1. Space
What’s your guest count and what kind of activities are you going to be doing? Does a large ballroom suit your needs? Do you need something small and intimate?
2. Kitchen
A full kitchen is ideal for any caterer you may hire. When you tour your venue ensure they have industrial refrigerators, enough storage for supplies, prep area and ovens.
3. Rentals//Inclusions
What does your venue come with? Do you need to source your own chairs, tables?
4. Preferred or Required Vendors?
Most venues have a preferred vendors list filled with people they love working with, however, some venues have a required list where they will ONLY work with a set range of people. This is an important question to ask before you sign on the dotted line because it can alter the final product of your wedding.
5. Photography Restrictions
Ensure any restrictions on areas for your venue are clearly communicated so you can relay them to both your photographer and guests
6. Clean Up Time
Is this included in your rental or is this outside of the rental time period? This can cut down on your reception, so ask up front!
7. Parking
What types of parking is available? Typically country weddings have ample parking but cities can be tricky! Most venues can offer great advice when it comes to accommodating your guests and travel.
8. Discounts//Bundles
If you book at a hotel or bed & breakfast, often times you and your wedding party will receive discounts on rooms for the wedding. See what specials you can get for yourself and guest by booking at the venue!
9. Wedding Insurance
Does your wedding venue require you carry your own insurance? This is important to have the day of because often the venue rep will request your paper work before they let you into the venue for the day
10. Weather Contingency
What happens if it rains? Here in the PNW it’s super important to have this plan B because we never know what could happen!
WHEW! Lots of things to think about, here are my favorite venues in the Seattle area, give the a try 😉
11. BONUS
Where does the light fall during your ceremony? Are you or your loved one going to be blinded by sunlight while saying your vows? Where the sun will be will be a great indicator of what time to have your ceremony at…don’t forget about this one! It’ll also contribute to the quality of your photos 🙂
Here are a few of my favorite wedding venues, check ’em out!
