Wedding Planning Tips: Questions to Ask Before Signing a Wedding Venue Contract

Looking for wedding venues is not an easy task. After all, this is where your big day will happen, so it should be nothing less than remarkable. There is so much to factor in, including (but certainly not limited to) the aesthetic appeal, location, services, and the price.

As such, having a deep understanding of what you are presented with can help you in finalising your decisions. Though you might be sure of the venue and date you’ve chosen, it’s important to make sure that you and your partner are confident with all details – and that this venue is right for you – before you officially sign the dotted line.

In this article, we discuss some of the important questions you should ask before signing your wedding venue contract.

Will the space be enough?

Depending on the guest size, you want to choose a venue that can comfortably accommodate all your guests with ease. You don’t want to choose a venue where it’s a tight squeeze, where tables are congested, and guests have the backs of their chairs touching.

Before finalising a venue, inquire about its maximum capacity, to ensure it can comfortably accommodate your expected guest count. If the venue’s space is insufficient or presents any limitations, you may need to reconsider your options or reduce your guest list to make it suitable for the chosen location.

What is the decoration policy?

If you are planning to decorate your wedding venue, make sure to ask the coordinator if they have any decoration policies in place.

If available, bring some pictures and sketches of your decorations as an example of what you have planned so they know what to expect.

If you really want to kit the venue out with lavish decor, you might have to speak to the venue to find out if this is possible, as some decor might need to be set-up in advance.

Are there any noise restrictions?

As much as you might want to dance the night away, you must check if the venue permits it first. Some establishments in the city or with overnight rooms tend to limit the time for events, though country clubs are often okay with this.

Are fireworks allowed?

If you’re considering fireworks for your wedding, it’s essential to verify their legality and feasibility at your chosen venue. Some venues may have restrictions or outright prohibitions on fireworks due to safety concerns or local regulations.

To avoid potential disappointments, confirm the venue’s policies on fireworks before finalising your plans.

If fireworks aren’t allowed, don’t worry! Check out our list of wedding entertainment ideas for some fantastic alternatives!

Do you have on-site parking for guests?

Inquire about the venue’s parking facilities, including the cost and any restrictions. If the venue doesn’t have sufficient parking, explore alternative options such as nearby parking garages or valet services.

Additionally, consider transportation options for guests who may need assistance, such as shuttle services or designated pick-up and drop-off areas.

What is the cancellation policy?

Inquire about any cancellation fees that may apply and the circumstances under which refunds may be granted. This information will help you plan for potential contingencies and protect your financial investment.

What are the insurance requirements?

Some wedding venues may require you to provide event insurance coverage as a condition of booking. This insurance can protect you from financial losses in case of unforeseen events, such as inclement weather, accidents, or damage to the venue.

Inquire about the venue’s insurance requirements and obtain the necessary coverage if needed.

What amenities do they offer?

Ask if they offer disabled accessibility, special parking, security, or any other miscellaneous rentals that could be useful to you.

It will also be good to know how flexible they are with their catering and bar services, so you can tick off another detail on your wedding planning list.

What is the total cost?

Calculate the total cost and arrange the terms of payment. Enquire whether extra fees will be charged if the wedding exceeds the allotted time frame. By knowing all these details, you can avoid running into hidden costs or surprise charges.

Read more: How to Choose the Perfect Wedding Venue in Nottingham

Choose The Nottinghamshire as your Nottingham wedding venue

The Nottinghamshire offers an elegant venue for your wedding day. Our professional team of wedding planners are committed to deliver an outstanding service that will help you achieve your heart’s desires.

Enquire today or download our brochure, your journey to the perfect wedding begins here!