Booking your wedding venue is probably the biggest decision you’ll make in the lead-up to your big day. (Aside from actually choosing to get married, that is!). Your venue sets the tone, style, and logistics of your celebration, impacting everything from guest experience to your wedding budget. But of course, a wedding venue will mean different things for different couples.
For you, it might just be a reception space; for others, it will be where you hold your ceremony too. And for some, it will be a base for several days of festivities, with accommodation thrown in too. The spaces themselves will differ as well: hotels, restaurants, town halls, barn venues, exclusive hire houses, or local sports or country clubs – the options are endless!
To help you navigate this important decision, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of questions to ask your wedding venue before you book, along with detailed explanations of why each question is essential.
Availability, Cost & Capacity
1. What is the availability around our ideal dates?
Why Ask?: Your desired wedding date might be a dealbreaker. Knowing the venue’s availability early on helps manage expectations and allows you to either secure your preferred date or adjust your plans accordingly.
2. What is the venue capacity for a seated meal?
Why Ask?: Ensuring the venue can comfortably accommodate your guest list is crucial. You don’t want your guests to feel cramped or, conversely, the space to feel too sparse.
3. Is there a minimum spend?
Why Ask?: Some venues require a minimum spend on food, beverages, or other services. This helps you budget more effectively and avoid unexpected costs.
4. Is there a venue hire fee?
Why Ask?: Understanding all potential costs upfront, including any fees just for using the space, helps you avoid surprises later on.
5. Do you offer packages, and what exactly is included?
Why Ask?: Package deals can simplify planning and might offer savings. Knowing what’s included helps you compare options and determine the overall value.
6. Is there any flexibility in taking elements from different packages?
Why Ask?: Flexibility allows you to tailor the package to better fit your needs and preferences, ensuring you get the most value for your money.
7. Do you have different rooms/spaces to choose from?
Why Ask?: Different spaces offer varying atmospheres and capacities. Multiple options provide flexibility in planning different parts of your day, like the ceremony, reception, and cocktail hour.
8. Is there a marquee option?
Why Ask?: A marquee can provide additional space and a unique atmosphere, especially for outdoor weddings. It’s also a great backup plan for unpredictable weather.
9. Is it an exclusive hire?
Why Ask?: Exclusive hire means your wedding will be the only event at the venue, offering privacy and dedicated service. If not, you’ll need to know how the venue handles multiple events.
10. What is the parking situation for guests?
Why Ask?: Ample and convenient parking is essential for guest comfort and logistics. Understanding the parking situation helps you plan transportation and inform your guests.
11. Do you offer anything for the next day?
Why Ask?: Post-wedding events like brunches or informal gatherings can extend the celebration. Knowing if the venue offers services for the next day can enhance your wedding experience.
12. Are there kitchen facilities, serveware, and tableware?
Why Ask?: If you’re considering outside caterers or a DIY approach, access to kitchen facilities and serveware is crucial. This also applies if your venue doesn’t provide in-house catering.
13. Can you cater for those with special requirements and allergies?
Why Ask?: Ensuring all your guests can enjoy the meal, regardless of dietary restrictions or allergies, is important for their comfort and safety.
14. Do you offer tastings?
Why Ask?: A tasting allows you to preview the menu and make adjustments to ensure the food meets your expectations.
15. Can we see your drinks/bar menu and pricing?
Why Ask?: Understanding the drink options and pricing helps you budget and decide if you want to bring in your own alcohol or use the venue’s bar services.
16. Do you offer accommodation?
Why Ask?: On-site accommodation can be convenient for you and your guests, especially if the venue is in a remote location. It also simplifies logistics for the wedding night.
17. Is there a bridal suite included with the venue hire?
Why Ask?: A bridal suite provides a private space for the bridal party to get ready, relax, and freshen up throughout the day.
18. If not, do you have a large room for pre-ceremony prep/hair & makeup?
Why Ask?: A dedicated space for getting ready ensures you and your bridal party have enough room to prepare in comfort and style.
19. Can we stay the night before?
Why Ask?: Staying the night before can ease the stress of travel and preparation on the wedding day, allowing you to wake up at the venue ready to go.
Choosing your wedding venue is a monumental decision that influences many other aspects of your big day. By asking these questions, you can ensure you select a venue that meets your needs, aligns with your vision, and offers a seamless and memorable experience for you and your guests. At Harrington House, we are committed to providing an exceptional venue that makes your wedding day truly special. Contact us today to learn more about our offerings and availability.
