So you’ve just got engaged – congratulations!

You’ve told your family and friends, posted the ring selfie, and the question on everyone’s lips is ‘When and where are you getting married?’

Choosing the right venue for you, is on the top of everyone list. It’s a decision you need to get right. It’s just like dating, you need to kiss a few frogs (by visiting lots of venues) before you choose your prince 😉

There are a lot of things to consider when choosing the right venue. Being leading wedding specialists, we’ve listed a few key questions to note and ask your venue that we feel are essential to look out for.

Narrow down your search


You’ve stalked the Instagram pages; you’ve requested a brochure and now it’s time to book the viewing.

We recommend narrowing your venue down to your top 3. That way you can sit back, and compare quotes, venue pros and cons and make that all important decision.

Some people say when you know, you know. You’ll be able to imagine yourself walking down the aisle, having photos in the grounds, and enjoying the day with family and friends.

If you can’t wait for your favourite venues next open day why not check if they offer Virtual Tours?

What’s included in your package?

When comparing wedding venues, make sure you compare what’s included in your package. Some venues may offer a signature dĂ©cor package as standard, which will save you around ÂŁ2,000 should you need to hire this yourself elsewhere.

Check if things such as chairs, chair covers, cake stand, centrepieces and cutlery and crockery is included. If not, these things add up, so it’s worth noting down.

Are there any hidden costs?

Make sure all costs are clearly highlighted before signing any terms and conditions. You might think you’ve had a good deal, but you might be stung with chair hire charges later down the line.

Always make sure your venue is transparent with their charges, and ensure each quote is like for like.

(The Gorgeous entrance to Oldwalls Gower – what’s the drive to your favourite venue like?)

The location


Is your venue in a beautiful location, in a beautiful part of the world? What are the surrounding areas like? What photo opportunities are there in and around the area?

Just a few questions to consider when picking your destination wedding venue.

(These photos were taking down Rhosilli Bay. Just a 20 minute drive from Oldwalls Gower and Fairyhill)

Ceremony area


Have you considered having the ceremony at the venue? If so, could you imagine yourself walking down the aisle?

(Outdoor ceremony area at Oldwalls Gower)

(Outdoor ceremony area at Fairyhill)

Does your venue offer an indoor and outdoor space for your ceremony and if so, what is this space like? Can it sit all your guests comfortably? Is the area picture perfect for those all-important ‘I do’ photographs?

Oh, so many questions


Accommodation


Many guests will need to arrange accommodation for the night of or even before your wedding day. Especially if they’re travelling some distance.

Check if your venue has plenty of onsite accommodation that can cater to your guests’ numbers, and if you do need more rooms, ask if they have a recommended list of local accommodation.

(Honeymoon suite at Oldwalls Gower)

(Honeymoon suite at Sant Ffraed House)

It’s also worth noting if they offer breakfast the next morning. It’s a nice touch for all your family and friends to gather once more to discuss the antics from the night before over a full cooked breaky!

Food glorious food


This must be THE most important part, right?!

Here’s a few ‘food for thought’ questions to consider


  • What type of food does your venue offer? Ask for a menu.
  • Does your venue have an inhouse catering team that specialises in restaurant quality food?
  • Does your venue offer a food tasting evening?
  • Do they offer any upgrade options? i.e a bespoke menu which you can create with the chef perhaps
  • What evening food do they offer? Ask for a menu.

The staff


You can always tell the level of service you’re going to receive from the very first hello.

How were the staff presented? Did they give you a warm welcome when you first visited the venue? Were the team attentive to you wedding needs?

Nobody wants to get married where the staff are rude – no thank you!

Does your venue offer a wedding coordinator?

Not to be confused with a wedding planner, a coordinator is there to help coordinate the day. They’ll be on hand to help with any questions related to the running order of the day and any questions you have about the venue itself.

(Meet the wedding team manager of Sant Ffraed House, Greg)

Does your venue accommodate a DJ or live band?

If you’re ready to dust off the dancing shoes, then this is one question to add to the list. Some venues may have limited space or noise restrictions that could prevent you from hosting a DJ or live music.

It’s also worth asking if they have a PA system, this is a big bonus if they do and your band will love you!

Does your venue offer payment plans?

This is a huge help when budgeting. Ask if they offer different types of monthly affordable plans.

It’s also worth asking if they offer an early payment credit too; you could save some £££s here.

Finally


Always, always get wedding insurance!

If you’d like to book in for a private or virtual tour at one of our exclusive wedding venues in South Wales, you can get in touch with the team here.

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