Top 10 things to think about before booking your wedding venue...

Planning a wedding is one of the most exciting times for couples but with so many options available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Asking the right questions during your venue search can make all the difference. Here are the top 10 questions every couple should ask their wedding venue before signing on the dotted line!

1. What dates are available?

Unless there is a real need to get married on a particular day, we would always advise approaching this with an open mind.. Whilst it’s helpful to have an idea of the year and season before you visit, there are so many options nowadays with many venues, like Wyresdale Park, offering wedding dates each day of the week - meaning your perfect wedding can be aligned with holidays, key guest requirements and most importantly your budget.  

2. What is the venue capacity?

Ensure the venue can accommodate your guest list comfortably. Some venues offer increased capacity for evening guests which can be helpful if you have a big guest list but want to restrict your day numbers. Remember also that at the beginning of your wedding journey your numbers are still being discussed, so choosing a venue that has flexibility is important!

3. What are the packages and pricing options?

Understanding what’s included in the venue’s packages can help you budget more effectively. Being clear on what is included in the price is imperative from the get-go so you know exactly what extras you may or may not want to include. Wyresdale Park for example offers a choice of booking the venue only or adding on a supplier package making it easy for couples to plan their day with clarity and confidence.

4. Are there any restrictions?

Most venues will insist on some restrictions surrounding additional decor, noise levels, and  alcohol. These are in place to ensure that all weddings run smoothly so whilst there might be a few dos and don’ts, try to think of the bigger picture and your entire wedding experience. Ask your venue about what restrictions there might be and they should be able to reassure you as to the reasons and any impact (if any) they might have on your day.

5. What is the cancellation policy?

Life happens, and sometimes plans change. Be sure to review your venue’s terms and conditions before booking but most importantly arrange wedding insurance as this will also cover things like your honeymoon and suppliers.

6. Do you have preferred vendors?

It is a really useful starting point to ask your venue which vendors they would recommend as this is an almost guaranteed way to ensure that the companies you book for hair & make-up, photobooths, photography and the like are reliable. Wyresdale Park work with a trusted family of suppliers who are familiar with the venue and this can often mean that you secure the best rate.

7. What does the venue provide vs. what do we need to arrange?

Each venue should include the absolute basics such as tables and chairs but as each wedding venue is unique, many will offer much more than this. So before you start trawling wedding decor sites, double check with the wedding team at your chosen venue as this will help you focus on the finer details and ensure you stay within budget.

8. Is there on-site accommodation?

Choosing a venue that offers accommodation on-site is a huge bonus for your guests - whether they live further afield or are a taxi-ride away.  The ease of being able to walk to your bedroom as the party ends is heaven-sent!  It also means your nearest and dearest will be on site the next morning to enjoy breakfast all together.

9. What is the back-up plan for bad weather?

Bad weather does not have to mean all of your wedding plans are ruined!  Some of the most beautiful weddings we have seen at Wyresdale Park have fallen on less-than-perfect weather days.  The important thing is to acknowledge that even with the most careful date planning, we cannot predict the weather so choosing a venue that works well for all scenarios is a must. Thoughtfully designed indoor spaces are as important as those stunning outdoor ceremony gardens.

10. What does the venue look like at different times of the year?

In an ideal world your venue will offer unique photo opportunities all year round so ask to see galleries of weddings held in different seasons!

By asking these questions, you’ll be well on your way to finding a venue that aligns perfectly with your vision!