Good Questions to Ask Wedding Venues
Essential questions to evaluate wedding venue costs, policies, capacity, and logistics before booking your big day.
1What is the total cost for our expected guest count, and what exactly is included in that price?
Click to see why this works
What is the total cost for our expected guest count, and what exactly is included in that price?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Clarifies the all-in cost and avoids surprise fees for setup, cleanup, or amenities.
2What is your cancellation and refund policy if we need to reschedule or cancel?
Click to see why this works
What is your cancellation and refund policy if we need to reschedule or cancel?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Protects you financially in case of emergencies, weather, or unforeseen circumstances.
3Are there any date availability restrictions or blackout dates we should know about?
Click to see why this works
Are there any date availability restrictions or blackout dates we should know about?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Ensures your preferred dates are actually available and reveals peak pricing periods.
4What is the maximum guest capacity for both ceremony and reception spaces?
Click to see why this works
What is the maximum guest capacity for both ceremony and reception spaces?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Confirms the venue can comfortably accommodate your expected headcount.
5Do you require us to use your in-house catering, or can we bring in an outside caterer?
Click to see why this works
Do you require us to use your in-house catering, or can we bring in an outside caterer?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Affects flexibility, cost, and food quality—exclusive vendors can limit options.
6What are the alcohol policies—can we bring our own, use your bar service, or is it BYOB?
Click to see why this works
What are the alcohol policies—can we bring our own, use your bar service, or is it BYOB?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Clarifies bar costs, licensing, and whether you'll face corkage fees or service minimums.
7How much time do we have for setup, the event, and breakdown, and are there overtime fees?
Click to see why this works
How much time do we have for setup, the event, and breakdown, and are there overtime fees?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Ensures you have enough time for your timeline and avoids costly per-hour overages.
8What indoor and outdoor space is available, and what's the backup plan if weather is an issue?
Click to see why this works
What indoor and outdoor space is available, and what's the backup plan if weather is an issue?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Critical for outdoor ceremonies—know your rain plan and whether it's equally appealing.
9Are tables, chairs, linens, and dinnerware included, or do we need to rent those separately?
Click to see why this works
Are tables, chairs, linens, and dinnerware included, or do we need to rent those separately?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Reveals hidden costs and whether the venue is truly all-inclusive or requires additional rentals.
10Do you provide a day-of coordinator, and if so, what does their role include?
Click to see why this works
Do you provide a day-of coordinator, and if so, what does their role include?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Clarifies support level and whether you'll need to hire an independent coordinator.
11What is the parking situation for guests, and is valet or shuttle service available?
Click to see why this works
What is the parking situation for guests, and is valet or shuttle service available?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Affects guest experience and whether you'll need to arrange transportation.
12Are there any noise restrictions, curfews, or other rules we need to follow?
Click to see why this works
Are there any noise restrictions, curfews, or other rules we need to follow?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Ensures your event style fits the venue's regulations and avoids end-of-night shutdowns.
13What decorations are allowed, and are there any restrictions on candles, florals, or hanging items?
Click to see why this works
What decorations are allowed, and are there any restrictions on candles, florals, or hanging items?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Clarifies creative freedom and whether your vision is feasible within venue rules.
14Do you have liability insurance, and are we required to purchase additional event insurance?
Click to see why this works
Do you have liability insurance, and are we required to purchase additional event insurance?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Protects both parties and reveals whether you'll need to budget for coverage.
15Are there bridal suites or getting-ready spaces included for the wedding party?
Click to see why this works
Are there bridal suites or getting-ready spaces included for the wedding party?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Affects day-of logistics and whether you need to rent hotel rooms for prep.
16What is your preferred vendor list, and are we required to use any of them?
Click to see why this works
What is your preferred vendor list, and are we required to use any of them?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Shows flexibility and whether you'll have to work with vendors you don't choose.
17How many events do you host per day or weekend, and will we have exclusive use of the space?
Click to see why this works
How many events do you host per day or weekend, and will we have exclusive use of the space?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Ensures privacy and avoids overlapping events that could crowd parking or shared areas.
18What is the payment schedule and deposit structure?
Click to see why this works
What is the payment schedule and deposit structure?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Clarifies financial commitments and when payments are due throughout the planning process.
19Can we schedule a tasting for the catering menu before committing?
Click to see why this works
Can we schedule a tasting for the catering menu before committing?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Ensures food quality meets expectations—taste before you book if catering is required.
20Are there photos from recent weddings we can see to understand how the space looks when set up?
Click to see why this works
Are there photos from recent weddings we can see to understand how the space looks when set up?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Provides realistic expectations and inspiration for how to style your event.
Venue Tour and Selection Tips
Expert tips and techniques for getting the most out of these questions.