Post # 1

Member
278 posts
Helper bee
Hi all,
We are looking at our first venue this Saturday!! I have no idea what to expect or things to look for. Any advice regarding questions to be sure to ask (besides the basic money questions). Thanks ladies!
Post # 3

Member
430 posts
Helper bee
Check to see if they offer: tables/chairs/linnens/bartenders/ etc.
See if you can: bring in your own booze/caterer/cake/linnens/ etc.
You’d be surprised at some places who don’t include much or the opposite where they don’t let you bring anything in.
Post # 4

Member
2335 posts
Buzzing bee
Ask how many guests their space accommodates.
Also ask if they will provide you with a day-of coordinator.
In addition to the tables/linens a PP mentioned, ask about place settings. Also ask about any decor they provide- our venue gave us round mirrors and two votives free for each table.
Ask if their staff does the setup/breakdown.
Post # 5

Member
278 posts
Helper bee
Thanks ladies! These are great. I know that they do the catering and bar tending, which means we can’t bring in our own alcohol which I know saves money! I love the venue though! It’s an old church from 1910 that was converted into a restaurant and now a wedding facility. It’s a registered historic landmark which Fiance and I both love. History is a common interest for both of us.
Post # 6

Member
6210 posts
Bee Keeper
- Wedding: August 2013 - The Liberty House
Since it’s a historic venue, ask if there are any restrictions on guest attire or decorations. A lot of them prohibit stilettos and any kind of decor attached to the walls.
Also ask if all their rooms are available for your use, or if they do multiple events at one time. Some venues will show you separate spaces for reception, cocktail hour, photos, and ceremony, but then you have to pay extra to guarantee that all those spaces are available for your use, instead of having a birthday party, etc in a smaller room next door.
Post # 7

Member
477 posts
Helper bee
Ask if they allow open flame – some places don’t allow any sort of candle.
Other than than, I think the previous posters covered it.
Post # 8

Member
1221 posts
Bumble bee
- Wedding: September 2013 - Franklin Plaza
@Krpink: I made a worksheet /chart that I used to compare venues and it has what I considered all of the ‘important’ questions on it. If you’d like I can message you the link to it on my blog.