Wedding venue checklist
Check out the Wedding Directory for receptions and venues
Read about marquees
View a video of Dunston Hall, venue for our Perfect Day Wedding Show
When it comes to finding that perfect location, it's easy to be overwhelmed by the choice available.
Sarah Baker, marketing manager at The Assembly House, which is pictured right, has the A-Z of useful tips and questions you should ask when choosing your venue.
A: Assembly House
Celebrate a unique wedding in a historical building with glittering chandeliers, ornate architecture, elegant rooms and personal service.
B: Bride
At the venue, make sure that your head bridesmaid has an 'emergency kit' including mirror, lipstick, tissues, hairpins, brush and aspirin. Allow time to visit the cloakroom for last minute adjustments.
C: Children
Consider what arrangements can be made for the children attending the wedding; perhaps a separate supervised area with toys and games and a children's menu.
D: Décor
Discuss your colour scheme and find out what restrictions there may be. Many historic buildings will not allow you to attach anything to the walls. Ask if candles and coloured lights are allowed, and will they do the table plan and place names.
E: Event
Are there any other events that day in the venue? Check whether public access will be involved with your wedding and what other events may be organised in the locality which could affect access.
F: Florist
Will the florist and cake maker have access to the ceremony/reception room or be able to leave items before the start? If the cake is being left beforehand, check that the area is cool as some cakes are influenced by heat!.
G: Garden
Here at the house you will be able to take pictures in the gardens provided by Norwich in Bloom, as well as in the courtyard. Depending on the season, check what flowers or outside furniture will present.
H: Horse and Carriage
Is there access for the bride's transport? Check location of setting down, waiting and collection of bride if required. Check what car parking is available for your guests and what cost. Some guests might need reservations if they are coming a long way.
I: Insurance
Check what insurance the venue offers for you and your guests in case of an accident. Consider insurance to cover the cost of possible changes and remember to take it out before you pay deposits and charges.
J: Jobs
With the help of your wedding coordinator make a “To Do List”. Note names, telephone numbers, appointments and outcomes. Make sure you know exactly what service each company is offering (preferably in writing), the price, and any unforeseen costs - such as extra guests on the day.
K: Wedding Knife
Check whether the venue supplies a knife for cutting the cake or stand for the cake. Consider placing a wedding cake knife on your wedding list, inscribed with the couple's names.
L: Lighting
Ask the venue where you can have your photos taken and make a note of natural and artificial light for good backgrounds. The Assembly House has impressive fireplaces, mirrors, glittering chandeliers, ornate architecture that are great photo settings.
M: Music
Your music should reflect the tone for the ceremony, the reception and evening entertainment. Ask what time the band/disco can arrive and how much room they need. Also check what time the music has to finish and prearrange transport.
N: Navigate
Not all your guests will be familiar with the location of your venue. Ask the venue for a detailed map or directions and include this information in your invitations. Obtain telephone numbers of local hotels and bed and breakfasts, local taxi firms, train and airport details if necessary.
O: Options
Check the dietary requirements of your guests (such as vegetarians and food allergies). Consider the option of non-alcoholic drinks and whether there is a baby changing facility and disabled access.
P: Photographer
Think about reportage style (informal shots) or traditional (formal line-ups) photographs and draw up a list of what you want. Pictures of your guests arriving to the church, register office or reception can be a nice touch.
Q: Questions
Your wedding coordinator will have a wealth of experience and will be able to advise you on your wedding arrangements. The venue's coordinator should be friendly, professional and focused on you and your special day.
R: Restroom
Weddings can be long days, especially for elderly guests and children. Ask if there is an area where guests can sit and relax. Also check to see if the cloakroom facilities need further decoration - flowers are a nice touch.
S: Speeches
It is important that your guests can hear the speeches, so make sure your speakers have a microphone. Decide who will do the announcements during the reception, and whether you want to use the services of a toastmaster or master of ceremonies.
T: Timing
To ensure that your day runs smoothly, discuss the timings of the day with your wedding coordinator. Draw up a clear itinerary and ensure key participants are aware of their responsibilities. Have a gettogether with a glass of wine beforehand if necessary.
U: Undivided Attention
Check who will be at the venue to welcome you and your guests and to manage your wedding. Ideally this should be the wedding coordinator who has helped you plan your wedding.
V: Vision
A professional and discreet DVD of your wedding offers an invaluable memory of the day. Research video production companies and ask to see samples of their work. Arrange to meet at the venue to go through what you would like on the day and supply them with an itinerary.
W: Wine
View the wine and champagne list. House wines are generally very reasonable if you are on a budget. If you intend to bring your own wine, check the corkage charge of the venue. Ask when last orders are taken and what bar facilities are available.
X: Extras
Presenting a little something to that special person who has helped you organise your day is always appreciated. Check whether flowers/gifts can be placed nearby if presented at the reception.
Y: You
Remember this is your day and although family advice is wellmeaning, you have to be happy with what you and your partner have agreed.
Z: Zzzz!
Sleep soundly as you are now so organised you can relax and enjoy your day!
