Top 5 Essential Questions to Ask When Touring Your Wedding Venue
- Brittany Little
- Aug 14
- 5 min read
Choosing the perfect wedding venue sets the tone for your entire celebration. Touring potential venues can feel overwhelming, especially when you want to make sure every detail fits your vision and needs. Asking the right questions during your visit helps you avoid surprises and ensures the venue supports your dream wedding. Here are the top five questions to ask on your venue tour to make your decision easier and more informed.
🤍What Is Included in the Rental Fee?
Understanding what the rental fee covers is crucial. Some venues offer an all-inclusive package, while others charge separately for tables, chairs, linens, and even setup and cleanup. Ask for a detailed list of what is included and what costs extra. This helps you budget accurately and avoid unexpected expenses.
The Booking House's answers to these questions are in blue☺️
Does the fee include tables, chairs, and linens? Yes! All of our furniture in our inventory is included with the venue rental. Upgraded farmhouse tables available to rent, but not necessary!
Are setup and cleanup services part of the rental? Furniture set up is included! Although decor set up is not managed by our included venue hosts, our day-of wedding coordinator is available to add-on to manage your set up & tear down of your personal decor, among other things they will take care for you!
Is there a minimum or maximum number of guests allowed? No minimum guest count! Just a maximum of 250 guests.
Are there any additional fees for overtime or extended hours? If you would like to extend your event timeframe longer than 5.5 hours (ceremony, cocktail hour, & reception) or arrive to begin hair & makeup earlier than the included 10am arrival time, there are options to add on additional time!
Knowing these details upfront lets you compare venues fairly and plan your budget with confidence.
📋What Are the Venue’s Policies on Vendors?
Many couples want to bring in their own vendors for catering, photography, or entertainment. Some venues require you to use their preferred vendors, while others allow you to choose freely. Clarify the venue’s policies to avoid conflicts later.
Can you use your own caterer, or must you choose from a list? We have a list of 10 approved & vetted full service wedding caterers, ranging in food styles & price ranged (typically $45-$120 per plate).
Are there restrictions on outside vendors like DJs or florists? Nope! You are welcome to work with your choice of DJ, photographer, florist, etc. If researching vendors is overwhelming to you, start by browsing our local preferred vendors list :)
Does the venue provide in-house catering or bar services? We offer add-on in-house bartending services (required for alcohol to be served at your event)! With our experienced team, all you need to do is provide the beer, wine, & liquor to serve and we will handle the rest!
Are there any vendor insurance or licensing requirements? Professional & insured coordinators, caterers, DJs/bands, photographers, & florists are required with an up-to-date COI.
If you have specific vendors in mind, make sure the venue supports your choices or offers alternatives that meet your standards.
☀️How Does the Venue Handle Weather Contingencies?
If you’re planning an outdoor wedding, weather can be unpredictable. Ask how the venue manages rain or extreme heat to keep your day comfortable and stress-free.
Is there an indoor backup space available? We're an indoor venue, with an open-air ceremony space option if you want an outdoor feel, so no backup plan required :)
How much notice is required to switch to the backup plan? N/A
Are tents or coverings provided or allowed? N/A
Does the venue have heating or cooling options for outdoor areas? The entire indoor venue is climate controlled (even our open-air space has A/C if the windows are closed!).
Knowing the backup plan helps you feel secure that your wedding will go smoothly, rain or shine.
⏰What Are the Venue’s Rules and Restrictions?
Every venue has its own set of rules that can affect your wedding plans. Understanding these early helps you avoid surprises and plan accordingly.
Are there noise restrictions or curfews? Our local noise ordinance is 11pm, so your event must end by 11pm (only exception would be a New Year's Eve wedding).
Can you decorate freely, or are there limitations? You are welcome to bring in your own decorations! Any decor that requires use of a ladder to install/tear down, must be done by a licensed & insured vendor (florist or event design company).
Are open flames, sparklers, or confetti allowed? Real candles are permitted to be used in the venue, however they must be displayed in a glass container, vase, or lantern. No real candles are permitted to be lit along the aisle in the ceremony spaces. Use of confetti is not permitted due to the nature of our original wooden plank floors.
Is parking available for guests, and is it free or paid? Yes! We have a parking lot across the street from the venue with about 85 spots. Free street parking is also available for overflow. Parking attendants are included to direct your guests upon arrival.
These rules can impact your ceremony, reception, and guest experience, so make sure they align with your vision.
🥰How Is the Venue Staff Support on the Wedding Day?
The venue staff plays a big role in how smoothly your wedding runs. Ask about the level of support you can expect on the day.
Will there be a dedicated coordinator or point person? Venue hosts are always included with your event rental during your entire day. They are dedicated to ensuring you, your vendors, and guests get in & out of the venue safely, help operate elevators/lifts, adjust room temps, restock restrooms, etc. A dedicated wedding coordinator in-house is available to be added on with the coordinating service.
How many staff members will be present during the event? 1-2 venue hosts on-site throughout the day and 1-2 parking attendants (dependent on guest count).
Do they assist with setup, breakdown, and troubleshooting? They will manage any furniture/room re-sets if needed and troubleshoot or assist vendors & guests upon arrival with directions to the spaces. If hired through us, your dedicated wedding coordinator will manage setup & tear down of your personal decor.
What is the protocol if something goes wrong? Your coordinator is the main problem solver. Our venue hosts are available to assist our coordinator & vendors as needed, should an unexpected issue arise. We want you to enjoy your day, so if an issue comes up, we're most likely handling it without you ever knowing ;)
Having a responsive and experienced team on site can reduce your stress and help your celebration flow effortlessly.
Touring wedding venues with these questions in mind will give you a clearer picture of what to expect and help you choose a place that fits your needs perfectly. Take notes during your visits and compare answers to find the venue that feels right for your special day. Your wedding venue should not only look beautiful but also support your plans and provide peace of mind.
Start your venue search with confidence by asking these essential questions. Your perfect wedding day begins with the right foundation! Ready to get a sneak peek of our venue tour? Follow the link here for a virtual tour of The Booking House✨
Like what you see and want to schedule an in-person tour? Select a tour time here from our online tour scheduler!📆
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