11 Important Questions to Ask Your Venue
Looking around wedding venues is both hugely exciting and a bit overwhelming, especially if you have a few you’d like to see. During your show around, there is often lots of information and lots of spaces to see. You’re also attempting to figure out how the venue aligns with your wedding day vision, trying to picture yourself walking down the aisle and even wondering how everyone will fit.
.. and then it’s over, in what feels like 5 minutes (but is probably more than an hour).
You thank the Wedding Coordinator, get back into the car and drive away..
And then it hits. All the questions you actually needed answers to come flooding back. We’ve all been there.
Our Stables Events Team love to help avoid these “oh no” moments where possible. So, we have pulled together a list of 11 Important Questions to Ask Your Wedding Venue because choosing a wedding venue is hard enough without having to think about all of the important questions you are supposed to ask.
P.s don’t forget to bring a notebook and take any brochures you are offered
Can I get married on this date?
First and foremost, you need to know what you’re working with here.
Some couples have a set date in mind but others don’t. Venues can fill up fast so it’s important to iron out this detail first as if the venue isn’t available on your chosen date, it’s either not the right fit or you might have to let go of that special date you had in mind.
If you love the space, and they have your date, put it on hold straight away.
At Stables, our availability is live on our website but we would always recommend picking up the phone and chatting with our Events Team if you love the space but you can’t find a date that works for you.
1.What is included with the venue hire?
Every venue is different in what they include within their venue hire fees so it’s important to get an understanding of this straight away. It will also help you budget for your special day.
2.How long do you hold dates for?
This could differ depending on the time of year that you’re booking. Peak Season (April - September) tends to have a high demand so venues may not be able to hold dates for long without a deposit during this period.
3.How much is the deposit and when does this need to be paid? When does the balance need to be paid?
Another important question when it comes to budgeting for your wedding day. Generally, a deposit is required to secure your booking. The balance would be paid closer to your wedding date or in monthly instalments if this is preferred.
4.Do you have accommodation available for wedding guests? Do you offer discounted rates for weddings?
The difference between your guests stumbling a couple of steps to their room or tumbling into a cab at midnight.. it’s always a personal preference but at Stables, we find that guests are able to relax knowing that their room is only a couple of steps away at the end of the night.
Discounts are also a great perk that is always a plus for your guests.
5.How many people do your venue hold?
Quite simply, if it won’t fit.. it won’t fit.
6.Can I hold both my ceremony and reception with you?
It’s important to check if the venue has a wedding license. If they do, then you are good to go. If not, then you can hold your ceremony at another location and then have your reception at the wedding venue. Luckily, Stables is fully licensed so you can host your whole day with us.
7.Do I have to use your recommended suppliers?
This differs across all venues and is an important one to ask if you have a certain supplier set in mind for your wedding day. This could be a florist, caterer or band for example.
8.What style of catering do you offer?
We all know that the way to most people's hearts is through their stomachs so make sure you are happy with what the venue can offer here.
9.Are there any restrictions with decorating the venue?
To flower arch or not to flower arch..
Most venues are pretty flexible here but some have limitations (generally for a good reason) so if you have some wacky decorating ideas, make sure you discuss this with your Wedding Coordinator.
10.What time does my wedding need to start and finish?
Generally, venues can be flexible with the timings throughout the day so are lead by the couples. However, venues do have to close at some point so it’s good to find out what time your guests will have to peel themselves off the dancefloor at.
Disclaimer: It’s fine by the way, you’re still allowed to have these “oh no” moments. Wedding venues don’t expect you to know it all and are usually very happy to answer any questions that you may have as it’s all part of the job.
