Choosing a venue will be one of the first and most exciting decisions you make when planning your wedding and will shape many other decisions to follow. Visiting the venue will give you that first hand opportunity to ask some questions and get to know the staff you will mostly likely be dealing with on a very regular basis. Here are some key questions to ask them:

1. Is the venue available for exclusive hire on your chosen date(s) or would there be any other parties using the venue at the same time? 

2. Capacity – what is the capacity of the venue for the ceremony and the reception and is this in line with your ideas about guest lists. If you have a beautiful Chateau in mind and want to invite 100 people but the venue’s capacity is only 30, this may rule this venue out. Have a look at the spaces that they use for the ceremony and reception – does it fit with your vision?

3. Similarly you want to ask about accommodation of guests. How many guests can be accommodated at the venue and what provisions are there for those staying off-site. How easy is it to find and how far is it to travel to and from the venue?

4. What are the options for bad weather?  

 5. What is included in the fee – for example decorations, cutlery, glasses, tablecloths? And when is it payable – deposit and balance

6. Can you choose your own suppliers or do you have to choose from a recommended list? If you have you heart set on a particular florist or caterer – can you use them?

7. Is there an option to use your own alcohol suppliers and is there a corkage fee?

8. How easy is it for people to find the venue, what signage is there from main roads? Many Chateau are located down long rural, country roads which are beautifully picturesque but can be hard to find

9. Is there a curfew for music? Many venues will allow DJ’s and musicians to play into the early hours but some do not so check this out   

10. Are there any plans for refurbishment or redecoration between now and your chosen wedding date?