20 Questions to ask a venue before booking?

There are certain questions you want to be sure to ask before signing a contract and locking in your venue. Here are my top 20.

1. How many guest does your venue accommodate?

2. What comes with the venue? (Tables, Chairs, Dance Floor, Linen etc….)

3. If venue is outdoor – do they have a back up plan for inclement weather?

4. Are outside vendors allowed (DJ, Photographer, Planner, Caterer, liquor, Bartender, Videographer, Rentals)

5. Other than the venue rental fee, is there a security deposit required? If yes, what are the requirements for getting my security deposit back? When will the security deposit be returned?

6. If they do allow outside vendors, do vendors need to be licensed & insured? And if insurance is required – what is the coverage amount required?

7. How many hours can we have the venue for? Does that time include set up and breakdown? If we need to add additional hrs – what will that price be?

8. What is the venues refund/cancellation policy? If the venue closes due to increase of COVID cases, Will there be a refund or Can my wedding date be transferred without penalty?

9. Is clean up included in the cost of rental? If cleaning is not included, it is important to understand exactly what is required to be cleaned so you do not lose your deposit. (sweeping, moping etc….)

10. Does the venue have a getting ready suite for the bride/ bridal party?

11. Is the venue affiliated with any neighboring hotels?

12. Parking- self parking or valet?  What is the cost? If self parking- is there usually ample space and is the lot well lit at night?

13. What are your restrictions due to Covid?

14. Are open flames (Candles) allowed?

15. Are Fog Machines allowed?

16. Is it possible to pay for an additional hour at the venue (on the day of the event), if we wanted?

17. Will staff be present during the event (to take care of any emergencies)?

18. Is there a kitchen on site -If yes, can this be used as a full kitchen or just food prep?

19. Is a wedding rehearsal allowed at your venue? Is this included in the venue rental fee?

20. Does a security guard come with your venue?