15 Questions to Ask Before Booking a Wedding Venue

Venue contracts are often the largest single payment of the wedding. These questions help you avoid surprises.

1. What is the seating and floating capacity of each space?
2. Is the per-plate rate inclusive of taxes and service charges?
3. What is the minimum guarantee (number of plates) and what happens if fewer guests come?
4. Can we bring our own caterer or decorator? Is there a fee for it?
5. Is alcohol allowed, and is there a corkage charge?
6. What time must music stop, and what are the overtime charges?
7. Are havan or fire rituals allowed indoors or outdoors?
8. How many changing rooms are there, and are they air-conditioned?
9. How many cars can park, and is valet included?
10. Is there full power backup for lights, AC and sound?
11. How many guest rooms are available, and at what rate?
12. Which other events are booked on the same day?
13. What is the advance amount and the payment schedule?
14. What is the cancellation and date-change policy?
15. What is the backup plan for rain at outdoor spaces?

Get every answer in writing, ideally in the contract. You can compare up to four venues side by side with our comparison tool.