Choosing your wedding venue is one of the biggest decisions in the whole planning process. It sets the tone for the day, helps shape your overall style and usually takes up a big part of the budget too. That is why it is so important to ask all the right questions before you commit.
To help make things easier, we have pulled together the ultimate list of questions to ask your venue before you book. These are the things couples often forget in the moment but can make a big difference later on.
We have split them into categories so you can easily refer back when you go on your venue visits or virtual tours. Bring a notebook, ask everything and do not be afraid to go back with follow up questions if you need to.
Availability and Booking Information
Start with the basics. These questions help you understand if the venue is a good fit logistically and if your date is even possible.
Is our preferred date available?
How many weddings do you host per day or weekend?
How far in advance do we need to book?
How long is the booking for, and what are the arrival and end times?
Is there a deposit, and when is the final balance due?
What is your cancellation or postponement policy?
Capacity and Layout
These questions are all about making sure the venue works for your guest numbers and style of celebration.
What is the capacity for both the ceremony and the reception?
Can we have the ceremony and reception in different areas?
Are there indoor and outdoor options?
What happens if it rains and we planned an outdoor ceremony?
Are there any layout restrictions we should know about?
What’s Included
Venues can vary so much in what they include, so it is really important to know exactly what you are getting for your money.
Is furniture included such as tables and chairs?
Do you provide tableware and linens or do we need to hire them in?
Are there getting ready rooms for the couple or wedding party?
Are décor items like signage or easels available to use?
Is there an in house coordinator or team on the day?
Catering and Drinks
Food and drink is such a big part of the day, so make sure you understand how this works early on.
Do you have in house catering or do we need to bring in our own?
Can we see a sample menu or do you offer tastings?
Are you licensed to serve alcohol?
Do you offer drinks packages or can we supply our own?
Are there corkage fees if we bring our own wine or fizz?
Can you cater for dietary requirements or allergies?
Suppliers and Styling
You might already have suppliers in mind or want total freedom to choose. These questions will help you understand what is allowed.
Do you have a recommended supplier list?
Are we allowed to bring in our own suppliers?
Are there any restrictions on décor, candles or confetti?
Can we hang items from ceilings or beams?
What time can suppliers start setting up on the day?
Ceremony
Are you planning to have your ceremony at the venue? Here’s some questions which you may want to ask.
Are you licensed to hold civil ceremonies?
Can we hold the ceremony outside?
What is your maximum capacity for a ceremony?
How long will the ceremony take?
How do we book the registrar?
Can we have a celebrant instead of a registrar?
Are there any decor restrictions?
Can we have live music?
How many rows of chairs will there be?
How long and wide is the aisle?
Wedding Breakfast and Speeches
What is the maximum capacity?
How many people can we have on the top table?
Can we have straight tables instead of round?
How long will the wedding breakfast take?
Are there any table decor restrictions?
How long do we have for speeches?
How can we play music during the meal?
Can you cater for dietary requirements?
Do you provide name cards?
Can you provide high chairs?
Do you have a microphone for speeches?
Do you have a projector and screen for speeches?
Evening Reception
What time will the evening reception start?
What is the maximum capacity for the evening?
Can we have live music?
Do you have a resident DJ?
Are there any noise restrictions?
What time does the evening finish?
What are the evening food options?
Can we serve our wedding cake in the evening?
Do you have a bar?
Can we a photobooth?
Entertainment and Music
This is where you will want to know about sound restrictions or curfews so there are no surprises.
Do you allow live bands and DJs?
Are there any sound limits or music cut off times?
Is there a sound system available to use?
Can we have outdoor music or entertainment?
Is there a dance floor or space for dancing?
Accommodation and Transport
If your venue is in a rural location or guests are travelling, these questions will help with planning.
Is there accommodation on site for the couple or guests?
Are there nearby hotels or recommended places to stay?
Can guests leave cars overnight?
Is there taxi access or a local taxi firm you suggest?
Are there any parking restrictions we should know about?
Logistics and Access
These are the behind the scenes details that are often forgotten, but can really impact how smooth the day runs.
What time do we have access from and until?
Is there someone on site throughout the day?
What are the set up and pack down rules?
Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
Are there enough toilets for our guest numbers?
Weather Backup Plan
British weather is not always on our side, so always ask:
What is the plan if the weather changes?
Can the ceremony or drinks reception be moved indoors?
How much notice do we have to decide?
Final Things To Ask Yourself
As well as practical questions, it is worth asking yourself a few gut instinct ones too.
Can we picture ourselves here on the day?
Do we feel supported by the venue team?
Does it feel like us?
Are we excited at the thought of saying yes to this place?
The more you know, the easier it will be to make a confident decision. A great venue will be happy to answer all your questions and should make you feel completely comfortable. After all, they will be a big part of the most important day of your life.
Save this list and take it with you when you go venue hunting. You will thank yourself later.
Ready to start planning? Click here to take a look at our beautiful wedding stationery.
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