“Location, location, location” is more than just a real estate mantra. It’s a vital part of planning your wedding. Fortunately for you we consulted some Westchester-based experts, who offered these seven key questions to ask when deciding on a venue.
1. How Accessible Is It?
Joanna Malone, wedding coordinator at the CV Rich Mansion in White Plains, warns that, often times, “You can’t use most of the space” at historical locations due to landmark-status policies.
2. What’s Included In Packages?
“Ask if your venue offers complimentary food and wine tasting,” advises Malone. “And whether it will be individual or group tastings.”
3. Is There a Cake-Cutting Fee?
“If you choose to provide your own wedding cake, some facilities charge extra to serve,” discloses Rocco Agostino, general manager of the Glen Island Harbour Club in New Rochelle.
4. Can You Use Outside Vendors?
“Ask, or see if the venue requires you to pick from a pre-approved list,” suggests Malone.
5. Is The Menu Flexible?
Some venues, including the Glen Island Harbour Club, will try to provide a “more interestingly styled menu if guests have special dietary needs or the bride and groom want a menu specific to them,” says Agostino.
6. And If It Rains?
For outdoor weddings, ask if your venue has contingencies in case inclement weather threatens your day. Colleen Fogarty, property rentals manager of Boscobel House and Gardens in Garrison, offers that, “The solution to rain is to have a separate tent for the ceremony.”
7. Is There a Site Fee?
Malone, Agostino, and Fogarty all agree that this is a crucial question. “If the site fee is over budget, it could be a wasted trip to visit,” observes Fogarty, who generally recommends requesting materials that may address all these concerns up front. That way, you’ll have a better idea ahead of time whether or not a venue could be the perfect place for your big day.
