So you recently got engaged and you’re about to plan your wedding; but where to start?

The first port of call should be your venue since this forms the basis for everything else. Whether your partner and yourself are doing this exercise alone or you are bringing a planner on board, there should be some non-negotiables when it comes to choosing your wedding venue.

Our choosing a wedding venue checklist will point you in the right direction when searching for the perfect venue for your special day.

How to inquire about a wedding venue – ask these questions:

1. How many guests are you looking to invite?

This will probably rule out a lot of venues because capacity is the number one aspect to consider.

2. What is your budget?

Much like question number one, this is top of the list and will rule out many venue options.

3. What is included in the price?

Some venues give you a price and for that, you get an empty shell and are required to bring in everything from tables and chairs to cutlery and glassware. However, many venues offer a “package” of sorts and with their hire fee comes their selection of furniture, cutlery, crockery, glassware and so on. Sometimes what they have to offer isn’t quite what you want in terms of look and feel, so it’s up to you to decide what your budget is and what you would like this to cover. It’s also not a bad idea to see what their staff situation is – do they have experienced waiters and barmen who are going to contribute to a stress-free day?

4. How many hours does the fee cover?

Many brides and grooms don’t ask this question when looking at venue options. This is an important aspect to consider as it influences your suppliers and when they are able to set up and strike.

5. How far is the venue?

What is the proximity of the venue to the majority of your guests and will distance be a deterrent for them in attending your wedding? Some guests don’t mind going out of town and are happy to make a weekend out of it but for some, this may not be an option for several reasons so this is something to consider.

There are many other aspects to think about when venue shopping and these differ from couple to couple. The list above is just a few you should be asking your venues.

Don’t fret over planning your wedding. Our skilled wedding planners are available to assist you with every aspect of the process. We can help you select the ideal venue, furniture, and décor, and provide guidance throughout the planning journey. With our support, you can unwind and relish your big day, confident that everything has been expertly handled. Contact us today to commence planning your perfect wedding!