Wedding venues

The venue matches your ideal wedding style. As you visit more wedding venues you'll gain a better understanding of what you're looking for. Do you envision yourself celebrating your wedding there? Sometimes it's as subtle as a feeling, so listen to your heart.

Ample room for all your guests. You'll find that most venues have a minimum and/or maximum capacity. This is the deal breaker for many couples, so it should be one of your first questions once you have an idea of your guest list size.

Book well in advance. Most venues are booked a year in advance, so as soon as you have an idea of the size of your guest list, it's time to start visiting venues. You should also ask how long can they hold your date before you make a decision.

Make your visit count. Prepare a list of your most pressing questions. Prioritise your needs and your wants. Take notes regarding the spaces, personnel, parking, etc. Be sure to keep your guest's needs in mind, such as wheelchair access and spaces for children.

Check the menu. It's important that your venue offers a menu to your liking. You may want to ask whether you can bring your own caterer. Once you've found your catering, you'll want to ask about special menus to cater for your guests special diets or allergies.

Civil or religious weddings? Your wedding venue will need a wedding licence if you plan on celebrating your ceremony and reception at the same place. Think of the type of wedding you want in advance so that you can narrow your search.

Extras without surprise costs. Be sure to request a detailed summary of all the possible extras you'd be interested in, whether it's more time on the dance floor or a fee for bringing your own suppliers. Also keep in mind any last minute changes.

What are the payment conditions? Be clear on what the upfront fees are, such as reservation fees or any extras, fixed and variable costs. Then confirm what payment methods are available. Knowing these details will help you avoid unwanted surprises.

Point of contact. Speaking of surprises, it's a good idea to know who you can turn to for any last minute changes, questions, or needs. Ask who would be your go-to person on the day of your wedding to ensure everything runs smooth as silk.

Accommodation is a bonus. Ask the venue if they offer accommodation or if they can recommend nearby hotels for you and your guests. Once you choose your venue, don't forget to find your fabulous suite where you'll spend your wedding night together.