Photo by Meche Ausina Photography/Venue: Bella Collina in Montverde, Florida

Finding the perfect venue spot goes beyond its aesthetic appeal. There are many crucial details to consider before signing on the dotted line. For instance, you will need to know if the venue offers additional services or how many guests it can comfortably accommodate.

Below, I have compiled a list of essential questions to ask your venue before making the final decision.

Photo by Photo by Ivy Breanne Photography/Venue: Clisby Pines in Tunnel Hill, Georgia

Availability and Pricing

1. What dates are available?
2. How far in advance can I reserve my date?
3. Can you hold a date for me?
4. How many hours of rental are included?
5. Are there discounts for booking during off season?
6. What is the deposit amount and when is it due?
7. Do you offer payment plans?
8. What is included in the rental price?
9. What is your cancellation policy?
10. Do you require wedding insurance?

Having an event manager to oversee your venue is ideal. They can help manage set-up times, venue access and reduce confusion for your guests.

Photo by Be Studios/Venue: Loews Coronado Bay Resort in Coronado, California

Photo by Andres Lopez Films/Venue: Ashton Gardens in Sugar Hill, Georgia

Vendors

1. Do you have an approved or recommended vendor list?
2. Are we required to use vendors from your list?
3. Is there an additional fee for using outside vendors?
4. Is a wedding planner required?

If your venue allows outside vendors, it is worth asking if they have recommendations. Vendors familiar with the space can make the planning process much smoother.

Photo by Kristen Thomison Photography/Venue: Howe Farms in Georgetown, Tennessee

Logistics

1. Is there a suite for getting ready?
2. Is this venue handicap accessible?
3. Is this venue LGBTQ+ friendly?
4. Is this venue pet friendly?
5. Are there noise restrictions?
6. Are certain items (like sparklers) prohibited?
7. What happens if it rains?
8. How early can our vendors start setting up?
9. Is there on site parking?
10. Is there a charge for parking?

Photo by Pictures with Ariel/Venue: Brownstone Reserve in Bryan, Texas

Venue Specifics

1. What is the venue’s capacity?
2. Is there a minimum guest count?
3. Do we include ourselves in the headcount?
4. Should we include our vendors in the headcount?
5. Are kids counted in the guest total?
6. Are there limitations on how we can use the space?
7. Do you provide sound equipment or do we need to rent our own?
8. Does the venue handle setup and cleanup?
9. What rentals do you include?

Some venues have staff to assist with set up, while others may require you to hire additional services. Confirm what the venue will handle so you can plan accordingly.

Photo by Pictures with Ariel/Venue: St. Mary’s Catholic Center in College Station, Texas

Food and Drinks

1. Do you offer catering services?
2. Can we bring outside food?
3. Is there a fee for using outside caterers?
4. Is there a cake cutting fee?
5. Is there an on site kitchen for meal preparation?
6. Do we purchase liquor through you or do we have to provide our own?
7. Will we need to hire bartenders?
8. Is security required if alcohol is served?
9. Is there a corkage fee for bringing our own liquor?
10. Is smoking allowed?

Photo by Pictures with Ariel/Venue: Vineyards at Chappel Lodge in Austin, Texas

Photo by Andres Lopez Films/Venue: The Greystone Estate in Ball Ground, Georgia

Staff

1. Who will be our point of contact at this venue?
2. What is the best way to reach you?
3. When will we meet with you again to review details?
4. How many staff members will be on site and are they included in the venue cost?

As you can see, there are many factors to consider when selecting the right venue. By asking the questions above, you will be better equipped to choose a space that ensures you have a perfect wedding day. Need help narrowing down your options? Hire a coordinator to make finding the perfect venue stress-free!