A beautiful venue. The right questions.

Start with the spaces you will actually use

Ask to see the ceremony, reception, getting-ready, restroom, and backup spaces. Confirm capacity for your intended layout, including room for dancing or a stage. Ask about step-free access, accessible restrooms, parking, and the route between each part of the day.

• Will any other events share the property?
• When can vendors enter, and when must everything leave?
• Does the indoor backup comfortably fit our guest count?
• Who decides when to activate the weather plan?

Make inclusions tangible

Ask to see the tables, chairs, linens, and tableware included in the package. Count what is available. Confirm whether staffing, cleaning, security, power, and getting-ready rooms are included. Ask about approved suppliers and any charges for bringing in your own team.

Walk through food and service

Discuss kitchen access, caterer requirements, dietary accommodations, and service timing. Ask how the venue handles water stations, cake storage and service, vendor meals, and final guest counts. Establish which questions belong to the venue and which belong to the caterer.

Ask how the day is coordinated

Clarify the venue representative’s role. They may manage the building and venue staff without coordinating your full timeline or other vendors. Ask who will be present, how emergencies are handled, and what you should delegate to a planner or a designated contact.

Leave with a written comparison

Record the total estimated cost, what is excluded, timing restrictions, backup plan, and your open questions. Request written answers for anything that affects your decision. Read the agreement carefully and seek qualified local advice if a term is unclear.