Your wedding venue is more than just a backdrop for your big day; it sets the tone for your entire celebration. From logistics to ambiance, choosing the right space is one of the most critical decisions in your wedding planning process. But how do you make sure you’re asking all the right questions before signing on the dotted line?
In this blog post, we’ll cover the 25 must-ask questions that will help you uncover hidden fees, nail down logistics, and ensure the venue fits your vision perfectly. Whether you’re dreaming of a historical manor, a rustic barn, or a garden escape, these questions will give you the clarity you need to feel confident about your decision—and avoid surprises later on.
Read on to discover what you need to ask your venue to make sure it’s “the one.”
How many guests can we have? Does this include vendors?
How many hours are included in our site rental?
Can we add hours to the start or end?
What is the earliest we can arrive and the latest we can stay?
What time do our vendors have access to the space for set up, and what time do they need to be done with teardown?
Do you require certificates of insurance from our vendors?
Will there be a venue coordinator on-site during the event? Do they help with set-up?
Can we have our ceremony rehearsal here? Could we have our rehearsal lunch/dinner here?
How many parking spots are available to our vendors and guests? Is overnight parking allowed?
Do you offer indoor alternatives if we can’t have our ceremony/reception outside due to weather concerns?
Do you have space on-site for us and our wedding party to get ready?
Is the venue accessible to those with limited mobility (including bathrooms, ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception locations)?
Where are the restrooms, and how many do you have? Do you have staff to maintain them throughout the event?
How’s the lighting at night? Will we need to rent additional lighting?
Where are the outlets for vendors, such as a band or DJ? Are generators required?
What ceremony and reception layouts are most popular in the space? Do you have sample floor plans?
Do you host more than one event per day?
Will we have the whole venue to ourselves, or will some areas be open to the public?
Does your staff offer any set-up, teardown, or clean-up services?
Do you have a list of required vendors and/or preferred vendors?
Do you have on-site catering?
Are we allowed to use an outside caterer?
a. If yes, what does the prep space look like for them?
b. Do you allow food trucks for dinner or dessert? If yes, where can they park?
Are there any restrictions on alcohol?
a. Do you require us to have liquor liability insurance?
b. Do we need a liquor license?
What are the decor restrictions? Can we affix items to the walls or ceilings?
Are there any restrictions on grand exit accessories (sparklers, bubbles, confetti, etc.)?
