One of the first decisions you get to make as a newly engaged couple is where to have your wedding. There are so many unique Bay Area venues that will be tempting to choose. Stunning views, different accommodations, specific amenities, and so much more. So, while you are touring the many Bay Area wedding sites that seem to check all the marks, here are a few questions to be sure you ask!

The Logistics Of Bay Area Wedding Sites

Many of these questions can be answered on a venue’s website, but if not, be sure to ask over the phone when scheduling your visit! These are logistical questions that will allow you to know if a location meets the bare minimum for your wedding.

• What dates are available during (the month you want to get married)?
• How many guests can be accommodated at this venue?
• What are the spaces like for ceremony, reception, and cocktail hour?
• What is the cost of the venue, and what is included?
• How many hours does this include?
• How much is the deposit, when is it due, and is it refundable?
• What forms of payment do you accept? Further, can it be split into payments?
• Are there changing areas for bride and groom?
• How many restrooms are available to guests?
• What is the parking situation? Equally important, will there be a Shuttle service if needed?
• Do you provide overnight accommodations?
• Does the cost include a rehearsal dinner? Also, how much time is allowed for the rehearsal dinner?
• What is your cancellation policy?
• What is the backup plan for poor weather?
• Do you have liability insurance?

Food & Drinks

Eat, drink, and be merry! Food and drink can make all the difference in your wedding reception experience. And oddly enough, a lot of Bay Area wedding sites have different expectations and standards for catering and reception bars. Here are some questions to clear the air.

• Do you have an in-house caterer or a list of “preferred” caterers?
• Can I have an outside caterer? In addition, will they have a kitchen available to use?
• What’s the tax and service charge for the in-house caterer?
• Is there a tasting for menu selection?
• Will table linens, settings and glassware be provided?
• What are the rules on alcohol?
• Can we bring our own alcohol, or do we need a bartender?
• Are you licensed to provide alcohol service?
• How is alcohol priced?
• Are there additional charges for bar staff?

Vendors

In addition to food and drinks, your vendors also make a large impact on your wedding day! Bay Area wedding sites will have recommendations and preferred vendor lists, so it is always good to check for those. However, it is also important to ask the following questions for better understanding of policies.

• Is there a day-of coordinator for the site? How do they work with my wedding coordinator?
• Do you have preferred vendors to use? Or can I hire outside vendors?
• Can the site accommodate a DJ or live band?
• What time can my vendors start setting up on the day of the wedding?
• Do you offer security services?
• Do you provide a coat check service?
• Do you have a sound system/microphones for speeches?
• In addition, what are the noise restrictions?
• Do you have inventory decor to use, or do we need to provide our own?
• Are heaters/umbrellas available for outdoor weddings?

Looking for more wedding advice? Check out our blog! And as always, if you need a Bay Area Wedding Photographer, drop me a line!

NOTE: The images in this blog are from a San Francisco City Hall Wedding. For more images from a different wedding, check out this blog here!