How to choose your wedding venue: Questions to ask

The reception hall is a major expense in your wedding budget but it also embodies the spirit of your big day. Indeed, whether you have opted for a Moroccan or Turkish themed wedding, your venue must suit your vision, your dream and your budget. However, it is important not to forget that beyond the appearance of your venue there are other essential points. So here are some tips and tricks to help you choose that unique venue.

The capacity

One of the most important aspects to consider when choosing your reception hall is of course its size. Your venue should be able to accommodate all your guests without them feeling cramped or lost. A room that is too large can create an unpleasant feeling of emptiness.

For a sit-down dinner, you generally need 1m² per person. This means that for 100 guests you will need a minimum of 100 m². But don't panic! The owners of the venue are usually able to give you more precise estimates of the capacity of their rooms.

Don't neglect your dance floor either. In order for your guests to be able to let off steam with music without too much jostling, you will need about 1m² for 2 to 3 people.

Finally, make sure that there is enough parking available for all your guests. If the venue does not have enough, you will have to solve this problem yourself, which is often not easy.

Questions :

• How many people can the room hold (seated, standing)
• Is there a car park available? If so, what is its capacity?
• Is there enough space for a dance floor?

The price

This is probably one of the most difficult questions you'll have to ask the owner, the one we hate to ask: the price.

The prices of reception halls are extremely variable and for good reason, not all halls offer the same services (catering, accommodation...). Before you start, it is important to know what budget you want to allocate to this item so as not to get into debt or have to sacrifice other things.

Beware of options that can quickly add up. Corkage, hall staff, electricity and tablecloths are not always included in the rental price. To avoid unpleasant surprises, make sure you know in detail what you will be charged.

Questions :

• How much does it cost to rent?
• What is included in this price (furniture, crockery, catering?)
• What is optional?
• Do you have a corkage fee?
• Is the installation of the tables included in the price?
• How much does it cost for the room staff, the servers?
• What types of payment do you accept?
• Do I have to pay a deposit or the full amount when booking?

Duration

Not all venues have the same opening hours. Some venues allow brides and grooms to come the day before to drop off equipment or decorate, others only open their doors on the day and some others close the evening at midnight. It is therefore essential to check with the venue owner.

Questions :

• Is it possible to come the day before to put down certain elements or decorate?
• What time can we arrive on site on the day?
• At what time should the room be vacated?
• Are there any extra costs if we go over time?

Exclusivity

If you choose to get married in a venue that is open to the public, such as a chateau, it is important to address the issue of exclusivity. Indeed, some estates do not close their doors to visitors during weddings. This means that there is a risk of unfamiliar faces passing by your venue. Others host several weddings at the same time on the grounds. So to avoid confusion, talk to the owner.

Questions :

• Will we have exclusive use of the premises?
• Will there be other weddings or events on the same day? If so, will we have to share rooms?
• Will the venue be open to the public at my wedding?

The restrictions

Some venues do not allow decorations to be hung from the ceiling, others do not allow dance parties or candles. Make sure you don't suffer from these limitations by asking the manager the right questions.

Questions :

• Can we decorate the room freely (decorations on the ceiling, walls, etc.)?
• Are there any restrictions on photos and videos?
• Are there any limitations on the loudness of the sound for music?
• Do you allow the release of flying lanterns or fireworks?
• Can confetti be used in the hall and outside?
• Do we have to work with imposed providers (caterer, DJ...)