Learn How to Have the Perfect Outdoor Wedding

Your wedding is one of the most memorable days of your life, so naturally, you'll want to plan everything to your liking. Choosing the venue is a critical step in this process — they may have specific policies that influence your food, vendor and decor choices.

Communication with your wedding venue is integral to the planning process. It ensures both parties are on the same page and that your venue clearly understands your wants and needs. When you and your partner tour the site, you should ask several essential questions. 

Continue reading for a full list of questions for the wedding venue to ensure they can accommodate your wishes.

Basic Venue Information

First, below are some basic wedding venue questions to clear up.

1. How Many People Does the Space Accommodate?

Whether you're planning a large ceremony or an intimate gathering, make sure the venue can fit your desired guest count.

2. Is the Venue Near Any Hotels?

If you have wedding guests coming from out of town, ask your venue about nearby hotels and if they can make any recommendations.

3. Where Are the Photo Opportunities?

Since you'll be busy making memories with your loved ones on your big day, you'll want a professional photographer to capture these special moments for you. Selecting a venue with a wedding photographer makes this process much easier. Many venues provide breathtaking backdrops for some stunning wedding snapshots — consider asking yours what photo opportunities they have.

4. Is There Restroom Access?

Add this question to your wedding venue checklist, especially if your ceremony and reception will be outdoors. Having easily accessible restrooms on your special day is ideal.

5. Do You Have Parking?

While it may not be the first thing that comes to mind during planning, parking is a vital part of your wedding day logistics. Find out if your venue provides on-site parking and how many vehicles it can accommodate.

6. Are Tents an Option?

If you're planning an outdoor wedding, you'll need to anticipate potential sun or precipitation. Here's where a tented wedding reception comes in handy. Speak with your venue to find out if tents are available for outdoor weddings.

7. What's Your Electricity Like?

From preparing food in the kitchen to installing lighting and a sound system, your wedding day will likely require lots of electricity. The question is, does your venue have reliable electricity to make it all happen? It also doesn't hurt to ask if they have a backup generator if the power goes out. Additionally, you'll likely need a generator for an outdoor wedding.

8. What Restrictions Do You Have?

Some venues may have limitations around things like parking and food options. Ask your venue if you should be aware of any rules that may affect your planning.

9. How Many Weddings Do You Allow Within a Day?

In-demand venues can host two or more weddings daily, especially if they have several event spaces. You'll need to ensure your wedding won't interfere with someone else's. Ask your venue if they allow multiple weddings a day, and if so, ensure there's a way to fully privatize your space.

Food and Drink

Next, below are some essential questions to ask regarding wedding food and beverages.

1. Can We Do a Food Tasting Beforehand?

Creating the perfect menu is essential for your big day, so every dish should be to your liking. Speak with your venue to find out if you can schedule a food tasting before finalizing your menu. That way, you can ensure your guests will enjoy the refreshments as much as you do! Plus, food tasting can be one of the most fun and enjoyable parts of the planning process.

2. Is There a Cost for Cake Cuttings?

If you and your partner aren't getting your wedding cake through your venue, you may have to pay a “cake cutting fee” or “cake serving fee.” In other words, the venue staff will cut, plate and serve the cake to your guests. Find out whether your venue charges for cake cuttings.

3. Do You Provide Chairs, Tables and Dinnerware?

You'll want to find out if your venue will provide chairs, tables, dinnerware and silverware for the reception. Otherwise, you'll have to take care of these yourself, which can be a hassle.

4. Is There a Bar, and Are You Licensed to Provide Alcohol Services?

If you plan to serve alcohol at your wedding, ask your venue if they provide bar services. You'll also want to make sure they have a license to do so.

5. Is There On-Site Catering?

You'll want to ask your venue if they provide on-site wedding catering, especially if you don't plan to hire an outside caterer. On-site catering means the location has an in-house caterer for events. Some venues may even require you to use their caterer or charge extra for outside catering.

Vendor Information

Some other questions for the wedding venue site tour are those regarding vendors. Consider bringing up the questions below.

1. What Services Do You Offer?

In addition to event space, some venues provide other services — like food, flowers or photography — so you don't have to find vendors on your own. Ask your venue about specific wedding services they offer.

2. Can I Hire Outside Vendors?

If you have your heart set on a vendor that isn't part of the venue, you'll need to ensure you can hire them. Some venues have restrictions about outside vendors — for instance, they may require on-site catering but allow unaffiliated vendors for other services. Check with your venue about their vendor policies.

3. Can You Accommodate a Band?

Music is another essential element of wedding planning. If you plan to hire a band for your reception, make sure your venue can accommodate the musicians, equipment, lighting and sound.

4. When Can Vendors Start Setting Up?

Finally, consider asking the venue when your vendors can start setting up for the wedding. It's typically best if they can set up sooner rather than later to ensure everything looks and flows nicely.

Download Our Full Wedding Guide

At Baywood Weddings, ensuring everything runs smoothly on your big day is a top priority. That's why we provide multiple wedding services and resources to assist your planning.

With our all-inclusive wedding venue, you and your partner can enjoy various services," including catering, photography and floral arrangements. We also provide a complete preparation guide to make wedding planning a breeze.

Let us help you start planning your dream wedding. Download our wedding planning guide today!