what To Ask On Venue Tours

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As a former destination wedding 2024 Bride, these are my TOP questions to make sure to ask every single wedding venue you tour, to alleviate any wedding regrets

The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Your Perfect Wedding Venue

Choosing the right wedding venue is one of the most important decisions you'll make during your wedding planning journey.

The venue sets the tone for your entire celebration and plays a crucial role in the logistics of your big day. Here are ten essential questions to ask when selecting your wedding venue, ensuring it aligns with your vision and needs.

1. What is the Wedding VenueS Capacity?

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The capacity of a wedding venue determines how many guests it can comfortably accommodate. It's crucial to have a rough estimate of your guest list before you start visiting venues. Some venues are ideal for intimate gatherings, while others can host large celebrations. Knowing the capacity of both the wedding ceremony venue, as well as the wedding reception venue, will help you narrow down your options and ensure your guests have a comfortable experience.

2. How Many Hours Does the Wedding Venue Include? Is there a curfew at the venue?

Most outdoor venues have a curfew of 10pm

Understanding the time frame included in your venue rental is essential for planning your event.

Most venues offer a set number of hours, typically including time for setup and cleanup.

If you envision a longer celebration, inquire about the possibility of extending the rental period. Be sure to ask about the cost of adding extra hours to avoid any surprises later.

Additionally, if you’re having an outdoor wedding, this is critical to understand since alot of venues have a 10pm curfew. Aka you have to pay for a second venue and move indoors.

3. What Comes Included with This Venue?

Different venues offer various packages that can include everything from basic amenities to full-service options. Some venues provide tables, chairs, and linens, while others may offer additional services like catering, bar service, and decor. Understanding what is included in your rental fee will help you budget more accurately and determine what additional services you may need to hire.

4. What is the Rain Backup Plan?

Weather can be unpredictable, and having a solid backup plan is crucial, especially for outdoor weddings. Ask the venue about their contingency plans for inclement weather. Do they have indoor spaces available? How quickly can they switch setups? Ensuring there's a rain plan will give you peace of mind and prevent last-minute stress.

5. Can You Bring Outside Catering In?

Food is a significant part of any celebration, and it's important to know your options. Some venues have in-house catering services, while others allow you to bring in external caterers. If you have a specific caterer in mind, check with the venue about their policies on outside vendors. Additionally, ask if there are any associated fees for bringing in external catering.

6. What is the Cancellation Policy at the Wedding Venue?

Life can be unpredictable, and circumstances may arise that force you to cancel or reschedule your wedding. Understanding the venue's cancellation policy is essential to avoid financial losses. Inquire about the terms and conditions, including any non-refundable deposits and the timeline for potential refunds.

7. Does the Venue Come Included with a Wedding Day Coordinator?

A wedding day coordinator can be a lifesaver, handling logistics and ensuring everything runs smoothly on your big day. Some venues include a coordinator as part of their package, while others offer it as an add-on service. Knowing whether this service is included can help you decide if you need to hire an external planner.

8. What Type of Things are Prohibited?

Every venue has its own set of rules and restrictions. These can range from decor limitations (like no open flames, fireworks, confetti, to noise ordinances and alcohol policies.

It's important to understand these restrictions upfront to ensure your plans align with the venue's guidelines and to avoid any last-minute surprises.

Check with your venue to see if anything is prohibited?

Especially if one of the above listed is super inmportant to you.

Alot of venues won’t allow fireworks or open flames etc.

9. Does the Wedding Venue Have Preferred or Exclusive Wedding Vendors?

Some venues have a list of preferred vendors they recommend, while others may require you to use their exclusive vendors. Preferred vendors are usually trusted professionals who have experience working at the venue. Exclusive vendor policies can limit your options but often guarantee a seamless experience since these vendors are familiar with the venue's layout and requirements.

10. How Many Events Will the Resort or Venue Host That Weekend?

Understanding the venue's event schedule can help you gauge how much attention and resources will be dedicated to your wedding. Some venues host multiple events in a weekend, which could impact the availability of staff and amenities. If having an exclusive focus on your event is important to you, inquire about the possibility of securing the venue solely for your wedding.

Choosing the right wedding venue involves asking the right questions and ensuring it aligns with your vision and needs. By considering these ten essential points, you'll be well on your way to finding the perfect venue for your big day. Happy planning!

xoxo

The Modern Bride Guide 💋