INquire with us
In a perfect world, wedding venue tours provide the information you need. There’s no chance for missed questions, details, and confusion. I’m guessing the reason why you’re here is because we’re not in a perfect world, huh? Dang it.
Luckily, I’ll definitely tell you my top 5 questions to ask at wedding venue tours!
This is part 4 of my wedding venue series where I break down the different types and give you tools you can use today. If you need to catch up, we’ve talked about:
- All-inclusive wedding venues
- Partially-inclusive wedding venues
- Open vendor wedding venues
- 5 Questions to Ask at Wedding Venue Tours
You’ve made it to the right spot if you’re looking for that last hit to your wedding venue guide.
Let’s start off with covering an aspect that varies between wedding venues. Remember to click back through the posts above if you need a refresher!
Photo by: SWAK Photography at The Barn at Sycamore Farms
1. Do you have a venue coordinator or a venue staff on site during my wedding?
You can combine this question with the follow-up of: “How are they involved in my day?” If they provide a staff member, you’re paying for that person to be there to provide a value to your day. Wedding venue staff are there keep a watchful eye of rules and directing vendors to the correct spot. Other spaces will advertise a wedding venue coordinator.
But watch out!
Wedding venue coordinators are not the same as your planner or wedding coordinator! These two roles are different, and it’s always important to know what the wedding venue provides. Wedding venue coordinators act in the interest of the wedding venue. A wedding planner works for you and your wedding goals.
In my services here at Philocalist Designs, I make a clear distinction that my focus is on the couple. Here’s what I do that wedding venue coordinators often miss:
- Confirm all details with vendors 30+ days out
- Build your wedding day timeline
- Complete a photo list and timeline with your photographer for the day
- Ensure your timeline runs to plan
- Packs personal items at the end of the night
- …and much more!
Want to chat details on the differences between my services and your wedding venue?? Let’s schedule a call HERE!
Photo by: Hannah Obremskey Photography at Noelle Nashville
2. Are we allowed to hire in more lighting features or fixtures?
A great wedding venue will have the lighting that you need as a good basis. This will include dimming lights or a feature lighting fixture in the wedding venue. Sometimes this aspect is up to the couple or they might desire an extra feature! String lights or extra chandeliers are popular choices for couples.
Due to power restrictions on some wedding venues, this might not be possible. You need to know before you book!
Wedding venues may restrict which vendors are able to work in the space for these services. Knowing the limitations before you make the big financial decision in is priceless.
3. What is your bar and glassware policy?
Okay, so the bar question— pretty simple. It’s pretty standard that a wedding venue has some rules or guidelines about how this works for them.
You’ll need to clarify which vendor is providing the service, even if you’re allowed to have BYO. We talked all about beverage services in the partially-inclusive wedding venue blog. Wedding venues might feel better providing the bar service in-house.
Also asking about glassware restrictions is important. Wedding venues may allow all glassware or they may only allow plastic on the dance floor.
Wedding venues might not allow certain items due to a routine safety issue, or it might be easier for the staff. When a wedding venue hosts 2-3 weddings a weekend, they have to focus on turning the space around.
I’ve encountered wedding venues that do not allow glass beer bottles, glass bar ware, or any glass elements in the space. Glass is not an easy thing to clean!
If you’re looking for a chic cocktail hour (with no plastic cups in sight), make sure you know the details.
Photo by: Hannah Obremskey Photography at Noelle Nashville
4. What is your parking capacity and security measure?
Even if you provide transportation or have an open bar, there’s always a few people who wish to drive instead. The location of the closest parking and loading zones make a huge difference to your event.
For some of my couples, the parking situation at wedding venues can make or break the final commitment.
Security might not be top priority for your event, but it’s best to know if someone is ready for the unexpected. Your wedding planner will prepare for this, but it’s important to have extra hands on site.
Many wedding venues close to a downtown region may have this service included. As a planner, I always recommend having the proper personnel nearby. Getting your guests the help they need if a medical emergency happens is key!
5. Do you need insurance from all wedding vendors and the couple getting married?
You should want the answer to be a big YES!
A wedding venue that requires and checks insurance from vendors is on the right path. They know the meaning of the investment you’re making into your wedding day! By requiring insurance, they’re helping safeguard your experience and event.
Some couples who are on a budget find the extra task and cost of getting insurance for their event annoying. I’m here to say that wedding venues that don’t encourage you to get insurance might not have your best interest at heart.
I walk my couples through the process of wedding and event insurance. They always say, “That was easier and cheaper than I thought!” At the end of the day, you’re spending thousands of dollars on the event. You should protect your investment!
Most great wedding venues require insurance, which is a relief for you.
(Pro tip: Also make sure you clarify if you have to buy insurance from a specific broker!)
Photo by: Joshua Corey Photo at The Cordelle
Don’t be afraid to ask questions at your wedding venue tours!
I’ve talked to so many couples who are timid during the wedding process and aren’t sure what questions to ask. Remember that most people planning a wedding have never done it before! It’s very normal to have questions.
When I worked for a few wedding venues in Nashville (that I still plan wedding at often!), I would always say in my tour that any questions are welcome. Sending a big list was more than okay!
Clarifying elements of the rental or features is always encouraged. The more clarity you have about what you’re purchasing, the more peace of mind you’ll have.
Having a wedding planner on your side and at wedding venue tours can also be a huge benefit. Your planner is going to know your vision and how the wedding venue fits. They’ll know all the perfect questions to ask and what details are being left out.
Wedding planners commit to understanding everything about the wedding venue you’ve booked. Like many, I’ve done the research, and I’ve asked these same questions on my tours.
Because of this, I have long lists of reliable wedding venues and wedding vendors!
Have you gotten my free Nashville wedding venue list yet?
This is one of my most popular freebie items for my local brides starting out on their wedding venue journey (and my Wedding Cost Estimator!).
I’ve broken out the Nashville wedding venues into three categories. You’ll see a section for all-inclusive wedding venues, partially-inclusive wedding venues, and open vendor wedding venues. You can snag that HERE!
Photo by: Peter Newsom Photography at Homestead Manor
