59 Questions to Ask Wedding Venues (Printable PDF Checklist Included)

Here are some reasons it’s important to gather as much information as you can before signing a contract:

• Being prepared. By ensuring that there’s a backup plan in case of bad weather, for example, you’re setting yourself up for a stress-free wedding day.
• Staying within budget. It’s easier to stay on track with your spending when you know exactly what the venue provides and which vendors you have to bring in.
• Avoiding surprises. Asking questions up front can reduce a lot of stress later in the process.
• Creating a timeline. Coordinating with your venue to set up—and stick to—a wedding-day timeline ensures that your big day runs smoothly.

• What is the capacity of the venue?
• Is it available on my wedding date?
• How much does it cost to rent? Are there any additional fees?
• How many hours does the rental cover?
• Can I host my ceremony here too? If so, will it cost extra?
• Can we hold our rehearsal dinner here? If so, will it cost extra?
• How many bathrooms are there? Will we need to rent additional portable restrooms? Are there gender-neutral bathrooms?
• Are getting-ready rooms available onsite?
• How many weddings or events do you host in one day? In one weekend?
• Are there any noise restrictions?

• Do you have in-house catering? If so, do I have the option of bringing in outside catering?
• If I hire my own caterer, will they have access to kitchen facilities?
• What are the tax and service/gratuity charges?
• Can we do a tasting before we finalize our menu? Is there a charge?
• What is the average cost per person for catering?
• Can we bring our own alcohol? If so, is there a corkage fee?
• Do you provide bartenders?
• Is there a food or beverage minimum? If so, what happens if we don’t meet it?

Pro tip: Many venues offer the option of purchasing liquor directly through them (especially if they have an exclusive or in-house caterer), which is convenient. It can, however, come with a hefty markup. Find out if you can price-shop for your own liquor elsewhere.

• Can we bring in our own vendors? If so, do you have a list of preferred vendors?
• How many event coordinators will be assigned to my wedding? Can I meet them before the big day?
• How often will we be in touch leading up to the wedding?
• Is there a coordinator on staff? Who will be my main point of contact?
• What is the venue’s policy on vendor tipping?
• Can the venue accommodate a DJ or live band?
• What time can my vendors start setting up on the day of the wedding?

Pro tip: To maximize the space—and your guest list—find out how many guests you can fit in the space with and without a dance floor, with a band versus with a DJ, and with round versus rectangular or square tables.

• Do you have a backup plan in case of inclement weather?
• What is your refund policy in case of bad weather?
• Do you have a plan for power outages?
• What is the evacuation plan in case of an emergency?
• Do you have liability insurance?
• Do you have a backup space or tent we can use in the event of inclement weather?

• Are tables, chairs, linens, plates, silverware, and glassware provided?
• Are there any restrictions on decor? Are candles permitted?
• Do you have signage to direct guests to my event?
• Do you provide heaters and/or umbrellas for outdoor spaces?
• Do you have your own sound equipment and speakers?
• What is the policy on furniture rentals?
• Is there an additional fee for decorating the space?
• Will your staff be involved in setting up and breaking down the decor? If so, in what capacity?

Pro tip: Some venues offer a discount for booking an off-season date or a Sunday-through-Friday wedding. They may also have different rates for different times, such as in the morning or afternoon versus the evening, and they may charge more or less depending on whether you’re having a spring, summer, fall, or winter wedding.

• Is there onsite parking?
• Is the venue accessible?
• Are taxis/rideshares easily accessible from the venue?
• If a shuttle is needed, can you assist with setting it up?
• Do you have overnight accommodations? If so, do you offer a discount for booking multiple rooms, or a complimentary room or upgrade for the newlyweds?
• If accommodations aren’t available, what are the nearest hotels to the venue?

• Does the venue fee cover cleaning fees?
• Are there any additional fees?
• What is your policy on damage deposits?
• When do we need to sign the contract?
• Can we get a copy of the contract?
• Can we make changes to the contract after signing it?
• When is the deposit due?
• When is the final payment due?
• What is your refund policy?
• How do you structure the payment schedule?

• When should we expect to hear from you?
• Should we reach out, or will you?
• How many events will be taking place at the venue on the day of my event?
• Can you share any wedding itineraries that have been successful at your venue?