QE had the honor of discussing a very important topic with Martha Steward Weddings – Should You Get Every Detail You’ve Discussed with Your Wedding Venue in Writing?

Martha Stewart Weddings

Quintessential Events had the honor of recently being interviewed by Martha Stewart Weddings on a very important topic – Should You Get Every Detail You’ve Discussed with Your Wedding Venue in Writing. The short answer, yes. 

Here was our advice from the article: 

During your initial tour of a venue, Sarah Quinlivan of Quintessential Events, recommends that couples ask any and all questions they have. “Anything said or promised during that time, needs to be confirmed in writing with the venue,” she says. “Once a couple receives a written contract, they should carefully read through it to see what is and is not included in the space. If one of their questions or concerns is not addressed, it is best to communicate that to the venue.” Before booking, Quinlivan also suggests resolving all discrepancies, and doing so via email. “If something is verbally promised, make sure to confirm that via email, as written proof is everything and builds a solid foundation,” she explains. “It is always better to understand from the beginning what you are getting, then be surprised at the end.”

As noted in the article, communication with your possible venue is incredibly important. Here are a few other things to ask prior to booking. 

  1. What’s Included – Everyone includes something a little bit different to try and make themselves stand out from the pack. Make sure to ask if the following is included: Tables, chairs, linens (ask about color and length), stage, dance floor, lighting, in-house catering and bar guidelines, and security. There are a few others, but these are the big areas to ask about. The more you can get included with your venue, the better. This means more money you have for other items. 
  2. Capacity – If a space tells you, we can hold 200 people that often means 200 people without a dance floor or room to move about. They give you their max capacity, not comfortable capacity. Ask for layout examples including table chair count so you can see what a wedding of your size really looks like in there.  
  3. On–site Staff – We are not talking about coordinators. We are talking about people who are there to empty the trash, refill toilet paper, or help with any electrical problems. Ask if someone will be on-site from the venue the entire time of your event. You will be amazed at how often the answer is no. 
  4. Hours – Ask about the hours you are allowed in the space. Many spaces will give you the “event time,” which is usually 5-6 hours. This doesn’t include set-up and tear down. Make sure to understand their exact rules of when you are allowed in and have to be out.