Visiting a Wedding Venue? Here's Your Complete Checklist
You only choose a wedding venue once. Bring this checklist to your viewing and avoid surprises afterwards.
D
Written by Daan de Vos
2 min read
The venue sets the tone for your entire wedding. But during a viewing it's easy to get carried away by beautiful chandeliers and a smooth salesperson. This checklist keeps you sharp.
Practical matters
- Is the venue available on your preferred dates?
- How many guests fit for a ceremony, dinner and party?
- Is there a plan B for bad weather during an outdoor ceremony?
- Is there enough parking and is the venue accessible by public transport?
- Is the venue accessible for guests with limited mobility?
Costs and conditions
- What is included in the venue rental and what does each extra hour cost?
- Are you required to use the in-house caterer?
- What are the corkage and cake fees if you bring your own?
- Until what time can music be played?
- What is the cancellation policy?
Atmosphere and experience
Visit the venue at the time of day you would get married: light makes a huge difference. Also ask whether multiple weddings take place on the same day — you don't want to run into another couple during your photo shoot.
Tip: get everything in writing
Take photos during the viewing and ask for every agreement to be confirmed by email. If it's not on paper, it doesn't exist.
