You’ll be able to start narrowing down your search right away as you go through your list, considering:
- How many guests can it hold?
- Are there different capacities for different rooms?
- Can you have your ceremony and reception there?
- Will there be onsite accommodation for your guests?
- How does the pricing structure work?
- Is it based on room hire, price per head, minimum spend or are there set packages?
- Check exactly what is included for the price and what you’re getting for your money. (Ask whether you can upgrade at any point.)
- Is the catering in-house or is there an approved caterers list?
- Do you have a choice in which suppliers you can use?
-Are there any sample menus you can look at and how do their menu tasting sessions work?
- Is there plenty of natural light or will dark conditions make it tricky for your photographer?
- Will you need to hire in any extra lighting?
- Is there plenty of outdoor space?
- How easy is it to access by public transport?
- Is there plenty of parking?
- What chairs and tableware will you use? (If they’re not to your taste, you might want to consider hiring in your own.)
- If you’re not choosing exclusive use, check how many other weddings are likely to take place on the same day/weekend as yours.
- What are the staff numbers for service on the day? There’s nothing worse than slow service!
- What are your bar options and can you see a bar pricelist?
- Can you supply your own beverages and will there be a corkage charge?
- When can you get in and out of the venue to give access to your suppliers on the day of the wedding?
- Are there any particular restrictions such as the use of confetti or candles?
