Venue viewing questions part I - Mode - Luxury Wedding Planner + Stylist

Let’s face it… viewing wedding venues can be daunting AF! Regardless of the fact that there is a wide variety of stunning properties to choose from, you don’t even know what you should be looking for, or asking them, to make a well-informed decision. There are many things you need to keep in mind when wanting to have a wedding at a venue, space or even at home.

Enter MODE. I’ve made a list of questions (in two parts ’cause it is lengthy!) that will help you tackle this wedding task head on and end up with the perfect fit for you as a couple and the experience you want to give your guests.

Firstly, before making any bookings to view venues, check that the price range and guest capacity can accommodate your needs. You don’t want to waste your time (or the venues) by finding out in the first 5 minutes that you can’t afford the space, or it won’t be able to fit your guests.

THINGS TO CONSIDER

WHAT’S YOUR VIBE?

This is a crucial part of starting your wedding planning journey. When you know what sort of atmosphere you are after, you can narrow down your list significantly. Whether you like modern architecture, the Italian countryside, or rustic barn vibes, there is a venue that will cater to your styling palette.

WHAT IS YOUR GUEST COUNT?

If you plan on having a large crowd, then you know you’d need to eliminate any intimate venues that won’t be able to cater to your needs. On the flip side, if you want a micro wedding of 20 guests you can fling the doors open to include restaurants, boutique hotels or even your own back yard.

HOW FAR WILL YOU GO?

Don’t torture yourself by viewing wedding venues online that are out of you driving distance range you set for yourselves. Consider that it will cost your guests a little more to attend than usual. Travel costs, toll gates, accommodation and dinner will all add onto their bill. The same goes for suppliers you may want to use!

QUESTIONS FOR THE VENUE

What do you charge for our number of guests?

Some venues will have a set cost no matter the guest count, and others will break it up if they have different spaces available for different number of guests, with various package options. Always go to the viewing with a number in mind so you can fully view the spaces that are available to you. And remember to only go view if you know they can cater for you and your budget.

What are the extra costs involved over and above venue hire?

Venues may have offerings available that will be an extra charge. This may be on site accommodation, entertainment, or activities that you may want to include in your package.

What happens during load shedding?

Oy vey, the dreaded load shedding schedule. Make sure your venue can keep running things when that Eskom switch is flipped, and what can’t be run on their system either, just so you know what to expect. And, also ask if they do charge to make use of the generator.

What, if anything, is compulsory for us to make use of at your venue?

Many venues like to have control over who they allow to provide a service at their premises. Make sure you know if they do have these conditions or if you are allowed to bring in your own service providers.

What do you provide in terms of external suppliers?

This could be services such as DJ’s or catering and even florals and décor services. Check if you have to make use of them, and if so, are they to your taste and styling palette.

Do you charge a fee for any external supplier I may want to make use of?

Certain venues like to do most things in-house, so they may be strict on not allowing other to come in. But do check if they do, and if there are any charges applicable to that.

What is your maximum capacity and what do the layout options look like for our number of guests?

In the past few years, couples have wanted to do things a little differently when it comes to the wedding experience with their guests. They do not necessarily want to sit at separate tables or traditional layouts. Make sure the venue can accommodate your desires, whether it is individual tables, long family style tables or even bistro style seating.

Do you run more than one wedding at a time?

This could be the make or break for you if you are sharing spaces with other wedding parties. Check out the areas carefully and know which areas are for you to use during your wedding celebration.