Choosing a wedding venue is indeed one of the biggest decisions you’ll ever make while planning your big day. And this is exactly why it is so important not to rush while choosing the ‘right venue’.
Couples generally fall in love with a venue because of its popularity. They often miss out on asking important questions that truly make a difference. Does it have a large space? Is it in line with your preferences? What is included in the package, what will be over and above? These facts can either make or break your overall experience.
You should indeed take your time to ask the right questions to avoid signing any contracts or even making a deposit before you are sure of the venue. In this way, you will be able to see the whole picture and not be caught by any unpleasant surprises like unexpected costs and rules.
To help you get a deeper understanding, here are five things that you must always enquire about before locking down your wedding venue:
1. What’s Included in the Package?
Quite often, the management team of the venue tends to present the best they have to offer, but do not necessarily tell you what is included in the package. Enquire as to the availability of important venue elements such as tables, chairs, linens, lighting, and even decor. You must also explain whether or not you are going to hire extras individually. Another key aspect is that catering is also offered in some of the venues. The latter gives you the flexibility to bring your catering vendor. Knowing what the package really includes will help you plan your budget more effectively and prevent unwarranted expenses in the future. This will also eliminate late surprises due to complete transparency beforehand.
2. Can We Bring Our Own Vendors?
As mentioned above, a number of venues will require you to work with their own in-house catering or even decor. However, on the other hand, certain venues do permit bringing external vendors. Always make sure to enquire about any such restrictions or limitations and any other charges of external vendors. Being aware of this at the beginning will allow you to have the type of wedding you have planned. The advantage of selecting vendors will also allow you to work within your budget or get the assistance of professionals you know and trust.
3. What’s the Maximum Guest Capacity?
Your guest list will have a direct influence on your choice of venue. This is why you should always check the maximum capacity that the venue holds. It will not only help you plan and work around your list more efficiently but also make sure that your guests are at ease throughout the reception. It can all feel cramped up if the venue is too small. And a large venue, on the other hand, can quickly lose its level of intimacy. Hence, all things considered, make sure to enquire about the capacity and the seating arrangements of the venue.
4. What Are the Total Costs and Payment Terms?
One key question to ask before finalising on a venue is about the total costs and payment terms. This is because while you plan for your wedding budget, you also get a clear idea of what the venue cost is expected to be. And while you do so, make sure to request a detailed cost breakdown for complete transparency. Ideally, this cost breakdown involves deposits and installments alongside other associated costs. Plus, overtime and corkage fees must also be included, if required. All of these key costing details are very important because when you understand the payment schedules, you get to plan your finances better. Also, remember that the venues that are trusted will always be transparent about their complete costs and terms.
5. What Is the Cancellation or Postponement Policy?
Even after the bookings of your wedding venue have been made, there could be a possibility for a change in plan. In such cases, it’s important to ensure that you are aware of the cancellation policies in advance. A lot of venues also put forth postponement policies that give you the flexibility to postpone your wedding dates depending on availability. Moreover, venues also charge an extra cost for cancellation or postponement. Hence, you need to have a clear idea of the costs that you may incur if such a situation arises.
Why Asking the Right Questions Matters?
Asking the right questions is one of the most important aspects that goes behind choosing the right wedding venue. This is because, when you ask questions and get clarity on your doubts, you are not only assured of the experience but also have the advantage of planning your budgets well. Most importantly, it will help you understand how well the venue suits your preferences.
And above all, it will indeed set the foundation for your big day!
Why Asking the Right Questions Matters?
Asking the right questions is one of the most important aspects that goes behind choosing the right wedding venue. This is because, when you ask questions and get clarity on your doubts, you are not only assured of the experience but also have the advantage of planning your budgets well. Most importantly, it will help you understand how well the venue suits your preferences.
And above all, it will indeed set the foundation for your big day!
In Essence,
The key to choosing the right venue for your wedding does not simply rely on the popularity or size of the venue. It does include a lot of factors that need to be considered before finalising one. We’d say a venue indeed plays a key role as the pure foundation that sets your big day. Be firm and take the time to clarify the key offerings that the venue provides.
Remember, asking the right questions before choosing the venue ensures your wedding isn’t just a day to remember, it is a celebration of a lifetime!
Find the Perfect Wedding Venue with Asiana Wedding Directory
Here at Asiana Wedding Directory, we know that the venue is at the heart of every celebration. And this is why we have curated a trusted list of wedding venues and marquees all in one place. Our carefully curated listings make it easy for you to explore trusted venues that completely match your style and budget. And the best part? With us, you don’t have to spend hours searching across different sites because we connect you directly to some of the best wedding venues in the UK.
FAQs
1. Can we decorate the venue ourselves?
Absolutely! However, this is completely dependent on the venue you choose. This is because a number of venues generally require you to work with their in-house team for the decor. But the best part is that this is not the case for all of the venues. A majority of the venues are also flexible on whether or not you want to work with their in-house team. They give you the flexibility to work with an external vendor (however, here, you may incur an extra cost).
2. Are there additional fees for overtime, corkage, or extra services?
Yes. Some of the venues do charge for late finishes/overtime and corkage. Considering this, it is always advised to get a complete breakdown of the costs in advance. This, in turn, will help you plan your budget efficiently and simultaneously get an understanding of the overall costing structures beforehand.
3. Do the venues have any restrictions on photography or videography?
Quite rarely, but yes. There are certain venues that do impose restrictions on photography and videography. These may include restrictions on the use of drones and more. This is why it becomes very important to understand and confirm all of the restrictions (if any) in advance.
