Now that you are engaged and are started to plan a wedding the first step would definitely be to book in a venue. Finding a venue completely depends on the theme of the wedding you desire for. So what else do you need to know about your potential venue (other than if they have your date available)? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Here are some questions, you need to ask your venue.

General

Q1. What is the hire fee for weekends, mid-week, or winter dates?

Q2. Is the venue able to hold both the ceremony and reception on-site?

Q3. What is the booking fee or deposit to block in the date and when is it due?

Q4. Does the venue have a wedding coordinator and are they included in the booking?

Q5. Is there an inclement weather contingency plan?

Q6. Is the table layout flexible?

Q7. Does the venue have onsite parking for guests?

Q8 Does the venue have a private space or green room for the couple to rest before entering the reception or store personal items?

Q9. What is the cancellation or re-scheduling policy?

Q10. Do we have exclusive use of the venue on the date?

Timing

Q11. What time can we access the venue on the day?

Q12. Can we access the venue prior to the day for rehearsal/set up?

Q13. Will the venue work along with our supplier for setup?

Q14. What time are the last drinks?

Entertainment

Q15. Does the venue have its own sound system/mic and lights?

Q16. What are the noise restrictions?

Q17. What can be used on-site, e.g. marquees, DJ/Band, photo booth, games, dancefloor?

Q18 What items are banned from use, e.g. confetti/candles/sparklers/smoke machine/dry ice/fireworks?

Decor/Styling

Q19 Does the venue have its own decor?

Q20. Any restrictions on styling the space?

Catering/Drinks

Q21. What are the catering options?

Q22. Can we BYO food or beverages?

Q23. Can we have food trucks?

Q24. Is there a minimum charge for food and beverages?

Q25. Do you have food testing if catering is provided?

Miscellaneous

Q26. Does the venue have accommodation on site and is it only available for the couple?

Q27. Does the venue have a preferred vendors list?

Q28. Is there a dedicated space for the cake?

Q29. What are the insurance requirements for the vendors?

Q30 Is the venue accessible for people with disabilities?

There are many more questions you can come up with to ask the venue. Remember, no question is a stupid question. I hope the above list helps you in your journey toward your dream wedding. If you do need some more help check out more of the bogs. Go read the Top Tips to plan a wedding in Melbourne to help with wedding planning and also read the Questions to ask your wedding photographer.