Wedding Venue Checklist

First of all, congratulations on your engagement! Usually, finding your wedding venue is one of the first items couples like to check off of their list.

Before you begin reaching out to venues, make sure you have a complete guest list (not just an approximation!), a discussion with everyone on who will be contributing to the overall budget, and decide who will be the main “decision makers” for your wedding planning.

Below is a comprehensive list of questions to fill out as you are searching for your perfect wedding venue. Enjoy.

Name of the Venue: 

Phone Number: 

Address: 

Website: 

Contact Person: 

Email:

Optional- Distance from ceremony venue:

The Venue

• Capacity for Ceremony Guests

• Capacity for Reception Guests

• Is there sufficient parking?

• Is there handicap access?

• Is confetti, sparklers, fog machine allowed?

• Is there room for a band or DJ?

• What all is included with the room rental- tables, chairs, linens?

• Is there a dance floor provided?

• Are there any evening noise restrictions?

• Are fireworks permitted?

• Is there a PA system for speeches?

• Does the venue have General Liability Insurance?

• Is there a secure room to store wedding decor until you can collect the next day?

Accommodation

• Is there a room available for the bride and groom to use on the day?

• If rooms are available for overnight accommodation, then how many?

• Costs for overnight accommodation?

• Is breakfast included?

• What time is checkout the following day?

• Can rooms be reserved for guests to book?

• If no accommodation at the venue, can they recommend hotels or nearby B’n’B’s to use?

Catering Checklist

• Do they offer in-house catering? If not, do they have any recommendations?

• Do you have exmaple menus and prices?

• Does the venue provide equipment i.e. tables, chairs, linen, plates, glassware etc.?

• Can you supply a cake stand and knife if required?

• Do you have an alcohol license and what time can you offer alcohol until?

• Does the venue insist on supplying the wine and champagne?

• If applicable- What do they charge for corkage fee?

• What time does the reception need to end by?

Costs

• What are the various options and costs for the venue? Room rental fee(s), food and beverage minimums, etc.

• What is the cancellation policy?

• How much is the deposit to secure the date and when is it due?

• How much is the final balance and when is it due?

• Are there any other inquires for the wedding date?

Photography courtesy of Taylor Parker Photography