Early in the wedding planning process, most couples start to look at wedding reception venues. Visiting venues can be a lot of fun, but asking the right questions is even more important. Knowing which questions to ask makes the process more efficient.
What dates are available?
When you're selecting the date for your wedding, you'll have to make many choices. Even once you know the season and the month, picking an actual date can be complicated.
Obviously, weekends fill up fast. They're also more expensive. If you're determined to have your wedding on a weekend, you may need to consider a wider range of possible dates than if you're trying to have your wedding on a weekday. If you're on a tight budget, stick to the weekdays, and get married in an off-season, like late fall or winter.
Ask each venue which dates they currently have available in your desired time frame. To make a note of which dates are available at each venue, you may need to create a chart.
How many people will the venue accommodate?
You probably already know whether you want to have a small intimate wedding, or a big exciting party. Don't judge the space by the number of seats you see; ask how many people the space can hold. A good wedding venue will often have ways of accommodating small and large groups, and may even be able to convert spaces from small to large.
What are your weather contingency plans?
If you're planning to have an outdoor wedding , a weather contingency plan is a must-have. An outdoor wedding can go south quickly during a rain storm or an unexpected cold snap. Your wedding venue should have contingency plans for all weather types, including shade and water for hot days, shelter for snowy or rainy days and warmth for cold days. Every venue will handle these problems in different ways, so ask your venue what they do specifically for their guests.
What are the catering options?
Some venues have a caterer and will not allow couples to use outside caterers. Other venues don't have caterers, and couples are required to use their own. Some venues provide a middle ground, giving couples the choice between on-site and off-site catering. Find out what each venue requires. Don't forget that if you're planning to use your own caterer, they may need to use the on-site kitchen services, so you'll need to ask whether or not this is allowed. If you're required to use the on-site caterer , be sure to get samples of their food in advance when you're viewing the grounds!
Couples must also keep in mind that the cake and catering are separate charges. The venue may require the couple to use a cake made on-site or off-site, or may allow the couple to purchase a cake from an outside business.
Will there be an on-site coordinator?
An onsite coordinator is an extremely valuable resource during a reception. Some venues will offer on-site coordination, others will not. Knowing which sites provide a coordinator, and how much a coordinator costs, can help couples when making their decision.
Contact Bella Sera
At Bella Sera, we help couples plan memorable and joyful wedding receptions. If you're planning a wedding in the Pittsburgh area, we invite you to tour our site and sample the food. Contact us today to make an appointment.
Book your special event and let the authentic Italian flavors of Bella Sera make your special occasion one to remember.
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