Searching for your dream wedding venue is one of the most thrilling parts of wedding planning, as you get to tour beautiful spaces while visualizing all your loved ones celebrating together. However, finding an appropriate space may prove tricky if you’re on a tight budget; so we have put together some key questions you should ask any potential venue hire to ensure an accurate quote and reduce unexpected fees.

1. What Does the Venue Fee Encomprise? A venue fee covers everything from basic overhead costs and space usage fees, tables and chairs rental, venue staff to ensure everything runs smoothly on your special day, to venue staff to ensure everything runs seamlessly for you on that special day. Venue fees typically range anywhere from $0 (typically at hotels/resorts that factor it into their food/drink costs) up to several thousands of dollars for events held outside traditional wedding venues.

2. What number of guests can the venue accommodate? You’ll want to ensure there is enough space for all your guests, plus a dance floor and extra seating if necessary. A cramped space may make mingling difficult; therefore it may be worth asking the venue if there are pictures or a floor plan so you can preview what the room will look like on your big day.

3. Are There Outdoor Areas? To create the most picturesque setting for your special event, venues with outdoor areas may provide extra charm and atmosphere to the ceremony and reception. Guests will also appreciate having space to unwind as the sun goes down while sipping beverages and snacking outdoors!

4. Does the venue include AV equipment and rigging? You’ll require a quality sound system so your guests can hear speeches clearly during speeches and night-time dancing, so checking if a venue includes PA system, AV technicians, and rigging as part of its rental price could save money by eliminating separate rentals of such items.

5. What Is Included in My Rental Timeframe? Most venues will provide an allotted window for setting up and taking down, however it’s still best to double-check with them to make sure it will suit your timeline. Also it would be wise to inquire whether there are any restrictions such as marquees or large structures which might need to be brought in for consideration.

6. Does They Allow Live Music? Are You hoping for an intimate string quartet or quirky gypsy jazz band at your venue, only to discover they don’t have the license necessary for amplified music due to noise pollution or upset neighbours? Unfortunately this restriction could prove disappointing!

Consider whether there is any flexibility in the venue’s final package offering; perhaps you could negotiate for a lower package or break down its cost to specific elements for an overall better quote.