Posy

Guide

25 questions to ask a wedding venue.

Bring these on the tour. Ask the ones that apply and take notes right on the sheet — comparing three venues from memory is how couples end up signing the wrong contract.

Money and contracts

Get the total, not the headline. Every venue quotes differently.

  1. What's the all-in price for our guest count on our date?
  2. What's included — tables, chairs, linens, glassware, staff?
  3. What's the deposit, and when are payments due?
  4. What's your cancellation and postponement policy?
  5. Are gratuities and service charges included, or added on top?
  6. Is there a minimum spend on food and beverage?

Kit owners: the vendor sheet has a dedicated venue page with every answer captured next to the question. See the vendor sheet →

Logistics and timing

The venue's clock is often stricter than couples expect.

  1. What time can vendors arrive to set up? What time does everything have to be out?
  2. How many hours are included in the rental? What's the overtime rate?
  3. Where do guests park, and is it free?
  4. Where can the wedding party get ready? For how long?
  5. Is the venue exclusive to us that day, or is another event running?

Kit owners: the vendor sheet has a dedicated venue page with every answer captured next to the question. See the vendor sheet →

Rain plans and back-ups

For outdoor venues especially, ask what happens if the weather turns.

  1. What's the rain plan? When do we have to make the call?
  2. Is there a covered ceremony option that fits our full guest count?
  3. Are there any weather-related fees for tent or space swaps?
  4. What happens in extreme heat or cold — heaters, fans, shade included?

Kit owners: the vendor sheet has a dedicated venue page with every answer captured next to the question. See the vendor sheet →

Vendors and policies

The vendor rules are where couples get surprised at the tasting.

  1. Do we have to use your in-house catering, or can we bring our own?
  2. Is there a preferred vendor list? Is it required or a suggestion?
  3. Can we bring in our own alcohol? What's the corkage fee?
  4. Are there restrictions on music — decibel limits, cutoff times, live bands?
  5. Are candles, sparklers, or confetti allowed?
  6. How does clean-up work — who's responsible, who pays?

Kit owners: the vendor sheet has a dedicated venue page with every answer captured next to the question. See the vendor sheet →

Guest experience

The stuff you'll get asked about the week of the wedding.

  1. Is the venue accessible for guests with mobility needs?
  2. Are there nearby hotels? Do you have a room block discount?
  3. What's the coat check / restroom situation for our guest count?
  4. Can we do a rehearsal on site? When?

Kit owners: the vendor sheet has a dedicated venue page with every answer captured next to the question. See the vendor sheet →

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