12 questions to ask a wedding venue before you sign
A short list that saves couples money and surprises, written from the venue manager's side of the table.
A venue contract is usually the largest single commitment in a wedding budget. These are the questions that clear up the details couples most often ask about later, when it is harder to change anything.
- What is the comfortable seated capacity with a dance floor?
- What exactly is included in the price, item by item?
- Is there a food and beverage minimum, and what counts toward it?
- Are service charges, gratuity and taxes included in the quote?
- When can vendors load in, and when must everything be out?
- Do you require approved vendors, or can we bring our own?
- Who is our contact on the day, and will they be on site the whole time?
- What is the rain plan for any outdoor part of the event?
- What is the payment schedule, and what is the cancellation policy?
- Is there a sound limit or a time when music must end?
- What parking, drop-off and accessibility options do guests have?
- Can we hold a tasting or walk-through before the day?
Get the answers in writing
Friendly conversations on a tour are not a contract. When a venue answers a question in a way that matters to you, ask for it in the agreement or in a written email. It protects you, and a good venue will be glad to do it.
Watch how they answer
The answers matter, but so does the way they are given. A team that answers clearly, explains its rules and follows up on time is likely to work the same way on your wedding day.
General Manager at Arts Ballroom, Philadelphia. Writes The Wedding Place.