When it comes to arranging your big day, searching for the perfect wedding venue is an exciting process. Before you book your dream wedding venue, there are a few key questions that need to be considered. Here Country House Wedding Venues reveal some of the questions you should ask to check it really is the right venue for you…
Is VAT included?
When budgeting for the venue, this cost can often get forgotten. It’s important that you find this out before calculating the expense as leaving this out could lead to blowing your budget.
Top tip
Ask the venue to list what’s included in the package and if you can pay in installments.
How many people can it seat?
Once you know your guest numbers, ask the venue how many people can be seated for dining. This is not something you want to find out after sending out your invitations.
Top tip
Ask if tables and chairs are included – some venues may include an extra charge for this, or require you to provide your own.
Is there an extra charge if you use your own caterers?
Some venues will charge an extra fee to use your own caterers. Be sure to look into this before committing. Many venues have excellent in-house caterers who have been chosen to complement the surroundings.
Top tip
Ask if you can try the food before choosing your wedding menu.
Does the catering quote include staffing costs?
Another hidden expense that could skew your budget is the cost of staffing your event. Hiring a cheaper venue or catering company may seem to be saving you money, but often these extra charges will add up. Make sure you find out before booking if waiting staff, bar people and clean-up fees are all included, it could save you a nasty shock in the long run.
Top Tip
Budget for evening food so as not to leave your guests hungry.
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Is the fee for the civil ceremony included?
Licensed wedding venues can offer their own services in-house. Be sure to check whether this means extra cost if you are thinking of making use of it.
Top tip
If you want to hold your ceremony outside, ask your venue if this is possible first and if there is a back-up plan if it rains.
Will I be required to decorate?
Choosing a lower priced venue may mean you have to decorate it yourself; hiring chair covers, hanging bunting, choosing table linen and lighting all costs extra money, time and effort.
Top tip
If you want a firework display, ask the venue if this is possible before committing to a supplier. Some venues will not allow fireworks out of consideration to surrounding livestock.
Late license fees?
Many venues have a set finish time that cannot be extended and venues that do offer a later finish charge an extra fee. It’s worth considering whether you really want to extend the day. As tempting as it sounds, after a long day, when many people may have travelled a long way, a midnight finish is usually a good time to end, before things begin to get messy!
Top tip
Check what time music must finish and when the bar closes. These tend to be slightly earlier than the finish time to ensure a smooth, gradual departure.
If you’re looking for your dream wedding venue, our Wedding Venues section has everything you need to decide on your perfect location.
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