It’s worthwhile writing out a list of questions to ask the coordinator when you meet with him/her initially. Here is a list of possible questions- simply select the ones appropriate to your venue.
- How many guests does your venue cater for?
- Do you have more than one wedding per day?
- Is there a reduction on mid-week weddings?
- What decorations/ flowers are provided in the venue?
- Until what time do we have use of the venue?
- Is a bar extension available? If so, what time can we have it until?
- Are there room hire costs?
- Is it possible to have a marquee on the grounds?
- Is there a charge for this?
- Can we have an on-site ceremony at your venue?
- Is there a wedding rate for guest accommodation?
- Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
- What time is check-in/check-out?
- How many rooms can we hold for the bridal party and guests?
- Do you provide catering? / Can we bring in our own caterers?
- Do you offer a free menu tasting?
- Is there a corkage charge?
- Do you charge on how many bottles are ordered or what is poured at the meal?
- What reception options are available, eg buffet meal.
- Do you cater for special dietary requirements/ children?
- Do we have to order a minimum amount of courses?
- Where are canapes/ arrival drinks served? How much are these?
- Can we bring in our own cake?
- Do you supply a cake stand and knife?
- By what time do you need final guest numbers for meal afters?
- What time is the evening meal served?
- What time do you serve the afters food?
- Can our videographer/photographer/musicians get bar food?
- What time can the DJ/band set up at?
- Where will the DJ/band play?
- What time do afters guests arrive at?
- Until what time can evening entertainment continue?
- Can we play music during the meal?
- Where is the residents’ bar?
- Until what time is the residents’ bar open?
- Do you have a list of recommended entertainment?
- Do you require us to leave the room to allow staff to re-organise the room for the evening reception, and if so, do you have a room to facilitate us while this takes place?
- How much is the deposit to hold the venue?
- When does the deposit need to be paid?
- Will I receive a written contract?
- How is payment accepted? Credit card, cash, bank draft etc.
- Who will be the manager on the day?
- Will the staff set up the tables?
- How will the tables be decorated?
- Where is the table plan displayed?
- How is seating arranged? (round/ long tables, top tables)
- How many guests can be seated at each table?
- Do you provide high chairs for babies?
- Do you provide menus and place cards?
- By what time should we deliver wine, favours, table plan, place names etc to the hotel?
- Can we make changes to the layout/decoration of the room?
- Do you have a choice of crockery, cutlery, linen, glassware?
- Is there an extra charge for the having a choice of starer/mains/dessest?
- What percentage of the bill must be paid before and after the meal?
