Essential Questions for All Inclusive Wedding Packages

When considering all inclusive wedding packages at a hotel, make sure you ask all the right questions so you don't get caught out with any nasty surprises.

Whether the questions concern numbers, costs, corkage or freebies, these will set you on the right path to a clear quote for any all inclusive wedding packages details you request.

What kinds of packages are available?

Make sure you find out what's available, and more importantly what's included (and excluded) in all of the packages. It will help you compare them like-for-like.

Do they have a marriage licence?

If you want to be married in the same venue as your reception, it's best to check this upfront. Many hotels do not have marriage licences, so it's worth checking.

Are there minimum numbers that need to attend?

Some venues set a minimum number of guests for all inclusive wedding packages. This ensures that the hotel can maintain revenue levels. So if you're planning a cosy 40 guest reception you may not be able to do this as an all inclusive wedding package without being charged for the minimum number of guests, which may be set at 100.

Is there a minimum fee that will be charged?

Some venues will charge you for all the facilities, even if you don't use them. For example, you only have 75 guests which fit nicely into the main function room; the venue may then charge you for the marquee extension as well (as this is lost revenue for them). This could add thousands to your bill, so watch out!

How are the costs broken down for your all inclusive wedding packages?

If the costs aren't clear, ask for them to be broken down. Don't just accept what you see on the bottom line. There maybe elements included within in the package that you don't need. Ask for a break down and double-check all quotes. Some questions to ask here:
- Is there a charge for the room?
- Is there a service charge or tip included?
- Is VAT included?
- Is insurance included?

Are there additional costs for use of the venue's equipment?

Most hotels will charge you a 'per head' cost for each guest; however some hotels or venues will also charge you a cost for using their equipment. So you may get charged for the use of and the washing up of each fork, spoon, plate, glass etc.

A good friend assumed the cutlery was included in her quote and found out it wasn't two months before her wedding. The company charged her an extra 20% more on her bill. The venue had her over a barrel as the invites had been sent out and it was too late to change! Always ask!

Can the wedding planner manage my reception budget?

With all inclusive wedding packages you often get a wedding planner to help you with your decisions. Some wedding planners will also manage your wedding budget, and some even stick to it. Others may try and 'up-sell' services to you all the time. Ask them if they will honour your wedding budget to help you control your costs.

How many staff will be waiting on?

Sometimes the costs can be lowered by reducing the number of people serving during the reception. Some venues may have one server to five guests, others as few as one server to twenty. Simply put, reducing the number of people serving reduces the wage bill.

This may be a good one to ask if you need to lower the costs a little, particularly if you don't mind a slightly slower service. Bear in mind that some hotels may state that they have a reputation to uphold and may not budge, others will.

Is it possible to try the foods and wines on the sample menus?

Most hotels will offer this service free of charge to help you select your wedding menu. It's always worth checking, as you shouldn't assume the food is any good, just because it's a 4 or 5 star hotel.

Doing a tasting session is great fun, particularly if you happen to be having a reception in a 5* hotel and the restaurant has a Michelin chef!

Is there a set amount we must spend in the bar?

Some hotels will set a minimum spend on the bar for their all inclusive wedding packages. If this level is not met, then you'll foot the bill. Best to ask beforehand, so you don't get any nasty surprises. Failing that, only invite your booziest friends!

Is it possible to supply our own alcohol?

Some wedding venues will allow you to supply your own alcoholic drinks, but since much of their profit is made on food and beverages, you'll be charged a hefty corkage fee. It's worth making sure you know this upfront, just in case you were planning a booze cruise. Also worth noting, that corkage costs maybe negotiated in some venues.

Will we have exclusive access to the venue?

Some venues pack them in and pile them high. You may find that there are three other weddings in the hotel on your big day. Ask in advance you will be the only wedding on the day, so you can consider this when choosing your venue.

If you have your heart set on a particular hotel and inclusive package, perhaps they can dedicate a floor to you, so that it feels exclusive and you get some privacy. This very much depends on the set up of the hotel though.

Do you have a music policy?

Make sure you ask if there are any policies with regard to music. The last thing you want is your disco finishing at 11.30pm, just as everyone is getting into the 80's classics. Ask if the music needs to stop at a particular time or do you have to use certain musicians, bands or DJs?

Is there outdoor space available to use?

Some hotels have very well maintained gardens, which make a perfect overflow or additional space to your wedding reception. Check if you can use this space, if the use is exclusive and if there's an additional cost for the use.

Do you offer special discounts if guests stay in the hotel?

Many hotels will offer special room rates for guests staying overnight in the hotel. It's always good to try and negotiate this as it's a nice perk for the guests that decide to stay.

What complementary elements are there for the bride and groom?

Many hotels offer special privileges to the happy couple, including free spa access, free accommodation, free parking, free champagne all day/night and much more. If free stuff is important to you, then it's worth asking.

With these questions in hand, planning all inclusive wedding packages should be easy.

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