Availability and exclusivity
Is our preferred date available, and how many dates do you hold before requiring a deposit?
Do you host more than one wedding per day, and how private will our spaces be?
Is exclusive use available, and what does it include?
What are the ceremony options on site, and are they licensed?
Cost and what's included
What exactly is included in the price, and what costs extra?
Is there a minimum spend or minimum guest number, especially at weekends?
What are your midweek and off-season rates?
What is the deposit, the payment schedule and the cancellation policy?
Food, drink and suppliers
Is catering in-house, or can we bring our own caterer?
Can you cater for dietary requirements and children's meals?
Can we bring our own wine or drinks, and is there a corkage charge?
Do we have to use your suppliers, or is there a preferred-supplier list?
Logistics and the guest experience
How many guests can you seat for the meal, and how many for the evening?
How many bedrooms are on site, and what accommodation is nearby?
What is the wet-weather plan for the ceremony and drinks reception?
Are there noise restrictions or a curfew for music and the bar?
Is the venue accessible for elderly or less mobile guests, and is there parking?
Before you sign
Take the answers away and compare them across your shortlist rather than deciding on the spot. A venue that answers openly and clearly is usually a good sign in itself.
When you're ready to see venues that already fit your budget, numbers and style, let Venue Match match you, so the venues you talk to are the right ones from the start.