Questions to Ask Your Wedding Venue

Choosing your venue is one of the biggest decisions you'll make for your wedding, so it's worth going into those viewings with a proper list of questions. Here's what I always tell my couples to ask.

How much notice do we need to book our venue?

This varies a lot, so ask straight away so you know your timeline.

What is the capacity for the service, the food, and then the party?

Numbers can change between each part of the day, so it's worth checking all three. You don't want to fall in love with a venue only to find out it can't actually hold everyone for the bit that matters most to you.

Do you have different rooms for the service and then the party?

Some venues use one room for everything, others switch it round. Good to know so you can picture how your day will actually flow.

Is there somewhere to get ready? Somewhere different for both partners?

Getting ready is such a lovely part of the day to capture, so having two separate spaces makes a big difference. Ask what these rooms actually look like too — light and space matter here.

Is there on-site parking for our guests?

Ask this early on, especially if you've got older relatives or anyone travelling a distance. If there's no parking, find out what the alternative is.

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Is there public transport nearby?

Useful for guests who aren't driving, and something to mention in your invites once you know.

Do you have disabled access?

Important to ask if any of your guests need it, so nobody's left out on the day.

Is there somewhere for group photos if it rains?

British weather being what it is, always ask this one. A lovely indoor space with good light can be just as good as the garden.

Can we be particular about the catering due to food requests?

Most venues are used to this, but it's worth asking outright so you know what flexibility you have for allergies and preferences.

Can we have outside vendors?

Some venues have a preferred supplier list or restrictions, so this is worth asking before you book anyone else.

Do you allow confetti?

Some venues have rules on this, so check before you order any.

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Can we stay the night of the wedding?

Handy to know early, as it changes how the end of your evening looks.

How many people can stay the night of the wedding?

If you're planning on close family or your wedding party staying too, check the room count so you're not caught out later.

Do you have venue insurance?

Worth asking, and good to know for your own peace of mind.

Can we pay in instalments?

Many venues offer this, but it's not always advertised, so ask.

How many meetings will we have before our wedding?

This gives you a sense of how much support you'll have in the lead-up and when the big decisions need to be made.

Take this list with you to your viewings, and don't be afraid to ask every single one. A good venue will expect it.