Choosing your wedding venue is a bit like dating – you want butterflies, you want compatibility, and most importantly, you don’t want surprises six months down the line 😂
Before you book a venue, here’s your ultimate checklist of what to ask, so you can say “I do” with full confidence.
1. Do you host more than one wedding a day?
Exclusive use or venue share? Make sure you know the deal and won’t be bumping into another bride mid-aisle. (Don’t worry- we are exclusive use and you will not be bumping into anyone!)
2. Is our date available?
Your dream date might already be taken and that’s ok! Ask early, be open-minded. Some of the best weddings happen midweek!
3. What’s the maximum capacity?
Double-check numbers for ceremony, meal, and evening- especially if your guest list keeps mysteriously growing.
4. What’s actually included in the package price?
Chairs? Tables? Fairy lights? A unicorn? Every venue is different, so get a clear breakdown. Some are all-inclusive, others may ask you to bring your own toilets! Click here to see what we include!
5. Are you licensed for civil ceremonies, or are we legally marrying at the registry office first?
If you’re dreaming of a one-location wedding, the venue needs to be licensed, or willing to host a celebrant ceremony – don’t worry, we are fully licensed!
6. Is there accommodation onsite or nearby?
Some venues have dreamy rooms, others have great local hotels. Either way, your guests will thank you for thinking ahead.
7. Can we choose our own suppliers, or do you have a list of preferred partners?
Some venues are flexible, others have a squad. If you’ve already got your heart set on that one caterer with the incredible bao buns, ask first.
8. What’s Plan B if it rains? (this is the UK after all…)
If you’re dreaming of an outdoor ceremony, make sure there’s a swoon-worthy indoor option that won’t dampen the mood and when the final decision can be made.
9. Do you have a wedding coordinator on the day? Or is it all on us?
Some venues come with a planning superhero. Others are DIY. Make sure you know who’s in charge of keeping things smooth on the day.
10. Is there parking on-site?
Thinking about all your guests = excellent hosting. Ask where everyone’s going to park and if cars can be left overnight.
11. What kind of bar setup do you offer?
Open bar, cash bar, dry bar? And are espresso martinis allowed? (This is crucial information.)
12. Can we have a tasting before confirming the menu?
Because falling in love with the menu is just as important as falling in love with the venue!
13. What time can the party go on till (and can we bribe someone to make it later)?
Some venues love a late-night rave and others turn into pumpkins at midnight. Always ask!
14. Can our dog be the ring bearer? Asking for a furry friend…
Pet-friendly venues do exist! If your four-legged family member is a must, bring it up early.
15. What’s the booking fee, and when is the rest due?
Ask about payment terms, cancellation policies, and if you can pay in instalments.
Pro Tip: Write. It. Down.
Venue visits are exciting, but info overload is real. Bring a notebook or use the notes app on your phone. Bonus points for spreadsheets.
Still Looking for “The One”?
If you’re in venue-hunting mode and feeling overwhelmed, remember, it’s not just about what the venue looks like. It’s about how it feels, how helpful the team is, and whether you can picture your dream day happening there.
Ready to start asking these questions in real life?
