What to Ask During Your First Venue Tour
Touring wedding venues is one of the most exciting parts of planning your wedding, but it can also feel overwhelming. From historic landmarks and waterfront spaces to modern lofts and grand ballrooms, the Philly area has no shortage of stunning options.
As a Philadelphia based wedding planner, I have seen couples fall in love with a space only to realize later they did not ask the right questions upfront. To help you feel confident and avoid surprises, here are the most important questions to ask during your first venue tour.
1. What Dates Are Available?
Before you picture your ceremony on that exact Saturday in May, confirm availability. Be sure to ask if your preferred date and/or season are available. If not, what dates in your preferred year are still open on their calendar.
2. What Is the Rain Back Up Plan?
Make sure to ask what their rain/weather back up plan is and when a decision would need to be made by, the week of your wedding, should inclement weather arise. Philadelphia area weather can be unpredictable, so knowing the indoor/back up option and whether it is equally beautiful is key.
3. What Is Included in the Venue Rental?
Every wedding venue is different. Some are all inclusive, while others are truly a blank slate.
Ask if the rental includes tables, chairs, linens, or lighting. Find out if there are getting ready spaces on site and how many hours the rental covers for setup, the event, and breakdown.
Understanding what is included helps you compare venues accurately and avoid hidden costs.
4. Are There Vendor Restrictions?
This is a big one. Some venues require you to use in house or preferred caterers, approved planners or coordinators, or specific rental or bar services.
If you already have vendors in mind or want flexibility, ask if you can bring in your own vendors and whether a preferred vendor list is required.
As a planner, I help couples navigate these rules so everything flows smoothly.
5. What Are the Guest Count Limits/minimums?
Venues often have different capacities limits. Ask what the maximum guest count is, if there is a minimum, and how the layout changes with different guest counts.
This ensures the space feels full and intentional, not cramped or empty.
6. What Are the Noise and Time Restrictions?
Some venues are often located in residential or historic areas. Because of this, restrictions are common.
Ask what time the music needs to end, whether there are sound limitations, and what time vendors must load out.
Knowing this early helps you plan the flow of your reception without last minute stress.
7. Is There Parking or Transportation Nearby?
Parking in some areas, especially city locations, can be tricky, especially for out of town guests.
Ask if there is on site parking or valet, nearby garages, and whether the venue is accessible for shuttles or ride shares.
This detail can significantly impact your guest experience.
8. What Are the Payment Terms and Cancellation Policies?
Before you leave the tour, make sure you understand the total cost, payment schedule, required deposits, and cancellation or rescheduling policies.
Having clarity here protects you and helps you budget confidently.
9. Can I See a Wedding Set Up Like Mine?
Photos are helpful, but seeing real examples is even better.
Ask if you can see photos and floor plan layouts of weddings with a similar guest count or style and whether the venue has hosted weddings like yours before.
This helps you envision how the space will truly feel on your wedding day.
Why Having a Wedding Planner Matters
Venue tours are exciting, but they are also strategic. A seasoned wedding planner knows what questions to ask, what red flags to spot, and how to help you choose a venue that fits your vision, your style and your logistics.
Ready to Tour Wedding Venues With Confidence?
If you are newly engaged or feeling overwhelmed by venue options, I would love to help. From narrowing down the perfect wedding venue to guiding you through tours and contracts, I am here every step of the way. Let’s Connect!
<3 Naticia
