can you recommend any?

Don't know what to ask a wedding venue? Try this inquiry since it could impact whether you book. If guests have to drive a long way to get from their hotel to the venue and back, we think it's best to avoid that venue––especially if you're not providing wedding transportation . Usually, anything over 30 minutes is a big ask.

10. Is the venue near public transportation?

You'll want to know if the venue's close to any public transportation, cab or ride-share services in the area for guests to use. After all, nobody should be driving a car after consuming alcohol.

11. What aesthetic features does the venue have?

You should ensure any of the venue's standout features blend in with your decor vision. For example, is there a rooftop or pool? Is the venue on a waterfront? Are there any breathtaking views, incredible interiors or nature areas?

12. What services does the venue offer?

For your budget's sake, you'll want to know what things are included in the venue fee. This could be rentals, assistance from a venue coordinator or an in-house wedding baker. It's always best to ask rather than assume.

13. What does your outdoor space look like?

This is one of the most vital questions to ask when looking at wedding venues. So if you want an outdoor soiree, ensure there's enough room to comfortably fit guests, pros, rentals, the cocktail hour area and reception.

14. Does the venue have a tent or backup plan if I want an outdoor ceremony?

It doesn't matter which season you want your wedding in; you should always have a plan b for outdoor weddings . Ask the venue staff if they have tents or an indoor area for you and your guests to move to if there's inclement weather or other issues.

15. How many hours does the rental cover?

Besides the ceremony and reception, you'll want to know the exact time frame you have to set up, celebrate and clean up your wedding. You don't want to be charged extra if the venue has to keep the lights on for 30 more minutes.

16. How many weddings does the venue allow within a day?

If you're having an evening wedding, you don't want your guests arriving to see the afternoon wedding's rentals being packed up. It's normal for venues to host more than one wedding in a day (especially at a hotel), but make sure there won't be any visible crossover.

17. What are your electricity capabilities?

This question is twofold: You want to know if the venue has enough outlets and power for every pro requiring electricity, and you also want to get an idea of the lighting. Is it extremely fluorescent or dim? Can the venue project the uplighting hue you want onto the dance floor? These are all crucial things to know—especially for evening receptions.

18. Is the venue ADA-compliant?

Your wedding should be as disability-friendly as possible. That includes but isn't limited to a leveled or ramped primary entrance, accessible doors, bathrooms and parking, working elevators and inclusive seating.

19. Is there parking for guests on-site? If so, is there a fee?

For traveling guests, you'll need to have a place for them to park their vehicles. Ask the wedding venue staff if there's an area for cars, how many parking spaces there are and if there's a fee. Consider paying for the guest parking fee if your wedding budget allows.

20. How many restrooms does the venue have?

You don't want to have long restroom lines at your wedding. Talk to the venue staff about how many bathrooms are on the property. If you feel like there are too few, but you love the venue, consider renting portable bathrooms––there are some really luxurious ones nowadays.

21. Where can we safely store wedding gifts?

This might not be something you have considered, but wedding gift theft is a real thing. Find out if there is a room with a lock where you can place your gifts so there are no issues.

22. Does the venue have a dance floor?

If getting down on the dance floor is a top priority for you and your guests, ask the wedding venue employees if there is one. If the venue doesn't have one, ensure there's enough space in the reception area for you to add a rented one.

23. Are there rooms for the couple and wedding party to get ready in before the wedding?

For those who've selected a venue that works for their ceremony and reception, you'll need a dressing room to start the getting ready process. Check if the venue has suites for you, your partner and your attendants so everyone can prepare for the big day together. This will also help decrease your chance of running late since you'll already be on the property.

Couple walking down the aisle at their wedding ceremony

Questions to Ask a Wedding Venue Regarding Finances

If you and your partner are happy with all the above, you're ready to move on to the next step. Here are key financial questions to ask your wedding venue.

24. What's the deposit, cancellation and refund policy?

Before accepting a new job, you'd want to look at your benefits and official offer letter before you sign on the dotted line––the same goes for your venue. Ask if you can see a sample contract or have their deposit, cancellation and refund policy outlined on paper. Things happen, and it's better to know you can recover losses before you book your venue.

Pictures of The Knot App on different devices.

25. Are there any additional fees we should be aware of?

Hidden wedding fees can add up, making a sizable dent in your budget. Be sure to ask about taxes, gratuities, service charges and more to ensure you're clear on your venue's total cost.

26. Do you have liability insurance?

If a wedding venue doesn't have liability insurance , you'll have to purchase your own. This is important in case someone gets injured, your venue is damaged or some other mishap occurs on the big day.

27. Does the venue offer flexible payment plans?

To serve couples of different financial backgrounds, some wedding venues offer payment plans. The venue is only one of many things you'll be putting your money towards, so don't be afraid to ask if they have this option if it will help take some of the financial burden off your shoulders.

28. What payment methods does the venue accept?

Don't assume your preferred payment method works for the venue. There might be a possibility the venue takes only checks or certain credit cards.

Outdoor wedding ceremony in the woods

Questions to Ask a Wedding Venue Regarding Food and Beverages

Wedding catering is one of the most significant parts of the celebration because it fills the belly and warms the heart. Here are food and drink-related questions to ask a wedding venue before booking.

29. Does the venue have an in-house caterer?

Some venues want you to use their services from beginning to end, which is why in-house caterers are provided. If they do have one, ask them about their menu offerings, if they can accommodate dietary restrictions and when you can schedule a menu tasting.

30. Is there a kitchen on-site?

You've probably already guessed it, but if the venue doesn't have its own caterer, you'll have to hire one yourself. That isn't a big deal in itself, but you do need to ensure the venue has a full kitchen for your desired catering team to work.

31. Am I allowed to bring our own alcohol?

Bringing alcohol is one way to cut corners on costs, but some venues, especially hotels, don't allow you to bring outside alcohol. Some wedding venues may not permit alcohol at all on the premises. So, ask if there are any alcohol restrictions and if the venue has a liquor license, which means you can only have wine and beer.

32. Is there a corkage fee?

If your wedding venue permits you to bring your own alcohol, they most likely will charge you a corkage fee. This is the same setup restaurants have if you bring your own bottle of wine. This fee sometimes includes the venue waitstaff helping open and serve the wedding wine .

33. Does the venue have an in-house baker?

There are a few venues that require you to use their in-house cake baker, while others allow you to select an outside baker. If you must use the venue's baker, look at photos of their work to ensure you're comfortable moving forward.

34. Is there a cake-cutting fee?

Also known as the cakeage fee, the wedding cake-cutting fee is a rate venues charge for cakes made at other bakeries. The wedding cake-cutting fee pushes the couples to use the in-house baker, but it also gives the venue waitstaff fair compensation for cutting, plating and serving the cake, which is usually a service included in the price.

Bride with wedding party

Questions to Ask a Wedding Venue Regarding Vendors

As you would for your guests, you should ensure your pros are taken care of. These are the questions to ask the wedding venue tour guide on behalf of your vendors.

35. Can the venue accommodate a DJ or live band?

Before you book DJ Pauly D or ask your uncle's blues band to perform at your wedding, you'll need to know how much space the venue has for your acts. Some venues have limited space that could prevent you from hosting a DJ or live musicians .

36. Do you have a sound system and microphones?

Whether it's for your ceremony prayers, a live band or the reception wedding speeches, you'll need a sound system and microphones. Some vendors provide these items themselves, but it doesn't hurt to ask the venue employees what equipment they have.

37. Are there any noise restrictions?

Check to see if there's a noise restriction after certain times. Many venues don't allow you to play loud music past 10:30 p.m. or so, which won't work if you want to dance until midnight.

38. What time can my vendors start setting up?

This is one of the most important logistic questions to ask at a wedding venue––especially if your potential venue hosts numerous events in one day. Knowing when your vendors can arrive will help you plan your event and determine if there's enough time for them to set up before the ceremony.

39. Can I hire outside vendors?

This is a prime question to ask wedding venues because some have strict rules around which outside services they allow on their property. The wedding venue might even have a preferred vendors list you can choose from, while others could require lengthy contracts for outside vendors due to liability issues.

40. Do you require all vendors to provide a COI (certificate of insurance)?

Lots of great things can happen on your wedding day, but there can be some accidents. The champagne tower assembled by the bar team could topple over, or sparklers set up by the lighting staff can catch a curtain on fire. You want to be covered for every possibility, and so does your venue.

41. What are the logistics for pros and rentals?

Some rental companies charge extra if they have to walk up and down stairs, so you need to know if there are stairs, a service elevator, a loading dock or a separate entrance for them. You should also ask if there are additional charges for any weekday/weekend drop-offs or pickups if they want to start delivering rentals ahead of time or pick something up a day later and what their time windows are.

Couple on the dance floor at their wedding

Questions to Ask a Wedding Venue Regarding Decor

Most likely, how your wedding looks is extremely significant. That's why you need to have the things to ask a wedding venue below on your checklist.

42. Can we bring our own decorations?

Some vendors have restrictions on the kinds of outside decor they permit. Share this information with your wedding decorator and planner so they can know what they're working with.

43. Am I allowed to rearrange anything at the venue?

There are some wedding venues have strict rules around rearranging anything on site. Whether it's a liability or safety issue, it's best to ask this wedding venue question upfront. This will allow you to begin imagining what the venue would look like on your special day.

44. What decor, if any, is included in my rental fee?

Along with understanding what you can and cannot bring from outside regarding decorations, be sure to ask what kind of decor they provide. This will keep you from doubling up on items, bringing anything that may clash or spending money unnecessarily.

45. Do you have open-flame regulations?

If your perfect wedding involves an aisle lined with lit candles, you need to talk to the venue team about their open-flame policy. Some venues allow candles but have a restriction on the amount, while others prefer you to have flameless candles.

46. Can you share lighting and decor ideas you've done for past events?

Some venues provide their own decorating and lighting services. If your potential venue offers this, we suggest asking them to show photos and videos of their previous work so you can decide if their look is right for you.

47. Does the venue offer set up and break down services?

Setting up and breaking down the wedding might be a courtesy in the contract or an add-on to the final bill. Either way, you need to ask this wedding venue question to compare fares with other vendors.

Wedding ceremony in front of grand fireplace

Questions to Ask a Wedding Venue at the Final Meeting

You're almost at the finish line. Before you book, bring these questions to ask a wedding venue team member.

48. When is the final venue payment due?

Ensure you're on the same page about the venue's payment schedule. You don't want to lose out on your favorite wedding venue because you didn't confirm the payment deadline.

49. Who can we contact throughout the planning process?

You might not believe it, but you probably have more questions for the venue staff down the road. Ask if you'll have a point of contact, like an on-site wedding venue coordinator, to answer your questions and help coordinate your planning needs. Exchange phone numbers and emails so you both can communicate efficiently and as quickly as possible.

50. Do you provide signage, or will we have to bring our own?

To keep your guests in the right place at all times, you'll need wedding signs . Whether it's to guide them to the restrooms or direct them to the parking area, clear signs are a must. Ask the venue employees if they can provide signs for your event.

51. Can we visit the venue a few days early with our vendors so they can see the layout?

This is one of the best questions to ask during the final wedding venue walk-through. Vendors like your photographer, videographer, caterer and more might want to walk around your venue to get a better look at the layout. This helps them better visualize setups and make their jobs easier. Ask the venue staff if doing this two to three days before the wedding is possible. We also advise coordinating all necessary vendors to be there on one day so the walkthrough is done in one fell swoop.

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Checklist of 62 Questions To Ask At Your Wedding Venue Tour

Darcy Allen

By Darcy Allen / Melbourne Venue Expert

Checklist of 62 Questions To Ask At Your Wedding Venue Tour

To make the most of your initial wedding venue tours, you’ll be well equipped to print this PDF and bring it with you along with your wedding venue’s packages, pricing, and brochures. There aren’t a lot of opportunities to have the undivided attention of your venue sales rep, so we usually encourage couples to be meticulous about their questions on this initial visit while you’ve got their undivided attention.

To help you get all of your needed information, we’ve prepared a downloadable PDF checklist of all the questions you should ask on your first wedding venue tour! We say first because you’ll likely visit the venue more than once after you’ve booked your date.

DOWNLOAD PDF QUESTIONS

62 Questions To Ask on Your First Wedding Venue Tour

While some of these questions may be answered long before you book your tour, we’ve included every possible question here so you can have all your info in one place. Simply download the PDF and take it on the go with you for your wedding venue site visit.

  • What’s your availability like in the months I’m interested in?
  • How quickly do we need to confirm our booking?
  • How many guests can the venue accommodate comfortably and what’s the preferred configuration?
  • How many overnight guests can the venue accommodate?
  • Are there private rooms where we can get ready or hide away before or during the wedding?
  • Start and end times? Options to extend?
  • Is the venue wheelchair-friendly (elevator, easy bathroom access, and the like)?
  • Are kids allowed on-site?
  • When can our suppliers access the venue for set-up and break-down?
  • Will we have the option to host other events besides the wedding, like a cocktail party the night before or a morning-after brunch?

Packages & Insurance

  • Can you talk me through the wedding packages?
  • Do you offer any special pricing for non-peak dates?
  • What isn’t included in the wedding package that most couples end up hiring anyway?
  • Am I required to take out an insurance policy for our wedding at your venue?
  • What’s your payment schedule?
  • If I cancel after booking, what are the cancellation fees and is there any kind of cooling-off period?
  • Do you charge postponement fees?
  • Are there any additional fees or service charges we should be aware of?

Location & Accommodation

  • If hotel venue: How many rooms are we required to book for the wedding?
  • If hotel venue: What’s the cancellation policy for rooms that aren’t booked in time for the wedding?
  • If not a hotel venue: Can you recommend any hotels nearby where guests can spend the night?
  • Is there a car park onsite? How many cars can it take overnight and during the wedding?
  • Are there nearby car parking spaces?
  • Do you recommend or prefer guests to arrive on shuttle buses?
  • Do you provide shuttle bus services to transport the wedding guests?
  • Can you recommend a local transportation provider?
  • Will anyone from the venue greet guests and show them from the parking area to the ceremony space?
  • Do you offer in-house catering or work exclusively with a recommended caterer?
  • What are the menus and pricing?
  • Are you licensed for full bar service?
  • Will we be able to have a menu tasting prior to the wedding?
  • Do you offer a kid’s menu?
  • What are the service options for cocktail hour and the reception (i.e. grazing stations, canapés, live-action stations, multi-course seated dinner, family-style)?
  • Can we make changes to the menus or are the menus set by the chef as-is?
  • If needed: Do you provide Indian, kosher, halal, or vegan menus?
  • Do you provide special meals for guests with allergies or specific dietary requirements?
  • Do you make wedding cakes? Or will I have to bring my own cake?
  • Do you provide a cake stand for the wedding cake?
  • Can we store the wedding cake in your kitchen until it’s served?
  • Do you provide plates and glassware? If so, what do they look like?
  • Do you offer tea and coffee for the guests?
  • Can you provide a sample timeline for the day so we know when each course is served?

Decor and Style

  • Do you provide any decor in your wedding packages (centrepieces, flowers, lighting, tablecloths, napkins, ceremony decor)?
  • If styling is included: Who will we work with to customise the look and feel of our wedding?
  • Do you provide tables and chairs? What do they look like?
  • If we bring in additional decorations, what access will we have to the venue before the wedding?
  • Is there anyone from the venue who can help us put up our decorations?
  • Can we move existing furniture to suit our floorplan?
  • What lighting options do you provide? Is there any additional lighting couples typically bring in through a hire company?
  • Do you have any restrictions around what we can bring in for decor?
  • Do you provide a sound system for both the ceremony and reception?

Reception Details

  • Do you have enough space for a live band? Stage?
  • If I hire a DJ, will you provide any sound equipment, or will they have to bring theirs?
  • Do you provide a dancefloor? If so, how many guests can it accommodate?
  • For outdoor receptions: What are our options in the case of inclement weather?
  • Do you have a curfew for outdoor music?
  • Are fireworks allowed? Sparklers? Candles? Confetti? Balloons? Smoke bombs?
  • Is there a smoking area available?
  • What time is last call and when are all guests expected to be out?
  • What’s the lighting like at night, both indoors and out?
  • Do you require and/or provide security during the wedding?
  • Are there enough bathroom facilities available on-site for our guest list?

While these questions might seem like a lot, most venues will readily answer them before you even have a chance to ask. This checklist is designed to assure you that you haven’t forgotten any major details during your wedding venue tour.

Download the PDF version of 62 Questions for Your Wedding Venue Site Visit here — instant download, no email info required!

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If you feel stuck on which wedding venues to tour in person, our venue experts can help you make the right call. Simply reach out and we can answer these questions and more, then get you set up for the most successful venue tour.

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The 75 questions you need to ask a wedding venue

February 28, 2022

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Booking your venue is one of the most exciting parts of planning a wedding. As you tour potential venues, it’s easy to start visualizing your big day. 

It’s also easy to forget the questions you want to ask the wedding venue coordinator.

That’s why we’ve put together a comprehensive list of everything you’ll want to ask your wedding venue. With this list on hand, you’ll bring a level of preparedness rivaled only by Jennifer Lopez in The Wedding Planner . Print it out and bring it along on each tour, so you can get all your questions answered! 

There’s a lot to consider when choosing a wedding venue. Pick the right one by asking the right questions upfront. Don’t be shy; ask them everything!

General booking questions

  • What dates do you have available during our preferred month? Do you have discounts during off-season months, morning weddings, or Friday or Sunday weddings?
  • How far in advance can we reserve a date for our wedding?
  • What’s the latest date we can make a change to our reservation?
  • Is there a capacity limit? How many guests can we invite? 
  • Can you host other events besides the reception, such as the ceremony, rehearsal dinner, or day-after festivities? 
  • If we host our ceremony here, how does the rehearsal work?
  • If we book an outdoor space, what’s the contingency plan in case of bad weather?
  • Do you have changing rooms for the bride and groom? Can we book additional space for the wedding party? 
  • Do you have event liability insurance , or do we need to have our own?
  • Are there any upgrades or perks available to the newlyweds, such as a massage at a partner hotel?
  • How many events do you typically host in one day? How do you handle the crossover, and prevent confusion among the guests?
  • Can you share photos of other weddings similar to ours?

Payment questions

  • What is included in the base booking fee? 
  • How many hours does the booking fee include? Is it possible to extend our booking for an additional fee? 
  • What is the absolute earliest we can arrive, and latest we can leave? 
  • Is the deposit refundable? How much is it, and when is it due? 
  • When is the remainder of the booking fee due? 
  • Can you share the details of your cancellation policy? How early do we have to cancel to receive our deposit back?
  • If there’s something in the package we do not want, can we substitute or remove it?
  • For venues that host multiple events, can we do a complete buyout of the space?
  • What payment methods do you accept?
  • Can you share a sample contract with me to review?

Food and drink questions

  • Is catering provided in-house? If not, do you have a preferred vendor list we can review? 
  • If we hire an outside caterer, does the venue provide a kitchen for them? 
  • What meal options are available? Do you offer buffets or seated dinners? How many courses? What about desserts and late-night snacks? What is the price per guest? 
  • Are you able to accommodate dietary restrictions?
  • Do we have to use the in-house vendor for our cake or can we use an outside vendor? 
  • Is there a cake-cutting fee? Can it be waived if we cut our own cake?
  • Is a food tasting included, or does it cost extra? 
  • Do we have to meet a food and beverage minimum? What is the tax and service charge?
  • Do you have an alcohol license, or do we need to bring our own vendor? 
  • Can we have a full bar?
  • What is the cost for an open bar? Is there a minimum charge? 
  • Can we pre-stock the bar with our own wine, beer, champagne, or hard liquor? Is there a corkage fee? 
  • Does the venue provide tables, chairs, linens, dishware, silverware, and glassware? If not, what do we need to rent or ask our caterer to bring?
  • How many wait staff will be working for a wedding of our size?
  • Are there any additional food or alcohol-related charges we should know about, such as a bar staffing fee?

Decor questions

  • What, if any, decorations are included in the booking fee? 
  • Can we bring in additional decorations, such as string lights or centerpieces? When and where can we drop these off? 
  • Are there any restrictions on outside decor, such as confetti, sparklers, candles, food trucks, beer donkeys, or lawn games?
  • In case of cold weather, are heaters, umbrellas, or covered tents provided for outdoor weddings?
  • Do you provide in-house flowers or have a preferred vendor? Can we scatter petals on the floor or ground?
  • Does your staff assist with setup or breakdown? To what extent?
  • Are there any restrictions on how we can rearrange the space?

Vendor questions

  • Do we have to work with your in-house or preferred vendors, or can we hire our own? What type of event vendor insurance do you require?
  • Is on-site coordination available? If so, what services are included?
  • Are there any vendors I’m required to hire, such as an officiant? 
  • Can we bring an outside DJ or live band?
  • Do you have in-house photography or videography services, or should we hire our own?
  • Do you offer security services to prevent wedding crashers? Is there an additional cost?
  • When can our vendors arrive for setup?

Logistics questions

  • What does the flow of the event look like, from ceremony to cocktail hour to reception? Will you be moving furniture around during the ceremony?
  • Are there any noise restrictions we should know about? 
  • Is parking included, or can we add it for an additional fee?
  • What accommodations are available for guests with disabilities or mobility issues?
  • Is there a designated smoking area?
  • How many restrooms do you have? If you host multiple events, are any reserved just for our guests? Can we rent portable restrooms?
  • For hotel venues, do you offer a discounted group rate for hotels? How many rooms do we have to reserve? Can we arrange for Welcome Bags to be provided upon check-in? Is a room included for the newlyweds?
  • For non-hotel venues, do you partner with any hotels where we can get a discount?
  • For winter weddings, is a coat check available?
  • Do you have an audio/visual system? What about microphones for speakers?
  • For adult-only weddings, is childcare available? 

You’ve booked your wedding venue. Congratulations! Over the next few months, as you put together your guest list and choose your vendors, make sure everything’s in order by asking your venue these questions.

  • Who will be our main point of contact during the planning process? Can we meet them now?
  • What information do we need to share with our outside vendors? Will they need to access a service elevator or separate entrance? Will we be charged if they drop-off or pick-up items during the days before or after our wedding? 
  • Can we visit during another wedding to see what the setup is like and hear the sound system?
  • Where will the seating chart be displayed?
  • Where will the gift table and cardbox be located? Are any decorations provided?
  • How many people can sit at one table? Do we need to provide place cards?
  • Can we prepare a specialty drink as the newlyweds?
  • How would you recommend guests get to the event? Do you partner with cabs, rideshares, or shuttle services? Are there any traffic tips we can pass on to our guests?

Questions to ask wedding venue at the final meeting

The big day is getting close, and there are only a few more questions to ask. Follow up on the questions below and ask about anything else that’s on your mind.

  • Who will be our main point of contact on the day of our wedding? Can we meet them?
  • Can we visit a few days before our wedding to show the space to our vendors?
  • Will you provide signage to direct guests to our wedding, or do we need to bring our own?
  • What else can we do now to avoid surprises on the big day?
  • Can you confirm how much money is still owed and when payment is due?

There you have it: all the questions you need to ask your wedding venue to make your wedding everything you’ve dreamt it will be.

Written on May 22, 2021 | Last updated: February 28, 2022

Our editorial content is intended for informational purposes only and is not written by a licensed insurance agent. Terms and conditions for rate and coverage may vary by class of business and state.

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30 Wedding Venue Questions You Should Be Asking

Before you sign on the dotted line, go over these important questions.

Jaimie Mackey was the real weddings editor at Brides from 2013 to 2015. She also worked as a luxury wedding planner and produced over 100 high-end weddings and events in Colorado

Photo by Pablo Laguía

In This Article

We all know that what makes the perfect wedding venue is more than just the aesthetics—though good looks are, of course, a huge bonus. There are so many important details you’ll need to go over before you sign on the dotted line , from whether your venue of choice offers add-on services (like catering), to the proximity of the venue to lodging for your guests.

Ahead, we've compiled the key questions (recommended by wedding planners!) that you should ask about a wedding venue before making a final decision. Make sure that you're checking all of your planning boxes by bringing this list of 30 essential questions with you on your site visits.

Questions to Ask Wedding Venues About Pricing and Availability

  • Is my date of choice available? If not, are there any surrounding dates available? Or do you have a waitlist for dates?
  • How far in advance can I reserve my date?
  • What are the rates for different days of the week and times (Friday, Saturday, Sunday ; morning, afternoon, evening)? What about different seasons?
  • How many hours are included in the rental of the space? How early can we arrive, and how late can we stay?

Ideally, you’ll want to be the only event on-site on your wedding day, as having other events happening can result in less setup time, limited venue access, and confusion for your guests. If you’re not guaranteed to be the only event that day, find out how much it would cost to do a complete buyout , as well as ask about how the staff handles having multiple events at once.

Questions to Ask Wedding Venues About Payment

  • How much is the venue deposit?
  • When do you need the deposit by?
  • How do you structure the payment schedule?
  • What is included in the total? Does it cover service charges, gratuity, and cleaning fees, or are those additional line items?
  • What is the cancellation policy?
  • When is the last possible date to make changes to our reservation?
  • Do you require that we use wedding insurance ?

Photo by Ana Hinojosa

Questions to Ask Wedding Venues About Vendor Teams

  • Do you have a list of approved or recommended vendors we can use?
  • Do we have to use your approved vendors? If not, are there limitations or guidelines we need to meet when bringing others in?

If your venue doesn’t require you to use their vendors, ask if there are any they recommend most highly. A vendor who is familiar with your venue will already know the quirks and challenges of the space, which will make your planning process that much easier.

Photo by Bonnie Sen

Questions to Ask About Logistics

  • Is the site handicap accessible?
  • Are there noise restrictions ?
  • How many bathrooms are there? Will we need to rent additional portable restrooms ?
  • Is parking available on-site? How much space is there? Will guests be charged for parking?

Sometimes the use of parking is included in your site rental fee, sometimes it isn’t. If there is a fee and it isn’t covered by your rental, ask how much it would cost for you to pay for your guests’ parking for the evening.

Questions to Ask About Event Specifics

  • What is the venue’s capacity?
  • Do you have your own sound equipment and speakers, or will those need to be rented or provided by the entertainment?
  • What is the backup plan for rain or inclement weather ?
  • Are there any décor restrictions?
  • When can vendors arrive for setup?
  • Will your staff be involved in setting up and breaking down the décor? In what capacity?

A venue like a hotel will usually have staff available to help arrange and set the tables, then help pack up any rented glassware, flatware, and dishes at the end of the night. Confirm exactly what the venue’s staff will be doing so you can pass that information on to your other vendors.

Photo by Kristen Marie Parker

Questions to Ask About Food and Drinks

  • Do you have an in-house caterer ? If so, are food and beverages included in the venue rental fee?
  • If there is not an in-house caterer, do we have to choose from a list of approved options, or can we hire our own caterer?
  • Do you have a food and beverage minimum? What are the consequences if we don’t meet it?
  • Do we have to purchase liquor through you, or can we source liquor elsewhere ?
  • If we can bring our own liquor onto the property, is there a corkage or service fee?

If your venue does allow you to buy your own alcohol , they may charge a fee to serve it on the property—which is still often much less than the price of ordering straight through the venue.

Questions to Ask About Production Staff

  • Who will be our point person as we plan our wedding? Who will be our point person on our wedding day, and is this person an on-site coordinator ?
  • Can we meet them today?

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75 Questions To Ask When Booking Your Wedding Venue

Written by  Shutterfly Community Last Updated: Nov 20, 2020

Choosing your wedding venue is one of the first big decisions you’ll make when planning your wedding. We recommend visiting venues 12 to 18 months before your wedding to help inspire your other wedding details like your invitations , save the dates and color scheme.

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To help you choose the perfect venue, we’ve put together a list of 75 questions to ask when touring potential wedding locations. These questions cover everything from the venue’s vendor policy to logistical issues, like parking and transportation.

Be sure to consider your decor , budget, and wedding theme as you tour wedding venues to make your wedding planning much easier. Whether you’re hiring a wedding planner or having a DIY wedding , keeping this list of questions handy will help you cross off an essential item on your wedding checklist  in no time.

General Questions

Wedding dinner table decor in a blue and peach color scheme.

Here are some of the first questions to ask on your tour—everything from the venue’s availability to its capacity. These questions will let you know if the venue is right for you from the start. We even suggest asking these before you book a tour to save you some time.

  • What’s the availability around my ideal date?
  • How many guests can the venue accommodate?
  • How many hours are included in the rental?
  • What wedding packages do you have, and what’s included in them?
  • Do you host more than one event on the same day? If so, how many other events will be booked for the same day as my wedding?
  • How far in advance can we reserve a date?
  • Is there an outdoor space?

Set-up And Breakdown

Wedding altar and chairs decorated with vines, florals and drapping fabric.

To ensure that the beginning and end of your wedding day run smoothly, ask these questions about the setup and breakdown of the space. Generally, if you book an all-inclusive venue, they are in charge of setting up and breaking down the event. However, if you will be bringing in any outside vendors or doing most of the coordination yourself, these are definitely questions you’ll want to ask.

  • Who is in charge of the setup, breakdown, and cleaning of the wedding?
  • How long do we get for set-up and breakdown?
  • What does a typical layout for a wedding look like?
  • Do you have any photographs of past weddings you can show me?
  • Who will be our main contact at the venue on the day of?
  • What time can my vendors begin setting up?
  • Do you offer manpower or an extra set of hands during setup and breakdown?
  • Is there a cleaning fee?

Decorations And Rentals

Recently married couple walking down the aisle.

Decorations and details, including floral backdrops , lounge furniture, and centerpieces , play a large part in defining a wedding’s style. Some venues have restrictions on the types of decorations you can use—for instance; some locations won’t allow you to hang things from the wall or ceiling. While you’re on your tour, ask some of these questions about the venue’s decoration policies.

  • How early can we start decorating?
  • Can we go in the day before the wedding to decorate or store items?
  • Are there any restrictions on reception decorations that we should know about?
  • Can we use candles in our decorations?
  • Can we throw confetti or use sparklers?
  • Do we need to provide our own place cards, table numbers, or seating chart?
  • Do you have decorations available to rent?
  • Will you provide signs to direct guests to our reception?
  • Do you have any décor, such as vases and candleholders, that we can borrow for our reception?
  • Are the facilities decorated, or can we customize their decor as well?

Vendors And Staffing

Closeup of bridal party making a toast.

Before you start looking for florists, caterers, and designers, here are some of the questions you’ll want to ask the venue about vendors and staffing.

  • Do you have a list of preferred vendors?
  • Can we work with other vendors, or will we need to stick to your recommended list?
  • Do you provide a coat check service?
  • Do you offer an on-site wedding coordinator?
  • What type of security service do you offer?
  • Is there a service charge for the staff, and what’s your tipping policy?
  • Are there any restrictions for the photographer—are there any places they’re not allowed to photograph, and are they allowed to use flash?
  • Do you offer valet?
  • Is the bar staffed, or do we need to hire a bartender?

Entertainment

Couple during their first dance under a clear tent surrounded by guests.

Whether you’re thinking of hiring a DJ or a live band, here are some questions to ask your potential venues about your entertainment.

  • Can we bring in a band or DJ?
  • What’s your sound system like?
  • How many people can the dance floor accommodate?
  • Is there a time that we have to stop playing music?
  • What time can the DJ or band start setting up?
  • Are there any noise restrictions?
  • Is there a designated area for entertainment, or can we place them as we see fit?
  • What’s the typical sound setup at your venue?

Food And Drinks

Rustic dessert station on old wooden kitchen cabinets.

From the cocktail hour to the wedding cake , food and drink will play a huge role in your wedding reception. Here are some of the questions to ask the venue about your menu.

  • Do you provide in-house catering? Or, do you have a list of preferred caterers?
  • Can we do a tasting before we finalize our menu? Is there a charge for the tasting?
  • What’s the per-person cost of food and drinks?
  • Can you accommodate special diets and allergies?
  • Will you provide tables, linens, plates, glassware, and utensils, or will we need to bring in our own?
  • What are the different ways you serve food—buffet, family-style, individual plates, etc.?
  • Do you have a food and beverage minimum?
  • If there is a food and beverage minimum, is there a penalty for not meeting the minimum?
  • Are you licensed to provide alcohol?
  • Can we bring in our own alcohol? If so, is there a corkage fee?
  • Can we give wine as a party favor?
  • Are there additional charges for the bar staff?
  • Is there a cake-cutting fee?
  • Can we bring in a cake from an outside baker?
  • Is there a fee for bringing in our own cake?
  • What’s the fee per plate for having extra guests on the day of?

Payment And Insurance

Vintage getaway car with a just married sign on the back.

It’s always a good idea to ask about the cost of the venue right away––this will avoid any surprises when you receive your final bill and help you stay within your budget. Don’t forget to ask the venue about their insurance and cancellation policies, as well.

  • What’s the total cost of the venue, and what’s included in that fee?
  • How much is the deposit?
  • When is the deposit due?
  • Is the deposit refundable?
  • What’s your cancellation policy?
  • Are there payment plans available?
  • What are the insurance requirements for me and my vendors?
  • Do you have liability insurance?
  • Are there different rates for different days of the week?
  • Do you have different rates for different seasons?
  • Can I see a sample contract?
  • What’s not included in your contract that couples typically need to book or pay for on their own?

Wedding seating chart on a brick wall decorated with vines and market lights.

It’s always important to ask the venue about logistical considerations, including parking and the accessibility of the space. These questions will help ensure that your wedding goes off without a hitch.

  • How much parking is available at the venue, and will guests need to pay for parking?
  • Is the space handicap accessible?
  • Are there outdoor restrictions at the venue?
  • Are children allowed, and are there changing tables for babies?
  • Will we have access to the air conditioning or heating controls?
  • How many restrooms do you have?
  • Are there separate spaces for the cocktail hour, ceremony, and reception?
  • If the wedding is outdoors, what’s the backup plan if it rains?
  • Is there a special room for the bride to change? 
  • What’s your electricity like? Are there are a lot of outlets for vendors to use?
  • Is there a secure space to keep our gifts?
  • Are rideshares/cabs easy to access from the venue?
  • Is the venue accessible on public transportation?
  • What are the nearest hotels to the venue? 
  • Will you help us set up a shuttle service to the hotel?

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Use these questions to help you find the wedding of your dreams. Once you’ve selected the perfect location, you can start planning the smaller details like choosing your signature cocktail , booking your photographer, and the song for your first dance .

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  • Questions to Ask When Touring a Wedding Venue

When researching options for your perfect wedding venue, here are ultimate wedding spot, here are questions to ask when touring a wedding venue to help narrow down your choices.

By Emily Forrest

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The internet is a great starting point when searching for wedding event inspiration, but eventually you’ll want to visit the potential venue in person. A property tour allows you to get a true feel for the space and see if you click with the coordinator. This part is important, since this person will ultimately be in charge of ensuring your wedding day goes off without a hitch.

Each wedding venue you visit is set up to woo you, which means it’s their job to give you as much information and insight, so you’ll choose their space for your big day. Go prepared with a list of questions to ask when touring a wedding venue, and take notes.

General topics you'll want to cover are event space, services, and pricing. Of course, chances are you'll have spur-of-the-moment questions as well, but having a wedding venue checklist with some talking points mapped out will help ensure you cover all of your bases.

If you’re looking for some ideas, here are a few common questions to ask when touring a wedding venue:

  • What Are the Space Options?

Can We Use Our Own Vendors?

What are the menu options, how long can you reserve the space, who will be assisting on the day of the wedding.

  • What's Included in the Cost?

Is Your Desired Wedding Date Available?

When is payment due, what are the event space options.

Wedding venues often have multiple space options available, which can be modified depending on the size of your guest list. As you walk through the different layouts, consider the areas that the wedding coordinator is outlining for you. Ask to see photos of past weddings, if possible, and layout plans. Confirm what’s included in the space: outdoor space, dance floor, bridal suite, and more.

For example, for hotel ballrooms with a patio attached, will the patio attached be fully private, or will that part still be open to other hotel guests? A seasoned wedding venue manager is forthcoming with this type of information, but it’s always best to ask rather than assume.

 Questions to Ask When Touring a Wedding Venue

There are certain unique wedding venues that require you to use their setup and vendors only. This may leave you with fewer possibilities to customize your special day, but the space may be so amazing there may be no need to. Additionally, there may be certain vendors that aren’t allowed on the property. This usually falls in the area of food and beverage. Typically, wedding venues want to include the reception catering as part of their wedding package deal and avoid giving it away to a third-party caterer.

However, your wedding reception venue may still be open to that option if they don't provide bar or meal service. If you have specific people in mind for your flowers, cake, and catering, make sure you ask your potential wedding venue about any restrictions.

For many, food is one of the biggest parts of a wedding celebration. Some of the main questions to ask when touring a wedding venue should revolve around menu options. Some venues may keep their choices to a minimum with no substitutions. These normally include a meat, fish, and/or vegetarian catering option. Others allow you to create a customized menu based on your specific preferences.

Also, ask if the options include a sit-down dinner, buffet line, or both. The same kind of questions apply to the wedding cake, too. Are there only a few, standard choices, or can you have a multi-tiered, multi-flavored option? Are outside vendors allowed for this portion of the reception? Most weddings have a time to eat, drink, and be merry, which means you’ll want to also plan a rehearsal dinner or tasting to see if the menu available meets your standards.

Questions to Ask When Touring a Wedding Venue

Choosing a unique wedding venue like a library, botanical garden, or art gallery may only allow you to reserve the space for a period of time before opening back up to the public. During any wedding venue tour, ask how long the space will be exclusive to you.

You’ll want to ensure you can access the ceremony venue beforehand, especially if you're getting ready and taking photos on site before the wedding party arrives. It's also wise to confirm access the day before if you want to hold your wedding ceremony rehearsal and set up decor at the space ahead of time.

Clicking with the wedding coordinator is important, since that person will help you through your planning, contracts, and making sure everything goes smoothly the day of the wedding. Ask for details about who will be available on your wedding day and for any other events leading up to the date. How many servers will there be? Bartenders for cocktail hour? You want to make sure there’s enough staff to comfortably accommodate your guests and any last-minute requests.

In general, having a good rapport with your wedding venue coordinator makes the process less stressful and will make you feel more confident on your special day.

What’s Included in the Cost?

One of the biggest parts of what to ask when touring a wedding venue is cost. Understanding what is and is not included is crucial before you release a down payment and set the date. There is generally a venue rental booking fee with costs such as service charges, gratuity, taxes, and food or liquor fees (common charges include a cake cutting fee or corkage fee).

Once you’ve toured a property and expressed interest in moving forward, the coordinator will send over a proposal for you to review. Make sure you go over every line item of the venue contract and ask questions if any of the language or costs don’t make sense.

This one is easy-all it takes is a simple comparison of calendars. If you have a tight wedding budget, ask if booking on a weekday or in an "off season" brings down the price at all. If you're set on a specific day that's already taken, ask if they can book two events on the same day.

For example, if there is an early afternoon ceremony held at your chosen wedding venue, could they accommodate one that starts in the evening on the same date in a different space? Decide as a couple if you are set on a chosen date or if you have a little bit of flexibility.

Ask how much is due to reserve the date and if the down payment is refundable by a certain time. Also, ask when the final payment is due, so you won’t have to worry about coordinating that on the day of the wedding. There may be alternate payment structures available.

Securing the Perfect Venue for Your Big Day!

After you’ve asked all the questions and toured all the potential spaces for your perfect wedding celebration, the last question is one you’ll ask yourselves: Do you love the venue? Yes, you’ll need to factor in the rental fee, additional costs and logistics for any reservation, but ultimately, you want to feel excited about the one you finally decide on. This is the place that will host one of the happiest days of your life. Of course, you’ll want to feel like it’s the right fit.

Zola can help you enjoy these moments as a newly engaged couple and start your wedding planning off on the right foot by securing your dream venue!

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The Wedding Venue Checklist & Guide Every Couple Needs

Before stepping foot on your first venue tour, become an expert in all things wedding locations, including questions to ask, styles, a checklist and more.

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Questions to Ask a Wedding Venue

  • Wedding Venues 101: Ask the Pros

Use this wedding venue checklist to make sure you have all of the information you need to begin choosing a wedding venue!

1. Pick a Location Most couples get married near the city where they currently live, but the world is your oyster! Once you have your wedding locale set , it narrows down the list of venues considerably. 2. Set a Budget You need to have an idea of how much you can afford to spend on both your wedding as a whole and for the venue itself. Note that your venue and catering prices and cost will likely comprise about half of your budget. Tip: Use WeddingWire's Budget Tool 3. Estimate a Guest Count You do not have to have a complete and accurate guest list ready at this point. However, an estimated size will help you find a wedding recpetion and ceremony venue with the right capacity for your needs. 4. Think About a Date You can pick a date first, and find a venue that is available then, or find the venue of your dreams, and then pick a wedding date based on the location’s availability. Either way can work, but just note that a more flexible mindset will give you more options. 5. Find Your Style Think about how you want your wedding to feel —formal, casual, or somewhere in between—and look for venues that match your wedding style. Ready to go? Start your venue hunt on WeddingWire now »

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Find Your Wedding Venue Style

Couples hoping to host a formal, black-tie wedding should consider a ballroom venue, whether it’s located in a hotel, country club, or as part of a banquet hall.

  • Many ballrooms make wedding planning a snap by offering in-house catering, as well as other on-premise services.
  • Hotel ballrooms allow guests to stay on-site for added convenience.
  • Is your guest list on the bigger side? Ballroom venues are usually a top pick to accommodate larger weddings.

Want to see more? Check out these ballroom real weddings:

  • Glam Wedding in Connecticut
  • Winter Wedding in Ohio
  • Luxe Wedding in San Francisco

Rustic weddings and barn venues go hand-in-hand , so these venues are very popular right now.

  • When it comes to décor, barns can often serve as “blank slate” venues, which can accommodate a variety of different décor styles and color schemes.
  • Barns are best for more casual weddings and encourage guests to kick off their heels and party!
  • Barns located on farms or ranches often feature ample outdoor space for ceremonies, portraits, lawn games, and more.

Want to see more? Check out these barn real weddings:

  • Gold Wedding in Arkansas
  • Bright Wedding in Wisconsin
  • Country Chic Wedding in Virginia

If you’ve dreamed of getting married with your bare feet in the sand and the ocean waves in the background, a beach venue is for you!

  • A beautiful beach venue requires little added décor, which can be helpful for budget-minded couples.
  • Beaches are an inherently casual environment, which encourage guests to relax, mix, and mingle.
  • Beaches can be ideal for smaller, more intimate celebrations
  • Nautical Wedding in New York
  • Relaxed Wedding in Puerto Rico
  • Handmade Wedding in Hilton Head

What could be more romantic than a wedding venue surrounded by the beauty of nature? Garden venues offer this and much more.

  • In terms of style, a garden venue is flexible—you can dress it up for more formal weddings or down for more casual events
  • Beautiful scenery means beautiful backdrops for wedding portraits.
  • Similar to a beach, gardens are a naturally gorgeous setting which may mean little need for added decor.

Want to see more? Check out these garden real weddings:

  • Romantic Fall Wedding in North Carolina
  • Botanical Garden Wedding in Nevada
  • Elegant Wedding in California

Modern Space

If you and your S.O. are hunting for a venue that’s a little out of the box, a loft or modern space is a trendy alternative .

  • This venue will likely be somewhat bare, giving you creative control to style the space however you want!
  • Many modern venues offer sweeping views of the urban landscape, the perfect backdrop for a city wedding.
  • This is a good option for a smaller guest list, as lofts likely won’t have the room for hundreds and hundreds of guests.
  • Luxurious Illinois Loft Wedding
  • Artsy Minnesota Loft Wedding
  • Chic Winter Greenhouse Wedding

Couples who have a love of art or history, or just want a more formal setting, should consider hosting their big day at a museum.

  • Museum venues often put together events of many kinds, so the staff will be well-trained and will help make sure your big day runs smoothly.
  • You won’t have to worry about decorating the space, since paintings and artifacts can serve as the backdrop.
  • During cocktail hour guests can keep themselves occupied by exploring what the museum has to offer.

Want to see more? Check out these museum real weddings:

  • Twilight Florida Museum Wedding
  • Spring Chicago Museum Wedding
  • Mint Charlotte Art Gallery Wedding

If good food is a major priority for your wedding day, why not explore the option of a restaurant wedding venue ?

  • Picking a restaurant you love will guarantee that the food will be spot on.
  • You can keep your guest list to a minimum since there likely won’t be tons of space.
  • The casual dining atmosphere will allow guests to really get to know each other.

Want to see more? Check out these restaurant real weddings:

  • Casual San Diego Restaurant Wedding
  • Seattle Skyline Restaurant Wedding
  • Urban Utah Restaurant Wedding

Is an outdoor venue a must-have on your wedding list? A vineyard will offer spectacular views and amazing wine.

  • Vineyards usually have an indoor space as well, so if mother nature decides to impose on your wedding day, you’ll have a backup plan ready.
  • You’ll be able to take the most romantic photos amongst the vines and rolling hills.
  • You won’t have to do much to dress up the space since most vineyards tend to boast a naturally rustic aesthetic.

Want to see more? Check out these vineyard real weddings:

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Your Venue Your Way

You’re almost there. You’ve fallen in love with a wedding venue’s photos, read the reviews, and are ready to pay an in-person visit. Don’t shy away from asking lots of questions during your venue tour—you’ll want to have as much information as possible to make your decision. Check out this list of questions to ask a wedding venue —you’ll want to ask these of each and every venue you tour. 1. What is your availability? Are you available on my target date? 2. What does your package include and how much does it all cost (including additional fees)? When do I have to pay? 3. Is there any wiggle room with the prices if I choose a date in the off-season or not on a Saturday night? 4. What is your capacity? 5. Is your venue accessible via public transportation? If not, what is the parking situation? Who pays for parking? 6. Do you have an in-house caterer or can/must we bring in an outside caterer? 7. Do you provide alcohol or can we bring our own? Are there additional corkage fees? 8. Can I hold the ceremony here (if desired)? 9. Is there a coordinator on staff? Who will my main contact be? Will that person be there on the day of my wedding? 10. Is there a list of approved vendors or can I use any vendors I wish? 11. What’s the rain plan? 12. Is there climate control? 13. What are the accommodations for disabled guests? 14. What are the restrooms like? 15. Are there any additional rules I should know about, such as noise policies or rules against certain types of décor? 16. How long will my vendors and I have access to the venue before and after the wedding for set up and break down? 17. Will there be other events going on at the same time of my wedding or on the same weekend? 18. What will the room set up look like? Where will guests sit and where will the dance floor be? 19. Can I read your contract? 20. What’s your cancellation policy? Ready to sign your venue contract? Congrats! Add your venue to your Vendor Manager on WeddingWire » ---

At first, booking your wedding venue might seem like an easy task: set your budget, choose a date, sign the contract, and you’re good to go. But, as it turns out, there are a few more details you should take into consideration. We reached out to venues across the country in search of tips and advice to help make searching for your dream venue a breeze. Read on to see what the experts had to say!

Q: What details or information should couples finalize before touring a potential wedding venue?

A: “Couples should know what time of year [they want to get married], how many guests, if they prefer indoor or outdoor options, if the venue fits within their budget, if it has food & beverage minimums, and if the time the venue allows on-site fits with their overall idea of their wedding day.” — Sarah Keeker of The Barn in Zionsville in Zionsville, Indiana

Q: What kind of research should couples do when they’re looking for a wedding venue?

A: “This all-important decision should include the proper size reception facility when considering their total guest count. An ample dance floor accommodating the amount of guests attending is advantageous; bridal suite availability is a plus. Are there handicap amenities for those with special needs and/or elderly guests? Is there flexibility to include items that will personalize their celebration and make it special?” — Kerry Fair of The Manor House at Prophecy Creek Park in Ambler, Pennsylvania

Q: On average, how far in advance should couples plan to book their wedding venue?

A: “For a less stressful planning window, couples should plan on having their venue booked a minimum of a year out. For couples who are planning on a church ceremony, planning should start with a 16 to 18-month window, and definitely book the church first. Venues with outdoor spaces such as ours book quickly for the summer month dates.” — Monica Alegria of Ignite Glass Studios in Chicago, Illinois

Q: What are three important questions that couples should ask when they’re touring a potential wedding venue?

A: Here are the three questions you should ask: 1. Will I have the same person throughout the entire wedding process, or will there be one person helping me through the planning process and a different person running my wedding? 2. In an average five-hour reception with one hour of cocktail hour, after dinner and all of the formalities are over, how much dance time will we have? 3. Can you provide us with a price quote at our first meeting that includes all taxes and fees? — Stacy L. Merola of Canoe Club Ballroom in West Bridgewater, Massachusetts

Q: How does a couple’s wedding style/theme affect how they choose a venue?

A: “A couple who is more on the creative side should consider a venue that is a “blank slate” instead of leaning towards, for instance, a hotel. Utilizing a modern, open space where they can create their own décor will allow for a one-of-a-kind wedding. This will truly reflect their personal style and taste, while offering their guests a unique experience.” — Ellen Weiss of National Museum of American Jewish History in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Q: What’s the difference between all-inclusive and a la carte venues, and what should couples consider when deciding between the two?

A: “An all-inclusive venue usually will provide everything you need: food, beverage, flowers, linens, etc. at one price, but you are a little more restricted as to what you can and cannot do. À la carte venues are designed more for the hands-on bride that is wanting to really personalize every aspect of their day. It will take more time and thought to coordinate but does tend to be much more personally reflective and unique.” — Kathy Richter of Brutocao Cellars in Hopland, California

Q: What should couples do first: book their wedding venue or set their guest count?

A: “Venue first, without a doubt! You can adjust [the] number of guests until RSVPs come back. Venue dates go quickly, especially certain times of the year. Once you land the place, there is a moment of exhale until the fun begins.” — Tammera McClendon of Rumours East in Nashville, Tennessee

Q: What’s the number-one thing you wish couples knew about booking a wedding venue?

Contributing Editors: Kim Forrest, Jacqueline Tynes, Samantha Iacia, and Sarah Title

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125+ Questions to Ask Wedding Venues (Printable PDF Checklist Included)

Choosing a wedding venue is exciting, but it can also feel like there’s pressure to choose the perfect place. And there’s lots to consider: the size of the venue, the location, the type of event it can accommodate, and your wedding budget.

By MINTED , Last Updated: December 11, 2023 6 minute read

Choosing a wedding venue is exciting, but it can also feel like there’s pressure to choose the perfect place. And there’s lots to consider: the size of the venue, the location, the type of event it can accommodate, and your wedding budget .

Once you’ve narrowed down your list and scheduled some site visits, it’s important to meet with the staff and ask detailed, in-depth questions that will help you find the right space for your celebration. To help make this process a little bit easier, we have put together a list of the exact questions to ask your wedding venues .

(Pro tip: Download our FREE printable checklist and bring it with you to find the perfect venue)

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Wedding Venue Basics

Arguably the most important of all wedding venue questions is “Is my date available?” Whether you’ve worked hard and chosen a wedding date you’ve committed to or are open-minded and willing to let the venue choice come first, your wedding date matters because it will be your anniversary for the rest of your life.

Try to visit venues before you’ve chosen an exact date. If you have a few options or a range of dates that might work, you’ll be more likely to secure a spot at your venue of choice. And then ask:

  • What is the capacity of the venue?
  • Is the venue available on my wedding date?
  • How much does it cost to rent the space? Are there any additional fees?
  • What are the hours that we can access the space?
  • When do we need to vacate the premises? Is there an overtime fee?
  • Can I host my ceremony here too? If yes, will it come with extra charges?
  • Can we have our rehearsal dinner at the venue? If yes, will it come with extra charges?
  • How many bathrooms are there? Will we need to rent additional portable restrooms? Are there gender-neutral bathrooms?
  • Do you have your own sound equipment and speakers, or will those need to be rented or provided by the entertainment?
  • Are there noise restrictions?
  • Are there “getting ready” rooms available on-site?
  • Is there anything special happening on-site during that time of year?
  • Can we bring in our own vendors?
  • How many weddings or events do you host on one day? On one weekend?

Food & Drinks

Food and drink are a huge part of the day for most weddings. You want to make sure that your guests are well-fed and having fun! Find out what the venue’s policy is on food and refreshments.

Even if there is an in-house caterer, do you have the option of using an outside caterer instead? If you opt to use an outside vendor, be sure to review our list of questions to ask your wedding caterer .

Venues with in-house caterers will often have a food and beverage minimum that you’re required to meet as part of the contract — essentially a minimum amount you need to spend. Find out what happens if you don’t meet it, as well as what upgraded options you might be able to add to your menu to help you meet that minimum.

When it comes to food and drinks, these are the following questions to ask the wedding venue:

  • Do you allow outside catering?
  • Do you have in-house catering?
  • If I hire my own caterer, are kitchen facilities available for them?
  • What are the tax and service/gratuity charges?
  • Can we do a tasting before we finalize our menu? Is there a charge?
  • Are tables, chairs, linens, plates, silverware, and glassware provided, or will I have to rent them myself or get them through my caterer?
  • What is the average cost per person for catering?
  • Do you have a list of recommended caterers?
  • What are the drink options?
  • Do you offer a cash bar, open bar, or limited drink selection?
  • Can we bring our own alcohol?
  • Is there a corkage fee?
  • Does the venue have a liquor license?
  • Do you provide bartenders?
  • Is there a food or beverage minimum?
  • Are there any restrictions on what we can serve?

Pro tip for venue food & beverage: Many venues offer the option of purchasing liquor directly through them (especially if they have an exclusive or in-house caterer), which is convenient. It can, however, come with a hefty markup. Find out if you can source your liquor elsewhere, which allows you to price-shop, or if you can buy it yourself and bring it to the event for their staff to serve.

wedding venue tour questions

Photo by Julie Bulanov

Vendors & Venue Staff

Vendors and staffing can often be a dealbreaker if you had a certain menu or cuisine theme that you envisioned. If you are more flexible with your vendor options, considering options the venue recommends can be a strategically favorable decision.

These vendors have most likely worked out the small nuances and coordination hurdles at this setting that others may not be aware of. There is also the potential you may get a special discounted rate to partner with these vendors because of their ongoing relationship with the venue’s management.

The following are questions to ask in regards to their vendors and staffs:

  • How many event coordinators will be assigned to my wedding?
  • Can I meet them before the big day?
  • How often will we be in touch leading up to the wedding?
  • What is the venue’s policy on vendor tipping?
  • Do you have a list of preferred vendors?
  • Can the venue accommodate a DJ or live band?
  • What security services do you offer?
  • Do you provide a coat check service?
  • What time can my vendors start setting up on the day of the wedding?

Pro tip for vendors and venue staff: Find out how many guests you can fit in the space with and without a dance floor, with a band vs. with a DJ (as a band will require more space), and with round vs. rectangular or square tables to understand which decisions will help you maximize the space and your guest list.

wedding venue tour questions

Cleaning & Maintenance

Be sure to ask the staff about their cleaning and maintenance policies, for both them and you and your vendors.

  • How often is the space cleaned?
  • Do you have on-site custodial staff?
  • Are there any restrictions on what we can do to decorate the space?
  • What is your policy on damage deposits?
  • When will the space be available for us to set up?
  • When do we need to have everything cleared out?

tree clip

Photo by Amy Maddox

Emergencies & Inclement Weather

What happens if it rains? If you’re planning to get married outside, your wedding venue may have a backup space you can use in the event of inclement weather. Be sure to tour this space as well. While no one wants it to rain on their wedding day, it definitely happens and it’s important that you love your Plan B just as much as Plan A.

On the flip side, if you are planning an indoor event, you may want to better understand Plan B outdoor dining options should ever-changing COVID-19 restrictions suddenly prevent indoor gatherings at a future date.

  • Do you have a backup plan in case of inclement weather?
  • What is your policy on refunds in case of bad weather?
  • What is the venue’s policy on power outages?
  • Do you have a generator?
  • What is the evacuation plan in case of an emergency?
  • Do you have a list of preferred vendors for inclement weather?
  • Do you have a plan for power outages or other emergencies?
  • Do you have liability insurance?
  • Do you have first aid for when someone gets injured?

wedding venue tour questions

Photo by Kaitlyn DeLong

Rental & Decor

You will want to ask about the venue’s policies on rentals and decorations. This will help you understand what you need to bring in and how much it will cost. It would also help you sort out your theme and color scheme.

  • Are there any decor restrictions? Are candles permitted?
  • Do you have signage or other aids to direct guests to my event?
  • Do you provide heaters and/or umbrellas for the outdoor spaces?
  • What floor plan do you recommend for my guest count?
  • What is the policy on furniture rentals?
  • What is the policy on decoration changes or requests?
  • Do you have a list of preferred vendors for rentals and decorations?
  • Is there an additional fee for decorating the space?
  • Will your staff be involved in setting up and breaking down the decor? In what capacity?

wedding venue tour questions

Photo by Memory Box

Obviously, budget is crucial when you’re determining what questions to ask when looking at wedding venues. Make sure you understand exactly what’s included in the venue fee. Does it cover service charges, gratuity, and cleaning fees, or are those additional line items?

  • Are there any additional fees?
  • When is the final payment due?
  • What is your refund policy?
  • Do you offer any discounts?
  • When is the deposit due?
  • What is the refund policy for the deposit?
  • How do you structure the payment schedule?
  • Is there a discount for booking early or during off-season?
  • What are the rates for different weeks and times?

Pro Tip: Some venues offer a discount for booking an off-season date or a Sunday through Friday wedding. They may also have different rates for different times, such as in the morning or afternoon versus the evening. They may also have a different rate depending on the season. Review our ideas on a spring , summer , fall , and winter wedding . Always ask for peak season and off-season rates in your list of wedding planning questions for the venue.

wedding venue tour questions

Photo by Linkes Photography

Additional Venue Amenities

You might want to ask about additional venue amenities depending on your needs. This could include anything from parking and transportation to accommodations for your guests.

The following are questions to ask:

  • Is there on-site parking available?
  • Is the venue handicap accessible?
  • Do you have a list of preferred vendors for transportation?
  • Are taxis/rideshares easily accessible from the venue?
  • If a shuttle service is needed, can you assist with setting it up?
  • Do you have overnight accommodation? Do you offer a discount for booking multiple rooms — or a complimentary room or upgrade for the newlyweds?
  • If no accommodations are available, what are the nearest hotels to the venue?
  • What is your policy on after-hours events?
  • Do you have on-site security?
  • Is there a coordinator on staff? Who will be my main point of contact?

wedding venue tour questions

Photo by Meredith Coe

Wedding Venue Restrictions

You will want to ask about any restrictions the venue might have. Questions to ask wedding venues could include anything from noise level and capacity to types of events and alcohol policy. It is important to know the restrictions ahead of time so you can be prepared!

Other questions to ask include:

  • Is smoking prohibited?
  • What is the noise level policy?
  • What is the capacity limit?
  • Are there any restrictions on the types of events?
  • Is alcohol allowed on the premises?
  • Do you have a liquor license?
  • If we want to serve alcohol, do we need to use your catering services?
  • What is the corkage fee?
  • Are there any restrictions on music?
  • Do you have a list of preferred vendors for music?
  • Are there any additional fees for breaking the policy?
  • Do you have any restrictions on what we can bring into the venue?
  • Is there anything that we are not allowed to do at the venue?

wedding venue tour questions

Photo by Nicole George Events

Booking and Contract Questions

Be sure to ask about the booking process and contract. You will want to know what is required to book the venue and what you agree to when you sign the contract. This will help avoid any surprises down the road!

Questions to ask include:

  • Are there any legal restrictions on booking the venue?
  • What is included in the contract?
  • Can we get a copy of the contract?
  • When do we need to sign the contract?
  • Is there a penalty for canceling the contract?
  • How soon can we cancel the contract?
  • Can we make changes to the contract after signing?
  • How do we resolve conflict?
  • Do you have legal representation?
  • What United States law applies to this contract?

toots sweet

Photo by The Creative’s Loft

When to ask your wedding venue questions

You should ask these questions as soon as you start looking at wedding venues. You can use this list as a starting point and add to it as you think of more specific questions. Asking questions early on will help, but you should ask during the entire process and the final meeting before the wedding.

Falling Foliage by Robert and Stella

Falling Foliage by Robert and Stella

Questions to ask your wedding venue after booking

After booking your venue, you will want to start thinking about additional details. This is when you will want to ask questions about more specific logistics.

Here is a list of questions to ask your wedding venue:

  • When do we expect to hear from you?
  • Should we reach out, or will you?
  • How many events will be taking place at the venue on the day of my event?
  • Can you accommodate any last-minute changes?
  • Do you have decorations available to use?
  • What are past wedding itineraries that have been successful at your event?
  • Do you have any additional vendor recommendations?
  • How often can I visit the venue before the event?

Questions to ask your wedding venue in the final meeting

In your final meeting before your wedding, you’ll want to finalize any last minute questions you have before the day of. If you have a wedding coordinator or planner, you’ll want them there. Make sure to cover:

  • The wedding day timeline
  • Inclement weather backup plan
  • All vendor arrival times and departure times
  • Rehearsal timing (if applicable)
  • Seating chart changes
  • Any last-minute alterations

Monogrammed by Chris Griffith

Monogrammed by Chris Griffith

Why you need to ask your wedding venue questions

It's important to ask your wedding venue these questions before signing the contract. You are setting yourself and the venue up for a successful and stress-free wedding day by finding out the necessary answers. Here are some reasons you should ask these questions:

  • Adequate preparation: By asking these questions, you are giving yourself and the venue adequate time to prepare for your wedding day. This includes ensuring that there is a backup plan in place in case of bad weather, confirming how many hours you have access to the space, and knowing when you can begin setting up.
  • Stay within budget: If you think you’ve found a low-cost venue, but then find out later that there are lots of extra fees, this can throw off your budget. Knowing exactly what the venue provides and what vendors you have to bring in is very important when setting up your wedding budget.
  • Avoid surprises: Asking questions upfront will help avoid surprises on your wedding day and throughout your wedding planning, which can reduce a lot of stress.
  • Create a timeline: Coordinating with your venue to set up–and stick to–your wedding day timeline ensures that everything runs smoothly and that you can enjoy your wedding day stress-free.
  • Vendor coordination: If the venue has a preferred vendor list, this will help you search for other vendors. For example, if you are looking for a photographer and the venue has a select vendor list, you can quickly get in touch with the photographer to see if they are available for your wedding date. You can also have meetings with the vendors so they can work well together on your big day.

Love Story by Liz Conley

Love Story by Liz Conley

Any other important questions to ask your wedding venue?

We’ve covered wedding questions on vendors, decor, budgets, venue restrictions, and much more. Still, there’s always going to be additional questions to ask your venue, and you should ask them.

Finding a venue that encourages conversation and questions and that wants to help you along the way will make the entire wedding planning process easier and much less stressful.

Make sure to download our FREE printable checklist so you can add any of your questions, and bring it with you to find the perfect wedding venue!

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45 Questions to Ask a Wedding Venue During the Site Tour

Once your ceremony is finished, you can relax a little -- the hardest part of the day is over! Imagine how excited you’ll be to celebrate with family and friends at the reception of your dreams. Before booking, there are many questions to ask a wedding venue to ensure it’s a perfect match. Use this handy wedding venue checklist at each one you visit to help you decide, and ensure you have everything you want. Once you’ve chosen a venue, make sure you understand all the terms, details and costs in your contract before you sign, so there are no surprises later. Here’s a sample list of questions to ask a wedding venue. ​

Adobe PDF file icon

Wedding Date:

  • Is my first choice of dates available? If not, what other dates are available?
  • How many receptions or other events will be booked for the same day?
  • What is the typical schedule for the entire event, from cocktail hour to end?
  • Do costs vary depending on the season, day of the week, or time of day?

Facilities:

  • How many guests can be accommodated?
  • Will the bride have a special room for changing?
  • Will the bridal party have a special room where they can relax?
  • Could we hold our ceremony here if needed? Is there an added fee?
  • Is there adequate on-site parking? Is it free? Valet?
  • How many bathroom facilities and where are they located?
  • Is there a coat check?
  • Are there any elevators?
  • Are there special accommodations for disabled guests?
  • Is there room for a DJ/band and/or dancing? When can they set up?
  • Does the venue own a sound system, or will that need to be rented?
  • Do you work with specific vendor partners? Must we use them? Are there any limitations on working with outside vendors?
  • Are lighting, tables, linens, chairs, plates, silverware and glassware provided/included?
  • May we supply our own items such as centerpieces, a candy bar, favors? When could we drop these items off?
  • Are there any decoration limitations? Can we use candles?
  • Do you have pictures of recent weddings held in the same space?
  • Who will I be working with here on wedding/reception planning? Can I meet them now?
  • What type of security is available for our event?
  • Do you have liability insurance? Will we need to have our own? Do vendors need their own?
  • If the venue is at a hotel, when can we reserve a block of rooms for guests? Is there a special rate? Can Welcome Bags be given to my guests at check-in?
  • What is the fee for the location and what all is included for that price?
  • How much is needed for a deposit? When due? What are the accepted payment methods? Is it refundable?
  • What’s the payment plan for the rest of the bill?
  • Are there any extra service charges, gratuities, cleaning fees, or overtime charges?
  • What's the cancellation policy?
  • When is the last possible date that we can make changes?

Food & Drink:

  • Is there an in-house caterer?
  • Do we have to use that caterer? If not, is there a limitation on which outside caterers we can use?
  • Is there a price difference between a buffet and a sit-down dinner?
  • Do you have a liquor license?
  • What is your pricing for alcohol?
  • Will you allow us to bring in our own liquor? Can we give wine as a favor?
  • Is the wedding cake included? May I bring in my own if we want? Is there a cake-cutting fee?
  • Can you accommodate special dietary needs?
  • What is the per-person cost for food and beverage?
  • Will there be a menu tasting so we can choose our final menu? Is there a charge for this?

About the Big Day:

  • If outdoors, what is the backup plan for rain or inclement weather?
  • Are there any restrictions for the photographer? Videographer?
  • How long will I have use of the space? What time will my guests have to leave?
  • Who is responsible for setting up and taking down the decor, and when will it be completed?
  • Who will I be working with on the day of our wedding?  

​We hope this wedding venue checklist was helpful in developing your questions to ask wedding venues and in narrowing down your choices. No matter how careful you are in planning, however, things can go wrong along the way. That’s why it’s a good idea to help protect yourself and your investment in your wedding with wedding insurance from WedSafe. Coverage is more affordable than you may think and once it’s in effect, losses for covered events will be quickly reimbursed. Get a no-cost, no-obligation quote today. Then move forward with confidence knowing you have coverage. WedSafe provides peace-of-mind for your biggest and most beautiful day!

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10 Essential Questions to Ask Wedding Venues: Your Ultimate Venue Tour Checklist

Biltmore Ballrooms Wedding Venue

Once you’ve completed the first essential wedding planning steps , it’s now time to search for your wedding venue. Selecting the right wedding venue is a decision that lies at the heart of your wedding planning journey. It’s a choice that goes beyond just location – it’s about selecting the place where your vision will come to life. 

To assist you in making this decision confidently, we’ve compiled a list of 10 essential questions you should ask during your venue tours. These questions are your key to discovering the venue that will turn your wedding day into a truly memorable experience but also serve your needs.

Golden Theme Wedding Reception Decor

  • What is your policy regarding multiple events on the same day? Understanding how the venue manages multiple events on the same day is crucial. You want to be sure that your wedding receives the attention it deserves, without any interruptions. Ask the venue to provide specific examples (with timing) to illustrate how they handle multiple events. Discuss any potential overlap in shared spaces and seek assurance that your event will have its dedicated time and resources. Here are some additional questions:
  • Can you provide examples of how multiple events on the same day have been managed in the past?
  • What measures are in place to ensure that our event is not impacted by other events?
  • Are there designated event spaces, kitchens, changing rooms and bathrooms for each wedding to avoid overlap?

Bride Groom In Traditional Nigerian Attire Garden Romantic Scene

  • What are your rain/ inclement weather plan options? Weather can be unpredictable, so it’s crucial to know the venue’s plan for dealing with rain or adverse weather conditions (when it’s too cold, too hot, too windy, etc.) for any part of the wedding that is outdoors. Ask the venue to provide a detailed explanation of their inclement weather plan. This might include options for moving the wedding indoors or setting up temporary structures. Discuss any additional costs or requirements associated with the rain plan so you are aware in advance and take this into consideration when updating your budget. I always tell my clients that, if you do not like the rain/inclement weather plan, do not book the venue. Here are some additional questions:
  • Can you describe in detail the steps involved in executing the rain/inclement weather plan? Who makes the decision? The venue or us? And when is the deadline to make the decision?
  • Are there any costs associated with activating the rain/inclement weather plan?

Cigar Party Unique Wedding Activity Ideas

  • Do you allow cold sparklers, dancing on the clouds (or any other unique wedding element you may want)? If you already know there are some unique elements or creative ideas you want for your wedding, it’s important to discuss them with the venue before booking since some do not allow them. Inquire about any restrictions or costs associated with implementing these ideas. If the venue makes an exception for your idea and grants you approval, make sure they incorporate this into the contract. Here are some additional questions:
  • What are the additional costs associated with incorporating unique elements?
  • Are there any restrictions on decor or entertainment?

Gold White Wedding Venue Decor

  • Can you show me the vendor loading dock and walk me through the vendor load-in process? Understanding the logistics of vendor load-in is vital for a smooth wedding day. A difficult or time consuming load-in (stairs, small freight elevator, long distance, etc.) will cause your vendors to charge you more for delivery and set up. Ask to see the vendor loading dock (take a video) and ask about the load-in process. Inquire about any specific rules or guidelines vendors must follow and whether the venue provides assistance during this process. An easy load-in process ensures that all vendors can set up efficiently and coordinate seamlessly. Here are some additional questions:
  • Can vendors load in the day before if there is no event at your venue? If so, what is the additional cost?
  • Do vendors express any issues regarding the load-in process being difficult?

Perfect Wedding Reception Venue

  • How early can my vendors get in to set up? Can I purchase additional set-up hours? Knowing the start time your vendors can access the venue for setup is important so each vendor has adequate time (especially any vendors related to design, decor and rentals). Inquire about the standard setup hours, and if necessary, discuss the option to purchase additional setup time. Ideally, you want all vendors completely set up at least 1 hour before your wedding begins so there is enough time for photography/videography of the spaces before guests arrive and no guests are arriving while things are still being completed. Here are some additional questions:
  • What are your standard setup hours and when vendors can access the venue?
  • Are there restrictions on how early vendors can begin setup?
  • Is there an option to purchase additional setup hours or to set up the day before if needed?

Simple Outdoor Wedding Reception

  • Can I bring in my own licensed and insured caterer and bartender? If you have specific preferences for your catering and bar, inquire about the venue’s policies regarding outside vendors. Ensure the venue is willing to work with your chosen professionals and discuss any requirements they may have (insurance, serve safe certification, business insurance, etc.). Some venues may allow you to bring in your own licensed and insured caterers and bartenders, giving you the flexibility to create a customized dining and beverage experience and save you money. I would actually recommend you confirm this before doing a tour if it is a must have for you. Here are some additional questions:
  • Are there any specific licensing or insurance requirements for external vendors?
  • Do you charge an outside catering/ bartender or vendor fee?
  • If we can use an outside caterer, do they have access to the kitchen?

Large Wedding Reception Venue Complete Decor Lights Backdrop

  • If the venue requires a flip from the ceremony to the reception, can you walk me through what responsibilities the venue has for that transition vs. the vendors we bring in? Not all venues require a room flip but, if it does, it’s really important for it to go smoothly since there is a limited amount of time to work with. A seamless transition from the ceremony to the reception is crucial for keeping your guests engaged. Ask the venue to outline their responsibilities in this transition process. They should provide a clear explanation of their role, such as bringing in the venue tables and chairs. This ensures that both the venue and your vendors are on the same page, contributing to a well-orchestrated transition. Here are some additional questions:
  • What are the venue vs. vendor responsibilities during this transition?
  • What measures are in place to ensure a seamless transition and minimize downtime?

Bride Groom Romantic Garden Scene

  • Can you show me the restrooms? Explore the restroom to ensure the comfort and convenience of your guests. Many couples forget to check this but sometimes some of the prettiest venues have the ugliest bathrooms. View the restroom areas and check their cleanliness and condition. Also check to see if there are adequate stalls for the amount of guests you are anticipating. Here are some additional questions:
  • How often are the restrooms inspected and cleaned during events? 
  • Is there a designated bathroom attendant included with the venue?

Bride Bridesmaids Bridal Suite Wedding Venue Lobby Group

  • If your venue is a hotel: what is the difference between a courtesy block and a guaranteed room block with attrition? If your chosen venue is in a hotel, understanding room block options is essential for accommodating your guests. Ask the venue to explain the differences between a courtesy block and a guaranteed room block with attrition. This knowledge will help you make the best choice. In short, courtesy blocks have no financial obligation to you as the owner of the block while a guaranteed block with attrition does. I almost always have courtesy blocks for my clients.  Here are some additional questions:
  • Is there any option for us to have a courtesy block?
  • How is attrition handled, and what are the potential costs associated with it?

Groom Enjoying Mother Son Dance Large Wedding Venue with Dancefloor

  • Can you provide me with a sample floor plan with a dance floor for my guest count? Visualizing the layout of your event space is crucial for planning seating and entertainment. Request a sample floor plan that includes a dance floor and a buffet area (if that is your desire) and is tailored to your specific guest count. This visual aid will help you feel confident that the venue will work for your guest count. Many venues will say what their max guest count is but it may not align with your needs. For example, we work mostly with Nigerian, African and multicultural couples where our dance floors are typically larger than the standard as well as our need for an entrance to dance in. I also often suggest two buffet lines depending on the guest count. All these things must be taken into consideration in order for everyone to be comfortable. Here are some additional questions:
  • Are there any restrictions on the placement of a dance floor or other elements?
  • Can the venue assist in recommending an ideal layout based on our guest count and vision?

Bride Groom Garden Cute Wedding Day Venue

By weaving these additional questions into your venue tour discussions, you’ll be well-prepared to make an informed choice and create the wedding of your dreams. Your wedding venue isn’t just a backdrop; it’s the canvas on which you’ll paint the picture of your love story. So, go ahead, ask those questions and explore the possibilities.

While you’re at it, here are some other things to consider when selecting the right venue .

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Questions to Ask a Wedding Venue During A Venue Tour

If you read our recent blog post that outlines Things to Do Once You Get Engaged , you know that one of the first steps in the wedding planning process should be selecting your wedding venue.

No matter which city you say “I do!” in, it will likely have a large number of potential venues to choose from. Once you’ve narrowed this list down to your favorites, the next step is to schedule a wedding venue tour to see venues in person (or virtually ) and decide which one is the best fit.

There are many important questions to ask before you decide which venue is right for your wedding day. From date availability and guest capacity to bathrooms and parking, we’re sharing our list of some important questions to ask a wedding venue before you sign on the dotted line.

Questions to Ask a Wedding Venue

Treasury on the Plaza wedding venue tour | First Sight Films

Questions To Ask A Wedding Venue Before You Tour 

While we know you can’t wait to visit potential venues with your fiancé, there are a few important questions to ask before even stepping foot on site. After all, you don’t want to fall in love with a venue that doesn’t fit your vision or budget for the big day! 

While it’s common for wedding venues to have basic information on their website , make sure you answer these essential questions about your potential venues before you do a site visit:

1. IS MY PREFERRED WEDDING DATE AVAILABLE?

Wedding venues often book up several years in advance for popular dates, So try to get an idea of your wedding date options before you visit each venue.

It’s okay if you have a specific date or time frame in mind. Just know that availability is a lot easier when you’re flexible. Some wedding venues even offer Thursdays or Fridays at a considerably lower price.

2. WHAT IS THE WEDDING VENUE CAPACITY?

Before you start visiting wedding venues, it’s important to have a rough idea of how many guests will be invited to the wedding. While you don’t have to know an exact number, you wouldn’t want to arrive at a venue and discover that it is far too small or too large for the guest count that you have in mind.

Some wedding venues also have multiple spaces to choose from, each with different capacities. Having a ballpark idea will help your venue tour guide narrow down which options will work well for you, and help share ideas for how you can best utilize the spaces.

Tip: Our St. Augustine wedding venue can host intimate wedding ceremonies and receptions for as few as 40 people, or extravagant seated banquets for up to 200 guests. 

3. What is the price range for the venue, and what does that include?

Your wedding venue will likely take up a lot—if not most—of your wedding budget.

When comparing venue options, you’ll probably realize that pricing can vary wildly from one venue to another. Some wedding venues have all-inclusive wedding packages , while others charge a venue rental fee that allows you to customize your vendors. Pricing can also vary based on the dates that you are considering.

In addition to the cost of your wedding options, it’s also a good idea to ask whether the venue offers any payment plans.

Tip: The Treasury o n the Plaza offers a Custom Wedding Package that allows you to customize your wedding vendors, an All-Inclusive Intimate Wedding Package, and a semi-inclusive package called the Eat, Drink, and Be Married Wedding Package . All of the details on these packages can be found in the Packages section of our website, and our team is standing by via phone or email to talk you through which option might work best for your wedding day!

4. Can we make our wedding vision come to life at this venue?

Are you picturing an indoor wedding in a grand indoor space, a casual outdoor wedding, or something else entirely ?

Most venues have photo galleries or videos on their website for you to imagine how your wedding vision might fit within the space. If you have a specific style in mind, ask if they have any additional pictures that represent the style, color palette, or theme that you are looking for. You may even want to check out the wedding venue’s Instagram , Facebook , TikTok , or Pinterest accounts for additional inspiration before seeing the venue in person.   

Questions to Ask a Wedding Venue

It’s tour time! Get excited!

Visiting wedding venues always makes the wedding planning process feel more “real.” You can finally start to picture what your big day is going to look like! It’s also a great opportunity to ask many of the other important wedding venue planning questions. Below is our wedding venue questions checklist!

Services & Amenities

Tip: The sales team at The Treasury on the Plaza  stresses that getting a clear understanding of what’s included is very important when comparing wedding venues. “This will help you understand the value of what you are paying for at each venue, and also helps you get an understanding of what you will need to bring or provide through other wedding vendors.” S ee our St Augustine wedding packages , to help determine which wedding package best suits your needs!
  • What services and amenities are included with the venue rental?
  • How many hours are included in the package or venue rental of the space?
  • Are there private suites where we can get ready prior to the wedding?
  • When do vendors and the wedding party have access to each of the spaces?
  • Do you host multiple events in one day?
  • What does a typical wedding day timeline look like?
  • Is parking available on-site? Is parking an additional fee?
  • What parts of the venue are handicap accessible for elderly or disabled guests?
  • Are there noise restrictions?
  • How many bathrooms are available?
  • What is the backup plan for outdoor spaces for rain or inclement weather?
  • Who is responsible for setting up and cleaning up wedding decor? Is venue cleaning after the wedding included in the cost?

Food & Beverage

  • Do you have an in-house caterer? If not, is there a list of approved caterers?
  • Is there a food and/or beverage minimum?
  • If using an off-site caterer, is there a kitchen available for them to use?
  • Is a wedding cake included in the package? If not, is there a list of preferred bakeries?
  • Do you charge cake-cutting fees?
  • Do you allow outside alcohol? If so, do you charge corkage fees?
  • Do you provide alcohol service in-house? If not, is there a list of approved alcohol service providers?
  • Do you offer a menu tasting or bar tasting if those services are provided in-house?
Tip: The Treasury on the Plaza has a full liquor license, so all beverage services will be provided by our team. Please see our Bar Packages . We look forward to customizing your selections during your complimentary private bar tasting!

Wedding Décor & Rentals

  • Are any furniture, decor items, or lighting included with the venue rental? Are any upgrades available?
  • Is there a preferred florist, decorator, or rental company?
  • Are there any décor restrictions?
  • Can existing furniture in the main venue spaces be moved?
  • Does the venue have a sound system, microphones, and/or speakers? What portions of the event can they be used for?
  • Is there a recommended place for a band or DJ? Do they need additional electricity or staging?
  • Is a dance floor included?
  • For any outdoor spaces, are any heaters, fans, or tents included or available to rent?

Wedding Vendors & Staffing

  • Is there a preferred or required vendor list that you request that couples choose their vendors from?
  • Do you require a wedding planner? If so, what are the requirements?
  • Who is my contact person at the venue up until the wedding day and on the day of our event? What is their role?
  • Is venue security needed?
  • What other venue staff is on-site the day of our wedding and what are they responsible for?
Tip: At Treasury on the Plaza, you have a dedicated venue event manager who works with you to seamlessly assist with venue-related planning. You also have support staff on-hand the day of your wedding!

Booking the Venue, Pricing, & Payments

  • Can you place a hold on our wedding date? If so, how long is the hold available?
  • How much is the initial deposit? Is it refundable?
  • How do you structure the payment schedule?
  • Are service charges, taxes, and gratuity fees included?
  • Is wedding insurance required? If so, what type of insurance is needed?
  • What are the cancellation and rescheduling policies?

Treasury on the Plaza Saint Augustine Wedding Venue Tour

Aerial photo of The Treasury on the Plaza in St. Augustine | First Sight Films

WE CAN’T WAIT TO MEET YOU!

We hope this list of questions makes your search for the perfect wedding venue easier. If you’re considering a wedding in St. Augustine, we would love for you to consider The Treasury on the Plaza, one of St. Augustine’s most unique venues.

Contact us here to schedule a wedding venue site visit.  Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram for more behind-the-scenes wedding planning tips and inspiration from our luxury wedding venue!

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Questions to Ask a Wedding Venue

About The Treasury On The Plaza

The Treasury on the Plaza is a wedding venue in St. Augustine, FL. Located in the very heart of the charming downtown historic district, The Treasury building originally opened in 1927 as the area’s central bank. The building underwent an award-winning renovation in 2014 to become a premier destination for weddings and events. Learn More

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24 Cathedral Place Suite 111 St. Augustine, FL 32084

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40 Vital Questions to Ask Your Wedding Venue Before You Book

From insurance and accommodation to what 'exclusive use' really means, here are all the key questions to ask your wedding venue

Charlotte Wotton

You’ll probably visit a few different wedding venues before you find the one you want to marry at. After all, from rustic venues to unusual venues , you really are spoilt for choice! In order to narrow it down, it's important to have some key questions to ask your wedding venue.  

There’ll be a huge amount of information to take away at each viewing and it’s easy to realise you forgot to ask lots of important questions. Sometimes it can also be difficult to work out what questions to ask at a wedding viewing. 

The 40 Most Important Questions to Ask Your Wedding Venue

To make sure you’ve got all the essential information you need before you put down a deposit, here’s a list of 35 questions to ask a wedding venue. We’re assuming you’ve already checked that the venue is available on your wedding date, of course!

Print off the questions from our free printable PDF and pack a pen in your bag to jot down the answers. Not every question will be relevant to you, but this will cover all your bases, so when it comes to comparing venues you’ll have all the info at hand.

Initial Questions to Ask Your Wedding Venue

Old Gore Barn

There will be plenty of questions to ask your wedding venue once you've booked, and in the lead-up to your day, but on your initial viewing, and to rule out (or in) whether a venue is right for you, these are the basic questions you need to know  the answer to. 

These questions usually also incorporate most of your non-negotiables as a couple, such as on-site accommodation, capacity, availability and more. 

1. How Long Can I Provisionally Hold a Date For?

During peak wedding season , it’s important to hold your wedding date to avoid the disappointment of someone else booking it. Some venues let you hold a date for free for a certain period of time, while others will ask you to pay a refundable (sometimes non-refundable) deposit.

Find out whether they reserve dates, whether or not you’ll need to pay and how long they’ll hold it for while you weigh up your venue options.

Francesca Cribb, head of marketing for Farnham Castle , offers her advice: "Every venue will differ when it comes to provisionally holding a date, however, it’s important to understand the basis upon which a date is being held, the length of hold, and the status of your payment. For example, at Farnham Castle, dates can be held provisionally, for a maximum of 10 days, with a refundable £500 deposit."

2. How Many Guests Can You Accommodate in the Day and the Evening?

Venue capacity should be one of the first questions for a wedding venue. Before going to a viewing, you and your partner should have at least a rough idea of your wedding guest list  and size, so make sure the venues you’re looking at are big enough for both your day and evening guest lists. 

When asking this question, it's important you have a good understanding of the capacity of each of the spaces within a venue. Many venues will have several rooms you can marry in, and some will have smaller and larger capacities than others.

It's also worth asking venues with smaller capacity whether or not they are able to erect a marquee outside as this can often increase a venue's maximum capacity in the evening. 

3. What is the Availability for Our Desired Wedding Date? 

Having done this ourselves, we know more than anyone how quickly venues can get booked up, with some couples booking up to three years in advance to secure the date they want. If you're bound to a specific month, weekend or particular date, it's important to know what the venue's availability is. 

Saturdays, bank holidays and summer months tend to be the first to get booked up, so it's always worth checking  to avoid any disappointment. 

Check out our guide on wedding dates to avoid , too, for information on big events and important dates you won't want your wedding clashing with. 

4. Is the Venue Licensed for Civil Ceremonies?

If you want to have your ceremony and reception all under one roof, make sure your chosen venue has a wedding licence.

However, it's not the end of the world if it isn't - but it's a really important thing to know ahead of booking. All you have to do if they aren't, is either have a religious or civil ceremony elsewhere on the day, or get legally married beforehand and have a celebrant-led ceremony on the day.

Fun fact - celebrant wedding ceremonies are one of the biggest wedding trends right now!

5. Is the Wedding Venue Available for Exclusive Hire?

Venues vary in terms of how many weddings they will allow on one day, who else is permitted on the grounds of the venue, and the times your suppliers are allowed in and out. If you’re looking for a private wedding venue where you will be the only couple getting married, ensure that your venue is an ‘exclusive use’ one – especially if it’s a hotel wedding venue or landmark wedding venue .

Just because a venue isn’t ‘exclusive use’, doesn’t always mean there will be more than one wedding, so it’s really important to find out the details of who will be allowed to go where.

6. Do You Have Accommodation On-Site?

Whether or not a venue has accommodation on-site is often a non-negotiable for couples tying the knot in a location that isn't local for friends and family. 

Lian Dixon, wedding coordinator at The Pumping House explains more, "We always encourage couples to ask about accommodation, as it's a huge part of our venue offering here. We have 10 uniquely designed self-catering suites which sleep up to 32 guests, and these are automatically reserved for couples on the night of their wedding to allocate to friends and family."

Some wedding venues will offer accommodation the night before your wedding as well, but this isn't always guaranteed, as Lian explains, "If there is no wedding the day before yours, we give couples plenty of advance notice to book our rooms for two nights."

Some wedding venues, like The Willow Marsh Farm , offer three-day bookings, which include two nights stay in your hire fee. 

As it varies so much, it's vitally important to ask the question of accommodation, and to understand how it works for each different venue. And if a wedding venue doesn't offer accommodation, are there any B&Bs or hotels in the area? Is there a reliable taxi service?

Find out check in and out times too – as you’ll be swamped by guests asking this! You could send out an email or put an accommodation FAQ on your wedding website with prices, dates to pay by, who to pay, and the check in/out times.

7. Who Will Be the Point of Contact in the Lead-Up to the Wedding?

Even if you think you’ve asked everything, questions will arise ahead of your wedding day so you need to know exactly who to contact. It’ll ease your stress to have a go-to person to contact to discuss finer details.

Secondly, you’ll need to know who your point of contact on the wedding day will be. The likelihood is it’ll be one of the wedding coordinators, venue manager or another senior member of staff. This is essential information for the ushers and bridesmaids as they will be taking care of any hiccups on the day.

Francesca offers her advice: "You will need to be confident that the service you will experience after booking your chosen venue, will match your experiences prior to booking, and match your expectations. Find out who will be answering your questions and taking care of the finer details of your day, and whether you will have your own Wedding Specialist, who will ensure that everything goes to plan."

If there isn't anyone assigned to you, or you are booking a dry-hire wedding venue, you could always enlist the support of a wedding planner or on-the-day coordinator to run things for you. 

8. Do I Have to Use Your Recommended Suppliers?

Most venues will supply you with a list of 'recommended suppliers' who they regularly work with and trust, and it can be helpful if you’re not sure where to start with your search for a wedding photographer or cake supplier .

Find out if the catering is in-house or from a recommended supplier, or whether it might be possible to bring in an external caterer. What’s the procedure for that and how much does it cost?

Some wedding venues will  only work with their recommended suppliers, and others will offer you the freedom to choose your own. We'd always encourage couples to look at a recommended supplier list, as they will be familiar with your venue and how everything runs there, but if flexibility is a non-negotiable for you, this is something you'll want to know early on.

9. From What Time Can We Access the Venue?

Whether you're planning on doing some wedding DIY or bringing in the professionals, you'll need to know when you can access the venue and how long you'll have to prepare it for your day. It's also worth asking when they expect you to have cleared your decorations by on the following day. 

Questions to Ask Your Wedding Venue About the Ceremony

The wedding ceremony for many is arguably the most important part of the day, and you'll want to make sure you've asked all the right questions ahead of time. 

10. Are There Areas For Both of Us to Get Ready in the Morning?

If you’re a bride dreaming of getting your hair and makeup done at your venue, or a groom looking for an area to prep ahead of the day, it’s important to make sure that space is actually available. Not all wedding venues will have the facilities for you and your partner to get ready there on the morning of your wedding. 

Lian explains how it works at The Pumping House, "We have The Mulberry suite for couples to get ready in from 11am on the day of our wedding, it's spacious and has two floors giving plenty of room for photographers and videographers to capture your content, as well as room for the wedding party to get ready in."

This highlights many questions around this space that you'll want to ask. How big is it and how many people can it house? What time do we have access from? Can my suppliers capture content in there? What does it look like?

You'll also want to ensure it's clear whether or not this space is included within your hire price - it usually is, but it's always worth checking - and you'll want to see it before the day to ensure the lighting is appropriate for getting ready. 

11. What is the Changeover Plan From Ceremony to Reception Room?

If your reception is taking place in the same room as your ceremony, ask what will happen in the changeover and how long it will take. Will the staff set up the tables or will you need to plan for your bridesmaids and ushers to do this? What will your guests do in the in-between time? Is there a separate area for them to have drinks and take photos?

12. How Flexible are You With Timings of the Day?

Planning a wedding day timeline is essential to ensure that your day runs smoothly. When thinking of what questions to ask a wedding venue, it's vital to make sure that you will be able to stick to your pre-planned timings. 

Most venues know from experience the best running times for your day, e.g. how long you’ll want between the ceremony and reception for photos and when is best to have the dinner and speeches.  Ask what they recommend and then how flexible they can be.

If you’re not looking for a traditional layout to your wedding day and want a slightly different timeline to your day, you need to make sure your venue offers that.

13. Can We Get Married Outside?

If you're planning a spring wedding or a summer wedding , you may want to consider getting married outside. There's no shortage of beautiful outdoor wedding venues in the UK - and often these venues make for the most beautiful photos.

Outdoor weddings are now permitted in the UK at venues that are licensed to host weddings. A recent change to outdoor wedding laws means they no longer have to be under a licensed structure, such as a pagoda or bandstand. 

Check the options with your venue, and always have a back up plan agreed with them in case of bad weather!

14. Are There Any Décor Restrictions?

If no naked flames are allowed then you definitely won’t be walking down a candle-lit aisle. Ask whether you’re able to hang things like lights or drapery, and check restrictions on things like candles or large flower arches . You might not know yet how you want to decorate but it’s best to know what you can’t do from the start.

Francesca says If you have any unusual decorative ideas for your wedding, it’s best to check with your venue whether there are restrictions before you part with any money. Some older venues may restrict how you may hang or display floral installations, the type of confetti you can use, or whether you can use real (or LED) candles, for example.

"Your suppliers may wish to get in touch with your venue direct, to ensure that everything you envision, can be created," she suggests.

15. Are Fireworks and Confetti Allowed?

Not all venues allow wedding fireworks or confetti so check this. Some will be happy with biodegradable or petal wedding confetti , but you'll want to check this in advance to avoid being disappointed on the day.

Questions to Ask Your Wedding Venue About the Wedding Breakfast

The Willow Marsh Farm

It's most people's favourite part of the day, right? Hilarious speeches, yummy canapes and wedding catering that'll blow your socks off - but you'll need to ask these important questions to ensure your venue can accommodate  everything in your wedding vision!

16. Do You Offer a Complimentary Menu Tasting?

It’s very common that couples will want to try out the wedding breakfast and accompanying wines before the actual day, and a lot of venues put on menu tasting evenings where you can sample dishes from the menu to help choose your three courses. See how many people can attend this, as you might like to bring your parents too.

Francesca says, "Many venues do offer a complimentary tasting, but not all venues make this an evening event with the opportunity to sample across the venue’s menus and taste any wine from their wine lists.

"At Farnham Castle, we believe that choosing the menu is one of the highlights of any wedding preparations, and provide an invitation to one of our tastings, within the catering cost, so couples can experience the quality and service of our dining, as if they were a guest at their own wedding."

17. What Menu Options and Packages Do You Have

Wedding catering has had a pretty decent glow-up in recent years. There's always going to be a place for your traditional sit-down meals - sure - but for couples who are looking for something a little different, it's worth asking your venue what they offer, because some may just surprise you. 

Lian explains, "Our chefs work on-site and serve up specially created breakfast packages. The options range from traditional three-course meals, to BBQ sharing platters, Spanish tapas menus, mezze grazing boards and more."

Some venues will also include drinks in their package, and others will price these up separately, but it's always worth asking about their set packages if you're looking to cut costs and admin!

18. Do You Cater For Vegetarians?

Will you have one, two, three or more course options for your guests? Do they offer vegetarian dishes, gluten free, or vegan? It’s vital that you let the venue know as soon as possible about any dietary requirements or allergies so they can ensure that they have appropriate options to offer your guests. Discover more vegan and vegetarian wedding caterers here.

19. Do You Have Your Own In-House Catering Team?

Planning a wedding can sometimes feel overwhelming as there are so many different elements to consider. If you want to relieve some pressure, why not look for a venue that comes with it's own in-house catering team? That way you'll have more time to focus on other areas of wedding planning rather than sourcing caterers. 

Francesca says, "This is most definitely a USP for many venues. At Farnham Castle, our talented in-house Head Chef and his in-house team create exceptional dining experiences using the freshest, seasonal ingredients, locally sourced where possible. Some produce is even homegrown in our very own Castle Gardens."

20. Are Crockery and Linen Included in the Price?

You’d be surprised how many people forget about this. It’s also worth asking what the crockery and table cloths look like as they may not go with your theme and you might want to provide your own.

21. What Size Tables Do You Have?

Are they square or are they round? Do they do banqueting style (long tables)? How many people can fit on each table? What does the head table look like? Where does it usually go? These are all really important questions to ask a wedding venue that you’ll need to know in advance to do your table plan, and it'll also impact the look and feel of the room on the day.

22. Is There a Cake-Cutting Fee? Do You Provide Cake-Cutting Utensils?

Some venues will charge you per person to cut and serve the wedding cake  - this is known as a 'cakeage fee'. You’ll also need to know if you have to provide the cake knife. It can be a nice touch to use a personalised cake knife that you can keep.

23. Can We Bring Our Own Alcohol? Do You Charge a Corkage Fee?

Some venues will require you to use their bar facilities or those of a recommended supplier, others will be happy for you to bring your own booze and some will give you a choice. If you're bringing your own, before you load up on fizz, ask them if they charge a corkage fee and how much it is. It might work out more affordable to go with their alcohol offering if the corkage fee is high.

This is also a consideration if you're planning on giving out alcohol wedding favours .

If you want to have complete creative control over the alcohol served at your wedding, there are plenty of no-corkage wedding venues to suit weddings of all sizes. 

Questions to Ask Your Wedding Venue About the Evening Reception

The Pumping House

The evening reception is where you and your guests can really begin to let your hair down, and it's also the part of the day where a lot of couples add their own unique touches. But first, you need to check your venue can accommodate your ideas. 

24. What Evening Food Options Do You Offer?

Yes, we're back on food, because being hungry (especially after a drink!), is one of the things wedding guests hate the most, and if your wedding breakfast is an early afternoon one, your guests will definitely be peckish again by the evening.

Are evening canapés or a buffet dinner part of your package, or do you have to pay extra? Or if you want some alternative wedding food ideas , you could hire a pizza van, prosecco truck or something similar. There are so many cool wedding catering options to consider.

25. Can You Accommodate a Live Band or DJ? When Can They Set Up?

No point hiring a live wedding band or DJ if there’s simply nowhere they can plug in. If you want dancing, this is an important enquiry! Finding out when they can set up will be helpful for your suppliers and will help you mentally prepare the logistics of your day.

Ask if the venue has a sound limiter too. Don’t panic if this sounds completely alien to you, your wedding band or DJ will know exactly what this means. It’s simply a volume limit that they can play to, and most professional entertainers will be able to tailor the volume of their act to your venue’s limit.

26. What Are Your Bar Prices and is it Cash Only?

If you’re not planning on having an open bar, it might be worth checking what prices the bar at your venue will charge. If the venue’s alcohol is really expensive, you might be able to negotiate a special price for one or two kinds of drink to try and ease the cost of the night for your guests. It’s well worth checking if the bar takes cards and cash. Guests will need to know in advance if it’s cash only.

Francesca offers further advice: "Most venues tend to be cashless these days, and most will operate a bar tab for couples wishing to pay for their guests (parameters on singles, doubles and shots should be agreed). How you operate the bar will ultimately be your decision, and it will depend upon your wedding budget as to whether your guests buy their own drinks or you pay for them.

"We would recommend checking that the bar stocks your favourite brands, and also that additional evening guests are provided with a drink or two when they arrive."

27. Could We Plug an iPhone into Your Sound System?

Couples who want to cut costs at the wedding may want to ask about providing their own music. Does your venue have speakers or a sound system that you could plug a laptop or iPhone into? It’s a simple way to provide background music to your drinks reception and wedding breakfast. Check what the connection is to make sure you have a device that fits. 

28. What Time Will Our Evening Reception Need to Finish?

Lights-out time is something you absolutely need to know before you send out wedding invitations and start booking suppliers for the big day. It’s also worth asking if the bar stops serving at the same time, or if that’s half an hour or an hour before.

29. What Are Taxis Like in the Area?

This may seem like a minute detail in the grand scheme of things, but there's literally  nothing worse than being stranded in the middle of nowhere after a few drinks and not being able to get back to your hotel. Sounds extreme - but unless you're getting married in a city wedding venue , taxis for your guests may be hard to come by. Uber and Bolt aren't available everywhere, you know!

The reason it's worth asking, is because there are many ways around this that could save your guests a huge headache at the end of the night. If app taxi services don't operate where you're getting married, your venue will be able to suggest local firms who you could book or hire for the night, or ones your guests can pre-book with.

You could also hire a minibus or coach if you have multiple people staying at the same place, or arrange to carpool with others. The good thing about weddings is that most people leave at the same time, as venues usually have a hard lights-out time, meaning pre-booking and pre-organising transport is simple enough to arrange. 

Questions to Ask Your Wedding Venue About Their Facilities

Big Day Productions

30. Do You Have Disabled Access?

When planning your wedding, it's important to make sure your venue is accessible for all your guests. Is there access and toilets for disabled guests? Elderly guests too might be more comfortable using a lift or an entrance that doesn’t involve steps.

Influencer and activist Eliza Rain recently detailed their experience planning a wedding as a wheelchair user , and TV presenter and activist Lucy Edwards spoke to us about planning a wedding as a blind bride , so thinking about accessibility should be at the forefront of your mind if you have guests (or yourself!) to cater for. 

Francesca agrees: "In our experience, almost every wedding will have a guest or two requiring some form of assistance, whether it be a ramp, a ground floor bedroom, or more consideration in order to enjoy your day. During your show-round appointment, be sure to ask about disabled access, with your specific friends and family members in mind."

It's also important to know how much of your venue is accessible. Some venues have certain rooms that are accessible, and others that aren't, and the same goes for accommodation and toilets. 

31. How Many Toilets are There?

Speaking of toilets... At least four toilets per 100 guests is recommended if you don’t want most of your wedding to take place in the toilet queue! This is an essential question if you have a barn or marquee where toilets might need to be hired.

You'll also want to know the proximity of the toilets to the main hosting areas, especially when it comes to the evening reception. Are guests likely to get lost in the building etc? 

32. Is There Somewhere We Can Securely Store Our Wedding Gifts?

Couples tend to get lots of very valuable wedding gifts so make sure the venue has a safe place you can store them all. Francesca says "Should your guests bring a physical gift, these, along with your wedding cards, should be taken by your designated ‘helper’ or, by agreement, by the venue team, and locked somewhere to ensure their safety."

33. Is There Enough Parking for All Our Guests?

If lots of guests will be travelling by car to your venue, check the parking situation at the venue. If they don’t have allocated parking, are there nearby car parks or roads for guests to leave their cars, do they charge, etc.?

Similarly, it’s handy to know if your guests can leave their cars overnight as it gives them more choice on how late they stay, whether they decide to have a drink, or whether they’ll need to think ahead about taxis.

34. Are You Dog or Pet Friendly? 

If you know us, you'll know we're obsessed with the idea of having dogs at weddings - we literally launched the world's first vid-dog-grapher this year, along with the first ever dog wedding invitation - but not all weddings can accommodate this.

Lian adds, "We'd always encourage pet owners to ask whether or not the venue accommodates for pets. In our case, as well as the venue being pet friendly, our Elm Suite is also suitable for your well behaved four-legged friends. It's always worth asking, as this can save you money on hiring a dog sitter, and also means you can include your dogs in the wedding itself!"

Planning on including your furry friend in your special day? Check out our guide to having dogs at weddings for everything you need to know. 

Questions to Ask Your Wedding Venue About Pricing and Payment

Stubton Hall

Crunch time - and no, we're not talking about food again! Yes, sadly you  do have to pay for your wedding venue - but we promise, the conversation isn't half as scary as it seems. Here are the key questions to ask your wedding venue when it comes to prices and payment. 

35. How Much Will the Initial Deposit Be & When is the Final Payment Due?

You might think the venue you want is out of your league financially, but with just a deposit to pay first, and final payments later on, it may just be doable. Securing a final date for the venue payment allows you to map out a timeline of financial pay-outs and can give you time to save up to pay for the wedding.

Planning your wedding budget is an excellent way to break down your costs and see what's realistic for you to book for your big day. 

Francesca advises you to "Speak to your chosen venue about a payment plan, if you would like to structure your payments differently, to suit your cash flow, as most will be willing to make alternative arrangements."

36. What's Included in the Hire Price & is VAT Included?

Simon and Sarah at The Willow Marsh Farm explain how important it is to understand what is included in your quote. "We have a very transparent venue hire price with no hidden costs. The service we offer includes everything that our in-house staff take care of from the planning and coordination to the accommodation and licensing.

"We think it's very important that couples understand the level of service they are getting."

One thing to ask about specifically is value added tax. VAT can sometimes creep up on you, so be sure to check if that’s included in the price or if it’s added later on.

37. Are There Any Extra Charges For Staff/Cleaning/Room Hire That Aren’t Included in the Prices Given to Us?

You don't want to be caught off-guard by an unexpected wedding cost . 

Wedding clear-ups are a very important subject to cover at the start. While a large majority of venues will have staff that can take care of the post-wedding clean-up, there’s still cases where you’ll be responsible for either doing it yourself – if you’ve hired land for a marquee, for example – or you’ll be in charge of hiring a team to do it for you.

You also want to know whether or not the price of your venue can change after you've booked. You don't want to secure a venue that then ends up costing you more on the day, but alternatively it could see you save money. 

For example, the team at The Pumping House explained that you will only be charged for food and drink for the number of guests you confirm at your final appointment - so if you originally booked for food and drinks for 100 people, but you end up with only 85 RSVP-ing, that's the number you'll be charged for in your final invoice.

See - sometimes payment questions can lead to savings, hey?

38. What’s the Cancellation Policy?

If you cancel far enough in advance, most venues can return your full deposit. However, you may not get it back after a certain date so check what their policy is. 

Francesca offers some advice: "Despite best intentions, sometimes things go wrong, and couples may wish to cancel wedding bookings, for a variety of reasons. We would always recommend that couples take out wedding insurance for this eventuality.

"Most wedding venue contracts will contain a cancellation policy, but these can differ greatly, so couples should ensure that they understand how a cancellation would affect them, prior to booking."

39. Are There Any Venue Restrictions?

Venues like breweries might have an over 18s-only policy which means children are off the guest list. Similarly, historic wedding venues may have restrictions in place to protect furniture, art or displays. As well as checking on décor restrictions, ask if there’s anything that might affect your guest list.

40. Do You Have Public Liability Insurance?

Finally, every wedding venue should have some form of public liability insurance and should have no qualms providing a document that proves this. You don’t want to be held responsible if a guest injures themselves. 

If you’re on the hunt for a real wedding bargain, be sure to check out our round-up of the best affordable wedding venues in the UK .

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Moscow Metro Tour - With Ratings

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Moscow Metro Tour

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Tour Information

Key Details

  • Free Cancellation
  • Duration: 1 Hr 30 Mins
  • Language: English
  • Departure Details : Get to the Biblioteka imeni Lenina (Lenin's Library, Red Line) or Alexandrovsky Sad (Alexander Garden, Light Blue Line) metro station. Use any exit. Find the Kutafia Tower of the Kremlin. The guide .. read more

The Moscow Metro has a long history to it. Also, the city has an extremely beautiful subway. It is very well maintained and is also extremely decorated. Each station and spot has a different artistic aspect to it. On this tour, experience the efficiency of Moscow Metro.

  • Roam around the Revolution Square, with magnificent sculptures of the Soviet people
  • Visit the Kurskaya Station Lobby, the Hall of Fame of the WWII
  • Be awestruck at the Komsomolskaya , with impressive mural mosaics of Russian glorious victories
  • See the artistic side of Novoslobodskaya , with the stained glass, although under the ground.

Know More about this tour

Take our Moscow Metro Tour and discover why our subway is recognized as the most beautiful in the world!

"They used to have palaces for kings, we are going to build palaces for the people!" said one of the main architects of the Soviet subway.

With us you will see the most beautiful metro stations in Moscow built under Stalin: Komsomolskaya, Revolution square, Novoslobodskaya, Mayakovskaya. Our guide will tell fascinating stories and secrets hidden underground, urban legends and funny stories.

How many babies were born on the Moscow metro? Where is the secret Metro 2? How deep is the Moscow metro? And where did Stalin give his speech in November 1941? Join out Metro tour and find out!

  • Metro ticket

Cancellation Policy

  • If you cancel between 0 hrs To 24 hrs before scheduled tour departure, the cancellation charge will be 100%
  • If you cancel between 1 days To 180 days before scheduled tour departure, the cancellation charge will be 0%
  • Please note that in case of No show, the cancellation charge will be 100% of the listed tour fare.
  • Please note tours booked using discount coupon codes will be non refundable.
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Moscow Metro

The Moscow Metro Tour is included in most guided tours’ itineraries. Opened in 1935, under Stalin’s regime, the metro was not only meant to solve transport problems, but also was hailed as “a people’s palace”. Every station you will see during your Moscow metro tour looks like a palace room. There are bright paintings, mosaics, stained glass, bronze statues… Our Moscow metro tour includes the most impressive stations best architects and designers worked at - Ploshchad Revolutsii, Mayakovskaya, Komsomolskaya, Kievskaya, Novoslobodskaya and some others.

What is the kremlin in russia?

The guide will not only help you navigate the metro, but will also provide you with fascinating background tales for the images you see and a history of each station.

And there some stories to be told during the Moscow metro tour! The deepest station - Park Pobedy - is 84 metres under the ground with the world longest escalator of 140 meters. Parts of the so-called Metro-2, a secret strategic system of underground tunnels, was used for its construction.

During the Second World War the metro itself became a strategic asset: it was turned into the city's biggest bomb-shelter and one of the stations even became a library. 217 children were born here in 1941-1942! The metro is the most effective means of transport in the capital.

There are almost 200 stations 196 at the moment and trains run every 90 seconds! The guide of your Moscow metro tour can explain to you how to buy tickets and find your way if you plan to get around by yourself.

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40 Wedding Venue Questions to Ask at Your Tour

by Courtney Kappus Shaw | Mar 5, 2021 | Wedding Tips and Ideas

wedding venue questions

There is so much more to a wedding venue than the aesthetics. Of course, that is important too. However, you’d be surprised at the amount of logistics that go into your wedding venue! Today, we’re going over 42 wedding venue questions that you should be asking at every venue tour.

40 Wedding Venue Questions to Ask

Keep in mind that some of these wedding venue questions will apply to your wedding, and some won’t! Go through each one and make your own list of ones that you know will be important to ask.

You could get lucky and your tour guide will cover all of these questions before you even get a chance to ask them! However, it’s good to have them prepared just in case.

  • Is the site handicap accessible?
  • What is the capacity?
  • Can I hold the ceremony here?
  • Are there noise restrictions?
  • Are there any restrictions regarding decor?
  • How many hours are included in the rental? How early can we arrive & how late can we stay?
  • What is the electricity like? (i.e. are there enough outlets and power? What is the lighting like?)
  • How many weddings do you allow in one day?
  • What is the weather backup plan?
  • Is my wedding date available? (If you have a specific one in mind)
  • What is the walking/driving distance from the ceremony location? (If your ceremony is elsewhere)
  • Are we allowed to rearrange anything?
  • Is there a specific cocktail hour space?

Pricing & availability

  • What is the cancellation policy?
  • How much is the deposit?
  • What are the rates for different days of the week (Friday, Saturday, Sunday, weekdays)? What about different seasons?
  • How do you structure the payment schedule?
  • How far in advance can I reserve my date?
  • What is included in the total price?
  • When is the last possible date to make changes to our reservation?
  • When can vendors arrive for setup?
  • Can the space accommodate a DJ? Live band?
  • Do we have to use a list of approved vendors? If not, are there limitations on who we can use?
  • Do you provide sound equipment and speakers? Or do they need to be rented or provided by our entertainment?

Food & drink

  • Is there a food and beverage minimum?
  • Do you provide an in-house caterer? If so, is the price included in the rental fee?
  • If there is not an in-house caterer, can we choose our own? Or do we have to choose from a list of approved options?
  • What if we don’t meet the food and beverage minimum?
  • Do we have to purchase liquor through you or can we get it somewhere else?
  • If we can bring our own liquor, is there a corkage or service fee?
  • What does your venue coordinator handle? (Hint: most will not do nearly as much as a planner/coordinator will!)
  • Will your staff be involved in setting up and breaking down? In what capacity?
  • Who will be our main point of contact throughout wedding planning? What about on our wedding day? Can we meet them?

Guest accommodations

  • Are there any hotels for guests nearby? Which ones do you recommend and how far are they?
  • Is there on-site parking? How many spaces? Do you charge guests for parking?
  • Is there a room available for childcare?
  • How many bathrooms are there? Will we need to rent additional portable bathrooms?
  • Is public transportation an option?
  • Is there a coat check for winter weddings?

If you have more questions about searching for the perfect venue, feel free to contact us here . We’d love to help you!

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Moscow Metro Tour

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Description

Moscow metro private tours.

  • 2-hour tour $87:  10 Must-See Moscow Metro stations with hotel pick-up and drop-off
  • 3-hour tour $137:  20 Must-See Moscow Metro stations with Russian lunch in beautifully-decorated Metro Diner + hotel pick-up and drop off. 
  • Metro pass is included in the price of both tours.

Highlight of Metro Tour

  • Visit 10 must-see stations of Moscow metro on 2-hr tour and 20 Metro stations on 3-hr tour, including grand Komsomolskaya station with its distinctive Baroque décor, aristocratic Mayakovskaya station with Soviet mosaics, legendary Revolution Square station with 72 bronze sculptures and more!
  • Explore Museum of Moscow Metro and learn a ton of technical and historical facts;
  • Listen to the secrets about the Metro-2, a secret line supposedly used by the government and KGB;
  • Experience a selection of most striking features of Moscow Metro hidden from most tourists and even locals;
  • Discover the underground treasure of Russian Soviet past – from mosaics to bronzes, paintings, marble arches, stained glass and even paleontological elements;
  • Learn fun stories and myths about Coffee Ring, Zodiac signs of Moscow Metro and more;
  • Admire Soviet-era architecture of pre- and post- World War II perious;
  • Enjoy panoramic views of Sparrow Hills from Luzhniki Metro Bridge – MetroMost, the only station of Moscow Metro located over water and the highest station above ground level;
  • If lucky, catch a unique «Aquarelle Train» – a wheeled picture gallery, brightly painted with images of peony, chrysanthemums, daisies, sunflowers and each car unit is unique;
  • Become an expert at navigating the legendary Moscow Metro system;
  • Have fun time with a very friendly local;
  • + Atmospheric Metro lunch in Moscow’s the only Metro Diner (included in a 3-hr tour)

Hotel Pick-up

Metro stations:.

Komsomolskaya

Novoslobodskaya

Prospekt Mira

Belorusskaya

Mayakovskaya

Novokuznetskaya

Revolution Square

Sparrow Hills

+ for 3-hour tour

Victory Park

Slavic Boulevard

Vystavochnaya

Dostoevskaya

Elektrozavodskaya

Partizanskaya

Museum of Moscow Metro

  • Drop-off  at your hotel, Novodevichy Convent, Sparrow Hills or any place you wish
  • + Russian lunch  in Metro Diner with artistic metro-style interior for 3-hour tour

Fun facts from our Moscow Metro Tours:

From the very first days of its existence, the Moscow Metro was the object of civil defense, used as a bomb shelter, and designed as a defense for a possible attack on the Soviet Union.

At a depth of 50 to 120 meters lies the second, the coded system of Metro-2 of Moscow subway, which is equipped with everything you need, from food storage to the nuclear button.

According to some sources, the total length of Metro-2 reaches over 150 kilometers.

The Museum was opened on Sportivnaya metro station on November 6, 1967. It features the most interesting models of trains and stations.

Coffee Ring

The first scheme of Moscow Metro looked like a bunch of separate lines. Listen to a myth about Joseph Stalin and the main brown line of Moscow Metro.

Zodiac Metro

According to some astrologers, each of the 12 stops of the Moscow Ring Line corresponds to a particular sign of the zodiac and divides the city into astrological sector.

Astrologers believe that being in a particular zadiac sector of Moscow for a long time, you attract certain energy and events into your life.

Paleontological finds 

Red marble walls of some of the Metro stations hide in themselves petrified inhabitants of ancient seas. Try and find some!

  • Every day each car in  Moscow metro passes  more than 600 km, which is the distance from Moscow to St. Petersburg.
  • Moscow subway system is the  5th in the intensity  of use (after the subways of Beijing, Tokyo, Seoul and Shanghai).
  • The interval in the movement of trains in rush hour is  90 seconds .

What you get:

  • + A friend in Moscow.
  • + Private & customized Moscow tour.
  • + An exciting pastime, not just boring history lessons.
  • + An authentic experience of local life.
  • + Flexibility during the walking tour: changes can be made at any time to suit individual preferences.
  • + Amazing deals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the very best cafes & restaurants. Discounts on weekdays (Mon-Fri).
  • + A photo session amongst spectacular Moscow scenery that can be treasured for a lifetime.
  • + Good value for souvenirs, taxis, and hotels.
  • + Expert advice on what to do, where to go, and how to make the most of your time in Moscow.

Write your review

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