Wedding Venue Questions: 11 Common Things Couples Don’t Ask
It’s easy to forget to ask some key questions that play a part in planning your big day.
Wedding Venue Search
We’re stating the obvious: there are some beautiful wedding venues out there (like Historic Courthouse 1893 and The Atrium). With all the beautiful architecture, historical details, and overall coolness of the space, it’s easy to forget to ask some key wedding venue questions that play a part in planning your big day. As awestruck as you are, make sure you don’t forget to ask these questions (for the good of your wedding planning and your guests!).
Can I use my favorite caterer?
If you have a favorite, must-have caterer you really want at your wedding, this should be one of the top questions on your list—one that shouldn’t be forgotten. Some wedding venues have a list of caterers that are allowed in the facility. To make sure you can get your caterer in the door (literally!), ask prospective wedding venues if your wedding caterer is allowed in. If you want to shorten the list (and the process!), ask your wedding caterer for a list of venues where they have worked in the past. Caterers with decades of experience can guide you in narrowing the venues that fit your vision.
Is there parking? What is the cost?
You can’t hear it, but your guests are begging for you to ask this question. No one wants to trek a mile to a wedding in their best shoes—or to have to pay a ton for a parking spot. Ask each wedding venue about parking so you can plan the day accordingly. For your guests’ sake, don’t forget to include the information on your wedding website and invitation.
Is time included in the cost for set up and take down?
No one likes unpleasant surprises. That’s why it makes cents (literally) to ask not just for the cost of the wedding venue, but what the amount includes. Coordinate your set up and take down times with your wedding vendors or pass the information along to your wedding planner.
Is there a changing space?
When you’re planning a wedding, you think about the BIG spaces: dinner, dance floor, photo opportunities. Don’t overlook a changing (and storage) space for you and your attendants. Ask to see the changing rooms on your tour and how secure the space is for belongings. As much fun as it is to see the main areas, check the bathrooms out as well to make sure they are clean and well-kept for your guests.
Can you meet the special needs of my guests? Is your venue handicap accessible?
If you have any guests with special needs, make sure you make their needs a top priority in your wedding venue search. Ask about handicap accessibility and ask to see those areas when you schedule your venue tour.
Do you have air conditioning?
This is Wisconsin, the land of extreme heat and cold. Chances are, your wedding venue tour won’t be at the same time of year as your wedding. For your comfort, and the comfort of your guests, ask the wedding venue staff if the facility has heat and air conditioning, and that it can handle a large group.
What do you need from me? What is the deadline? What is the best way to contact you?
This may be one of the most important wedding venue questions, especially if you’re serious about the wedding venue. Make sure you’re completely clear about the next step (i.e. returning a contract, deadlines, etc.) so you can choose and reserve the right wedding venue.
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