You’ve read the basics and you have the answers you need - but what if you are choosing to have your wedding ceremony at your venue (as opposed to at a church or other location)? Here are the questions to ask your venue to make sure it’s right for the ceremony that you have envisioned…
8 QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR VENUE ABOUT THE CEREMONY
1. Can we get married outside?
The big question for a lot of couples, and something that is becoming a lot more popular in the UK - weather permitting. The rules have been changed in the last couple of years, and any venue that is licensed to host weddings can now host them outside without being under a built structure. So, the question is - do they have the outdoor space? And is this something that’s important for you.
We all know that the UK weather can be unpredictable, so speak to your venue about the decision on the day to get married inside or outside and always have a back-up plan. Most venues won’t leave the decision with you on the day, and the ultimate decision will remain with them and the registrar.
2. Is confetti allowed?
Not all wedding venues allow confetti, and some have restrictions about the type of confetti used - many only allowing natural confetti. Make sure you tell your guests of any restrictions, especially those of the older generations as it is traditional for people to bring their own confetti to use on the day. Most couples do now provide confetti on the day to make sure they get that killer shot.
3. Are there any restrictions with decorations we are allowed?
Most venues allow you to be creative with your ceremony decorations and will appreciate new ideas that they can showcase to future couples. But if you’re thinking of something extravagant then put your suppliers in touch with you venue so they can discuss what may and what may not be possible.
One big question to ask here is about naked flames which aren’t permitted by many venues due to insurance and risk of fire hazards.
4. Is there a plan for changing over the room from the ceremony to the wedding breakfast/reception room/dance floor?
Will the ceremony space be used later in the day for another part of your wedding? What is the plan for the changeover? You don’t want this to be clunky and you want to make sure there is a space for your guests when this happens away from the set-up. Are there people on-site that will make sure this is done, or will the bridal party need to support. All important questions to make sure everything runs smoothly on the day.
5. Are there restrictions on the time that the ceremony starts?
Venues will have loads of experience on the best timings for the ceremony starting and then subsequently the plan for the rest of the day. Are you looking for something that is less traditional? Then make sure your venue offers this - as some may be rigid in terms of their timings. How flexible can they be?
6. Is there a sound system (whether you’re getting married inside or outside)?
You want to make sure your guests can hear you, right? If you are outside or in a large ceremony room - is there a microphone and speaker system?
7. Can we play our own music? Can we have a musician as part of our ceremony?
Who controls the music if you want to play specific songs? Does someone at the venue manage this or do you need to delegate in your wedding party and ask them to play the music. If so, how do they connect to the sound system (if there is one!).
Alternatively, you may want live music during your ceremony - perhaps a acoustic guitarist or harpist. Is this possible? Where can they set up? Do they need to bring their own sound system or equipment?
8. Can pets attend and be part of our ceremony?
Dogs at weddings are becoming more popular, and more and more venues are allowing dogs to attend. If you have dreamed of your dog walking down the aisle with you, or perhaps as a ring bearer, then make sure you get your answer to this question.
Before bringing your dog to your wedding, think about who will be responsible for them. Do you want one of your guests to have that responsibility on the day? There are now more and more companies for dog chaperones at weddings who bring them for your ceremony and for the pictures and then take them away and look after them while you enjoy the rest of your day.
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