Most wedding vendor problems come from things nobody asked about until the contract was signed. Take these questions to every wedding venue you meet, compare the answers side by side, and get the important ones written into the contract.
When to book: couples usually book wedding and event venues about 10–14 months ahead, earlier for peak-season Saturdays (May–June and September–October).
The Questions
- Is our date available, and how long can you hold it before a deposit?
- What is the total cost for our guest count, including service charges, taxes and gratuity?
- What is the maximum capacity for a seated dinner, and with a dance floor?
- How many hours are included, and what does each extra hour cost?
- Do we have to use your caterer, bar or vendor list? Is there a fee for outside vendors?
- What is included: tables, chairs, linens, place settings, lighting, sound?
- Is there a rain plan for outdoor areas, and when do we have to decide?
- Is there a getting-ready room for each side of the wedding party?
- What are the noise, decoration, candle and confetti rules?
- What time can vendors arrive for setup, and when must everything be cleared?
- Is there on-site parking, and is the venue accessible for guests with limited mobility?
- What is the cancellation and postponement policy, and do you require event insurance?
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Tips
- Visit at the same time of day as your wedding to see the light.
- Ask for the total "all-in" price; service charges of 18–24% plus tax are common and not always shown up front.
- Friday, Sunday and off-season dates are often cheaper.
Before You Sign
- Get the date, start and end times, exact services, total price and payment schedule in writing.
- Read the cancellation, postponement and refund terms.
- Check that the business name on the contract matches the one you researched.
- Pay deposits by credit card where possible, for buyer protection.