Good questions to ask venues

How long you have the space for, how many visits they allow prior to the wedding, if they allow rehearsals, policy for vendors (exclusive or bring your own), alcohol policy, also if they have any restrictions on throwing things (flower petals, rice, confetti) or using sparklers!

The biggest thing we ran into was end times (when we had to be out by, some were like 10:00pm), alcohol policy (the place we chose requires a security guard to be onsite while any alcohol is consumed so mimosas while we get ready are out), and inclusion within the package. Our venue has some decor but I cannot for the life of me remember what all they have now. Take pictures so you can go back and look. Also ask about the parking situation. People will be drinking so find out if they are able to pick their vehicle up the next day. Last thing is the table set up. We'll be having around 200 people and went to a venue that had a max capacity of 200. That being said, this was with tables covering the entire space. There was no dance floor. Ask to see pictures of real weddings with similar guest counts so you know whether it's actually idea for your party

How long is your rental for? What time to what time?

Do they have an in house coordinator?

If so, what are the coordinator's duties?

Do they have preferred vendors?

If so, are you required to use those vendors?

Are you allowed to bring in your own alcohol?

How much is the deposit?

What is the cancellation/date change policy?

Are you allowed to toss flower petals or confetti?

What about sparklers?

Can you have candles/open flame?

Are there noise ordinance restrictions?

Can you rehearse on site?