So you’ve done your research, checked the websites and received the wedding brochures now its time to visit the potential venues for your wedding reception.
On site visits are very important. A venue can look very different in real life when compared to website photos. The pictures may have been taken a long time ago or at a lavish wedding reception. If you can’t visit the venue
ask their wedding coordinator to Skype you for a video tour, this can be a very good alternative to a site visit.
Being at the venue however does give you a real feel for the location. You will be able to sense the character and atmosphere in the setting straight away. Try to arrange your visit when the venue is having a wedding. This makes it easier to see what it might look and feel like on your big day. It also allows you to check out how other couples have decorated the room with flowers, favours and so on. You might get some really good ideas for your own reception!
Before you go to the venue, have a list of questions ready and written down. Don’t assume anything – ASK! Look for full details of what is included and what’s not. Remember each extra item that you have to provide costs money.
Here are some questions to ask:
• Is your chosen wedding date available?
• Do they have a wedding coordinator? Will he/she be there on the day of the wedding?
• Do they have a license to hold civil ceremonies at your venue?
• Are there any renovations planned before your wedding date?
• Is there air conditioning in the room?
• Are there facilities for children – playground, separate room to watch a DVD?
• Have they a PA system for speeches & how good is it?
• Can you bring in your own wine/champagne & what are the charges?
• How much is the deposit?
• What are the refund and cancellation policies?
• Where is the smoking area located?
• Does your venue have in-house caterers or can you bring in your own?
• What areas can be used for photographs both indoors and outdoors?
• What time does the bar close and music finish?
• Does the venue provide floral arrangements on each table? Is this arrangement likely to change before your wedding?
• Are there any restrictions with respect to decorating the venue?
• What type and amount of accommodation is available?
• Does the venue have minimum number requirements?
Bring your camera with you. Take plenty of pictures. If you visit six venues in one day it can be difficult to remember every detail. Bring a notepad and pen (or iPad for the tech savvy), with you & keep notes as you go along, making sure you list the pros and cons for each venue before you leave the car park.
Once you are at the venue check the capacity of the function rooms available. Pay attention to the size and layout of the room. Will it hold your guests comfortably and will guests be able to see the top table? This is very important especially if you are having a smaller wedding. Is there room for the band to setup before the reception?
The décor of the function room can also vary depending on the time of year you book. For instance at Christmas the venue may have Christmas trees and garlands up or use red table linen instead of white. If these colours are what you are looking for then this will work in your favour and actually save you money on additional décor. On the other hand it can dictate your wedding theme and colours to you.
Once you’ve booked your chosen venue make sure you get all the details discussed in writing, this should include any special offers or complimentary extras promised. Keep in mind that the staff may have changed since your last visit to the wedding venue so you want to make certain that everything you agreed with the initial contact person is delivered.
Images from:
PRCFI
