What a perfect fall day today! Really couldn’t be more beautiful and great to be out there shopping for your venue. There are alot of things to consider when searching for the right place.

Before you get started though be sure you know approximately how many guests are attending and what your budget is. Once you know this, and you have a been able to narrow down your choice to a few wedding venues, then it’s time to start asking questions!

Let’s get started!

Date:

1. Is it available?

2.Are there any other events/weddings booked for that day? If so, how will it affect your event?

Decor of the facility:

1.Ask to see pictures of previous events. Can you make any changes?

2.Make sure that if there are certain elements of the room you like that they will be available for your wedding date.

3.Will there be any remodeling/redecorating between now and your date? If so, be sure of what the changes will be and how this may affect your event.

Time:

1. Be sure it’s clear the exact time you have the facility for. This usually falls between 5-7hrs. or some facilities charge min. 4hrs. and additional/hr. following.

How much?:

1. Find out the total rental fee. This should include all extra charges and taxes.

2.Does the fee include tent, chairs, tables, linens, glassware, service, cake cutting and corking fees?  What is not included, and what are the additional charges to rent or have what you need?

3. Ask if they have any “wedding packages”, and what would they include. Although it may limit you in some areas it can potentially save you time and money.

4. What is their cancellation policy?

Food:

1. If they provide the food be sure to have a sampling and an opportunity to discuss menu choices.

2. If you require off-site catering ask if you can choose your own caterer or must you choose from their approved list.

Alcohol and Bar service:

1. Do they provide the alcohol or do you bring your own?

2. Do they supply the bar staff or do you hire them?

3. Any specific guidelines for the bar? ex. is an open bar possible or must it be a cash bar, any restrictions to type of alcohol?

4. Will their liability insurance cover the size of your wedding?

Entertainment:

1. Will the dance floor be large enough to accommodate the size of your party?

2. Can the facility accommodate the size of band or DJ and equipment?

3.Does the wedding venue own a sound system with adequate speakers or will that need to be rented?

Parking:

1. Is it readily available or will you need to consider hiring a valet service or parking attendant?

2. Will there be any events, festivals, parade, sporting events on your date that will affect your guests parking availabilty?

Overnight accommodations:

1. Can the facility accommodate overnight stays for your guests? If it’s a hotel, can you reserve a block of rooms at a discount?

2. If overnight stays are not available be sure you have a good alternative to offer your guests close by the venue.

Amenities:

1.Do they have adequate coat check and bathroom facilities?

2.Is the venue wheelchair accessible? If not, are there many stairs to consider? How close is the parking to the ceremony and reception rooms?

I know it may seem alot to consider and it is. It’s a good idea to map out the pros and cons of  the final choice. Sometimes seeing this visually can make all the difference in making the final decision.

Best of luck in the search and we are just a call away if need be!!

Happy fall and happy hunting!

Sharlynne XXOO