QUESTIONS TO ASK BEFORE BOOKING THE WEDDING VENUE

GET THE DL UPFRONT SO THERE ARE NO SURPRISES

This is it. You’ve found the absolute perfect place to say I do and you can’t wait to sign the contract and secure your date at this incredible space. But, before you do that, save yourself a possible headache here are 6 questions to ask before booking the venue so you can move forward with more assurance.

TIMING IS EVERYTHING

Often times you will be told what time you must leave the property by; however, you may not have been told what time you can access the property. It is not uncommon to find out you can not arrive before 3PM, leaving you the new task of finding a place for hair & makeup. Additionally, we recommend checking if there are any spaces that you must completely vacate at any time during the day. For example, do you need to clean and remove all of your belongings from the getting ready space before the ceremony or reception begin?

YOUR GRAND EXIT

So many couples have their hearts set up a sparkler exit at their reception only to find out after the fact that their venue doesn’t allow fireworks on the property. Ask for the details and restrictions on what you can use for your exit. You may be surprised to hear that sparklers, birdseed, confetti, flower petals and other favorite exits are restricted at your venue.

VENDOR LIMITATIONS

We absolutely love when venues share a list of preferred vendors with couples. It’s so helpful for you to have recommended vendors who are familiar with your venue and are professionals. But double check if these are preferred vendors or required vendors. Required vendors limit you to selecting only from the venues list. You will not be able to select any other company that you find online. You will have to use their caterer, their photographer, their planner, etc.

BEER OR BOOZE?

Can’t wait for your signature cocktail?! Neither can we! Be sure to double check if your venue allows for hard alcohol. You want to know in advance if you are limited to beer and wine only. Also ask what time last call will be!

RAIN, RAIN, GO AWAY…

While rain on your wedding day is good luck, you don’t want to be surprised by the venues rain plan. You also don’t want to discover on the day of, in lieu of your gorgeous creekside ceremony, you will now be saying your vows inside an unkept barn. Eek! Ask where your ceremony will be held in the event of rain. Also ask if there are any other things that could change if the weather doesn’t cooperate.

EVENT INSURANCE

Confirm the details of your contract and invoice for the wedding venue. Also be sure to check to see if you will need to purchase event insurance. They may recommend a private company. Be sure to check which is best for your event here: EVENT INSURANCE

BONUS TIP! GET IT IN WRITING!

During your tours, emails and meetings you may have been promised things. Anything from ‘Yes, we will build you a donut wall for your reception’ to ‘You can arrive to get ready at 8 AM’. Our recommendation? Get it all in writing in your contract before signing with your wedding venue.