Venue Hunt - The Interview

To make sure you don't overlook anything, we've come up with a list for you to take along when you set out on the venue hunt.

Imagine your DJ is setting up just before the wedding, only to find out to his and your horror that the venue doesn't have any outlets...time to bring out the acoustic guitar, tambourine and triangle!

The last thing you want is to choose a venue that is missing one or more key features you need or want. So here's a set of questions, of which the answers will determine whether the place suits your requirements. Many of the questions can be answered beforehand - by checking their profile page in theBIGstep Directory, browsing their website or giving them a ring. Others can only be answered once you're there.

Remember too - these venues will know heaps of wedding businesses. As the host, they'll know who works well with who, who is professional and who isn't, etc. Don't hesitate to ask them for suggestions on anything from florists and bands to caterers and wedding planners.

Details
1.    Is the venue available on the day you have in mind?
2.    Do they allow more than one wedding in one day? In one weekend?
3.     Is the venue clearly marked and easy to find?
4.    Can you provide a list of photographic locations in the area or in and around the venue?
5.    What attractions is the venue close to, if you are looking at places in another city or town?
6.    How many guests does the venue hold? Is there a different number that can be accommodated depending on the catering option (Seated vs. Cocktail)?
7.    Do they offer special wedding packages?
8.    What is the cost breakdown for venue hire and use?
9.    How much and by when will we need to put down a deposit to secure the venue on the date requested?
10.    Will you supply a written contract?
11.    What is the cancellation policy?
12.    Do they have a star rating (Qualmark or self-rated)? 
13.    Do you have a weather contingency plan?
14.    When are we able to access the venue to set up for the wedding? The day before? The morning of? What about the DJ or band?
15.    Are you comfortable with the caterer, photographer and/or videographer visiting the venue prior to the day?
Amenities
16.    Is there ample parking for guests?
17.    Do they offer transport or a special shuttle service for guests?
18.    Is there valet parking?
19.    Is the venue handicapped accessible?
20.    Is the venue accessible by helicopter?
21.    Is the venue accessible by car or bus?
22.    Do you have outdoor space available?
23.    Do you allow marquees to be set up onsite?
24.    Can we have candles lit in the venue? Ceremony room? Reception room? Etc?
25.    Do you have children's facilities on-site? If not, is there a room that could be used as a crèche?
26.    Do you have a babysitting service?
27.    Are there separate rooms or areas for the different stages of the evening? Are there separate rooms provided for the wedding, canapés, reception, dancing, etc?
28.    Are there rooms in which the bride and groom can each get ready with their bridal party?
29.    Is there somewhere quiet where our older guests can "escape to" during the later stages of the evening?
30.    Is there a secure area or room in which we can store wedding gifts?
The Ceremony
31.    Can the venue accommodate a ceremony?
32.    Are the guests allowed to throw confetti at the venue?
33.    Do you supply any decorations?
The Reception
34.    Can the venue accommodate a reception?
35.    Is linen provided?
36.    Are staff provided for the event?
37.    Is there a PA system available?
38.    How many outlets do you have and where are they located?
39.    Is there a dance floor, or do we need to hire one?
40.    How are the acoustics? Do you find that certain bands (i.e. jazz band or rock band) echo?
41.    What time does the reception have to end?
Catering
42.    Do you allow outside caterers?
43.    If not, do you have a selection of menus we can choose from? Can we design our own menu with the chef?
44.    Are you BYO? If so, what is your corkage fee?
45.    If you are not BYO, can we choose the alcohol provided?
46.    How late is your alcohol licence?
47.    Do we need to bring our own cake stand and knife?
Accommodation
48.    Is there guest accommodation onsite?
49.    If so, how many rooms are available and what are the rates?
50.    Is there a bridal suite? If so, is the price for the wedding night included in the venue hire?
51.    Is breakfast included?
52.    If there is no accommodation available onsite, can you suggest or do you have a relationship with local hotels etc?
Other Events
53.    Can the venue accommodate Hens or Stag Parties?
54.    Can the venue accommodate an Engagement Party?
55.    Can the venue accommodate a Bridal Shower?
56.    Can the venue accommodate a Rehearsal Dinner?