Questions to ask a wedding venue before booking
Before booking the venue, ask exactly what the price includes, how many guests it seats, how late you can stay and play music, whether the catering is in-house or you can bring your own, what happens if it rains and what the deposit and cancellation terms are. Get every answer in writing.
Price and what it includes
- What the price includes: space, furniture, table linen, set-up, cleaning.
- Whether they charge per guest, for the space or both, and whether there's a minimum number of guests.
- What costs extra: overtime, open bar, permits, security.
- Whether VAT is included.
Space and timings
- How many guests it seats, and with a dance floor.
- Which tables they have (round, long) and how many seats each.
- From what time you can set up and how late you can stay.
- Whether there's a volume or time limit on music.
- Whether the ceremony can be held there.
Catering and suppliers
Some venues have their own caterer or a closed list of suppliers; others let you choose. Ask before you fall in love with a place, because it shapes the menu and the budget.
- Whether the catering is exclusive to the venue.
- Whether they charge for bringing in outside suppliers (music, photography, decoration).
- Whether there's a menu tasting and when.
Plan B and logistics
- What the alternative is if it rains or is too hot.
- Parking and access, including for coaches.
- Accessibility for older guests or people with reduced mobility.
- Accommodation nearby for guests coming from far away.
Contract, deposit and cancellation
Read the contract before paying the deposit: how much it is, when the rest is due and what happens if you have to change the date or cancel. Ask for everything they have promised verbally to be put in writing.