The venue you select for your wedding makes a huge difference in how your special day plays out. While it might seem like the main motivation couples have for choosing a space is the way the place looks on an aesthetic level, this is not always the case. In fact, there are a number of very important questions you want to ask yourself and the venue manager before setting anything in stone. Use this wedding venue checklist to guide your journey. You’ll learn more about the questions you should ask when looking over your options.

The Most Obvious

Right off the bat, there are some questions that you absolutely need to ask from a logistical standpoint. For one, you need to know about the venue’s available dates. The other questions won’t matter if the space is already reserved on the days you had hoped to select. Second, make sure you know about pricing early. Waiting until the end of the conversation to discuss the cost means you might be in for a rude awakening about the actual expenses.

When discussing options like the price, be sure to dig a bit deeper on the specifics. For example, many venues will offer reduced rates to couples who are willing to book during times that are less appealing, like weekday evenings and Sundays. Though having your wedding at an awkward time might not be your first choice, it may land you an amazing discount on your top venue pick. 

The Early Details

Another thing to think about is the payment plan. Depending on the venue, you could have a number of options. Some spaces allow potential clients to make installment payments after putting forth a significant down payment. However, not all venues will offer this. Spaces with more competitive bookings might require you to make a full payment in order to secure your reservation. Sussing out the details with the manager will clarify what will be expected of you with making payments.

The Practical Questions

You also should ask the venue team about whether they require you select vendors from a list of approved options. Many venues partner with caterers, florists, entertainers, and other professionals in order to provide package deals to clients. However, this also means you cannot usually select vendors that are not listed. If you want to retain control over which vendors you pick, be sure to ask the venue staff about this before signing any contracts. 

This is also when you should discuss points of accessibility. If anyone on your guest list requires the use of a wheelchair ramp, for example, this is an important topic to review. You may also want to learn more about how many bathrooms there are, what the parking situation is like, and if you should be aware of any local noise ordinances if the event goes late.

The Final Matters

Before the end of the meeting, you should discuss matters related to your point of contact. In many cases, the manager you speak with during your first visit will not be the individual you will be working with on your wedding day. If possible, try and meet with your point person before signing the contract. Establishing a good relationship with this person is key to the rest of the process. Meeting early will help to make you comfortable reaching out later. This is also a good time to discuss any additional fees that might come up with the venue

While there are countless tasks involved in planning your big day, picking a venue is definitely one of the most significant. As long as you give yourself a chance to ask the right questions, you will have an easier time selecting the perfect fit for your nuptials with this wedding venue checklist.