Hello everybody! I am so excited to bring you today’s Wedding Wednesday. This is one I wish I’d had when I was wedding planning because some of these almost caused some big issues! Thankfully, everything was resolved on my big day. In the hopes that you can have one less stress, here are 10 Questions to ask before booking your venue!
1. Do you have my date available?
This seems like a silly one right?! Wrong! Make sure you find out if your venue has your date available AND how long they will hold it before a deposit/contract is due. If you don’t have an exact date, ask them what dates they have available in the time frame you have narrowed down.
2. How far out do you book?
Especially with the more popular venue, they can book up fast! If you’re able to, try to find out when your venue starts opening their books so you can be one of the first to snag a prime date! Many venues will have pricing based on the year you’re getting married. Some will only book 1 year out. All are incredibly important to know to make the most informed decision.
3. What does my rental include?
This could be ceremony only. This could be everything from getting ready through clean up after the reception. Every single venue is different so it is important to check before signing those contracts! Also important to ask if catering, cake, linens, tables/chairs, etc. are included too!
4. Are there any other weddings happening during ours?
You might not care about this but a lot of couples do. Having the place to yourselves will ultimately create a better experience for you and your guests, but at a lot of larger/more popular venues, this is far from guaranteed!
5. Will there be any price changes?
You’d be surprised how many of my couples wind up changing venues because the price increases dramatically from their initial inquiry to booking. While regular price increases are typical, it doesn’t hurt to ask how long they will honor the pricing given to you and if they anticipate any increases in the near future. Always read your contracts to ensure they cannot change their pricing after booking as well! It’s scary to think about but it have unfortunately happened!! NOTE: changes due to your guest count increasing it to be expected!! Many venues, especially those that include catering, charge per person with a minimum requirement. If your guest count increases, that will ultimately also increase what you owe to the venue!!
6. Do you have on-location space for getting ready?
This relates a lot to question 3 but is important to clarify. Having to travel between multiple locations lessens the amount of photography coverage you’ll have for you’re actual wedding. I’m a huge fan of all-inclusive venues. Being able to move seamlessly from one part of the day to another, without worrying about driving and traffic, helps immensely for all involved. This is by no means a dealbreaker, just something to be aware of!
7. Are there any photography/videography restrictions?
This is a common one that I ask my couples and, a lot of the time, they have no idea. That doesn’t mean there aren’t restrictions, just that my couples weren’t aware prior to booking. Knowing where the media team is allowed to be, if flash/lighting is allowed, etc. is all important. Not only because we don’t want to violate any rules. Photographers and videographers are also going to prepare differently depending on what we are and aren’t allowed to do.
8. Can I purchase additional time?
Some will say yes and give you a price. Others will say no and you’ll be limited strictly to 5 hours. Depending on your needs, your budget, whether you have a planner, etc. This is crucial to know prior to agreeing to anything officially.
9. What is the booking process for our rehearsal?
More popular venues will host weddings Thursdays through Mondays. This means you could wind up needing to have your rehearsal in the morning or on a Tuesday evening. If this is something that could be problematic for you or your wedding party, it is best to consider. You could help others accommodate if it is your dream venue or even have your rehearsal elsewhere if needed. By no means a deal breaker but very important.
10. What is the payment process?
This is a question you should be asking every single one of your vendors prior to booking. It is imperative that you be aware of what you will owe and when. Some venues require a percentage of your total cost while some will have a set down payment with the remainder due before your wedding date. That final cost can vary (typically pending final guest count) so be very clear about how you will be charged and when!!
BONUS: Are pets allowed?
If you would like to include your furry friends in your big day, it is incredibly important that you double check their policy on animals. All venues are required to allow service animals. Not all venues allow pets. Be certain to distinguish if that is an important part of your wedding plans!!
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