10 Questions To Ask During Your Wedding Venue Tour

There are many things to consider when choosing a wedding venue, with availability and the aesthetic being the top two priorities. However, before you get into planning your perfect wedding at the perfect venue there are several things to consider when it comes to how this day will look to your family and friends. Yes, this day is all about you and your fiancé but keep in mind that this is a party you’re planning for your guests to enjoy as well. If you want to leave a good impression on them, it is important to consider their experience when going on venue tours. If you’re completely in the dark about what things you should keep in mind, then I am here to guide you to your perfect venue.

I have been a wedding photographer for the past 3 years and have shot nearly 100 weddings during this time. I have seen and experienced many wedding venues and have compiled 10 questions that you should be asking during your venue tours.

#1. How many weddings/events are hosted in one day?

Some venues are set up to accomodate more than one wedding simultaneously. If you prefer a more intimate wedding day experience you should consider a venue where you can exclusively reserve it for your day.

#2. Is there an option to bring in your own catering?

If a wedding venue offers catering, there is still a chance that you will be allowed to bring in your own catering. Keep in mind that if a venue offers in-house catering but does allow outside catering it will come at an additional charge, most likely on a per person bases.

#3. Can we view the food options menu? Can you accommodate food allergies?

Viewing the menu before you reserve a space should give you a pretty good idea of the types and variety of food the venue offers. Additionally, it is equally important to make sure the venue has reasonable food options available that are safe for guest with food allergies.

#4. Is there an area for the bride and groom to get ready inside the venue? If not, are there lodging accommodations nearby?

Many venues have bridal suites that will accommodate the bridal party and some have additional space for the groomsmen to get ready. However, it is important to note that sometimes the spaces are not large enough to handle larger wedding parties. Furthermore, the groomsmen space are often an afterthought. If the onsite getting ready options are not suitable, then nearby accommodations should be considered. Pay close attention to where the venue is at in proximity to where you want to get ready.

#5. Is there sufficient parking available on the property or nearby?

Some venues are beautiful inside but parking is a nightmare. Be aware of the parking arrangements when touring venues. If you do not see sufficient parking available ask where additional parking is located and if there is a shuttle to take guests back and forth. If there is no shuttle available be sure to take the walk from the venue to the parking area to get a feel of how far your guests will need to walk. If you have elderly guests or guests who may need special accommodations, ease of getting to and from the venue should be strongly considered.

#6. Do you have a back up plan for the weather?

This mainly applies to outdoor weddings. Or, it could apply to wedding venues who use the outdoor space for cocktail hour. Does this venue have an indoor options that can be quickly turned over into the ceremony space if needed? Some venues provide tints as a backup weather alternative, while others have outside vendors they work with and can rent a tint if there is a chance of bad weather. Always have a weather plan, regardless of the time of year.

#7. Where are the restrooms located in proximity to the event space?

Oh this is a big one. In many older venues, especially ones that have been convert from old churches, the bathroom situation can be less than ideal. Some venues do not have a bathroom on the main level and you and your guests will need to go downstairs to use the restroom. When touring a venue ask about the bathroom situation and ask to view them. You want to inspect them for cleanliness, amilities, and how many stalls are available.

#8. Are we able to bring in outside decorations? If so, is there any additional costs?

Sometimes the venue just doesn’t have the correct pieces you would like to showcase at your wedding. It is easy to assume that you can just bring in the chargers and cutlery you would like to have but some venues will charge per plate setting to swap table settings out. Others may charge to use different chair covers. Sounds petty but rest assured you’re better off asking beforehand, rather than being stuck with a bill at the end of your wedding night.

#9. Are we required to use the vendors on the venue’s preferred vendor list?

There are venues that partner with other wedding vendors and they have an agreement to only work with the vendors on their preferred vendors list. Usually these vendors know the venue very well and work well with the staff, but what if you are determined to work with a specific wedding planner or DJ? If you already have your mind set on the vendors you’d like to work with, then being restricted to the venue’s preferred vendors list is not ideal.

#10. Do my vendors get a hot dinner?

This is such a silly question to ask but believe it or not there are venues who only provide the vendors with a boxed dinner. I will speak for all photographers when I say we expect to be offered the same menu options as your guests.

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