5 Questions to Ask Before Committing to Your Venue

After months of searching, you did it! You finally found the perfect spot to celebrate your I Do’s. Before you and your sweetie head out to celebrate over a margarita, slow down and ask yourself the following questions:

1. Do I know how much everything costs? 

Venues often have a food & beverage minimum – which is exactly as it sounds. You have to spend a minimum amount in just food and beverage. What they don’t always tell you is that there are other fees that creep in and are factored ON TOP of that minimum – think sales tax, service fees, security costs, etc. So, be sure you have a clear picture of all costs before signing on the dotted line.

2. Am I blowing my budget?

Sure, it might be your dream location but if you can’t afford to decorate it, hire entertainment for it or have pictures taken of it, did IT even happen? But seriously, take in to consideration all of the vendors that you need to hire for your big day and be sure you haven’t overcommitted in this one area.

3. Have I consulted my wedding planner?

You’re paying good money to get their assistance, advice, wise counsel – so use it! They’ve likely done this a time or two – and will hopefully have experience with this very venue. So ask!

4. Did I read the contract? REALLY?

Yep, contracts are boring – typically full of legal requirements and fine print. Before you move forward with a venue, read their contract! Really. Be sure you understand what you’re agreeing to by knowing the venues policies, procedures, deposit schedule and any rules/regulations that might impact the experience.

5. Have I asked for a list of any rules/regulations?

I had a couple with their heart set on photographing their day-of portraits in the hotel lobby. Imagine how pissed they were to find out that the hotel “doesn’t allow that”. Oy! Knowing a venue’s policy on outside vendors, timing and most importantly photography (shameless plug) is critical to making sure you have a smooth wedding.

By asking yourself the above questions, you can save yourself some major headaches and start off this wedding journey on the right foot.  

Now, go drink that margarita. Olè.