Questions to ask your wedding venue

Sourcing a wedding venue that ticks the right boxes is essential. You wouldn’t want any hidden surprises after securing your date.

Here is our recommended list of questions you should be asking your venue ahead of securing your date. 

 

General

• Is the venue available on the date you need it?
• How many guests can the venue accommodate for day and evening?
• What is their wedding venue hire cost and what is included?
• What other events are going on at the venue on the same day?
• Does the venue offer exclusive use?
• How long are you able to have the venue? 
• What rooms are included? Bridal party rooms, lounge area, cocktail area, and grounds?
• Is an outdoor area included for a drink’s reception?
• Is the room accessible for disabled guests?
• Is there a secure area to store the wedding gifts?

Set-up

• What does a typical layout of the space on the wedding day look like?
• Do they have photographs to show you of other receptions?
• Can you come back and see it set up for another wedding?
• Who is the main venue contact for day of wedding?
• Is there anything you need to bring in that they do not have?
• Is there a wedding the day prior to yours? Or the day afterwards?

Decor

• When can your suppliers’ access the site for setup?
• Are there decorating restrictions?
• Can the centerpieces contain candles?
• What table linen and chairs are available?
• What decorations does the venue provide?
• What style of tables are available?
• What size are the tables? 
• Are there booster seats or highchairs available for children?

Food & Beverage

• What are the different ways the venue serves food? Buffet, family style, individual plates?
• Do they provide in-house catering? If not, do they have a preferred list of caterers?
• Can you arrange for a tasting?
• Is there a cost for a tasting?
• What does the venue provide for drinks with the meal?
• Can they accommodate special dietary requirements?
• How many choices can you offer your guests for meals?
• How many staff will be provided?
• Does the venue have a license to serve alcohol?
• Does the venue provide the alcohol and bar service?
• What drinks are available?
• Do they provide a cash bar or an open bar?
• Does the venue hire the bartenders and is there a charge per bartender?
• Do they charge for unopened bottles after the reception?
• Is there a corkage fee?
• Are there any restrictions on the type or quantity of alcohol to be served?
• Does the venue allow alcohol favours? If so, is there a corkage cost?

 

Entertainment

1. Can you bring in a band or DJ?
2. What is the venue sound system like?
3. How many people can the dance floor accommodate?
4. Is there a time that you must stop playing music?
5. What time can the DJ or band start setting up?
6. Are there any noise restrictions?
7. Is there a designated area for entertainment, or can we place them as we see fit?
8. What is the typical sound setup at your venue?

 

If you would like any help with planning your wedding, please contact Dale Alexander and the team today by emailing: info@dalealexanderevents.co.uk