Essential Questions for Wedding Venues

So you've created the list of your favourite wedding venues and now it's time to start visiting them. Before you start your venue tours, have you thought about what you're going to ask the venue?

These questions will you prepare for your visit to your favourite venues. They'll get you thinking and help you to be confident when asking the venue about their services as well as ensure that you don't get caught out with any unforeseen costs.

Some of the questions will apply to your wedding and others won't, so take what you need. Whether with numbers, costs, corkage or freebies, these questions will set you on the right path to a clear quote for your wedding venue.

Your essential questions for venues

Do you have a marriage licence?

If you want to get married in the same place as your reception, check that they have a licence!

Are there minimum numbers that need to attend?

Some venues set a minimum number of guests. So if you’re planning a cosy 40 guest reception you may not be able to do this 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 wedding 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 or additional rooms 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?

If the costs aren’t clear, ask for them to broken down. Don’t just accept what you see on the bottom line. There maybe elements included within in a package that you don’t need. Double check these questions too:

• Is there a charge for the room?
• Is there a booking or an admin fee?
• Is there a service charge included?
• Is VAT included?
• Is insurance included?
• Is there a deposit to pay? Is it refundable?

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

Some wedding venues will charge you for each piece of equipment being used. So for each fork, spoon, glass etc, you get charged.

A friend found this out about her venue and was charged 20% more on her bill. As this was a couple of months before her wedding, the venue had her over a barrel. The invites had been sent out and it was too late to change! Always ask!

Can you provide catering?

Most venues have catering facilities, but not all will provide catering for you. Check first, then you source a caterer if necessary.

Do I have to use preferred suppliers?

Many venues will specify that you HAVE to use their preferred suppliers. This is a ‘mates’ club and you’ll get charged over the odds. Avoid these types of venues, because then you get the best quote for other elements you need.

Do you have a bar?

Believe it or not, some venues don’t have a bar. Check this as finding an outside bar may be tricky.

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

If they do have a bar, then there may be a minimum amount you have to spend. If this is not met, then you’ll foot the bill. Best to ask beforehand, so you don’t get a nasty surprise.

Is it possible to supply your own alcohol?

Some wedding venues will allow you to bring in your own drinks, but you will be charged a corkage fee. You can negotiate this though!

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 your venue on your big day.

If you have your heart set on a particular hotel and package, perhaps they can dedicate a floor to you, so that it feels exclusive and you get some privacy.

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. Also check if you have to use certain musicians, bands or DJs.

Is there outdoor space available to use?

Some venues have very well maintained gardens, which make a perfect overflow or additional space to your 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 have a list of local accommodation?

The venue should be able to give you a list of accommodation nearby. You may even get special rates with local B&Bs – so ask!

With these questions in hand, the planning of your wedding venue will be easy.

Related articles:

5 Star Wedding Receptions Under £5,000
Think Creatively About Cheap Wedding Locations
Other Brides' Cheap Wedding Venue Ideas
Wedding Reception Ideas For Small Budgets
Your Guide To A Wedding Reception Timeline
Your Wedding Reception Timeline Countdown

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