Before you consider booking a wedding venue, you should ask several important questions to ensure you make the right decision.

Your wedding day is one of the most important days of your life, and choosing the right wedding venue is crucial. This blog will discuss the top 10 questions to ask your wedding venue before booking. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to our team at Ma Maison!

1. What is the availability of the venue?

The first and most important question is whether the venue is available on your desired date. It is essential to book your wedding venue as soon as possible to avoid disappointment. Ask the venue if they have any other events scheduled on your chosen date, as this could affect the availability of the venue.

One key detail to understand when it comes to availability at venues is pricing. For many venues, pricing can vary depending on the season and day of the week. For example, you might find that the venue is more affordable for a Friday night or Sunday night. For our pricing here at Ma Maison, you can inquire here.

2. What is the capacity of the venue?

Another critical question is to ask about the venue’s capacity. You need to ensure that the venue can comfortably accommodate your guests without feeling overcrowded. Ask the venue about the maximum number of guests they can accommodate and if they have any restrictions on numbers.

Think about how much space you need for your ceremony and for your reception. Some venues, like ours, have separate spaces for these parts of the wedding, but at some venues, you may need to flip the space in between the ceremony and reception.

3. What is included in the venue rental?

It is important to ask the venue what is included in the rental price. Some venues may charge extra for tables, chairs, linens, or catering equipment. Make sure you understand what is included in the rental price and if there are any additional fees or charges.

Pro tip: if you’re looking at several venues, create a list of your favorites and total up the cost of each one, including those details like tables, chairs, and linens. Be sure to include any fees that the venue might have mentioned, such as additional hours, or fees to access an extra space. Once you can see a comparison at a high level, that will help you to make your final decision!

4. What catering options are available?

Food is a crucial part of any wedding, and you must ensure the venue can provide the catering options you want. Ask the venue what catering options they offer and if they have any restrictions on outside catering. You should also ask about the cost per person and any additional charges.

5. What is the parking situation?

The parking situation at your wedding venue can be a significant consideration for your guests. Ask the venue about the parking situation, including the number of spaces available, the cost of parking, and if there are any alternative transportation options.

You’ll want to make sure that you communicate these details to your guests, whether it’s on your invitations or your wedding website. They’ll need to plan accordingly, especially if parking is unavailable or limited.

6. What is the venue’s rain plan?

If you are planning an outdoor wedding, you must have a rain plan. We promise, this really isn’t a negotiable! Ask the venue about their rain plan, including where the ceremony and reception will be held if it rains. Make sure you are comfortable with their plan before booking.

If the venue does have an indoor space, you’ll want to think about how the layout of the ceremony and reception might change. You may have to have a back-up plan for details like your rentals, decor, and dance floor.

7. What is the venue’s alcohol policy?

Alcohol is a major part of many weddings, and you must ensure that the venue’s alcohol policy meets your needs. Ask the venue if they have a liquor license and if they provide bartenders. You should also ask about the cost of alcohol and if there are any restrictions on outside alcohol.

Some venues will even put limits on specific types of alcohol. For example, some venues will allow you to host with wine and beer, but not hard alcohol. There may also be a cut-off time for alcohol. And, some venues may require that you provide extra insurance if you choose to have alcohol at your wedding.

8. What is the venue’s noise policy?

The noise level at your wedding venue can have a big impact on the overall atmosphere of your wedding. If you want a wedding that goes well into the night, you’ll want to be sure that there’s not an early cut-off time! But, if you don’t care too much about going late into the night, then you might be ok with an earlier cut-off time.

Ask the venue about their noise policy, including any restrictions on music or amplified sound. You should also ask about any noise restrictions in the surrounding area.

Some venues have cut-off times for music, such as 10pm. Cut-off times can greatly affect your timeline, as well as how long you’ll need to book your vendors for, like your DJ or band, wedding coordinator, and photographer or videographer team. They’ll also affect when and where you can do an exit, such as a sparkler or bubbles send-off.

Contact us to get details about our noise policy!

9. What is the Venue’s Refund Policy?

It is important to understand the venue’s refund policy if something unexpected happens. Ask the venue about their refund policy, including the cancellation policy, deposit requirements, and any fees or charges associated with canceling.

Will you get a partial refund, or no refund? Should the worst case scenario happen and you have to postpone last minute due to weather, sickness, or another emergency, what are the refund or postponement policies? These details are important to know.

10. What is the Venue’s Accessibility?

Finally, you need to consider the accessibility of the venue for all of your guests. Ask the venue about their accessibility, including any accommodations for guests with disabilities. You should also ask about the availability of restrooms and any other amenities.

You’ll also want to consider how far your guests will need to travel to get to your venue. See the above note about parking to make sure that all your guests are able to drive. Before booking your wedding venue, you’ll want to have an idea of how far you’re asking your guests to travel, and what forms of transportation they’ll need to use.

Choosing the right wedding venue is crucial to ensuring your wedding day is everything you dreamed of. Before you book your venue, ask these important questions to ensure you are making the right decision. By asking these questions, you can ensure your wedding day is everything you hoped it would be.

Discover the magic of Ma Maison, one of the most stunning wedding venues in Austin. Your dream wedding will come to life with our breathtaking grounds and exceptional service. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to make your big day unforgettable – contact us now to book your venue!