Call ahead to plan a tour.
Visit more than one site.
Bring a small notebook with you to jot down some
of your questions.
Some questions you should be asking on your
initial contact include how many guests can they accommodate?
Many all inclusive halls charge per person
attending the wedding. Decide on your budget ahead of time and know the approximate number
of guests to expect so that you can determine if they fall within your price range.
If their prices are all inclusive what does this
include?
Many places may charge extra fees for such things
as cake cutting, corking, service staff, gratuity, meal tax etc. If these are not included
in the initial price find out how much extra it will be. Make sure your final contract has
all hidden costs included.
If they do not provide catering services can they
recommend a caterer to you?
Ask for references or know someone who was
satisfied with their wedding at the site you choose.
Determine the amount of time you are allowed to
have the facility for and get it in writing.
Will there be a wedding before or after
yours?
Will the time of your wedding determine the
amount you are paying for the hall? Saturday evening prices are usually the most costly.
Do they offer a special site or room to have
formal pictures taken?
Do they offer a complimentary honeymoon suite for
the bride and groom?
How much of a down payment is required?
When is the final payment due and by what date do
they require a final count?
Do you feel comfortable and pampered by the
service they have given you or are you just a number? Do not allow yourself to be pushed
into making a decision right away "because they're almost booked".
Is it possible for you to stop by and visit
another wedding to get a feel for their staff in action before you make a decision?
Some facilities will require you to have a police
officer on hand, determine ahead of time who is responsible for this cost and the amount
of time you will be required to have them present for.
Most importantly make sure you get
everything they have promised written in a formal agreement and signed.