Love at First Sight: Questions to Ask At Your Wedding Venue Showround

Written by Rose Castle

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22, September, 2023

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Your Dream Venue Q & A

If you've found yourself here, chances are you're planning the wedding of your dreams in Cumbria or the Lake District, and you're considering a venue like Rose Castle to bring your vision to life. Congratulations on taking this exciting step towards your big day! Choosing the perfect wedding venue is like finding your soulmate, and a venue showround is your first date. So, let's get ready to make a great impression and ask all the right questions to ensure the venue of your dreams is 'the one' for you!

Here at Rose Castle we help couples make the right decision by offering them as much information as possible in advance of their showround, so that when they arrive for their first visit they have a clear understanding of what a booking with Rose Castle looks like. But for the purposes of this article, we’ll start from square one!

Availability

"Is the venue available on our preferred wedding date?"

Before you fall head over heels and book your Cumbria wedding, you'll want to make sure your dream venue is available on your preferred wedding date. Ask about their availability for your chosen season and date, and if they have any flexible options. It's a deal-breaker question but one that will save you heartache later.

Capacity

"What is the maximum capacity for both indoor and outdoor ceremonies and receptions?"

Every couple has a vision of their guest list in mind. Make sure your venue can comfortably accommodate your desired number of guests. Remember to account for both the ceremony and the reception when discussing capacity.

Outdoor Options

"Tell us about the outdoor areas for ceremonies and receptions."

"Do you provide a Plan B in case of bad weather?"

Cumbria is known for its breathtaking natural beauty; who wouldn’t want to embrace such stunning surroundings? Does the venue offer outdoor ceremony or reception options? Just imagine saying "I do” on Rose Castle’s stunning Bishop’s Lawn with views of the fells!

However, British weather being what it is, there may be days when the skies open; what can the venue offer you as a bad-weather alternative?

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Venue Decor and Style

"Can we bring our own decor, or do you offer decoration services?"

"Are there any restrictions on personalising the space?"

Your wedding should reflect your unique style. Ask about their existing decor and any restrictions on customisation. This is your chance to discuss how you can make the venue feel like your own.

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Catering and Bar Services

"Do you have an in-house catering team, or can we bring our own caterer?"

"What are the bar options, and do you offer custom cocktail menus?"

"Can you show us a sample wedding breakfast menu?"

Food and drink are a highlight of any wedding! Inquire about the catering options available, including menu choices and dietary restrictions. Don't forget to ask about the bar services and if you can personalise the drinks menu. At Rose Castle, we provide high quality in-house catering and do not permit the use of external catering services.

Accommodation

"Do you have on-site accommodation options for our guests?"

"Is there ample parking or shuttle services for guests?"

For your out-of-town guests (and maybe even for you!), accommodation options are crucial. Find out if the venue offers on-site lodging and if there are any special rates for your wedding guests. It's a thoughtful touch that can make everyone's experience more enjoyable.

Music and Entertainment

"Are there any restrictions on music or entertainment choices?"

“Do you provide live music or a DJ?”

What's a wedding without some toe-tapping tunes and entertainment? Ask about the venue's music and entertainment options, as well as any restrictions on noise levels or time restrictions for music.

Ceremony and Reception Spaces

“What spaces are available for our ceremony?”

“Can you tell us about the seating layouts in your reception rooms?”

Rose Castle, for example, has different spaces available for ceremonies and receptions, all uniquely gorgeous and atmospheric. We’ll take you on a tour of each one, helping you envision how your special day would look. Ask your venue about their various spaces and the setup and decoration limitations of each one.

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Staff and Coordination

“What’s the best way to get in touch with you if we have questions?”

“What help can we expect to receive on the run up to our big day?”

A smooth-running wedding day relies on a well-coordinated team. Inquire about staff and how they can assist you throughout the planning process and on the day itself.

Additional Services

"Can you recommend local vendors, like photographers, florists, and DJs?"

"Where are the best places for photographs on your grounds?"

Sometimes, it's the little extras that make all the difference. Ask about any additional services they offer, such as transportation options, access to recommended vendors, or even photo opportunities on their grounds.

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Costs and Contracts

"How much will our dream wedding cost?"

"Are there any additional fees we should be aware of?"

Money talk is never the most romantic part of wedding planning, but it's essential. Ask about the pricing structure, what's included, and any additional fees. Be sure to request a sample contract so you can review the fine print and understand all the terms and conditions. Unlike other wedding venues, Rose Castle does not offer wedding packages, but instead will create a completely bespoke wedding with each couple.

Restrictions and Regulations

"Are there any restrictions on music or entertainment choices?"

"Do you have any rules regarding alcohol consumption and smoking?"

Find out if there are any specific rules or regulations at your dream venue, such as noise ordinances, decor restrictions, or curfews. Understanding these upfront will prevent any surprises later on.

Accessibility

What areas of the venue are wheelchair accessible?

Consider the accessibility of the venue for all your guests, including those with mobility issues. Ask about ramps, elevators, and accessible toilet facilities.

Testimonials and Reviews

"Can you share any memorable moments from past weddings held here?"

"Do you have any testimonials or reviews from previous couples?"

Lastly, don't be shy about asking for testimonials or reviews from other couples who've tied the knot. Hearing about their experiences can provide valuable insights and put your mind at ease.

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As you embark on your venue showround, keep these questions in mind to make the most of your visit. Remember, this is your chance to get to know the place where your love story will take centre stage. Cherish the experience, soak in the enchanting beauty of Cumbria, and may your wedding planning journey be filled with love, laughter, and happily ever after vibes. Cheers to a magical wedding!

If you feel that Rose Castle is the perfect venue for your magical day, check out our comprehensive wedding guide, then contact us to arrange your showround! Our dedicated team is here to bring your wedding dreams to life.