You’ll remember the setting of your wedding forever. It’ll be the backdrop of your photographs, the place where your friends and family come together, and the spot where you finally say “I do”.
The venue is one of the biggest decisions you’ll have to make on your wedding journey. At Manor on High, we’re serious about weddings, and we want to make sure yours takes place in the perfect space.
To make the most informed decision and avoid unexpected challenges, you’ll need to know a lot of information. If you’re wondering what questions to ask your wedding venue, we’ve got you covered.
Venue Availability and Booking
There’s nothing worse than falling in love with a venue, and then discovering it’s not available. When you first inquire about a venue, confirm whether your desired date is free. Understanding the availability from the start is one of the top questions to ask before booking a wedding venue.
It’s also helpful to know how far in advance the venue accepts bookings and whether there is any flexibility with dates. Be sure to ask about deposit requirements, the booking timeline and what the cancellation or rescheduling policies are. Once you’ve got a venue locked in, a wedding planning app can help you keep track of all the details.
Venue Capacity and Layout
You’ll need a space that accommodates all of your loved ones. Most venues offer different areas for ceremonies, cocktail hours and receptions, and it’s good to know how many guests can comfortably fit into each space:
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Wedding Venue for 200 Guests:
For many who’re celebrating, a venue capable of hosting up to 200 guests is often part and parcel – allowing for breathing space for any last minute services on hire or invites to send out.
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Wedding Venue for 300 Guests:
For those beginning to accommodate guests in other significant areas of their lives, larger venues can be the way to go. Extended families of both parties, partners and plus ones are often front of mind for many couples here.
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Wedding Venue for 400 Guests and More:
Celebrations that account for broader members in the invite peripheral are where large wedding venues start coming into play; hosting for VIP’s or those of significance, their accompanying friends and family, and other attached peoples can mean a need for venues that can both play host to vendors and entertainers as well as accommodate a sizeable guest list.
Inquire about how the venue is typically set up for weddings. Having access to a floor plan can help you visualise the flow of your day and let you start planning your seating chart.
One of the most important questions to ask when touring a wedding venue is if the layout can be customised to fit your vision, such as with long banquet tables, lounge areas or dance floors. Additionally, knowing whether the venue offers a bridal suite or private preparation area can make a big difference in your wedding day experience.
Pricing and Payment
Wedding venue prices vary, so one of the best questions to ask a wedding venue is about budget. Ask for a detailed breakdown of what is included in the hire fee. Some venues include tables, chairs, linen and basic styling elements, while others may charge extra.
It’s also worth asking if the venue offers packages and what’s included. Knowing when payments are due, what percentage is required upfront, and what happens in the event of a cancellation or date change will help you manage your money effectively.
Start Planning Your Dream Wedding Today
Explore our stunning spaces, packages, and unforgettable experiences. Book a private tour and discover everything Manor on High has to offer.
Catering and beverages
One of the most important questions to ask a wedding venue is whether catering is provided in-house or if you’re allowed to bring in external vendors.
If catering is included, inquire about menu options, dietary restrictions and if you can do a tasting before making your selection. For beverages, you’ll want to know if the venue offers all inclusive wedding packages, if BYO alcohol is allowed and whether corkage fees apply.
Décor and Styling
Make sure you understand what the venue allows in terms of personalisation. Ask if styling elements are included with the hire, such as lighting, centrepieces or backdrops. Also, check whether there are any restrictions on items like open flames, installations or confetti.
Consider whether the venue’s natural aesthetic aligns with your wedding vision. Whether you’re drawn to the timeless elegance of Manor on High’s Grand Ballroom, the intimate glamour of the Regency Room or the fairytale opulence of a setting like the Georgian Room, the space needs to reflect your taste.
Start Planning Your Dream Wedding Today
Explore our stunning spaces, packages, and unforgettable experiences. Book a private tour and discover everything Manor on High has to offer.
Start Planning Your Dream Wedding Today
Explore our stunning spaces, packages, and unforgettable experiences. Book a private tour and discover everything Manor on High has to offer.
Logistics and Accessibility
One of the questions to ask a wedding reception venue is about parking, including whether there is free or valet parking on-site. If many of your guests are from out of town, find out if the venue is easy to access and whether transport options are available.
Ensure the venue is accessible for guests with mobility needs. Questions about on-site facilities such as restrooms, cloakrooms and storage for gifts or valuables are also worth asking.
Entertainment and Noise Restrictions
The atmosphere of your wedding hinges on the music. Some venues have restrictions on live music or noise curfews at night, so ask what’s permitted.
Figure out if the venue has a sound system or whether you’ll need to find one on your own for any DJs or live bands you’re looking to hire.
Weather Contingency Plans
If you’re planning an outdoor wedding ceremony, make sure the venue has a clear back up plan in case of bad weather. This is one of the most necessary questions to ask a wedding reception venue for off-season weddings.
Some venues provide marquees or tents for outdoor weddings, so inquire about whether these are available and if there are additional costs.
Vendor Policies
Some venues require you to use their preferred list of suppliers, while others allow you to bring in your own vendors. Find out what flexibility you have and whether external vendors need to provide insurance or licensing.
It’s also helpful to ask who will manage vendor coordination on the day and whether that support is included in the venue hire.
Accommodation Options
If you have out-of-town guests coming, ask the venue about accommodation. Certain venues offer on-site accommodation, while others have partnerships with nearby hotels that offer special rates or transportation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical deposit amount and when is it due?
At Manor on High, we require a deposit to secure your booking, however the amount will vary depending on the package you book and the details of your event. Reach out to our team by phone or online to find out more.
Can we bring our own alcohol, and is there a corkage fee?
Manor on High is fully licensed to serve beer, wine and hard alcohol, but we also allow you to bring your own. Any fees will be included in your package.
What is the venue’s policy on noise restrictions and curfews?
Manor on High welcomes live bands, DJs and entertainment, however we have a midnight curfew for loud noise. Outer doors may also need to be kept closed from 9pm onwards if the volume is deemed too high by our staff.
Are there any additional fees we should be aware of?
At Manor on High, we take pride in offering our happy couples all inclusive package pricing. The only additional fees are for anything outside of your package including external suppliers.
