Whether you are getting married, are turning 40 or it’s time for your son’s bar mitzvah, choosing the perfect venue can be a difficult task.
Here are some pointers, to make it easier for you to find the venue you will love:
1. Visit several event venues in person
If you see the venues in person, you know what you are getting. Or perhaps your event planner can visit them for you. Make sure to bring a camera and take some videos/pics. What do the bathrooms look like? Is there a kitchen that can be used? Do you need to bring paper towels, soap? Every venue is different. What about the layout and the acoustics? Does it have AC?
2. What’s included in the rental?
Some venues include everything, others add on items like chairs, tables, linen, and cutlery. Make sure to ask a lot of questions to make sure you don’t go over budget. On top of if all, the venues have to add on taxes, cleaning fees, security, etc.
3.Check the contract carefully
Ask for a final price before you sign the contract. Otherwise you might get a shock later. Don’t forget to talk about cancellation fees. Read the contract carefully, so you are aware of what’s included and your obligations. Don’t be afraid to ask questions if you don’t understand the legal lingo. To avoid extra fees, make sure that you don’t stay longer than agreed upon. Allow yourself extra time to decorate, load, walk with carts, etc.
4. What about parking?
Parking is an issue that is usually forgotten. Some venues are located in strip malls with very limited parking. Others are in a remote location and if it rains it will be muddy. Ask in detail how the parking will be resolved. Valet? Will that cost extra?
5. Listen to your intuition
What does your gut tell you? Is the venue clean, how does it smell, and how are you being treated by the staff? Are they getting back to you in a timely manner and answering your questions clearly and properly? You want to have a wonderful time at your event, without having to worry about venue details.