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Is there anything more thrilling than visiting a wedding location you know you'll adore?

Not exactly, which is why it's so simple to become mesmerised by the area's beauty and overlook the practical questions you need to consider.

There is much more to talk about than just the cost.

Will you need to bring in rentals, or can you use the venue's existing tables and chairs for the ceremony and reception?

Is there a backup plan in place in bad weather, or is that up to the couple to decide?

Who will be present to see that nothing goes wrong on the big day?

The less glamorous inquiries, such as how the restrooms look and can they accommodate the number of guests you want, are also important.

You've looked at several reputable wedding venues and have whittled the list down to your top picks.

Next, what? Visiting the actual location to get a sense of how it is.

But there are a few things you need to ask your wedding venue before you start your visits. Even if visiting the location in person is vital for planning, there are important questions to ask.

For instance, if your guests are arriving by car for the event, you want to make sure there is enough parking. Or you should ensure your chosen site offers ADA-compliant amenities if some visitors want them.

Our list of wedding venue inquiries should include everything from bathrooms to alcohol restrictions to cancellation procedures. Also, view our vast list of Melbourne wedding photographers to assist you in capturing your important moments. On your site visit, ask the following questions about your wedding venue.

Questions To Ask Your Wedding Venue Before Your Tour

Setting up the virtual tour is the first order of business. Therefore, before entering the property, think about double-checking these three crucial features.

After all, you don't want to fall in love with a location that is too expensive or unavailable on the day you desire.

To arrange a formal visit, contact or email your possible venues. Then, enquire about these three issues.

The Basics Of What To Ask Your Wedding Venue

What Questions Should I Ask When Looking At Wedding Venues2

Budget

Unless you're willing to make other cuts, you might have to move on if the total cost of the venue exceeds your budget.

Date

Ideally, the location has it open if you have your heart set on a particular day and are unwilling to move it; if not, you'll need to keep looking.

Style

This will probably be the most obvious "yes" or "no" choice regarding your venue: If you tour a slick, modern loft while picturing a rustic, romantic setting, you'll probably immediately cross the place off your list.

Questions To Ask Your Wedding Venue During The Tour

Ceremony, Reception Or Both

Do you need to consider how many locations you'll require on your wedding day? For instance, would you like a church service with the party taking place somewhere entirely else, or would you prefer a platform to host your ceremony and reception?

It may seem apparent, but knowing if your search will take you to one or two venues will help start your planning process.

General Questions

Not the obvious inquiries like "What is your capacity?" and "Can I examine the menu?" but rather the information you must be aware of that may have passed your mind:

When it Comes to Décor, What Are the Rules?

While some locations have lenient guidelines concerning what may and cannot be done with the decor, others are much more restrictive.

You could also wonder if you can utilise an open candle flame. Is it okay to stoke tents with dirt? Do They require licences to instal outdoor-rated lighting?

Don't be scared to ask for assistance with this; most businesses can provide it.

Is There a Kitchen on Site?

Regarding catering, the following infrastructure-related queries are crucial: Is a kitchen on the premises? Is it a cooking facility or only a staging area?

What is the distance to the guest services area? Otherwise, how do caterers typically set up at the location?

Does the location provide caterers tents to use? Power? Flowing water Parking? Access before or following the event?

These are all excellent inquiries because any discrepancies could eventually raise the price of your catering.

What Services Do You Include?

It's important to know exactly what help your venue offers because different venues offer varying services.

A "will vs. won't" is frequently focused on service; for example, your venue might offer to place the place cards but won't be in charge of making your seating charts.

It generally boils down to the small print and non-negotiable provisions in a "can vs. can't" situation.

For instance, the event's capacity, noise restrictions, approved vehicle types, and end time might all be fixed in stone. No matter how well you get along with the event location, you cannot alter these.

Does Your Venue Have Load in and Load Out Terms?

Your costs will depend on how much time your vendors have to prepare for and execute your event.

A favourable opinion is always given to locations that only accept one event per weekend and permit flexible installation and striking times.

What Is the Bathroom Situation?

Make sure to check the restrooms to see whether they are enough for the number of people you will have.

This way, you can plan to purchase portable restrooms or decorate the ones you already have!

What Is Your Availability?

It's simple to fall in love with a location, so if you already have a date in mind, it's best to double-check before starting to arrange the logistics of a particular site, only to be disappointed later.

Do your research and make this the first item on your list of venue questions!

Are There Any Alcohol Limitations?

Ask the venue about any restrictions on serving alcohol if you envision cocktails flowing at your wedding.

It could be not very reassuring if you discover that your friend can only drink beer and wine. Some locations, particularly wineries, are not permitted to sell alcohol.

Does the Property Allow Multiple Events on the Same Day?

Ask the venue about any restrictions on serving alcohol if you envision cocktails flowing at your wedding.

It could be disappointing if you subsequently discover that your friend can only drink beer and wine. Some locations, particularly wineries, are not permitted to sell alcohol.

Do We Need to Flip the Space?

Find out if the venue needs to repurpose the ceremony room for the evening reception if you intend to hold your ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception all at the same location.

If so, other vendors, such as your band and florist, would be impacted because they only have one hour to set up the dinner tables or the equipment.

To ensure that the flip goes as smoothly as possible, make sure both are ready and have a sizable crew.

What Are Your Recommendations for Guest Transportation?

When it comes to your venue, don't forget about transportation—how your guests will arrive and depart is something you must consider when preparing.

Here are some questions you might want to ask about transportation:

Is a shuttle service required to and from the property and nearby lodgings? What about valet parking? If not, is it possible to hire a service for this? Is there a special visitor parking area?

You Be the Person who will Handle My Wedding, and Will You Be at My Wedding Overseeing All the Details?

When visiting a location, knowing who you will be dealing with during the planning process and on your wedding day is crucial.

What Is Our Rain Plan?

In case of bad weather, always check the backup location. You don't want to be forced to move your wedding indoors because the venue is ugly or, worse, doesn't have any rooms available!

The Ceremony

Will My Ceremony Be Legal?

Numerous locations hold ceremonies. However, they might not have the necessary permits to make them legally binding.

This can require stopping by the registry office in advance, which some people may view as a formality while others find disappointing.

Remember this, especially if you're considering having a destination wedding. Different laws in various nations govern the legitimacy of ceremonies.

Which Rooms Are Licensed for Ceremonies?

Find out which spaces have a permit to hold ceremonies.

It might not be possible to get married in any of the building's rooms because each room needs its licence.

Most major venues typically choose out rooms, some for smaller, more private weddings and others for bigger events.

What Is Plan B If Your Reception or Ceremony Is Due to Be Held Outside and it Rains?

If you intend to get married and host your reception outside, you must properly prepare for inclement weather.

Others will use a function or banqueting space; certain sites will always have a marquee set up for the season, making it simple to move under cover. Looking for a Location for Wedding Photos? Look nowhere else. Brighton Savoy has put together the ultimate selection of wedding photo venues for your convenience.

Examine each option carefully and decide how long it should pass before moving indoors to allow for setup and décor.

Evening Reception

Are Outside Caterers Allowed?

Make sure to enquire about the facilities accessible to your caterers as soon as you decide whether or not to bring your caterers.

Ensure the venue has what you need; for instance, the caterers you want might need full access to a kitchen.

Do You Have Any Sample Menus?

You can browse sample menus at the majority of establishments. Ask to talk about the type of cuisine they provide and start dialogues to make sure you are happy with the food on offer. If this isn't the case, you must use the venue's preferred suppliers.

Before you fully rule them out, if you love the location but not the food, talk about your choices for going off the menu and adding bespoke things.

If You Intend to Have a Paid Bar, Are There Any Restrictions?

Find out if a paid bar has a minimum spend requirement for the day, and if there is, estimate your chances of meeting it.

How many bar employees will there be?

Say something like "the family celebrates with a few beers" while speaking with possible venues.

You don't want your customers to be impatient and frustrated in a long line. Of course, any details you can provide them can make your day run more smoothly, but suitable wedding venues will take your numbers into account and have everything under control.

Can I Bring My Entertainment?

What Questions Should I Ask When Looking At Wedding Venues3

Please be aware that there may be requirements, such as solely employing their resident DJ, before assuming you can book your favourite band.

Make sure the venue can handle your entertainment plans by thoroughly reviewing them.

It would be beneficial if you took into account the specifics of the music, lighting, and special effects, as well as the scope of the venue's licensing agreements.

Is There a Noise Limit?

The venue's noise regulations are another important factor, especially if you want your favourite or a full brass band to perform.

It is worth asking before you lose your deposit on that pricey band because of the nearby resident or other properties.

To achieve the style you want without going over the venue's noise restriction, it's also a good idea to keep in mind that many performers will be aware of noise limiters and may provide a smaller group.

What Time is Will You Be Asking Me to Leave? Please make sure the location you've chosen for the party is aware that you want it to go on well into the night.

Suppose there is a predetermined end time for the entertainment or the sale of alcoholic beverages at the location. In that case, it is possible that the location and any decorations will need to be removed by a particular hour.

There are some instances in which the costs of a late licence can be negotiated.

Are There Any Additional Provisions Made for Children?

Imagine you have kids or that you have a large guest list. In that scenario, it's important to enquire about any additional services offered, such as a designated space or the availability of toys or outdoor playthings.

No matter how tiny the question, ask away rather than leaving it to last-minute stress. Some locations are extremely kid-friendly and have considered every eventuality, while others are completely the reverse.

What Provision Is Made for Disabled People or Those With Limited Mobility?

It is important to explore the many options available for guests who have a disability or elderly relatives who have limited mobility.

It is the responsibility of public establishments to make access possible for people with impairments. However, despite the rules already in existence, this may be difficult to do due to the constraints imposed by the terrain and the historic structure.

FAQs About Wedding

If you wish to hold both your ceremony and reception, there must be room for your ceremony. Space for the cocktail hour, especially if the ceremony and reception will be held there. Suppose you're holding an adult-only wedding, providing childcare and a separate children's area. A coat check for weddings in the cold.

Accommodation

How Many Guests Can the Venue Accommodate?

The maximum number of guests who can attend your event is subject to change based on the manner in which you choose to organise it.

You might, for instance, decide that you would rather have an intimate dinner with just a few members of your immediate family and close friends, followed by a sizable evening celebration for all of your guests.

If you want every guest to have the opportunity to dine at a table during the reception, you will need to negotiate this point with the wedding team very carefully.

Can My Guests Park On-Site?

It appears to be common sense that there is a large parking lot out front. Indeed, the location will accommodate parking for the wedding for my guests.

Be warned that certain locations may specify that only locals can enter, while others may impose conditions such as requiring money or prohibiting overnight parking for vehicles.

It is therefore quite important to communicate this information to your guests well in advance of the big day. For instance, Uncle Sam might be upset the next morning when he finds that the door to his automobile is locked.

Logistics

Do You Have an Onsite Wedding Planner or Events Coordinator?

The wedding coordinator at each location may not follow the same procedures.

One type of planner might help you with your food selection and room arrangement, then pass them off to the setup crew so you won't see them again.

However, some wedding coordinators will be present to guide you through every step and will be in charge of overseeing every aspect of your wedding day, from setup to packing up.

Remember that everything comes down to personal preference, but don't think that everything you want will be included just because a wedding planner is on-site.

Who Will Be Your Point of Contact at the Wedding Venue?

Find out if your venue has a specific wedding or events manager. Will you only be communicating with one individual for the duration of the planning?

Both partners' lives may become simpler as a result. Is this person present to ensure the reception runs smoothly on the day in question?

When Do The Staff Start Setting Up, And Can You Be Involved?

Some brides take pleasure in participating in personalising various aspects of their weddings.

Contact those in charge of setting up the reception area as soon as they begin their preparations. In the case that it takes place in a hotel, the time may not be determined until late Friday night or early Saturday morning if the venue is being used for another event.

It's possible that wedding parties that want to decorate and set up the reception room on their own won't be able to make these hours work.

Do You Have Security/ Storage Onsite?

Take into account the practicalities. For example, if you decide to use your decorations, you should consider how you will protect them both before and after.

On the eve of your wedding, you shouldn't have to stress about finding the family heirlooms that will serve as the centrepieces of your tables!

Are There Any Restrictions That May Apply to the Building or the Site?

Determine if there are any restrictions beyond those already known to you.

The usage of certain decorations, such as candles, and the methods by which they are attached may be restricted if the building is on a national or state historic register.

Discuss your needs and wants for the reception in detail before putting down any money.

You may need to find a new venue if your plans can't be implemented as-is due to licensing or structural limitations. You probably shouldn't find out about this a week before the wedding.

How Much of the Building and Grounds Will You Have Access To?

You can rent part or all of the property at some reception locations. For instance, you might be able to rent a manor house or small stately mansion whole or in part.

This is a great way to accommodate the wedding party and is likely to contain bedrooms and other reception spaces.

Establish which areas of the house and grounds are accessible, covered by the package, how long they are available, and so on.

Special pricing should be offered for guests who want to stay at the hotel where your reception is held.

If your party is large, you should verify the venue's accommodations before choosing a date to make sure there are enough rooms for everyone.

Booking

Precisely What Is Included in the Price?

Examine a detailed list of everything included in the package price very carefully.

The majority of venues provide tables, chairs, glasses, and tableware as normal, but some require special ordering and can add a fee to your bill. Always check.

Are There Any Additional Charges?

Your potential venue should share any further information once they strongly understand what you would like.

For instance, some locations could charge extra for wedding cake cutlery! If you are planning a destination wedding, it is also a good idea to confirm that the final price includes VAT and what currency you will be required to pay in.

How Much Is the Deposit and When Is the Balance Payable?

Before making any payments, you must ascertain all expenses related to your platform because a reception location won't confirm a booking until a deposit is paid.

Request an itemised breakdown of all costs, with the application of VAT being especially important.

Find out if the prices are stated nett of VAT or if it is included; if you are not prepared for it, an additional 20% will be a rude surprise.

Once you are satisfied with all the itemised expenses and are certain that nothing is missing or there are hidden fees, you may book the date of your big day by paying a deposit.

Check to see if the deposit is refundable in case of last-minute changes of heart!

How Much Liability Insurance Does the Venue Have in Place?

Always inquire about the venue's amount of liability insurance coverage in case they need to postpone your reception due to an unexpected circumstance like a flood or large power outage.

Additionally, you ought to obtain wedding insurance, which will protect you if you cannot proceed for other reasons like illness or an accident.

This is distinct from the venue's insurance and might be relevant depending on the specific external problems that might impact the platform.

The main expense of your wedding day will probably be paying for your wedding party.

Therefore, think carefully and do your homework on the location before deciding to pay a deposit. To assist you in planning your special day, Brighton Savoy has put together an exclusive list of wedding photo locations in Melbourne.

Before making the reservation, you should be aware of every last aspect and how it will be set up and presented so that you are clear on what will take place and what you are paying for.

Content Summary

  1. What Questions Should I Ask When Looking At Wedding Venues? Is there anything more thrilling than visiting a wedding location you know you`ll adore? Not exactly, which is why it's so simple to become mesmerised by the area's beauty and overlook the practical questions you need to consider.
  2. Will you need to bring in rentals, or can you use the venue`s existing tables and chairs for the ceremony and reception? The less glamorous inquiries, such as how the restrooms look and can they accommodate the number of guests you want, are also important.
  3. You`ve looked at several reputable wedding venues and have whittled the list down to your top picks. But there are a few things you need to ask your wedding venue before you start your visits.
  4. Even if visiting the location in person is vital for planning, there are important questions to ask.
  5. For instance, if your guests are arriving by car for the event, you want to make sure there is enough parking.
  6. Our list of wedding venue inquiries should include everything from bathrooms to alcohol restrictions to cancellation procedures.
  7. Also, view our vast list of Melbourne wedding photographers to assist you in capturing your important moments.
  8. On your site visit, ask the following questions about your wedding venue.
  9. Questions To Ask Your Wedding Venue Before Your Tour Setting up the virtual tour is the first order of business.
  10. After all, you don't want to fall in love with a location that is too expensive or unavailable on the day you desire.
  11. The Basics Of What To Ask for Your Wedding Venue Budget Unless you`re willing to make other cuts, you might have to move on if the total cost of the venue exceeds your budget.
  12. Date Ideally, the location has it open if you have your heart set on a particular day and are unwilling to move it; if not, you`ll need to keep looking.
  13. Style This will probably be the most obvious "yes" or "no" choice regarding your venue: If you tour a slick, modern loft while picturing a rustic, romantic setting, you`ll probably immediately cross the place off your list.
  14. Questions To Ask Your Wedding Venue During The Tour Ceremony, Reception, Or Both Do you need to consider how many locations you`ll require on your wedding day?
  15. For instance, would you like a church service with the party taking place somewhere entirely else, or would you prefer a platform to host your ceremony and reception?
  16. It may seem apparent, but knowing if your search will take you to one or two venues will help start your planning process.
  17. It's important to know exactly what help your venue offers because different venues offer varying services.
  18. For instance, the event`s capacity, noise restrictions, approved vehicle types, and end time might all be fixed in stone.
  19. No matter how well you get along with the event location, you cannot alter these.
  20. A favourable opinion is always given to locations that only accept one event per weekend and permit flexible installation and striking times.
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