Good evening from EPHQ everyone! As I’m sure you saw, I recently returned from photographing Shriradha & David’s Destination Wedding in India & when I looked in my email – I had an awesome wedding tip about “How To Make The Most Out Of Your Wedding Day” from Esquire Photography partner: Shelly at Simply Bridal.
Check this out!
You’ve found the perfect venue for your wedding day, but before you sign on the dotted line make sure you know exactly what you’re in for. Asking your venue the right questions before signing the contract will ensure that there are not any surprises on the day of the wedding or when you receive the bill. These are the top questions you should ask the event coordinator at your venue before signing the contract. Make sure you have enough time with the event coordinator, and be sure to take notes and get anything you agree upon in writing.
Will there be any other events on the day of our wedding?
This is important to ask because other events at the same venue can impact your own wedding. If there is an event before your wedding, you may not be able to arrive early. If there is an event after, you may have to clear out early, and there may be vendors coming in to set up during your time. Also, if there is another event taking place nearby, their noise can impact your event.
Can I see a printout of all the fees? What exactly does each fee cover?
Getting a printout of the fees ensures that you have the all the costs in writing. This is helpful in case any of the fees changes in the future. Also, ask what will happen if the fees change before your wedding. Will you have to pay the higher prices or are the prices locked in at the time of signing the contract?;
Who will be there on the day of the wedding? Will there be an onsite coordinator on hand?
This is an especially important question to ask if you do not have a wedding planner. An on-site coordinator can help direct the vendors and the venue staff. They will also help guide the event by lining up the wedding party, coordinating the cake cutting, and helping to wrap up the wedding.
Are there any restrictions for the vendors (noise, kitchen access, photography or videography)?
Some venues have lists of preferred vendors they would like you to use, and some vendors have restrictions on what vendors can do. For instance, certain venues may not allow balloons; another may not allow confetti, while another may not allow photographs in certain areas. Find out any restrictions and let the vendors know ahead of time so the wedding day goes smoothly.
What is your cancellation policy?
Ask about their cancellation policy in the case that sonething happens to the venue and also if you need to cancel your wedding. It’s unfortunate, but there are sometimes cases where a wedding venue may not work out like a natural disaster at the venue or a change of wedding plans on your part.
Is there anything else I should know?
Venues may not always be forthcoming about information, so it is important to ask specific questions. However, at the end of the meeting, give them a chance to tell you anything you may not have thought about yet.
Here’s an infographic to help you too!
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Also, if you’re in or have been in the military – check out the EPIC Military Discount Program of 50% OFF.
If you have any other wedding tips you’d like to add, be sure to share your thoughts in the comments below or contact me anytime day or night. I’m available just about 24/7 via Twitter, Facebook, Google+, the form on my contact page, or the old fashioned phone as well at 888.ESQ.PHTO (888.377.7486) or 562.225.5915.
I hope you’re having a great start to your weekend AND totally check out the not one – but TWO WINNERS of the Military Contest – giving away a FREE WEDDING DRESS from Simply Bridal. Here’s the LINK to enjoy the video.
PS! Check out this awesome exclusive discount to save a ton of money on your dresses for your wedding from Simply Bridal. Here’s a LINK to save money!
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